The Love Jones have taken their lounge show from the small taverns to the large stage. This night, dressed in matching white suits, they were opening up for the Presidents of the United States of America (wow tough gig!) It was an odd band for them to be opening for, but then it was their show playing with Tool at the Church of Scientology that got them a record deal in the first place. (you'll get the whole story in our complete CoffeeBreak interview coming soon)

Love Jones music is a love it or hate it mix. This was no doubt reflected in the crowd reaction. While an enthusiastic contingent in the front hopped and danced about to every groove, a less than cordial section of the audience proceeded to pelt the band with various foreign objects (which singer Jonathan Palmer had warned us beforehand might happen). This was a very young crowd which came to see the President's and didn't quite have the tolerance for music that is a tiny bit cerebral. Hey the kids just wanna rock.

As for us, we're in the love it group. With upbeat harmonies, a one man horn section and soothing rhythms, Love Jones combines suave and stylish arrangements with a tongue in cheek attitude. Just when you're expecting a classy and debonair tune they whip into songs like I Like Young Girls. Then there's Custom Van, a sweet song which is basically about doing it in the back of a van. Hey nice and simple to digest (we've all been there) and very pleasing to the ear. They sing with such charm and sincerity you can't help but smile. It just makes you feel all tingly inside.

In addition to its quirky attitude and brilliant songs, the band has always had a great stage routine which is what truly helped them make their initial mark on the LA club scene. They quickly became a weekly staple at a local coffeehouse regularly playing to overflow crowds. The departure of co-founder Ben Daugherty has had a slighty negative impact on this aspect of their performance. While there is still humorous bantering going on, it's not like the back and forth you once had between him and Palmer. The attitude, intentions and sound are certainly still in place, but one of its key messengers isn't there to nail the delivery. Nevertheless, it's the music that we want to hear, and Love Jones sounds as good if not better than ever. They are a tight outfit both musically and personally and are ready to take on all comers on any stage.

For those of you at future gigs, I urge you to lay off the shooting gallery and maybe just listen to a song or two. You just might dig it! If not, then at least throw money. I'm sure the guys would appreciate it.

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