Nostalgia Rocks: Everclear Brings the 90s Back to Boston
Shot for Concert Chronicles. Link to original article here.
On October 8, 2024, the Royale in Boston became a time machine, transporting concertgoers back to the golden age of alternative rock. The lineup featured Jimmie's Chicken Shack, Marcy Playground, and headliner Everclear, promising a night filled with nostalgia and high-energy performances.
Jimmie's Chicken Shack: The Perfect Appetizer
Kicking off the evening was Jimmie's Chicken Shack, the Annapolis-based alt-rock band that's been on and off the scene since 1996. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, frontman Jimi Haha remains the constant force driving the band's infectious energy. Their set was a delightful mix of humor and solid "dad rock," setting the perfect tone for the night ahead.
Marcy Playground: A Trip Down Memory Lane
Following the opener, Marcy Playground took the stage, bringing with them a wave of 90s nostalgia. The band, fronted by John "Woz" Wozniak and bassist Dylan Keefe (both original members since 1996), along with drummer Shlomi Lavie (who joined in 2009), delivered a set that reminded us why we fell in love with alternative rock in the first place.
Despite not having released a studio album since 2009, Marcy Playground's performance proved that their catalog of hits still resonates with fans. The crowd erupted when the opening chords of their 1997 smash hit "Sex and Candy" filled the venue, creating an electric atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for the main act.
Everclear: Defying Time with Timeless Hits
As Everclear took the stage, any doubts about whether a band three decades into their career could still bring the heat were instantly dispelled. Unlike many of their contemporaries who might be going through the motions, Everclear demonstrated an energy and passion that belied their years in the industry.
The setlist was a treasure trove of hits that had the entire venue singing along. From "AM Radio" to "Wonderful" to the iconic "Santa Monica," Everclear cruised through their extensive catalog of radio favorites. These weren't just songs; they were time capsules, each one transporting the audience back to the moments when they first heard them on the radio or saw them on MTV.
What was particularly striking was the diversity of the crowd. Fans who had grown up with Everclear's music in the 90s and early 2000s stood shoulder to shoulder with younger listeners, all equally enthralled by the band's performance. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of Everclear's music and their ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Art Alexakis, Everclear's frontman and sole remaining original member, commanded the stage with the charisma and vigor of a man half his age, his distinctive voice cutting through the wall of sound produced by the band.
This concert wasn't just a trip down memory lane; it was a reminder of why we fell in love with this music in the first place. For one night in Boston, the 90s were alive and well, and judging by the smiles on the faces of the departing crowd, no one was in a hurry to return to 2024.