LKFFCT - “Cranberry Jello”

The passage of time has not had a negative impact on New Jersey’s LKFFCT. It’s quite the contrary. Their songwriting continues to soar to new heights and benefit from a well-developed chemistry that’s been nurtured over the course of almost a decade. How many bands can say they’ve been playing together for even half the amount of time these days? LKFFCT can and they’re definitely reaping the rewards in the form of their best tunes to date.

Part of LKFFCT’s lasting appeal is their ability to rotate their front person in a way that many indie rock standard bearers did. The best Guided by Voices records saw Robert Pollard’s contributions bolstered by Tobin Sprout. In Pavement, Stephen Malkmus had Scott Kannberg (aka “Spiral Stairs”) chipping in a memorable song or two on nearly every LP (Kanneberg is notably absent on what’s widely considered to be the band’s weakest effort, Terror Twighlight… though, it’s still an excellent album). LKFFCT benefits from a similar dynamic between their two guitarists/vocalists, Max Rauch and Keith Williams. Over the last two years, Williams fronted the melodic “Bubble Bath” and “Space Abound,” while Rauch took the reigns on the fuzzier “Apple Pie” and “Moss.” It’s a classic indie rock formula that just works, so LKFFCT is smart to take cues (whether consciously or not) from the aforementioned slacker pop legends.

Their most recent single, “Cranberry Jello,” sees Rauch taking the lead, as his lyrics center on a metaphor likening an emotionally drained heart to the gloopy consistency of gelatin. They make repeated use of an absolutely infectious chord progression, which shuffles in during the intro and plays a prominent role in the choruses. The energy levels recede for a softer landing in the form of a light, piano-driven instrumental outro.

Stream the track below!

You can purchase “Cranberry Jello” via Bandcamp or stream it on your platform of choice. Keep up with the band by following them on Instagram and liking them on Facebook.

LKFFCT will be performing tonight (12/15) at Pet Shop in Jersey City for the final Ukraine Mutual Aid benefit show of 2022. They’ll be joined by Jonny Couch and Semi-Autio. Doors are at 7 and admission is free!