Kaleo Wasman of Pepper performing at The Warfield in San Francisco, CA. January 28, 2017. Photo: Jared Stossel

Pepper
Less Than Jake
w/ Red City Radio, Kash'd Out
The Warfield
San Francisco, CA
January 28, 2017

On a chilly night in San Francisco, in one of the seedier parts of the bustling metropolis, nearly three thousand fans packed inside the Tenderloin District's Warfield Theater for a night filled with music from bands that, while each different in their own way, were connected at their core through the genres of ska and reggae. Kailua-Kona, HI's Pepper and Gainesville, FL's Less Than Jake co-headlined the bill, giving fans versed in all matter of genres an action-packed show.

Opening support was provided by two openers, both similar to the structure of the co-headliners. One band, Kash'd Out, represented the more 'reggae' side of things, while Red City Radio showcased a more upbeat, punk rock feel. This show was essentially structured reggae/punk/punk/reggae: start things out mellow, build up some energy, hit a plateau with the energy, and then chill out to close the night.

Less Than Jake were touring in support of their upcoming EP, Sound The Alarm (available this Friday via Pure Noise Records), and provided a ridiculously high-energy show that the Bay Area crowd truly appreciated. I turned around in the photo pit during the first song and didn't see the crowd stop moving at any point in time. Vocalist Chris DeMakes even went as far as to bring a fan up on stage (twice) and have him dance along during their set. You can't help but crack a smile when watching these guys play and banter in between songs. I think it's fair to say you're going to have fun at a Less Than Jake show, whether you like it or not.

Pepper brought a different vibe, but one that went over incredibly well with the crowd (this was the portion of the show where I witnessed the highest number of joints coming out of peoples' jacket pockets). There are punk elements to Pepper, but they are far more rooted in reggae and ska than anything else. There are some fast-paced moments during their set, but for the most part, you essentially get to chill out and listen to some good music. And smoke weed. You know, if you're into that. (Inserts winking emoticon face here).