Ep 15. Everclear
- December 10, 2000
Everclear is the fifteenth episode of the fourth season of the popular VH1 show Behind The Music. This episode explores the history and career of American rock band Everclear, showcasing the highs and lows of their journey to the top.
The episode begins with the humble beginnings of the band, tracing their roots back to the early 1990s in Portland, Oregon. Lead singer and guitarist Art Alexakis had a rough upbringing with a troubled childhood, and it was through music that he found his escape. He formed Everclear with bassist Craig Montoya and drummer Scott Cuthbert, and together they began playing local gigs and building a loyal fanbase.
The episode then explores the band's breakthrough with their platinum-selling album Sparkle and Fade, which featured hits such as "Santa Monica" and "Heroin Girl". The success of this album propelled Everclear into the mainstream, and they became one of the most popular bands of the late 90s.
However, the show also delves into the challenges that the band faced during this time. Alexakis struggled with addiction, and he talks candidly about his journey to get sober and how it affected the band's dynamic. They also faced criticism from some quarters for their raw, confessional lyrics and perceived lack of musical variety.
The episode then moves on to the band's follow-up albums, including So Much for the Afterglow and Songs from an American Movie. These albums continued to feature Everclear's signature blend of hard-hitting rock and introspective storytelling, and they achieved both critical and commercial success.
The show also explores the personal side of the band members' lives, including Alexakis' divorce and the death of his brother. The band discusses how these experiences influenced their music and their relationships with each other.
Throughout the episode, there are interviews with the band members themselves as well as with music critics, industry insiders, and other musicians. These interviews provide insight into the band's history and legacy, as well as their impact on the music scene of the 1990s and beyond.
Overall, Everclear is a fascinating episode of Behind The Music, showcasing the triumphs and struggles of one of the most popular rock bands of their era. It's a must-watch for fans of Everclear as well as anyone interested in the history of alternative rock music.
