The greatest cover band

A town that has long bred musical talent, Laguna Beach has now produced what many consider the greatest cover band “” Ever.

The native five-man band came together a year ago, after more than a decade of playing in separate local bands, to start rehearsing a new list of songs they began performing just last month.

“Our mission is to rock out, kick ass and show no mercy,” lead vocalist Alec Bridges said.

“This is the band you’ve always wanted to be in. It’s pure fun.”

The crazy costume-clad quintet can now be seen rocking Ocean Avenue Brewery on Wednesday nights with hits from mostly the ‘80s and ‘90s, with their own fresh spin on songs like Snoop’s “Gin and Juice” and Britney Spears’ “Toxic.”

Still, classics like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and The Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House” remain truer to origin to appease die-hard fans.

The sound alone is worth the trip, but to raise the entertainment factor, Ever hosts dance-offs at each show, awarding prizes to the top three winners. Be prepared to shake it, because there’s some stiff competition.

Sequoia Slentz, founder of Cleanbox Entertainment in Laguna, said he knew the band would be a success because he’d seen them all perform, and has even booked them in the past.

“They’re outside of the box and do some really unusual stuff, so I knew they would be killer,” he said.

“It’s crazy to see the Brewery so packed on Wednesday nights now. The crowd gets really into it.”

Bridges has played guitar in various local bands, but is most notorious for his role in South African band Just Jinger, and his solo album “Look Inside,” which he released in 2006.

Electric guitarist Micah Grant, who started out with The Hiders in the ‘90s, has also played with Your Mom and Wazzi, with whom he still performs on occasion.

“This experience is so different from being in an original band,” he said. “You’re not worried about people liking [the music] because they’re already proven songs. It’s all about fun.”

Former bassist of Harry Palmdale, Peter Freeman, who’s played everything from jazz fusion to European metal, said he is stoked to be a part of the cover band.

“What puts a smile on my face is when I see people having a good time because of what we’re doing. I just love to entertain,” he said.

Drummer Dan Castillo, who is best known for his days with St. Ann’s and Vomit, has retired from death metal for the time being to rule the world of cover bands.

Brian Roberts joined the band more recently to play keyboard.

He’s got 20 years of experience and spandex cheetah pants.

Ever also plays weddings and private parties.

To contact the band, e-mail greatesttributebandever@ gmail.com or visit myspace.com/thegreatest tributebandever. To see them in person, go to Ocean Avenue Brewery on Wednesday nights.