Photos by Katie Holtzclaw ; Written by Katie Holtzclaw
On July 27, 2024, at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, GA, rock nostalgia was taken to a new level as Third Eye Blind delivered an electrifying performance that left the audience in awe. Since their formation in San Francisco in 1993, Third Eye Blind has been a staple in the rock music scene, with their first EP released the same year I was born and still selling out venues on their current summer tour, “Summer Gods Tour 2024.” The show’s openers, Yellowcard and A R I Z O N A, set the stage perfectly with their energetic and captivating performances, warming up the crowd and creating an electric atmosphere that carried through to Third Eye Blind’s headlining set.
Their self-titled debut album in 1997 catapulted them to fame with hits like “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper,” and “How’s It Going to Be.” As a music-lover who is as old as their band, I was also in complete awe as they sang songs I used to rock out to in high school. For many fans, including those who have been following the band since the beginning, this concert was a journey through time.
The amphitheater buzzed with anticipation as fans of all ages gathered to witness the band that had soundtracked their lives. The moment the lights dimmed and the opening chords of “Graduate” echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted in cheers. Stephan Jenkins, the charismatic frontman, captivated the audience with his distinct voice and dynamic stage presence, instantly creating a connection that would last the entire show. His band members were also front and center, interacting seamlessly with each other and the audience, showcasing their chemistry and cohesion as a unit.
The setlist was a masterful blend of old favorites and newer tracks, ensuring that every fan had something to sing along to. Highlights of the night included energetic renditions of “Never Let You Go,” “Motorcycle Drive By” and the anthemic “Jumper.” The band also treated the audience to “Screamer,” a track from their more recent work, showcasing their evolution while staying true to their signature sound. One of the most memorable moments of the night was when the entire band sat on cushions in a row, each member with a guitar or drums in hand, creating an intimate and harmonious atmosphere. This unique setup allowed them to perform a stripped down, acoustic set that showcased their musical versatility and camaraderie. The audience was mesmerized by the simplicity and raw talent displayed as they played “Slow Motion” and “The Background.”
Online reactions to the concert were overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising the band’s performance and the electrifying atmosphere. One fan tweeted, “Third Eye Blind just blew my mind! What a show!” Another commented on Instagram, “Hearing ‘Semi-Charmed Life’ live was everything I hoped for and more.” The band also shared their excitement on social media, posting a backstage photo with the caption, “Atlanta, you were amazing tonight! Thanks for all the love and energy. #ThirdEyeBlind #SummerTour2024.” Their posts were met with an
outpouring of love from fans who echoed the sentiment and shared their own concert experiences.
The setlist for the night was a perfect mix of nostalgia and new energy, featuring:
1. Graduate
2. Losing a Whole Year
3. Narcolepsy
4. Semi-Charmed Life
5. Jumper
6. How’s It Going to Be
7. Never Let You Go
8. Deep Inside of You
9. Blinded (When I See You)
10. Motorcycle Drive By
11. Screamer
12. Company of Strangers
Third Eye Blind’s performance at the Ameris Bank Amphitheater was a testament to their enduring appeal and the timeless quality of their music. It was a night filled with nostalgia, energy, and a shared love for a band that has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. The tour, marking its fourth consecutive year, continues to bring fans together, celebrating the timeless music of Third Eye Blind.
