311’s performance at Oceans Calling on October 5, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland, was a true highlight of the festival, a display of energy, musical precision, and crowd connection that only a band with over three decades of experience could deliver. From the moment they stepped on stage, the band commanded attention, igniting the audience with their signature fusion of rock, reggae, funk, and alternative sounds. Even as ominous clouds gathered over the Atlantic and a light drizzle began, the fans’ excitement never wavered. Many festival-goers embraced the rain, dancing and singing along as the band launched into their set with infectious energy.
A Night of Resilience and Connection
Nick Hexum’s charisma and stage presence anchored the performance. His voice, both strong and nuanced, carried the lyrics with a sense of urgency and joy that energized the crowd. Aaron “P-Nut” Wills on bass provided the deep grooves that have been a foundation of 311’s sound since their early days, while SA Martinez brought his signature vocal versatility and DJ work, blending rapped verses with melodic hooks seamlessly. Chad Sexton on drums and Tim Mahoney on guitar locked into tight rhythms, allowing the band to move effortlessly between funk-laden jams and heavier rock moments. The chemistry between the band members was palpable, creating a vibe that drew in longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Throughout the set, the band struck a balance between nostalgia and freshness. Classic hits like Come Original, Down, and All Mixed Up were met with enthusiastic sing-alongs, reminding the audience why 311 has maintained such a dedicated fanbase. Interspersed with these were newer tracks from their recent album Full Bloom, giving fans a glimpse into the band’s evolving sound while still maintaining the grooves and catchy hooks that have defined 311 for decades. The mix of old and new was seamless, a testament to the band’s ability to stay relevant while honoring their roots.
Festival Vibe and Atmosphere
Oceans Calling 2024 drew approximately 50,000 music fans to Ocean City’s boardwalk and beachfront venues, creating a unique festival environment that added to the magic of 311’s performance. The stages, set between the sand and the waves, offered a natural backdrop that complemented the band’s breezy, high-energy sound. The crowd ranged from diehard 311 fans who had followed the band for years to younger festival-goers discovering them for the first time, creating a dynamic mix of energy, movement, and emotion.
The interaction between the band and the audience was a highlight. Hexum frequently engaged with the crowd, encouraging sing-alongs, clapping, and call-and-response moments that drew even the more reserved attendees into the performance. Despite the rain, the energy never dipped. In fact, it seemed to elevate the show, as the shared experience of braving the elements brought fans and performers closer together.
Musical Highlights
The setlist for the evening featured a well-curated selection of songs that showcased the band’s versatility:
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Beautiful Disaster – Opening the show, this track set a high-energy tone and immediately got the crowd moving.
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Freeze Time – A fan favorite with catchy hooks and a driving rhythm that highlighted the band’s musical tightness.
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Misdirected Hostility – A heavier track that brought out the rock edge of 311’s sound, giving the crowd a chance to release some pent-up energy.
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Sunset in July – One of their more recent hits, it allowed the band to demonstrate their evolving style and kept the set feeling current.
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Do You Right – This classic track elicited cheers and sing-alongs, a moment of pure nostalgia.
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You’re Gonna Get It – A funk-infused number that showcased P-Nut’s deep grooves and the band’s infectious energy.
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Champagne – A playful, melodic interlude that gave the audience a breather while keeping the mood light.
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Come Original – A definitive 311 anthem, with its message of authenticity resonating with the crowd.
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Bass Solo – P-Nut’s solo was a standout moment, drawing cheers and applause as he showcased his technical skill and stage presence.
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Sick Tight – A high-energy performance that had fans jumping and dancing.
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All Mixed Up – Closing the main set, this song prompted a massive sing-along, a communal moment that encapsulated the spirit of the night.
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Lovesong (The Cure cover) – A surprising and heartfelt encore that added a unique twist to the show and left the audience buzzing.
Each song flowed naturally into the next, with improvisational jams and subtle transitions that highlighted the band’s musicianship. The live arrangements brought new energy to familiar tracks, and the band’s ability to read the crowd ensured that every moment felt purposeful and engaging.
Crowd Energy and Memorable Moments
One of the defining aspects of the night was the connection between the band and the audience. Fans danced in puddles, sang along with every word, and responded to every cue from Hexum and Martinez. It was clear that the band feeds off the energy of their crowd, and the Ocean City audience provided it in abundance. There were moments of pure joy and communal celebration, particularly during All Mixed Up and Come Original, when the entire crowd seemed to move as one entity.
The rain, rather than dampening spirits, added a sense of intimacy and resilience. Watching thousands of fans united in music, undeterred by weather, created a memorable and almost magical atmosphere. The performance was a reminder of the power of live music to transcend external circumstances and forge a connection between performer and audience.
Closing Thoughts
311’s performance at Oceans Calling 2024 was a masterclass in high-energy, fan-focused live music. The band’s chemistry, musicianship, and ability to balance nostalgia with contemporary material made for an unforgettable show. From the opening notes of Beautiful Disaster to the emotional encore of Lovesong, the concert was a celebration of both the band’s legacy and their enduring relevance in the music world.
For those in attendance, it was a night to remember—a testament to the power of live performance, the spirit of community, and the enduring appeal of 311. Oceans Calling 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the festival’s standout years, and 311’s set was a cornerstone of that experience, leaving fans buzzing long after the final note rang out.