Everclear

After two divorces, bankruptcy and the demise of his band, Art Alexakis went underground for a few years, emerging in 2003 with a new lineup for Everclear and plans for a future album. The change from a major label to the more modest surroundings he was forced to occupy have done nothing to diminish his hit songwriting ability -- these songs are as catchy as anything from Everclear's heyday. But the question is whether the public will embrace it. Album opener, "Under the Western Stars," is crunchy good fun that even non-fans of the band might find themselves getting behind.