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Band Timeline

1992

Formation of Everclear in Portland, Oregon

Everclear was formed in 1992 by Art Alexakis in Portland, Oregon. Alexakis, who had faced significant personal hardships including child abuse, abandonment, and struggles with drug addiction, sought to create a new rock band after previous musical projects. He recruited bassist Craig Montoya and drummer Scott Cuthbert through a local ad. The band's name, 'Everclear,' was chosen metaphorically after the potent alcoholic beverage, symbolizing a strong but innocuous appearance. This year marked the beginning of the band's journey into alternative rock.
1993

Release of Debut Album 'World of Noise' and Early Performances

In 1993, Everclear released their independently produced debut album titled 'World of Noise' through the minor label Shindig Records. This album, while not commercially successful initially, set the groundwork for their sound, blending alternative rock with personal and emotive lyrics. During this time, they also recorded the EP 'Nervous & Weird' and began establishing a fan base through live performances in the Portland music scene, gaining attention for their energetic shows and Alexakis’s songwriting.
1995

Breakthrough with 'Sparkle and Fade' and Commercial Success

Everclear signed with Capitol Records and released 'Sparkle and Fade' in 1995. The album became a commercial breakthrough, reaching number 25 on US charts and obtaining platinum certification in the US and Canada. The single 'Santa Monica' became a hit, topping the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. This success launched Everclear into the mainstream alternative rock scene, bringing wider recognition and touring opportunities.
1997

Release of 'So Much for the Afterglow' and Peak Popularity

The band’s 1997 album 'So Much for the Afterglow' was their most successful release, achieving double platinum certification in the US and Canada. It produced hit singles like 'Everything to Everyone' and 'I Will Buy You a New Life,' both charting highly on alternative rock lists. This album solidified Everclear’s place in late 1990s rock, allowing extensive tours and media exposure. The lineup of Art Alexakis, Craig Montoya, and Greg Eklund was firmly established during this period.
2000

Dual Album Releases and Continued Success

In 2000, Everclear released two albums: 'Songs from an American Movie Vol. One: Learning How to Smile' and 'Songs from an American Movie Vol. Two: Good Time for a Bad Attitude.' The first volume was well-received, entering the top 10 charts in the US and Canada, and included the single 'Wonderful,' which achieved top-three status on alternative charts. However, the second volume did not perform as well commercially. These releases marked a transitional phase before internal changes affected the band’s trajectory.
2003

'Slow Motion Daydream' and Band Lineup Changes

The 2003 release of 'Slow Motion Daydream' saw a decline in commercial success, with its single 'Volvo Driving Soccer Mom' being the last to chart prominently. Shortly after, foundational members Craig Montoya and Greg Eklund departed the band. This marked a significant shift for Everclear, as Art Alexakis took on the challenge of sustaining the band's identity and output despite these key personnel losses. The band began a period of reinvention following these changes.
2006

New Members and Release of 'Welcome to the Drama Club'

With new band members joining, Everclear released 'Welcome to the Drama Club' in 2006. This album was the first since 'World of Noise' that did not break into the top 100 on the Billboard 200, reflecting the difficulties of maintaining previous commercial momentum amid the lineup changes. The band also released a compilation album that year. Despite these challenges, Art Alexakis continued to lead Everclear, focusing on touring and live performances.
2012

Release of 'Invisible Stars' and Continued Touring

In 2012, Everclear released 'Invisible Stars,' their eighth studio album. The album marked another attempt to recapture the band's earlier sound and connect with fans both old and new. While it did not achieve significant commercial chart success, the album was part of Everclear's ongoing presence in the rock scene, supported by consistent touring. The band also capitalized on nostalgia-driven events and music festivals celebrating 1990s rock.
2015

Release of 'Black Is the New Black' and Sustained Activity

Everclear’s ninth studio album, 'Black Is the New Black,' was released in 2015. The album helped maintain the band's profile in the independent music circuit, showcasing their lasting commitment to creating music and performing live. The band's participation in 1990s nostalgia festivals, including their own Summerland Tour, underscored their continuing cultural relevance. Art Alexakis remained the central figure holding the band's legacy intact.
2023

30th Anniversary and Release of First Live Album 'Live at the Whisky A Go Go'

In 2023, Everclear celebrated their 30th anniversary as a band by releasing their first live album, 'Live at the Whisky A Go Go.' This milestone reflected their enduring legacy in alternative rock and the continued enthusiasm of their fanbase. The live album captures the energy and history of the band’s performances, commemorating three decades of music, lineup changes, challenges, and successes. Everclear remains active, especially in touring, maintaining their mark in rock history.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Art Alexakis

1992

Davey French

2003

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Josh Crawley

2003
2009

Tommy Stewart

2008
2009

Greg Eklund

1994
2003

Brett Snyder

2004
2008

Sam Hudson

2003
2009

Craig Montoya

1992
2003

Josh Crawley

2011
2016

Scott Cuthbert

1992
1994

Story of Everclear

Everclear: A Ride Through the 90s and Beyond

Everclear, a rock band hailing from Portland, Oregon, burst onto the scene in 1991. Fueled by the songwriting, vocals, and guitar prowess of Art Alexakis, they quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The core lineup, solidified by bassist Craig Montoya and drummer Greg Eklund, defined the band's most popular era.

Their debut album, "World of Noise," was a promising start, but it was their first three releases on Capitol Records that truly catapulted them to stardom: "Sparkle and Fade," "So Much for the Afterglow," and "Songs from an American Movie Vol. One: Learning How to Smile." These albums achieved platinum status, cementing their place in the 90s alt-rock landscape.

However, the following two albums, "Songs from an American Movie Vol. Two: Good Time for a Bad Attitude" and "Slow Motion Daydream," failed to capture the same critical and commercial success. This shift in momentum led to Montoya and Eklund departing the band in 2003.

Undeterred, Alexakis continued to champion the Everclear name, recruiting new musicians and releasing two more albums: "Welcome to the Drama Club" and "Invisible Stars." He also took the 90s nostalgia wave by storm, launching the Summerland Tour in 2012, which features Everclear alongside other iconic bands from that era.

In 2015, Everclear released their ninth studio album, "Black is the New Black," proving their enduring appeal. And in September 2023, they added another chapter to their story with the release of their live album, "Live At The Whisky A Go Go," a testament to their enduring energy and fan-favorite performances.

Everclear's journey has spanned over three decades, a testament to their resilience and the enduring power of their music. From their 90s heyday to their ongoing presence in the world of rock, Everclear continues to resonate with audiences, proving that their sound remains as relevant as ever.

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