Beach Slang: 2015’s Best Rock Band
- James Alex, the frontman for the Philadelphia punk-rock band beach Slang, is currently on tour with Tommy Stinson of the Replacements, calling it a dream.
- For Alex, this tour, especially his first visit to the Twin Cities, holds special meaning.
- Beach Slang, formed after Alex's previous band Weston dissolved, began as a side project.
Beach Slang, fronted by James alex, is rapidly ascending as 2015’s best rock band, and their energy is infectious. Alex, currently touring with Tommy Stinson of The Replacements, views the experience as a dream realized, a sentiment reflecting his lifelong passion.The band’s music deeply resonates with aging rock fans, offering a youthful viewpoint on themes like youthful naivety and clinging to the present, much like other top-tier acts. From his early punk rock experiences with The Ramones to the recording of their LP, The Things We Do To Find People Who Feel Like Us, Alex’s journey embodies the spirit of rock and roll. Discover how News Directory 3 is covering Beach Slang’s latest tour, and get ready for more energetic performances and music. Discover what’s next for Beach Slang.
Beach Slang’s James Alex on Rock and the Road
Updated May 28, 2025
James Alex, the frontman for the Philadelphia punk-rock band beach Slang, is currently on tour with Tommy Stinson of the Replacements, calling it a dream. Alex described the experience as “awesome” while speaking from a roadside restaurant in Kenosha, WI.
For Alex, this tour, especially his first visit to the Twin Cities, holds special meaning. He plans to visit landmarks associated with the Replacements,including the Let It Be house and clubs where the band played. He considers himself a lifelong rock and roll fan, comparing his pilgrimage to a history buff visiting a famous battlefield.
Beach Slang, formed after Alex’s previous band Weston dissolved, began as a side project. Despite touring with Weston for two decades without achieving mainstream success, Alex continued to pursue his passion for music. Beach Slang’s EPs, released in 2014, drew inspiration from bands like the Replacements, Swervedriver, and the Jesus and Mary Chain.
The band’s music resonates with aging rock fans, similar to bands like the Hold Steady and Japandroids. While those bands acknowledge the passage of time, Alex maintains a youthful viewpoint in his songwriting. His lyrics often explore themes of youthful naivety and clinging to the present.
“That’s still the person I am,” Alex said. “Age is a collection of numbers… I’ve never subscribed to that, and I have the bank account to prove it.”
Beach Slang’s debut LP, The Things We Do To Find People Who Feel Like Us, expands on their previous work with heightened guitar work and emotive lyrics. Alex’s music aims to capture the feeling of living inside the rock songs that have inspired him.
Alex encourages others to pursue their passions, stating that remembering the things that “feed the good parts of you” is essential. He continues to perform live, embracing the energy and excitement of rock and roll.
During a stop in St. Paul, Alex reflected on his first punk-rock show, the ramones in Allentown, PA, at age 12. He described the experience as transformative, noting the sense of community and acceptance he felt.
Despite initial indifference from the crowd at a recent show, Beach Slang won over the audience with their energetic performance. Alex’s passion and enthusiasm were evident as he engaged with the crowd,ultimately leaving them wanting more.
“I don’t know why everyone isn’t in a band and [doesn’t get] drunk every night,” Alex said to his latest fans. “It’s fucking heaven, man.”
What’s next
Beach Slang is expected to continue touring and recording, bringing their energetic and passionate brand of rock and roll to audiences worldwide.Fans can anticipate more music that explores themes of youth, dreams, and the power of rock and roll.