Who? Lakes’ vocalist Seth Roberts has been playing music seriously since the ripe age of 13. Now in his 20s, he’s a veteran of sorts. Roberts’ last band, Watashi Wa (Japanese for, among other meanings, “as for me”) formed in his teens, released four records, and then disbanded last year, leading to the creation of his current project. Lakes, an Atascadero, CA-based pop-rock threesome, are rounded out by Jason Massey (vocals/guitar) and Danny Igarta (bass).
What’s the Deal? Photographs EP is an expansive, tuneful collection demonstrating Roberts’ tendency towards upbeat lyricism and melodies — think Dashboard Confessional without the break-ups. The positivity doesn’t stop off the actual disc, either: Lakes offered Photographs EP for free download on AbsolutePunk.net for the entire month of August, with Roberts insisting fans “Give it to everyone and pirate it all you want. It’s free.” Now that’s the spirit!
Fun Fact: Lakes were initially going to be called Eager Seas, but former label Tooth & Nail wanted Roberts to use that moniker as the name of his last Watashi Wa release. The name Lakes stuck simply because, Roberts says, “It’s the place my parents live, the place the band started, the place I married my wife, and it’s where our recording studio is.” KAITLIN FONTANA
Now Hear This: Lakes – “Indian Lover” (Download MP3)
Talk: Would you worship at Lakes’ altar? COMMENT
On the Web: lakesband.com
