Art Alexakis
Everclear’s Art keeps shining
Written & photographed by: Carmen Garza
Date: November 17, 2019
A spry and “take-no-shit” from hecklers Art Alexakis, singer-songwriter, guitarist of Everclear took the stage at Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix, Arizona during his November 17 stop on his current solo acoustic tour. The tireless musician has been on tour promoting his new album “Sun Songs” since May 2019 and seemed at home with his fans gathered to see one of their favorite performing artists.
Life imitates art or, as in this case, Art imitates life as it is brilliantly depicted in each of his song lyrics. For instance, consider these words from the poignant Everclear song “Everything To Everyone” - “...I think you like to be the victim. I think you like to be in pain. I think you make yourself a victim almost every single day...” and in the emotional tune “Father Of Mine” - “...I will never be safe. I will never be sane. I will always be weird inside. I will always be lame. Now I’m a grown man with a child of my own and I swear I’m not going to let her know all the pain I have known...”
The show was very chill and laid back until someone in the crowd boldly asked if Art was going to perform any Everclear hits, which he irritably responded, “Who do you think fucking wrote those songs?”. During the song “Sing Away”, Alexakis brought out his stately twelve-string guitar and strummed the instrument with finesse, grace and fire. The entire performance was filled with highs and lows as far as emotions were concerned, but either way it was definitely a trip down memory lane.
Main acoustic setlist:
“Songs From An American Movie”
“Sunshine Lovesong”
“I Will Buy You A New Life”
“Heartspark Dollarsign”
“Learning How To Smile”
“Line In The Sand”
“Father Of Mine”
“Thrift Store Chair”
“Loser Makes Good”
“Sing Away”
“The Hot Water Test”
“Everything To Everyone”
“Wonderful”
“Santa Monica”
“Surly Juke Box”
Alexakis had more surprises up his sleeve when he presented the audience with an intimate, sit-down session, where fans were able to make song requests personally by microphone. This was in addition to his first set, where he profoundly wasn’t taking any requests whatsoever.
Song requests from the wooden chair:
“Annabella’s Song”
“The Man Who Broke His Own Heart”
“Don’t Fall Down Now”
“Portland Rain”
“Sunflowers”
“White Men In Black Suits”
“A House With A Pool”
“A Country Song”
There’s still time to experience the gift of Art Alexakis’ intimate acoustic show. Go to the link to see when he will be in your neck of the woods - https://www.everclearmusic.com/tour.