’90s alternative rock icons Everclear are currently on tour celebrating the upcoming 25th anniversary of their fourth studio album, Songs From an American Movie Vol. 1: Learning How to Smile, released in 2000. Joining them on this nostalgia-filled tour are fellow ’90s alt-rock mainstays Jimmie’s Chicken Shack and Marcy Playground. As always, Everclear made sure to stop in their hometown of Portland, Oregon, where a sold-out crowd at the Crystal Ballroom greeted them with electric energy.
The audience was engaged from start to finish, with longtime fans—many of whom have been with the band since the ’90s—now bringing their own kids along to experience Everclear’s signature Americana-inspired sound. The band was as tight as ever, proving once again why they’ve remained such a force in the music scene. A brief pause occurred during the set as security addressed a fan, but frontman Art Alexakis and guitarist Dave French filled the moment with some playful guitar noodling. Art then took the opportunity to share a personal story from his upbringing before launching into the hit “Buy You a New Life.”
The emotional depth of Alexakis’s lyrics, especially in songs like “Buy You a New Life” and “Father of Mine,” still resonates deeply with those who grew up facing financial struggles or came from broken homes, striving to build a better future. This relatability is one of the key reasons for the band’s enduring appeal over the past 30 years.
While Everclear didn’t perform the album in full, as is common with many anniversary tours, Alexakis treated fans to a few deep cuts, including the rarely played “Otis Redding,” and a cover of Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl.” The setlist also featured hits from Learning How to Smile like “Wonderful” and “AM Radio,” along with fan favorites from earlier in the band’s discography, ensuring the crowd stayed entertained and engaged throughout the night.
Everclear with Marcy Playground and Jimmie’s Chicken Shack will be on tour through out the U.S. through November. A full list of dates are available on the bands website – stream “Songs From an American Movie Vol. 1: Learning How To Smile” on all major platforms.
