Third Eye Blind – The Wellmont Theater, Montclair, NJ – Friday March 24, 2023
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
An Evening with TEB Tour came to the Wellmont Theater on Friday, 3/24/2023, bringing the show to a sold-out crowd. No opener, all 3EB. The 90s American rock, alternative rock, post-grunge band from San Francisco, CA formed in 1993. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1997. Third Eye Blind have since released 7 studio albums, received Billboard Music Awards, CA Music Awards and multiple American Music Award nominations. The current lineup includes Stephan Jenkins (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Brad Hargreaves (drums, percussion), Kryz Reid (guitar, backing vocals), Alex LeCavalier (bass, backing vocals) and Colin Creev (keyboards, guitar, backing vocals). Tree branches provided an earthy backdrop with fog, colorful stage lighting and lasers. Also present was a film crew documenting the night for a PBS television special. The stage was smaller than the band was typically used to (as mentioned by Stephan), but they made excellent use of every inch of space.
The evening began shortly after 9pm for the dedicated fanbase wanting to reconnect with their favorite band. Part 1 of the show opened with Company and included 1000 Julys, Graduate, Narcolepsy, Say It, Wounded and a few more. Part 2 was an acoustic set more relaxing and intimate and included songs I Want You, To The Sea, Blinded, Back to Zero (a mash-up with cover of “Your Love” by the Outfield and Tropic Scorpio) and ended with The Background. Part 3 included Motorcycle Drive By, Never Let You Go, Losing a Whole Year, Time in Berlin, Jumper, Crystal Baller and Semi-Charmed Life. For an encore Slow Motion was the crowd choice and closer God of Wine.
So happy when a band allows photographers pit access. Even better when they allow full show pit access! There is nothing like being up close and personal and capturing the musical moments as if performed just for you. The show concluded after a 24-song setlist and a 2+ hour performance. It was a night of great music, amazing fans and an amazing band that was better than ever! The combination of 3EB and the sold-out show made for a memorable night.
Third Eye Blind can be found online at www.thirdeyeblind.com and on Instagram @thirdeyeblind.
