Last Sunday, August 4th, 2024, Stern Grove was buzzing with excitement as fans gathered for an unforgettable performance by Alex G. The picturesque setting, surrounded by vibrant nasturtiums, towering eucalyptus, majestic redwoods, and winding sandy embankments, provided a perfect backdrop for the afternoon concert.
Despite a delayed flight from NYC, which caused Alex G to take the stage an hour later than scheduled—unbeknownst to the eager concertgoers—the crowd remained in high spirits. A diverse mix of young Gen Z internet frequenters, likely discovering Alex G through TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, mingled with seasoned musicians and 40-somethings and up, many of whom probably own his albums on vinyl.
The set was a delightful journey through Alex G’s discography, with a focus on his 2022 masterpiece, House of Sugar. This album, known for being an incredible sound system check, resonated beautifully through the natural acoustics of Stern Grove. The performance also included tracks from Beach Music, God Save the Animals, and a few interludes that showcased Alex G’s unique sound, reminiscent of the musical era from 1993-2005.
Alex G’s music spans an incredible range of influences, blending sounds reminiscent of Boards of Canada, Autechre, Kate Bush, Tricky, Squarepusher, Modest Mouse, Talk Talk, Tool, Pinback, Yo La Tengo, Olivia Tremor Control, Beulah, Grimes, Daniel Johnston, Radiohead, The Smiths, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Elliott Smith, and countless others. His lengthy jams evoke the spirit of Neil Young and Crazy Horse or the deep, introspective vibes of Red House Painters’ live shows. Personally, as a listener, I counted at least 50 snippets of sounds I’ve heard on beloved records, but Alex G has mystically woven these into a magic quilt of his own, not unlike DJ Shadow or Thundercat—it’s really something special.
The sound quality at Stern Grove was out of this world, drawing comparisons to the immersive experience of The Sphere. The wooden stage backing and the opposing hillside, packed with curious and fanatic fans, created an acoustic paradise. The result was an absolutely perfect auditory experience that left everyone in awe.
Alex G’s performance at Stern Grove was a magical blend of nostalgic sounds and contemporary hits, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Whether you’re a vinyl collector or a social media-savvy fan, this concert was a testament to the timeless appeal and incredible talent of Alex G. It’s all love.
