Photos and Review by Renee Clark Quade
On August 15, 2024, Everclear brought the final week of Rochester’s Party in the Park to a powerful close with a performance that was both a celebration of their enduring legacy and a tribute to their dedicated fans. The energy was palpable even before the band hit the stage, as Art Alexakis and his bandmates gathered for a quick huddle, their fists meeting in a display of unity and anticipation.
As the band took the stage, Art Alexakis, all smiles, waved to the crowd, who eagerly returned the gesture. The band wasted no time diving into their set, starting with a mix of fan favorites and deeper cuts that had the audience singing and dancing along from the first note. Opening with “So Much for the Afterglow” and following it up with the ever-popular “Everything to Everyone,” Everclear set the tone for an evening steeped in 90s nostalgia.
The setlist was a well-crafted journey through the band’s extensive catalog, including a powerful rendition of “Heroin Girl” from their 1995 album Sparkle and Fade. When Art asked the crowd to sing along to “Father of Mine,” the energy hit a peak, with bassist Freddy Herrera adding a playful touch by hitting the cymbals with his bass head.
A particularly memorable moment came when Freddy, taking requests from the crowd, played a snippet of a Led Zeppelin song and played a snippet of an Iron Maiden song in response to a shout a song by the band, showing the band’s playful side and willingness to connect with the audience. The band then transitioned into “White Men in Black Suits,” keeping the momentum going strong.
Art’s gratitude and passion were evident throughout the night, especially when he dedicated “Strawberry” to his “silver brothers and sisters.” At 62 years old, and having been diagnosed with MS eight years ago, Art’s perseverance and love for his craft shone through every song. His dedication to his music and his fans was apparent, particularly when he asked the crowd who remembered the 1990s, and reminisced about writing “Local God” for the film Romeo + Juliet. The crowd responded enthusiastically, singing along and raising their hands in a sea of metal horns when Art asked who liked 90s rock and metal.
One of the most touching moments of the night came when Art dedicated “I Will Buy You a New Life” to his late mother, sharing that he still keeps her number in his phone, even though she’s been gone for 20 years. This personal moment connected deeply with the audience, adding an emotional layer to an already memorable performance.
As the night drew to a close, Everclear played their signature hit, “Santa Monica,” but the crowd wasn’t ready to let them go just yet. After calls for an encore, the band returned to the stage to perform a cover of the Vaselines’ “Molly’s Lips,” leaving the fans on a high note.
Throughout the show, Art’s engagement with the audience was a true treat for the fans. His genuine connection and gratitude were felt by everyone in attendance, and after the final song, both Art and Freddy stayed by the front of the stage to take selfies and meet with eager fans.
Everclear’s performance was a fitting end to Rochester’s Party in the Park series, leaving the crowd with memories of a night filled with 90s rock, heartfelt moments, and a reminder of the enduring power of music to bring people together.
See photos from the show below:
