Formed after the break-up of his cult neo-country band the Scud Mountain Boys, the Pernice Brothers' 1998 debut was something of an artistic volte-face for singer-songwriter Joe Pernice. Lavish pop songs such as "Crestfallen" and "Wait To Stop" evoked memories of Big Star and Colin Blunstone, with the latter providing the closest reference point for Pernice's hushed singing voice. Lush orchestral backing helped offset the downbeat nature of lyrics to songs such as the title track and "Chicken Wire". Pernice was joined on the record by his brother Bob (guitar), Peyton Pinkerton (guitar), Thom Monahan (bass), Aaron Sperske (drums), and Michael Deming (piano). Pinkerton and Monahan joined Pernice on his next project, Chappaquiddick Skyline, who released their self-titled debut in January 2000. Pernice then recorded the solo Big Tobacco, released by Glitterhouse in July.

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Live a Little is the sixth recording by The Pernice Brothers, and it marks as much a return to form as it does a departure from what came before it. Lyrically, it's another...