Less Than Jake have revealed exclusively to CMJ.com that they will be launching their own label, Sleep It Off, to re-release their impressive back catalog and a new album this summer. Starting March 18, the Gainesville, Florida band will reissue Goodbye Blue And White, Pezcore, Losers, Kinds And Things We Don't Understand and a DVD of Peoples History Of Less Than Jake. Since their formation in 1992, the five-piece has had their share of ups and downs with record labels, but according to drummer and lyricist Vinnie Fiorello, going out on their own was an "empowering" next move. "When you are in a pop punk band in your 16th year, sometimes you don't fit in the modern music industry," he says. "You need to be a shiny new penny. We didn't feel like the rest of our years as a band should fit in that narrow parameter." Warner Bros. was "cool enough" to let the band go, according to Fiorello, even though they had one more album left in their contract. The band hopes to eventually have full ownership of their complete back catalog, but are still working on a number of records. The first new release on the label will be their ninth studio album to date, which the band will start recording in March. "To be honest, I don't really know what to expect," he says. "All I do know is that we're writing songs now and they seem to have the spirit of a tempo in mind, all very speedy but once we hit the record button they may be slower." He admits that personally he's looking to combine third wave ska and pop punk in each song, but that he'll be "as surprised as everyone" when the album is complete. As for what advice Fiorello gives for new bands, his only recommendation is to tour as much as possible. Looks like he really means it, too—Less Than Jake will do a college trek this spring, followed by club tours this summer in support of the new album. www.lessthanjake.com
