August 10, 2024 – Sharkey’s Summer Stage – Liverpool, NY
On a night that felt more like a reunion of kindred spirits than a typical concert, Art Alexakis and his band brought a wave of nostalgia, energy, and sheer joy to the stage, delivering a memorable performance that left fans buzzing.
Before a single note rang out, fans were already treated to a special moment—Art himself was spotted mingling with the crowd. Unassuming and clearly enjoying himself, the frontman’s casual stroll through the venue hinted at the tone of the night: approachable, genuine, and full of connection.
When the lights dimmed and the opening chords of “So Much for the Afterglow” kicked off the set, the crowd erupted. What followed was a dynamic, well-paced journey through the band’s catalog, with a setlist that smartly balanced classic hits with deeper cuts and a few surprises.
From the angst and bite of “Heroin Girl” to the shimmering vulnerability of “Father of Mine” and the infectious optimism of “I Will Buy You a New Life,” the performance flowed with emotional variety and musical confidence. “Wonderful” and “AM Radio” stood out as crowd singalong highlights, with fans belting every word like it was 1999 again.
A few treats dotted the night: a stirring rendition of Alexakis’ solo track “Sing Away,” an electrifying guitar solo interlude, and an unexpected yet crowd-thrilling cover of Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back in Town.” The finale—“Santa Monica” followed by a raucous take on The Vaselines’ “Molly’s Lips”—sealed the evening with a fist-pumping, feel-good energy that lingered long after the house lights came up.
The sound quality was spot-on throughout—crisp, balanced, and loud enough to fill the room without overwhelming. Every strum, beat, and lyric came through with clarity, letting the band’s chemistry and Alexakis’ iconic vocals shine.
Ultimately, this wasn’t just a show—it was a celebration. Art Alexakis invited fans into his world for the night, and they responded with open arms and full hearts. If you’re looking for proof that rock nostalgia still packs a powerful punch, this concert was it.
