Reviews (page 3 of 7)
This is a whopper of an album; over an hour. I like the sloppiness of it. I don't know how often I'd listen to the whole album all the way through, but I love the vibes.
This was a fun and quirky album. I'll say that the biggest negative is that it is too long and could have been whittled to a tight single album. But it has a great post-punk vibe even though its later than that. The songwriting and playing is often off kilter and that keeps it consistently interesting and enjoyable. It also throws in enough hard edge to remind you its still rock. I also really enjoyed the Spotify radio mix after the album was over. I was torn between a 3-4 so I had to look back on my 3's. Definitely 3.6
I hadn't heard of any of Frank Black's work outside of the Pixies and this was a wonderful surprise. Plenty of great songs but the length of it with some filler had to knock it down a star, but all in all, it's a solid album.
Pixies singer, good stuff
Always been cautiously curious about the Pixies so this is an interesting introduction to a solo Pixies effort by Mr. Frank Black. Interesting how his voice ranges from high and almost-Neil Young sounding to low and punky, the latter of which at some points has an Iggy Pop/ Lou Reed drawl to it, never a bad thing. This album grew on me the longer it played. While firmly alternative, this album has some nice groove to it, including the capacity to be enjoyed as a sick straight-ahead rock album. Despite the ample range, there is no shortage of edge throughout. Plenty of genre-play, from mathy to punk to even a reggae standout. That right there, could be analyzed in and of itself. How a non-Jamaican musician tackles a reggae song says a lot about who they are as an artist and I think Mr. Black pulled it off here. I actually feel like I'm listening to a very well-schooled academic on rock music, which is exciting. He knows his shit and you can hear it throughout. There are tons of sonic references to rock and punk history in clever ways that stay true to himself. I'd definitely listen to this again. Looking forward to checking out more Pixies with less skepticism in the future.
The second solo album by Frank Black aka Black Francis aka Francois Noir clearly demonstrates his ability to write catchy, noisy, energetic pop songs disguised as something more rocky. There's always a songs on any of his or Pixies' albums that will get stuck in my mind for days. That being said, I don't think it would be too difficult to cut out 40%-50% of the 22 tracks and end up with a stellar record.
Teenager Of the Year is a bit like watching Pixies live - the songs just keeps coming and coming and coming. Is 22 songs too many? Probably. It seems excessive. Should the record be any shorter? I mean, it’s Black Francis doing his thing. So probably not.
I know nothing of Frank Black going in. Track 1: Hmm, this sounds kind of like Primus. Track 2: Well, this one is more like Dead Kennedys. Track 3: Now he sounds like Neil Young. Track 4: Is this a Dire Straits song? And so on. What I mean to say is there is a ton of variety on this album. I enjoyed it and will listen again.
Loved this one. Been on a big Pixies kick so this is a welcome surprise.
I liked a lot of this. Might have to check out some more of his stuff. 4/5
I love the Pixies but somehow had never heard this. I loved it, but it does suffer from mid 90s, CD bloat. There is a 5 star record on here but ultimately there is too much filler. Still an easy 4.
This was a very fun album. Maybe too long but track to track was very enjoyable
This doesn't quite have the punchiness of Pixies, but it becomes more sustained and interesting experimental in its own right. Reminds me of Nick Cave a little in places.
I was very surprised to see this album. It is good, but it could have easily have been replaced with Trompe Le Monde or Last Splash. I've always really enjoyed the song Whatever Happened to Pong, it's just a weird chaotic song. Space is Gonna do me Good also gets stuck in my head every now and then. Headache is also a really good song. Besides some standout songs, a lot of the songs on here are just good or okay. This album could have easily cut 1/3 of the songs and been ~40 minutes. 3.5
A lot of great songs but it suffers a bit from the plight of many 90s albums - too damn long. Theres a certain charm to the brevity of so many classic albums - 8 to 10 songs, 30 to 40 minutes. Sometimes less is more. In the end - this album has a high batting average is much better than I remember.
I see where Green Day got their influence.. too bad they’re not as good 😏 I feel like Frank Black was one of the original “punk” bands. It was a good listen, but some songs were a lil too much for me.
Not as strong as the first couple of Pixies records, but realistically what is? It’s probably my favourite Pixies-adjacent project since the 80s and while it doesn’t quick match the band’s unique and raucous energy, it’s a bit more experimental sonically and is packed with great hooks and fun rabid yelps
I've been a huge Pixies fan since the beginning and have seen them twice since they reunited in 2000's, but I've yet to listen to any of Frank Black's solo albums. I was expected a watered down version of the Pixies, but actually this is as good or better than (especially the more recent Pixies releases) the Pixies stuff. He's expanded his range and musical variety and it's definitely a more accessible sound and the songs are catchy and listenable. It's more rock than alternative noise-rock, so it's a totally different listening experience. Teenager Of the Year was released only a couple of years after the first Pixies breakup and he has stronger material than the last band album, so it sounds fresh. I'm not sure what his later solo albums sound like, but I'm guessing TOTY must be one of his better ones.
Back from a break! Got served up a bunch of double albums that I never found time for. This was a really enjoyable listen though. Solid alt-rock album, lagged a bit at the end IMO but overall it kept a really good pace. Mostly short-punchy songs. Would definitely listen again.
Big fan of this album format, the 20+ short songs collection. Reminds me of like an alt rock London Calling, not quite on the level of Pixies best, but it's a fun and easy listen.
First time hearing this artist but really enjoyed him. New album to add to my playlist highly recommended.
Ooo yes. I was super happy to hear this. It was entirely new to me, or so I thought, but it turns out Headache is a song whose hook has been my ear worm since the 90s and I’ve been totally incapable of finding out where it came from. So this was revelatory!
3.5 stars rounded up.
A great Rock and Roll, underappreciated. Could have been the Pixies though.
Quirky and interesting. Never heard of this album so it was a pleasant surprise
Really enjoyed this one although it was a little long.
Another great find
It’s not bad at all. There’s some fun stuff like Fiddle Riddle. I appreciate he wants to do other stuff outside of Pixies. But it’s just not as remarkable. I’ll go 3.5
Kinda loved this, but could've done with being about a third of the length
Fun album from Pixies singer Frank Black (Black Francis). Not as iconic as his Pixies tunes, but definitely interesting and catchy. Worth a spin.
It's a real curio this. I've grappled with it on and off over the years. I think it's definitely true that there's plenty here that's right up there rivalling Pixies' best work. It's also true that it's too long and is an assault on the senses at times. Pretty wonderful, really. Headache, Speedy Marie, Freedom Rock
I had never heard of this album but it was a great listen. Not quite as good as the classic Pixies albums but quite enjoyable and Headache is a classic tune.
So nice I played it twice. I’ve tried this album in the past and it didn’t hit so happy it took this time around.
Well, I do like Pixies, so I guess I can go into 62 minutes by Black Francis himself. The cover art threw me off. And it's really good. Some of his vocals remind me of Lou Reed or Ezra Furman (her voice also reminds me of Lou Reed's, to be fair). It's still a long record and I think some careful editing could get this down to a comparably lean 50 minutes--but overall I'm impressed by the consistent quality on an album this long. Highlights: Whatever Happened to Pong?, (I Want to Live on an) Abstract Plain, Speedy Marie, Headache, Sir Rockaby, Freedom Rock, Two Reelers, Pure Denizen Of The Citizens Band
I've always liked Frank Black, and enjoyed this album.
Liked this a lot, clearly talented
Pretty good, felt longer than it was for some reason.
Strange, but to be expected. Good kind of strange, though.
I’m only familiar with Frank Black’s work with the Pixies. I actually didn’t know he had some solo work until now. This was a good album. Leans heavily into the mid-90s indie rock sound a la Pavement but has a couple curveballs here and there. There were some reggae/dub-inspired tunes which I was surprised to hear. The only drawback is that the album is a bit too long.
doesn't quite justify the length but there's plenty of solid stuff in here.
Very well put together
I didn't enjoy the first song, but the rest of the album was very enjoyable.
A bit long but some great tunes on it
The first rock concert I ever attended had Frank Black as the opener when he was promoting this album, so this music really brings me back. That made him the first rock star I ever saw live, long before I knew who The Pixies were. Listening to this album now, it sounds like what you often hear from lead singer solo projects, which lacks the chemistry of the rest of the band. Despite that, it has some real gems. 'Headache' is the standout track and rivals most material by The Pixies. But there is enough else on here to make for a good album. My only complaint is that it's a bit longer than it needs to be. Trim about 20 minutes off and it would be a tighter album but I still really enjoyed listening and imagining that first live experience again.
4.0 - Frank Black proves once again why he’s master of the 90s loud-soft-loud alternative rock sound. Lots of great cuts on here, especially “Headache” and “Speedy Marie.”
interesting album, blend of post-punk and ska. I don't know if I will listen more, may have had enough with initial listen.
Took me by surprise. 4/5
Gutes 90er Indie Album
I never really got deep into The Pixies, but I always enjoyed their music whenever I happened to hear it. This feels the same, perhaps unsurprisingly.
Un album qui me fait bel et bien sentir comme une adolescente (la date de parution doit y être pour en quelque chose). Bon équilibre entre l’anxiété des paroles et l’énergie débridée de la musique
Suoraviivaisempaa kun pixies, mutta myös tylsempää. Hiivatin monta biisiä myös levyllä. 3/5
Great album. Your typical Frank Black humor and pop hooks. Very little filler for such a long album.
I've heard of the Pixies but never listened to them. I like this album and will check out more.
This was a great listen and new to me!
Liked this one a lot
A very odd album. I was pleasantly surprised; like a music critic said, the album artwork gives the wrong impression entirely. Calistan and Freedom Rock were great, Fiddle Riddle utterly rotten, and the rest pretty enjoyable. Quite like the sound, is relatively consistent between the Pixies which I also enjoyed. Nice one Frank.
Good
I thought the guy on the cover looked like someone who might have came second in Pop Idol but the music here is great. Only complaint is that maybe this collection is little too long
This is a great listen 👍🏼
reminds me of arctic monkeys' first album in some parts. was nice enough alright
a very cool post-pixies exploration by frank black. a buffet of alternative rock with catchy tunes and deeper tracks. i love his cryptic lyricism, making repeat listens more enjoyable. a few really catchy tracks like headache. not a 5 due to it being a pretty long album of 22 tracks, a few of which could have been cut. but the rest is gold nonetheless.
250226 11:26 3.5
I like it quite a bit. It does sound like what you’d imagine a ‘90s alternative album would sound like. A mix of dissonant guitar chords and sharp pop production tricks. Excellent songwriting, which might be the least surprising thing about this album. VERY relistenable if a tad too long.
80s alt rock from former lead singer of the Pixies. Nice discovery.
Had only listened to the Black’s work with the Pixie’s prior to this listen. Thought this was really good, a bit long at 22 tracks but a strong lighter grunge album. Abstract Plain and Headache were both solid, there’s some decent humour on it too. Ole Mulholland came on and it was such a strong reminder how big and influence had on Isaac Brock which gave me a whole other reason to appreciate this. Yea, a bit long but fuck ya Frank! 4 stars
Great listen. I haven't explored much of Frank Black's solo career but I felt this was a very cohesive album that was so listenable.
Endlessly creative. Went on from Pixies to have a great solo career.
Not too bad
Крутой альбом но! длинный
I love the Pixies and some of Frank Black’s solo work. This one doesn’t really grab me - good but not great.
I hadn't heard any of Frank's solo records, and honestly thought this would just sound like a Pixies record. But it sounds distinctly like a solo record. And I'm into it! Some well-written ditties for sure. While nothing in particular stuck with me a few days after listening, I'd definitely listen again. So that's a great sign.
Objectively, I’m not sure why this is on the list (as much as I love The Pixies). Subjectively, it was a fun album and exactly what I want to listen to. I’ll split the difference with my rating, I guess.
solo album by the song from Pixies! This was very very good! 8.0/10
Solides Rock Album. Hat mir so zum nebenbei hören gefallen. 3.9
Nice Songs. Liked it! Love the mix of musical styles. personal top3 in no order: speedy marie freedom rock fiddle riddle
Manchmal bissle zu punkig, aber insgesamt groovy
It's got that 90 indies rock vibe that I enjoy. I didn't really know who Frank was and thought it sounded familiar and then reading the description of the album made the penny drop. It's like a fun version of The Pixies. Faves: Abstract Plain, Freedom Rock
Hmmmm, to start with the inevitable Pixies comparison, this seems to be lacking a certain je ne sais quoi. Is it just lack of familiarity, or the absence of Kim Deal? A little bit of both, maybe? I gave this three play throughs and it definitely started to grow on me - maybe with more plays I'd reach the same level of admiration I have for Pixies... Fave tracks - "(I Want to Live on An) Abstract Plain", "Two Reelers", "Bad, Wicked World" all stood out. I'm not sure how I feel about the reggae-tinged "Fiddle Riddle"....
Oh a solo album from the lead singer of the Pixies. I was wondering what this was about since I'd never heard of it! This is the kind of music I would have loved in high school and obsessed over. I don't think anything about it really blew me away but i also liked every song and found this very easy to listen to. Diverse enough and interesting flow. Really talented artist.
There weren’t any bad songs, though I did feel the album was a bit long. A sci-Fi theme of earth and isolation started to emerge in the second half which I found really really interesting and wished he leaned into more, in favor of some of the other songs that, while interesting, detracted from a tighter album. Still, I liked the album and would listen to it again.
Best frank album in my opinion
This is the type of album I'm really happy is on this list. I know the Pixies but didn't know about his solo stuff. This is super interesting, a ton of strange transitions, and each track is unique. 4/5
My first thought was, "This is such a stereotypical 90s album. Why is this on the list?" But then I realized that, 900+ albums in, I haven't heard anything ELSE like this so far from the list. This is what MY 90s sounded like, though. The slightly sloppy guitars, rough vocals, clever but loose rhyming schemes... this is the sound of indie rock in the 90s. And you know what? I'm here for it. I enjoyed this one. Maybe it was sheer nostalgia for the sound of my youth but I have a pretty underdeveloped sense of nostalgia so, if this managed to provoke a response... well, that's worth a star on its own.
I didn't know this album very well, which surprised me. The first thing to say is that the cover is excellent. The album itself is really good in parts, but is probably just a little too one-note for me. It didn't take me on a journey like Pixies albums do.
...I'm not black like Barry White, no, I am white like Frank Black is... - Bloodhound Gang
Here's how to make a good album: Write some fun songs about unusual subjects. Don't make 'em too long. Achieve a deft balance between pop sensibility and rockin' out. Have a rad guitar tone. Get the bassist from Captain Beefheart's excellent 'Bat Chain Puller (Shiny Beast)' to produce and play on the album. See? Not so hard, right?
Rock. Interesante.
Uno de los mejores álbumes de todos los tiempos. Innovador, entretenido, creativo y sorprendente. Este LP revolucionó el panorama musical de la época y tras una serie de remasterizaciones, sigue fascina hasta el día de hoy. Realmente un indispensable musical y un clásico del rock.
I remember reading interviews with solo Frank Black in Rock Sound magazine around 2000 and not really knowing who he was. Shortly after that I got super into Pixies, but somehow have managed not to listen to any of his solo stuff in the intervening years. A cool, heavy, unsurprisingly Pixies-ish sound which it will probably take a few listens for me to fully appreciate. Headache felt really familiar, and I loved the guitars on The Hostess With The Mostest.
I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised to find a well crafted alternative rock album. It’s a bit too long, but there are some really fantastic songs here that are strong enough to be Pixies tracks. Solo albums from members of a strong band are always a gamble, but I think Frank Black/Black Francis hits his mark here.
Around the middle of the album, the genre changes from this offbeat alternative that is closer to the Pixies to basically grunge but with a unique flavor. I'm all for it since their alternative sound doesn't really stick, except for "Abstract Plain", which I also liked.
Buena colección de canciones con toques rockeros. Interesante de escuchar. A ratos guitarrero e intenso. Bien conjuntados y producido. No lo conocía en absoluto y me ha gustado.
I honestly didn't expect to like this - but a positive surprise is never a bad thing. Definitely quite varied (in terms of songwriting and instrumentation) for a solo effort!
Surprisingly diverse. Lots of different styles and variations of styles. Creative writing. I really liked it.
so dumb yet genius.
I really vibed out with this. His band is really tight on this one. Just too ling
Frank Black is really easy to make fun of. He's pretty much a parody of himself at this point. Despite that I love the first run of Pixies records and definitely love this record. This has always been one of my top records to listen to on a road trip. Just so many great sing-along-able songs. It's a tad long, but still punches above it's weight from start to finish.
This album is a lot of fun and always is better than I think it will be when I listen to it. Favorite track: Sir Rockaby
This album grew on me. It’s a bit all over the place, but creative and interesting. Freedom Rock was the highlight for me
Really great sound and production, gives the rock a feeling of optimism and positive energy. Lacks a but in songwriting such as melodies and memorable choruses, but overall a great rock album despite its long runtime.
I actually really liked this album, I think it's well constructed and I like Black's vocals and energy. I think the writing seems promising too, but one day of listening isn't enough to really internalize what's going on on each track in relation to the others. I'm excited to keep listening to this project over time and see how it grows on me.
Enjoyable album. Fun lyrics. Wasn't interested at the start but it grew on me as the album progressed.
It took me a while to come around to liking Frank Black (same with the Pixies). This record definitely helped. Lots of really good tunes on this.
It's hard for me not to compare this to the Pixies. I liked it but i'd still listen put on a Pixies record before this.
After the first couple of songs I was ready to write it off as “Pixies without the quiet bits,” but once you get deeper in it’s pretty clearly more. Hints of Talking Heads and T. Rex at times. Solid alt-rock/pop.
A surprisingly fun rock album. Nothing especially unusual about it but it's enjoyable, if a bit long.
Очень здорово 👍
I wanted to dislike this album. After track 1 I was not looking forward to 60+ min. Really grows on you. Not a Pixies fan but this guy is talented. He's like Bradley Nowell/Lou Reed hybrid (to far? Maybe) plus now I get that 311 reference. Parcheesi anyone?
The length of this really works against it. Some fat trimming would have made this a 5 star, but some of the chaff gets through and weighs down the album a bit. Still, this list continues to swing me into being a fan of Pixies. Favorite tracks: "Whatever Happened to Pong?", "Calistan", "Ole Mulholland", "Fazer Eyes"
"Teenager of the Year" is the second solo album by American musician and Pixies' frontman Frank Black (Black Francis). It was co-produced by former Pere Ubu member Eric Drew Feldman (also by Frank Black and Allstair Clay) who played keyboards. Other guest musicians included guitarists' Lyle Workman, Morris Tepper and the Pixies' Joey Santiago. This was not originally well-received but now is widely praised. Yeah, this is a good album. The album starts slow with a Pixies' sounding guitar and string sounds on "Whatver Happen to Pong?" It then kicks in hard with Frank screaming unintelligibly. I did pick up that he wanted to go back to a time before Donkey Kong. Lots of time travel talk on this album. "The Vanishing Spies" is slower, more pop. The sci-fi theme continues with disappearing Russian probes. Hey,we have a love song in "Speedy Maine." Very catchy. The only single was "Headache." Jingly guitar. Piano. A great vocal and backing vocal chorus. This sounds very latter-day Replacements. Actually, much better. There's a wrinkle in time and he's got a headache. Let's rock out with louder guitar and ferocious drumming in "Freedom Rock." Don't conform and especially don't give Frank advice at a record store. Hey, Van Halen showed up for the start in "The Hostess with the Mostest." Then, straight punk. About malls, of course. "Superabound" adds an organ, a groove and sounds like we're at a carnival. I don't know why but I was reminded of The Meat Puppets again (see yesterday). We need Joey Santiago Pixie surf guitar!!! We need...And we get it at the end in "Pure Denizen Of The Citizens Band" and "Pie in the Sky." "Photon power. Expanding border. Behold the pie in the sky." This was fun, fun, fun. 22 short songs. A variety of punk, Pixies, pop and rock. Nice melodies. Time travel and video games. What else do we need?
This album is a lot of fun. It doesn't really feel groundbreaking, but that's okay. The vocals are fun and sung well, the instrumentation is arranged well. Favorite tracks: Speedy Marie, Superabound
It's almost ridiculous how this experimental sounding rock is so catchy.
I listened to this alot in college and it really makes the memories come flood back hearing it again. This is easily his best post Pixies album, and I'd say its on par with "Trompe Le Monde." It's CD era long so I'll dock it a point for that, but otherwise I find his songwriting curiously compelling, and the weird energy he performs it with, to be captivating.
Another one hanging around the five star mark but doesn't quite get there for me. Maybe a bit too long. Big fan of his style though and interesting cross over with my old mates/nemsises Pere Ubu on production.
Unlike Kim Deal's The Breeders, Frank Black is incredibly faithful to the Pixies sound and approach. As much as they try, it's not quite as melodically interesting as Pixies releases, but all the instrumentalists do an outstanding job in supporting Black. And it still has that Pixies groove with a bit of an Americana influence (that he would expand in later records). Plenty of highlights here. A few forgettable, and goes on a bit too long, but a solid surprise for any Pixies fan who hadn't dived into the post-Pixies material. Favorites: Whatever Happened to Pong, Abstract Plain, Calistan, Headache, Freedom Rock, Two Reelers, Fiddle Riddle
First two minute long songs feel like a psychotrip, and I do not mean that in a bad way. Was weirdly fun
I find it hard to think of anything to write about this album because it's been a part of the fabric of my soundscape for so many years. This is a beloved favorite because of the cerebral lyricism married so effortlessly to fun singalong rock songs. "They tried to give me advice down at the record shop. I said, 'Sit down, boys. This may come as a shock: the only thing I listen to is freedom rock'." I love this sense of awareness Black has in calling out music snobbery. Clocking in at 22 tracks, this album has plenty of room for the harder, faster rock songs and more ballad-y or bouncy pop tunes.
The Pixies guy!
Really interesting
Great sun out windows open album. It isn't afraid to take influence from early rock but it also has elements that you would expect from an album of this era. Truly good music. I judged this one by the cover at first and shouldn’t have.
Frank is a legend. The man responsible for the pixies can do little wrong. Much of their energy is reflected here.
This was just too much music for me, but the solo on "vanishing spies" was a highlight for sure
Well this was a great surprise Started off sounding like Pixies redux but then got good and then kept getting better Really liked this
The love songs from a muddy morning
Cool
yassified david brent
Impressive record with a great sound. The songs are really interesting and the tracklist flows perfectly. Maybe this is not at the level of the best Pixies, but the final result is more than enjoyable.
Whyyyy is this so long
I liked it more than expected. Needs the Pixies to be amazing
There's only two Frank Black records I really like without the involvement of Kim Deal. The amazing Honeycomb and this. Lots of pretty short, spiky songs and one stone cold, copper bottomed, tin hatted classic in Headache.
Old enough to remember the Pixies breaking up, and yet, despite my love of Come on Pilgrim, Surfer Rosa, and Doolittle I didn't track Frank Black after the breakup. Fast-Forward five years to a friend forcing this album on me saying Frank Black deserves my attention. Looking back I'm surprised Mr. Black didn't track right after the breakup. The first 2/3 of this record is right up my alley. Really, it's only at song #21 that I start to think this thing has gone on a little too long. And then BOOM! it's over at the end of song #22. So there you go. Maybe if he had released four fewer songs in 94, I would've been converted. As it stands, I still saw Frank Black and the Catholics in 1999 after that same friend had put the CD in my hand as a hook to get me to buy a ticket to the show. Lots of these songs were played and played well. The record still holds up here on an abstract plain at the end of 2022.
There's a real Pixies feel to this and I really like it. The guy's really talented and there's a variety to this too that makes it worth listening the whole way through.
I liked this album. Heard of it before but didn't ever listen.
He does a good job of combining different genres to make an overall enjoyable and fun album that is rewarding to listen to. 4/5
Wasn’t what I expected from what I know of the pixies. Really good melodic rock, some great hooks
J'ai beaucoup aimé cet album de la baleine Franck Black, notamment le moment où ce dernier remonte à la surface prendre sa respiration, expulsant l'eau présente dans ses poumons d'un splendide geyser aquatique.
I went back and forth about this album. There were a number of songs I liked, and a number of songs that I kind of scratched my head about. They were short, and didn't seem to go anywhere. It's like they were underdeveloped ideas that could have used someone to bounce ideas off of. I can hear the obvious influence that Black and the Pixies had on a lot of later American music. They did stuff that a lot of bands used to make that grunge and alternative sound. Truly ahead of their time. On the strength of songs like "Two Reelers" and "Ole Mulholland," I am going to give this a 4, but it's a pretty weak 4. A lot of this was relistenable and enjoyable, but some of the shorter songs were very undercooked IMO.
Es bastante sorprendente y está bastante bien
New to me, as a Pixies fan. Exactly what I would want from his solo work. Has those never ending guitar chords that spiral up to a climax that never comes. May have been a better album experience if truncated to a single LP. (3.75)
Rox
This was good but not good enough to break up the Pixies for lol
This was an... odd album. It's a rock-pop mix of mostly short songs, few of which stand out in any way. Many of the songs have a certain humorous vibe to them which gives the album as a whole a sorta cynical-funny mix of looking at things which is quite fun, especially tracks like "Abstract Plain", "Sir Rockaby" and "White Noise Maker". I think the one big standout track of the album is "Freedom Rock", where the instrumental work is given a bit more focus, especially in the song's intro. Overall a good listen, but not really something I'd particularly recommend.
Heel duidelijk wat Pixies meegenomen naar z'n solo werk
Enjoyable. Some solid tunes. 3.5/5 rounded up.
As a Pixies fan, I was excited, but at it's best this is only mid-level Pixies. I guess it's an album to make me appreciate Kim Deal and Joey Santiago more (though apparently Santiago did contribute some guitar work). Not bad though, just, not as good as his other work. So...the above is my draft from listening to the first half or so of this yesterday...but listening to the second half it grew on me...not sure if I changed or the songs, but I can hear the Pixies-ishness more and I really dug it. Gonna bounce this up to a 4.
Very good. A bit rambling at points, but pleasantly rambling. Sounded more like Dylan than I had expected, and lots of influence from The Clash too. Clear distinction from his work with the Pixies, which I was kind of not really thinking it would be. Oddly, it made me want to listen to Pixies rather than more of his solo stuff though - just cos I know it better.
enjoyable
Rocky
Some great tracks but did it need to be over an hour long?
Frank Black, Black Francis, Charles, whoever you are on any given day, I love listening to you! I'll always love your work with the Pixies best, but this is a great fucking album. Even though we still get the maximum amount of bizarreness and grime in every track, it feels a bit more refined than Pixies albums do. Like all that bizarreness and grime has been passed through a fine mesh strainer. I do think the runtime is a little long, it could have benefited from some streamlining, but I love it.
Better than expected. Heard the Pixies decades ago and wasn't keen. Varied influences from the 50s through the 90s. Great songwriting and some lovely guitar. Maybe a bit manic in parts.
Неожиданный альбом Естественно тем, что хорош Тем более в такой момент. В который раз убеждаюсь - Открытия могут быть всегда Йогурт или альбом - это не важно На самом деле как желанное дитя Если бы гранж и инди его имели!
Gutes Album mit einigen starken Tracks, was aber irgendwann etwas "dahinplätschert". Irgendwas zwischen 3 und 4, aber eher eine 4 als eine 3.
Ex Vocalista do Pixies em seu trabalho solo. Legal, gostei, meio alternativo, meio rock. Melhores músicas: Two Reelers e Space gonna do me good
Really nice! I haven’t listened to Pixies very much (or his solo work), but I will definitely return to this record.
Love the Pixies, back half had more of the Pixie sound than the front half. The main problem with this album is the length.
þetta var bara frekar decent shit to be perfectly honest, henti þessu í gegn einu sinni og fannst nokkur lögin bara mjög skemmtileg, get alveg ímyndað mér að hlusta oftar á þetta, þetta eru amk 3.5 stjörnur, veit ekki alveg hvort þetta fljúgi upp í 4, segjum 4 bara til að vera góður.
This was really good, I liked the late-punk vibe. Reminded me of the Pixies.
How did I miss Frank Black back in the day?
First time of listening to this one, I love the Pixies and this is relatable to them. I liked "Whatever Happened to Pong?" full of fast, quick songs that are exhilarating. "(I Want To live On An) Abstract Plain" is great and Frank at his tuneful best I think. Links to Lou Reed and Velvet underground can be heard throughout. Great album and rightfully on the list in my opinion.
Sounds more like pixies than Catholics albums. Need more time with it
I listened to this twice and loved it, but don't have much to say about it for some reason. Except that I think it's interesting that he was the front man of the Pixies and I wonder if he thinks that those were his better years or not!
I really enjoyed listening to this album! I knew ‘Headache’ but not the other songs. I’ll definitely return to this one.
7/10 really catchy post-grunge stuff. good songs but way too many of them, would've made a great 40 minute album.
7/10. Forgot to leave a review while this was fresh in my mind, but this was solid. Should return to it at some point.
Solid alt rock, if a little long for an album. I like that the songs are all pretty short and I could get more into this if I was like 10-15 years older than I am. 7/10
Quirky pop/rock aplenty. I love this guy's brain. Dude writes about anything and everything, and gives zero fucks about current musical trends.
pop punk with some Beefheart overtones - short sharp songs packed with hooks and tunes.
Halfway through and this album sounds like a descent into madness. Starts really punky and turns into this weird synthy jam band. I dug it though
I always assumed I loved the Pixies, but it turns out I like the Pixies greatest hits album mostly. The big studio records seemd to have a lot of filler to me the last time I listened to them. (As always I reserve the right to completely 180 any and all of my opinions at whim). This solo album though seems much more my speed. Fiddle Riddle is a highlight for sure.
What can I say, never heard of Frank...but loved this. Will look for more!!!
-I like the heavy start in "Whatever Happened To Pong?" -The intro to "Freedom Rock" definitely sounds like a riff I've heard before. Also the drums are great -I like the scream/jam in "Pie In The Sky" -Generally solid
No sabía quién era Frank Black y luego de escuchar un par de canciones y decirme "esto me suena a Pixies", vi por qué. Y es un álbum que siento que sonó fresco en su momento, menos "ruidoso" que lo que hacía con la banda, pero igual de enérgico, mis favoritas fueron "Thalassocracy", "Big Red", "Headache" y "I Could Stay Here Forever" 8/10.
Love the Pixies, and this is more of the same. I guess I just like the dominating base lines and escalating guitars.
A fabulous stand-in for a true Pixies album, though the double-album length certainly seems to wear a little thin towards the end (the last 2 songs seems throwaway). Still, enough angst and energy to thoroughly enjoy.
This was a good one! Ratteling punkish, in the pixies-zone
Now this is a lit album. Glad was able to listen to it
Can't believe I'd never heard of this album. Some great tunes.
A very fun and well written punky/alt rock record, but it really didn’t need to be a whole hour long. Takes away from the energy and sustainability of the record.
Going by the album cover and the fact I’d never heard of the band before let alone their music I was not entirely sure what I was in for, but I didn’t have great vibes. The saying goes ‘don’t judge a book by it’s cover...’ and its entirely applicable in this example. I was pleased to hear the sweet sound of distorted guitar instead of the doof of bass when the first track started and I found it enjoyable from then on. The songs are all unique enough from each other but still hold a comparative southern rock grit that holds them all together. Vocals are a mix of Curt Cobain crossed with Chris Ballew (Pres USA), which sometimes sound as though they are going to stretch the bounds of listenability, but are actually well controlled and at times even tender. They are dirty and strained yet also compassionate and haunting at all the right times. While the music does have a 90’s feel to it, you wouldn’t immediately guess the album was from that decade. This album is guaranteed to win you over the more and more you listen. It’s a creeper in that sense. So put your prejudices aside and settle in...you’re in for a good time ride. Four stars!
One of my favorite singers, and one of my favorite albums
Kinda enjoyed
Dette vokste på meg!
1994, Alternative Rock, Frontmann von Pixies, sind banger dabei, stabiles Album, hard, seichte 4
This album totally escaped my radar, but it's quintessentially 90's alt-rock. Fun to listen, ejoyable melodies, round compositions, memorable. Like it!
Wasn't sure about this at first but then really got into it. Now I know he is the lead singer of Pixies, it makes a lot more sense. Listened twice - was good
On the fence about this one, good or great. Overlong, and could certainly have been tightened up, but a lot of it rocks pretty hard
I enjoyed it a lot, it's a lot better in the middle, I really liked the speedy something song? I should listen to this one again.
A lot of the stronger songs are in the middle and are sandwiched between some underdeveloped sketches (brilliant ones by a Michelangelo-level artist but still, sketches). Great album regardless and this Aussie gives Teenager of the Year four meat pies while watching some footy with your mates out of five.
A very pleasant surprise.
Good rock album Didn't know he was the vocalist of pixies
Pixie Dust!
Quintessential Frank Black. A very solid effort in which the listener can cleay hear both its infuences and what it went on to inspire.
Sounds very 90s. lots of songs.
Pixies frontman. Pretty decent.
Every song was just okay, not great or bad.
I love the Pixies but going to have to say I think this sounds like some random collection of Pixies b-sides or demos that didn't quite make the cut. It's far too long at about 22 songs over 70 odd minutes and a bit of a mess. I'd have included Frank Black's double album instead, one disc is early acoustic Pixies demos and one is Pixies' classics radically reinterpreted. That's an album to listen to but thus one is 3 stars.
There are some good songs here but why is it sooooooo long? Frank Black/Black Francis was the main songwriter in the Pixies, so he doesn’t even have the George Harrison excuse of previously being sidelined by his bandmates. Basically, there’s a great 12-track album in here fighting to get out.
I liked this at first, and it started somewhere between 3.5 and 4. However, I lost interest as it went (it’s another long album). I hadn’t heard of Frank Black; apparently he was involved with The Pixies, and I can see similarities between them. I really do think this had a lot of potential, but there’s plenty of excess that should’ve been trimmed, and the whole thing suffers for it. Favorites: Whatever Happened to Pong?; Freedom Rock 3
didn't mind this. probably wouldn't listen again
Honestly, just a fine alt rock record from Black Francis here. Feel like I prefer the stuff he did with Pixies. Might just be me, but we already have too many Pixies albums on the list (I'd cut Bossanova). Don't think we need a solo Black Francis album, even if it is good. I'd rather have seen an album from The Breeders (Pod or Last Splash) than this.
I've never really been a fan and an over long double album full of things nobody needs to hear only confirms my prejudice.
This was 100% completely fine
Well, that was not Pixies, but it was pretty good. The only problem was, nothing really stood out. Maybe I will revisit this album someday.
Some great songs. 3.5
Grew into this after initially dismissing it, Actually thought it was pretty good and brand new to me
2026.06.29.
Okay, we've got another solo album from a band member on our hands today. Here we have Teenager of the Year, the second solo album from Pixies frontman Frank Black. I like me some Pixies every now and then. Granted, I still haven't gotten the band's "masterpiece," Doolittle, but I liked Surfer Rosa and Bossanova a good deal, so my opinion of the Pixies is rather positive. Is my opinion of Frank's solo stuff just as positive? No, but it's certainly not negative. I like this album, but it does have some flaws. I might as well address the biggest ones right now. This thing is too long and the pacing isn't great. I don't think this needed to be 22 songs and I enjoyed the first few songs on the album considerably more than the last few. I was ready for the album to end by the time I was reaching the final few songs on the album. But, the music behind the album is actually quite good. I mean, nothing on here is even close to the best Pixies songs quality-wise, but there's some nice songs here. "Headache" is pretty good. Frank's voice works on some songs, but I'm not huge on his delivery for some others. The writing has its moments, but isn't particularly interesting for much of the album. The music is all good though. Overall, Teenager of the Year is a good project that I would recommend to big Pixies fans, but it's not really an essential listen for anyone outside of that demographic. It's still a good time though. High 3/5. 100 albums remain!
I had this album when I was younger. Now, it’s just way too long to keep my attention. I’m more of a fan of his work with The Pixies.
Until I got the connection link to "The Pixies" I thought I've never heard of this guy before. Musically almost my jam, but the vocals are not always my favour. Weak three stars for the teenager of the year. 2,5
I quite enjoyed this though it wasn’t universally brilliant. Maybe another one of those albums that would have benefited from being 30% shorter.
Love the Pixies but have never listened to any of Frank Black's solo work. This was... fine. Was kind of missing the grit that makes the Pixies the Pixies.
2.5 - mid city
This man was part of the Pixies?
A very typical Frank Black record. Not bad but after a while it overstays its welcome.
This is not a disciplined masterpiece. It is too long, too restless, too packed with ideas, and occasionally too pleased with its own weirdness. It is also one of the best post-band identity records ever made because the excess is where the life is.
In this project I am stuck in mid season. And this was just there in the mid range, at times interesting and mostly okay.
I can barely handle The Pixies as it is, and now I have to listen to same old stuff. Why even go solo?
He had so many good ideas on this album but most of them felt unfinished. If he fully fleshed out some of these he would've had enough material for two good albums instead of one half-baked and bloated album.
Fun! But too long.
pa nije mi ovo uopće bilo loše. razmjerno raznovrsno i zabavno, ali trunku predugo, mjestimice jednostavno isuviše generično. sve u svemu, baš za neku trojkastu trojčicu
I like this a lot more than the other Pixie albums that I have received on this list. I think that this is 20 minutes too long but the variety and musicianship save it.
Always want to like this album more than I do....
Definitely pixies adjacent and palpable. Not bad at all. Lots of charm and hugely relistenable for now. But this album is the equivalent of an olympic sport. Once every four years everyone claims to know about shot put. But inbetween its all about baseball (the pixies).
In typical Frank Black fashion, this album is bloated and self indulgent. The first 10 song or so are great, but then it just goes on and on for way too long.
Fine enough rock this does not need to be an hour
There are some good songs, but as a whole it's all over the place in terms of quality. He took every little idea that popped into his head and made a song of it, if there was any sort of filter in place this could've been a lot better
not really a lot to say about this other than it is a lot like listening to the Pixies... all over the place quality wise and as different as every song is at some point they all sound the same. The only problem is this doesn't have the charm that the Pixies as a creative group somehow crammed into their mess. This isn't bad but I don't really ever want to hear it again either. I would 2.49 star this if it were possible.
6.5 / 10
Meh
I kinda gave up on Frank Black before his solo albums, so I never listened to them, and I didn’t expect much when this came up. It was better than I expected. He’s a great rock singer, and the songs are good. Just lacks the wildness and weirdness of the great Pixies stuff. 3.5/5
I don't want to be mean, but it sounds so late 90's rock. Not bad tho 3/5
Not my thing really
Liked the opener.
3.5
I expected a level of quality from Frank Black, which this did deliver. However, I'm not sure it was the wisest move to make an album of quite samey power pop into a double album. It's all pretty good but it does lose its flavour after 45mins or so.
Much too long, but some gems on here.
What? This album, Tenacious D, and Jumanji? This guy is everywhere. Ok, different Black. Strong album. Nothing that really spoke to me, but good stuff.
i think this is above average for me but it feels a little too long and a lot of the lyrics are just completely inaudible because they're either drowned out by the instrumentation or are really distorted
90’s Rock ⭐️(I Want To Live On) Abstract Pain
og chud rock for certified introverts
2.68
It’s good. It’s fine. It’s alright.
Well apparently the other members of the Pixies are important, especially to the songwriting process.
Pretty good - 3.5
It's kind of a hodgepodge. I really like the Pixies, and some songs really scratched that itch. It just doesn't have quite the same energy though. It feels less dialed in and cohesive. It's also just way too long of an album. The songs are very short and there's a lot to like in them, but after a while it started to wear thin and got samey.
Makes me run through all my teenage emotions, the ennui, despair, self-loathing. Happy it ain’t but I was always a fan of FB.
Completely unfamiliar with Frank Black. I really liked this. 3.8
A pleasant listen
I was a huge fan of 90s alternative when I was a teenager in the 90s. I like some aspects of this album but not all of them. I love the instrumentals of this a lot. It's what I love about alternative. The vocals are just okay. And the album is really long and the tracks really start blending together. If they took the best half of the tracks and it was half as long, I would probably rate it higher.
Definitely his best solo album. But still uneven
Sounds so muck like Pixies, yeah cool album, liked it
Some of this album was really good, but again very long. I think a few tracks could be left off, but if you're a true Pixies fan you'll probably love all of it
Too long and it's definitely one dimensional compared to pixies
kind of annoying and messy in the beginning but it cleaned up. not sure what's so special here though Would I listen again: kind of Deserves to be on this list: no 3.4
Solid but not mind blowing
All his songs sound like the second half of a really good album to me
It is totally fine, but his voice doesn’t do it for me.
Favorite Track: Space is Gonna so me Good
Black needed the Pixies but his solo album isn't awful. It just makes you want the chemistry of the band all together as Black does highlight his talent but also what is missing from this music.
Strong opening but lost me quickly after. Dilly and Dally’d. But won me over by the end. Loved the punk rock stuff and was so so on the rest. 6/10
Another 3-leaning-4-star album
There is a lot of interesting stuff here that needs more than 24 hours to process - I'll have to revisit for sure
Don't have much to say about this one.
fine
Its maybe not as great as Pixies (one of my favorite bands) but retains a lot of their oddbal charm, songwriting, and sound. "(I Want to Live) On An Abstract Plain" is a highlight. Hes an instantly recognizable artist/writer and I enjoy it, but its a little long/bloated.
Enjoyable, but overstayed its welcome a bit. I agree with other reviewers that there’s enough good stuff here to be a pretty great album, but it wanders a bit. 6/10 Pretty Good
I'm very hit or miss with dissonant guitar rock, and my limited interactions with Frank Black have left me thinking of his music as loud, abrasive, boring, and unpleasant. This album was much better than that, and I even liked two of the songs. But I won't be listening to it again.
I actually enjoyed this more than I had expected. A few songs were familiar, but I haven't been a big consumer of Frank Black's solo work. This record confirmed that choice. It's nowhere near as great as the Pixies' stuff. But given how much I liked the Pixies, even being in the neighborhood is a good sign. I do feel like he really misses the other singers because Frank's voice on his own is not the greatest.
Kind of fun
(4/7) a lot of stuff on here. a few good, and the rest fairly average
3/5
A few too many songs. 3.5
It's an okay album. I'm not a fan of the vocals for the Pixies so I'm not surprised that I also don't care for the vocals here. Some songs are more approachable, other songs are unnecessary. Really don't think the album needed to be over an hour
Not bad alternative
Don't know what to make of this. Not bad but not very engaging either.
Likes: Energy reminiscent of Iggy Pop; fun and quirky vibe; atonal jams Dislikes: nothing in particular, just not my vibe Overall, it’s alright. Very listenable, but didn’t do much for me
Some decent tracks but it's just too long and feels like a bit of a slog in the middle.
6/10
It’s a long time since I’ve heard this. Pretty much what you’d expect from the main song writer of the Pixies but can’t help but feel there’s something missing from the sound and perhaps an indication that major contributions came from other members of his old band. Still if you like the Pixies you’re probably going to like this
A tight 30 maybe 40 would have really benefitted this bloated album. Started strong but just didn’t keep up.
bon album mais l'intérêt de l'avoir placé dans cette liste j'en suis moins sûr, ça ressemble trop à ce qu'il pouvait faire chez les pixies
I was dreading listening to this but it shocked me a bit in a good way.
While it isn't a Pixies album it still has the same charm in spots. It also has some flair reminiscent of Elvis Costello in spots and a touch of almost Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet in others. I quite enjoyed the majority of the tracks and will probably listen to it again. Also, just fantastic album art and title. Frank, you fuckin' charmer you.
Favorite tracks: Thalassocracy, (I Want to Live on An) Abstract Plain, The Vanishing Spies, Headache Has such a great first half, but definitely runs out of steam and does not need to be an hour long for what it provides. It is Frank Black just after the Pixies' prime though, so it can't be too bad.
22 tracks in an hour - it’s a wild ride! Some really stand out, but overall it’s a good album. Favourite track: Calistan
I typed a really long comment about this album, then lost it when I clicked on the wrong button. I can't be arsed to attempt to recreate the comment, so here's a summary... I was expecting it to be fucking awful based on The Pixies albums I'd had to endure. It wasn't awful, in fact, I enjoyed swathes of it. Knock me down with a feather!
3.5
Some okay songs but way too long for me. Some of the tracks for very tedious
Some of the songs I was like this is a masterpiece album and on others I was fighting not to hit the next track button so an album with seemingly all 5 star and 1 star tracks I guess I end up in the middle at 3.
It's okay. I enjoy the Pixies and this was good, but definitely not stand out. I've had a rash of albums that I don't feel really need to be on this list and this is why. There are three Pixies albums and now this?
I never listened to this. One of my college roommates had Frank's first solo album and it was OK but didn't make me want to check out any more. The Breeders won me in the Pixies divorce. This is OK. It grew on me as it went on. "Freedom Rock" sounds familiar. "Two Reelers" was cool.
Never liked the Pixies, except for Here Comes Your Man. Don't know why, should be totally my cup of tea. A new record to me, except for Headache, which I remember getting played a lot on late-night radio a lot at the time, and is definitely a catchy little treat. The record is clearly an exercise in trying stuff out, with mixed results. The outcome is a perfectly decent set of off-kilter indie rock tunes with a handful of gems scattered throughout. Plus, a few duds - ill-advised reggae is always grating. Also, too long.
It's a bit samey, but I generally like it. This is such a bland review and rating on my part, but hey, the album made me do it.
Uneven, but that’s part of Black Francis’ charm.
I enjoyed this. Listened a few times. Really need to spend some time on the Pixies and Frank Black. 3.75
Some really cool sounds (others not so much). 22 songs is just a lot.
Super
It’s not exactly Doolittle but it does have that quirky somewhat absurdist Pixies feel to it. Not sure it’s notable enough for this list but it was enjoyable enough. 2.8
good!