In Huntington, Pixies finally made their way to Long Island. As part of their “Lost Cities” tour, Pixies were playing in some unexpected places, which included a stop in New Jersey at The Wellmont Theatre. As Pixies unveiled Doolittle to the crowd it was obvious that Pixies tapped a primal rock chord that still connects today.
Pixies – Hey at The Paramount by Idan Cohen 1
Starting off with the surreal expression of Salvador Dali’s Un Chien Andalou, aside from tangible connections to the lyrics of “Debaser,” Un Chien Andalou anchors what Pixies do best. Arresting visuals that are hauntingly immediate and loaded with symbolism. Pixies have never been shy to express themselves in their lyrics and sexuality was always on their mind. Not just the beautiful part of sexuality but the pained part told through disassociated images, words and grunts.
As Black Francis, Kim Deal, Joey Santiago and David Lovering made their way to the stage, the Doolittle celebration began. Pixies cut through some hidden gems that rounded out the Doolittle era. As Deal enthusiastically called out “B-sides!” these songs included “Dancing the Manta Ray,” “Weird at My School,” “Bailey’s Walk” and “Manta Ray.” The band were having fun with each other on stage constantly talking to each other.
As Kim tends to be unwavering in her optimism, while Santiago quietly rips on his guitar and Lovering weaves some intricate drumming to the mix. Francis is always a wildcard be it serious, joking or a bit of the two? During songs balloons were bouncing around and between songs Francis said he was going to have a heart attack unless those balloons were popped. No matter how it was supposed to be intended, the fans listened and the night continued sans balloons.
As “Manta Ray” ended, Kim delightfully announced “A sides!” and, not surprisingly, “Debaser” hit and instantly fans were transported to 1989. The songs are still amazingly intense and immediate. There is no fear that time has passed the Pixies as each song burrowed deep, engaging, Francis’ screams are in your face, contentious and demanding.
The night went as expected and as we got into the “deeper cuts” as Deal called out, the Pixies as a pop band shined. Through it all, the band are expert craftsmen with a way to deliver amazing hooks and cut through any emotion succinctly.
As with all good things, Pixies soon had to leave saving “Where is My Mind?” and “Gigantic” for the end.
As we look back on Doolittle, we can only hope that Pixies continue to work together and maybe produce some new material. It’s a selfish dream, but one that many fans share. They remain a musical force with Francis’ voice losing none of its effectiveness while the band sounded as tight as ever. Doolittle reminds everyone of that power and hopefully it’s not the last we see of Pixies.
Surfer Blood are finding a great groove for themselves. As they opened for Pixies, Surfer Blood didn’t show any jitters, instead they were confident and felt polished ahead of their years. It was guitarist’s Thomas Fekete’s 21st birthday, just to show you how young this band is.
It’s easy to forget when they can deliver songs like “Floating Vibes,” “Twin Peaks” and “Harmonix” that are just well-crafted and brimming with ideas. The band showcased some newer material like “Miranda” and “Voyager Reprise” while also playing even newer material as well. Surfer Blood ended the night with “Anchorage.”
Pixies Set List
Dancing The Manta RayÂ
Weird At My SchoolÂ
Bailey’s WalkÂ
Manta RayÂ
DebaserÂ
TameÂ
Wave Of MutilationÂ
I BleedÂ
Here Comes Your ManÂ
DeadÂ
Monkey Gone To HeavenÂ
Mr. GrievesÂ
Crackity JonesÂ
La La Love YouÂ
No. 13 BabyÂ
There Goes My GunÂ
HeyÂ
SilverÂ
Gouge AwayÂ
Encore:
Wave Of Mutilation (UK Surf)Â
Into The WhiteÂ
Encore 2:
VamosÂ
Nimrod’s SonÂ
Where Is My Mind?Â
GiganticÂ
