There are good and bad ways to start the summer. Just Lions have chosen the good route with the release of their new EP, Great. Okay. which they will celebrate with a free show this Monday night, 6.30, at Mississippi Studios. The three-piece band, known for it’s pop rock energy and jazz tendencies, latest work hits these core characteristics while expanding into a deeper core of their sound.
The EP begins with the title track and immediately hits you with sweet whistling and a catchy rhythm that makes for easy listening. This song brings a radio friendly presence to the album, which was even aired on 94.7 FM (Clear Channel’s New Rock/Alt radio station) earlier this month. Next, the band drifts into a jazzy atmosphere that is very prevalent during their live performances. Relying on guitar work and jazz scales, “Everything Goes Away” remains a very free flowing song that is slightly reminiscent of something by Jack Johnson (you know, if Jack Johnson was cool and rocked a little harder). The closing track is the heaviest. “On the Road” is much more than a track with the same name as the iconic book by Kerouac. Opening guitar riffs unleash into a fury while the harmonious vocals smooth things over. This song ends with an exploding, bluesy guitar solo that only makes you wonder what this band has in store for the future.
Although this EP is short with only three songs, the release show Monday night will be packed with good music. Jammy psych-heads Bear & Moose open the night, followed by fellow jammy psych-heads Animal Eyes, and Just Lions close out the night, where you will be able to see what Great. Okay. is all about and much more.
– Colin Hudson