Photos and Review by Max Stewart
Boston’s Pixies are one of those bands that have so much direct or subconscious influence in the musical ether, it is impossible to quantify. The “angular and bent” guitar style, the ranging dynamic from quiet to loud (which heavily influenced Kurt Cobain and “Smells Like Teen Spirit”), the shape-shifting vocals and a sound that ranges from surf to punk… all of it full of texture and invading the brains of FM listeners during the last few decades. With all the embarrassing musical genres that have sprouted and died since Pixies formed in the Eighties, they have remained effortlessly cool, even after a 10 year hiatus from 1993-2003. Pixies are also releasing new music that is worth listening to, which cannot be said for some of their fellow 80s/90s classmates.
In fact, when they played at the Coca-Cola Roxy just outside Atlanta, their new album Doggerel was frequent seasoning throughout their setlist. Unlike many acts that play ‘the new record’ to groans and bathroom breaks, fans at the super sold-out show remained wholly engaged and spirited. Of course, some of the mainstays like “Monkey Gone to Heaven”, “Hey”, “Nimrod’s Song”, ” Here Comes Your Man”, and of course “Where Is My Mind?” were highlights and moments where many phones sparkled in the air to capture on video. But this band sounds as good as ever and fully locked-in with their new material. Black Francis (aka Frank Black) is leading the charge with his non-traditional yet oh-so-sweet vocal style, and he has embraced a Tom Waits-esque range in some of the new tunes. Then there’s the tension and interweaving lead guitar by Joey Santiago, which is a centerpiece to Pixies’ style. And it all comes together thanks to the rhythm section of original drummer David Lovering and bassist Paz Lenchantin (who joined in 2016), whose harmonies and vocals add so much color to an already vibrant sonic tapestry.
Pixies are a band that is comfortable and thriving in their veteran years. And for good reason. While the music world has changed dramatically, they have remained a stalwart of alt-rock, and they are continuing to create great art for the masses to consume in 2023.
To lead off the night, Bully brought a fantastic set of songs with fury and sincerity. The solo project of singer / guitarist Alicia Bognanno, Bully is a live show definitely worth seeing if you appreciate distorted guitars and melodies. Wedged in the middle of the bill, Scotland’s Franz Ferdinand were part of the 00s guitar rock revival and they consistently bring the energy live. Frontman Alex Kapranos is the orchestrator of all the elevated vibes of their set (impressive leg kicks!), as he and the band continue to remind audiences how they have mastered hooky lyrics AND guitar riffs. “Take Me Out” could easily take the prize for best Indie Rock single of 00s, and the song completely lives up to the hype live. Fully danceable and equal parts rocking.
Thank you to Pixies for curating a perfect supporting lineup for this tour. This was a night of ear-to-ear smiles and some grade A guitar rock.
