Written and photos by Neal Cribb
On August 11, 2025, Emo’s Austin was transformed into a riotous celebration of ska-punk as Less Than Jake took the stage for their “Summer Circus 2025” tour stop. Opening with the explosive “Gainesville Rock City,” bassist Roger Lima’s cheeky banter and the thunderous brass of Buddy Schaub (trombone) and JR Wasilewski (saxophone) ignited the crowd from the very first note.
The setlist was a thriller for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike—blasting through fan-favorites like “Lie to Me,” “Walking Pipebomb,” “Brand New Day,” and the wildly anthemic “The Science of Selling Yourself Short.” In a delightful twist of nostalgia, the band even treated the crowd to a surprise “Animaniacs” theme cover before closing with classics like “Al’s War,” “Plastic Cup Politics,” and “History of a Boring Town,” followed by an encore that included “Last One Out of Liberty City,” “Help Save the Youth of America From Exploding,” and “Look What Happened”.
The vibrant energy of this high-octane performance left Emo’s buzzingly packed and visibly enlivened—proof that Less Than Jake’s infectious spirit and brass-fueled mania continue to stand the test of time. With each chorus becoming a communal anthem, the Summer Circus tour stop felt less like a concert and more like a jubilant reunion under the neon lights of Emo’s stage.
Adding to the night’s charm, lead singer Chris DeMakes spotted a stray dreadlock on stage mid-set. With his trademark humor, he held it aloft like a trophy, joking with the crowd and turning the odd find into another shared laugh. It was a small, quirky moment that perfectly captured the band’s ability to mix fun, spontaneity, and ska-punk chaos into one unforgettable night.
