Bossanova

Better than Doolittle, not quite as good as Teenager of the Year. Some catchy songs (Blown Away, Cecilia Ann, Rock Music), and the album generally whips through. Quite enjoyed this, a fair few songs added to my rotation.

Not as good as Doolittle, but it's a high bar. Still enjoyed it and will be back. I've listened to teenager of the year a lot since it came up on the list. Really surprised I missed him and the pixies when I was younger.

It's a good album, but doesn't stand out in any way over other good rock albums from this era

8/10 - Nice crunchy riffs

Alright

good probably wont listen again though

Solid but not spectacular - 7/10

Pretty bold intro song. Interesting set of songs, didn't sound much like Where is My Mind. Enjoyed most of them as a whole. Low 4. Edit -- Sounds good as a whole but don't see myself listening to many of the songs individually.

Didn’t like the first few songs, it got better tho. 7/10

In the words of Jonah, really good classic rock album. Well not a classic rock album, but a classic rock album. 7/10 (a bit shouty at times)

4/10 - I thought this would be more like a bossanova than a rock album I guess. Rock Music was bad and Is She Weird was, well, pretty weird. Overall pretty strange album, but not great

Pretty good

Decided: I don’t like the pixies. Can’t keep lying to to world and myself just because I like the hits. They suck.

Love it! On repeat all day.

Cecilia Ann- this song actually makes me feel like I'm in an action movie. Rock Music- this song has the perfect title. I like the way Frank screams the lyrics. Velouria- I can't even decribe my feelings for this song. It makes me ascend. I love it so much. I think it can be agreed that this is the best song on the album. Allison- I also love this song. It is such a vibe. "I saw the face of Allison" is delivered perfectly. Is She Weird- this is such an amazing song. The bass is really what pulls this together. This feels like an ideal Pixies song. "Is she over me?" *chef's kiss* Ana- this song reminds me of wasting away in the sunlight. This is the first song I ever heard off of this album and I'll always love it. All Over the World- this song reminds me of the apocalypse and experiencing death. This is a great song. It feels so Pixies. Dig for Fire- I've never been a huge fan of this song. It doesn't feel like the Pixies. It feels to happy and upbeat. It's safe to say this is my least favorite track off the album. Down To The Well- this song is angsty. Once again, it was never one of my favorites. The Happening- this song also reminds me of the end of the world. I like to pair it with All Over the World. Blown Away- this song is so easy to forget sometimes. It didn't even do anything wrong. It sounds good, so why don't I treat it like it is? Hang Wire- this is a good angsty song. I feel like a villain listening to this. "That man is a liar" perfect. Stormy Weather- this is a pretty okay song. It's not one of my favorites off of the album. It is kind of a bop, though. Havalina- I also feel like wasting away to this song. I like to pair it with Ana. I like this song. It sparks some emotion that I literally can't describe. It's like the song is trying to say goodbye to the listeners. Overall- this is not my first time listening to the album. It's not even my fifth time. I love this album and I love the Pixies. Although this isn't their best or their most iconic album, it is still worth the listen. My favorite tracks are Velouria, Ana, Is She Weird, Allison, and Havalina. Although the second half does feel a little filler, the first half makes me want to ascend. 5/5

Right fucking on, man! I’ve been rewarded. The universe heard my desperation while I was going through it with that Radiohead shit yesterday and maybe somehow knew I’m seeing the Pixies this weekend? This album is a tour de force, so many incredible songs. Whenever “what’s your favourite Pixies album” is asked I find it impossible to decide. This whole album flows so perfectly, and every track has something unique to engage, either musically or lyrically. I love this band. They are so underrated and unappreciated (at least in the circles I'm stuck running in.) For a period of time there the Pixies were putting out straight fire, year after year and I wish I'd come of age in their peak era. Is she weird? Yes! Is she white? YES! Is she married to the night? Yes Yes! Feels like this album was made for my ears because they love every note and want there to be more. It's just so fucking good!

Cool sound, punky, edgy, and kinda pre-grungy. I liked it, but probably wouldn't listen to it again. Three stars.

Ikke særlig fedt hørte ikke det hele

Kinda a lesser pixies. Like the full sound and the instrumentals and the weird track lengths, but criminal underuse of kim deal. And the songs just aren't as interesting as we know young boy is capable of. Velouria I'd heard before, and it's the best.

I wanted to like this more than I did, but it was an overall enjoyable listen. I think I'm feeling some alt/punk fatigue from this list overall and an unfortunate result is I find it harder to enjoy albums I may have earlier in the process.

Kind of not a fan. But loved some of the guitar rifts

Don’t think I’ve ever listened to this whole album .im a fan

Another difficult one. Not my favourite Pixies record but certainly a good one. I’d probably still give it an 8 even though there’s some tracks I don’t love.

El mejor álbum de los Pixies en mi opinión. Con un sonido sumamente lúgubre en comparación a sus discos anteriores, la banda Black Francis explora nuevos horizontes agarrando una tabla de surf, pero vistiéndose completamente de negro. Más consistente como trabajo completo que Doolittle o Surfer Rosa. Lo recomiendo completamente.

Meh

"Bossanova" is the third studio album by American alternative rock band the Pixies. One critic describes it as combining the harsh rock of "Surfer Rosa" with the melodies of "Doolittle." I totally agree with that description. The album was well received critically and commercially hit #70 in the US and #3 in the UK. The album comes out loud and fast with the instrumental "Cecilia Ann." Heavy bass and drums. A darker edged guitar. One of the Zodiac killer's names was Cecilia Ann. Any connection? The first single "Velouria" brings that melodic Pixies' guitar...a great chorus riff. Kim Deal's backing vocals are also great. Velouria is a woman from the mythological people the Rosicrucians of Northern California and she has velvety skin. The second single "Dig for Fire" opens with bells and an acoustic guitar strumming. Layered guitars come in with thumping drums. An urgent guitar riff. Tremendous vocals by Kim Deal and Black Francis. The people are searching for something more in life. A great song and in my top three Pixies. A piercing and eerie guitar carry "The Happening." Why not write a song about Area 51 and aliens landing in Las Vegas? I was just thinking about something similar last night. Maybe, it was a movie I recently saw. The album closer "Havalina" is softer and more laid back. Acoustic strumming guitar. Co-lead vocals as they describe walking in the plains of Sedona, Arizona. A spiritual and chill ending to the album. This album opens hard and fast with the first two songs and swings back and forth between melodic pop/rock and a harder edge. As per the Pixies' style, there's no time to dwell on one style with songs two to three minutes long. This is a very good album. When it came out and until now, I kind of put this as the weakest of their first four albums. I might need to assess. The bottom line is that they're all good with this one included.

This isn't bossa nova but I'm really not all that mad about it 3/5

Occupying the space between punk and grunge, this was super enjoyable to listen to. No single track stood out as exceptional, but as an album ,the whole thing works really well.

Maybe the dorks in high school were right…

The first song is one of the worst I’ve ever heard, but the rest of the album rated a five

Out of the original Pixies' albums this one is probably my least favorite, because the second half has some filler. But it is still the Pixies so it is amazing and I did enjoy it more than previous listens. This album also has some of my all time favorite Pixies' songs: Velouria, Is She Weird, The Happening, Ana I recommend seeing them live if you get the chance. 4.5

Enjoyed this much more than Surfer Rosa - for me, the cleaner aesthetics balanced with their original energy and weirdness worked much better for me. 4/5.

A true banger of an album. Every single song fucks!

Builds to a vaguely ominous majesty and feels like a slow-burning song suite, a unified complete work than a collection of songs (of which there are few standous). Each cut blends fairly seamlessly into the next. There is a cohesion of theme and tone, a lack of the unevenness, and all-over-the-place feel of some of their records. More singing and and less outright screaming. Feels just a notch off their hardest, farthest edge, but more measured and powerful for that effect and the sense of control underlying it. Also maybe more emotionally authentic seeming for being serious and nearly overwrought, and not so intentionally hysterical. Not the record the cool kids liked at the time (Surfer Rosa, Doolittle were) but preferred by cool middle-agers no doubt.

come on man its pixies

Death To The Pixies

The album starts out better than I remember but the songs start becoming chunky and a sameness sets in that is unlike their previous work. I don’t know how you follow a masterpiece like Doolittle where every second is brilliant.

Wow!

Disappointing. I really liked listening to Surfer Rosa, and was hoping for a similar experience from this. Unfortunately Bossanova seems to be "all filler, no killer" apart from "Velouria" which is a great song. I quite liked "The Happening" for some reason. But overall this is a nonessential album. Not sure why it's on the list. I like the album cover? 1 1/2 stars.

Solid but not their best stuff from the original quiet/loud masters…

første Pixies album jeg har hørt hele vejen igennem. Rigtig godt!

Måske den bedste kondenserede udgave af Pixies' lyd selvom deres største bangers er på andre plader. Larme-rock, shoegaze, dream-pop i korte catchy numre! Virkelig fed!

Fed plade, elsker hans stemme!

Not my favourite pixies but still a great listen

fjollet, funky, finurlig

It's not bad. Like a niche rock album.

One of the great ones of this era. More to come from this band

Hey some of this is nice! That loudquietloud sound indeed, im more for the quietloudquiet. The happening is nice

First exposure to the Pixies was the final scenes of the film Fight Club with "Where is my Mind?" -- where this album is several years prior to that experience, it is similar. There is a certain weirdness, but not too weird, enough to keep it interesting but not enough to make it something to dislike. In a way that spites the weird vibe, is what just seems like really careful melody and very well crafted songs. The album does not go too far in any direction but does not imply any restraint in doing so. In repeated listens, the listener might be able to detect restraint but somehow the threat that this band could just really do whatever it wants adds a bit of suspense.

This is alright. Don’t love it, don’t hate it. A little bit weird, sometimes annoying, kind of catchy, sort of forgettable. Right down the middle.

Fun and weird. The whole album listens really well as a whole.

So freakin great. I love this band. They're so unique. This album is "post"-everything. Post-punk, post-hardcore, post-rock. That's the only way I can describe it. I love when they're screaming, and then back down to talking or talk singing. The distortion on the guitars is sooo fuzzy in the best kind of way, especially when they're playing chords.

AMAZING

Generally not held in as high regard as Doolittle, I listened to the album waiting for a few clunkers. They never arrived. A solid album from start to finish. Highlights being Velouria, Ana, Allison and Is She Weird. Admittedly, the highs don’t quite reach the Doolittle highs, but it’s a more consistent album overall.

Surf rock for people who wear black jeans to the beach.

twisted fate seal me away in a carcass or coffin made specifically for someone like me who might already be dead with weary feet and missing teeth a smile may never tread teary eyed clown and burning gown my blood paints my lips red cool album, really enjoyed it you LIARS YOU LIARS LIED TO ME LIARS LEAVE ME ALONE DONT LET ME BE WITH YOU LEAVE ME ALONE DONT LET ME BE WITH MYSELF AND BE ALONE

This is a fun little album. I'm predisposed to like the Pixies. It just does what it does and doesn't annoy me, I guess. I'm tired. Have a 4.

A familiar classic, energy, melody and intensity. A superb album. Also, at last, the source of a song with the correct spelling of my wife’s name; Ana. She loves the song too, which is a bonus

Fine, but nothing I'll come back to.

5/5 - basically a classic

Can hear its influence, but not an overly enjoyable listen

I feel like the tracking was a bit off for this album. The opening instrumental was a lot of fun and then it led to "Rock Star," which is not a bad song but I think "Velouria" would have been a better second track. The Spotify listening numbers disagree with me, but I feel the back half is stronger than the front half. I have always been a Pixies greatest hits type of listener but really enjoyed (outside of the hits on the album) Alison, Is She Weird, All Over the World, The Happening and Stormy Weather. In fact, the only song I didn't particularly care for was Rock Music, hence why I didn't love the tracking. I have not gotten "Surfer Rosa," which I am told is actually better than this album.

Rockin, dig storm is coming, prefer other pixies album

Boring

Cecilia Ann - cool instrumental. Rock Music - best part of this song it that it is only 1:53s long. Found myself wanting the album to end. 2.5/5

Grunge seems to feel like scratching a blackboard for me.

Very indicative of who the Pixies are - fun, upbeat, indie rock

Is okay. The singing is a bit raspy.

After my first listen, I’m left feeling in this mid state. Nothing particularly grabs me, but I also don’t hate anything about it type of deal. This album bleeds 90’s, and is very distinguishable for its time, and again- I love that. I’ll have to give another listen, because this one deff feels like it’s gonna grow on me big time. I enjoyed Ana and blown away quite a bit!

This record actually wasn’t too bad on a second listen. The beauty of the rocky beats and the iconic nature of the pixies make me rate this a bit lower but I will Keep listening

- Hat mich von Sekunde 1 komplett abgeholt. - Kannte von den Pixies einige Songs von dem Doolittle Album und natürlich den großen Hit Where Is My Mind? aus Fight Club - Dass die Pixies einen super großen Einfluss auf das Alternative Rock Genre hatten, hört man finde ich zu jedem Moment raus! Dave Grohl hat mal erzählt, dass die Pixies auch eine große Inspiration für Nirvana war - Insgesamt recht minimalistisch gehalten aber trotzdem total abwechslungsreich - War einfach super krass begeistert und kann jetzt verstehen, warum so viele Bands/Künstler, die ich liebe so oft von den Pixies sprechen - Gibt sogar noch Luft nach Oben in meiner Bewertung, werde es auf jeden Fall jetzt öfter hören und hab mega Bock mir das Album als LP zu holen! Rating: 4/5

- War für mich wieder so ein Hit or Miss Album. - Songs wie Hang Wire und Ana fand ich seehr geil. Zwischendurch waren aber auch wieder Songs, die mich absolut kalt gelassen haben - Habe den Namen der Band schon einmal gehört, aber Mucke von denen glaube ich noch nie. - Klingen einfach nach einem hybrid aus den letzten 80 Einflüssen und den ankommenden Grunge. Eigentlich ganz interessant, aber hat mich leider nicht ganz gecatcht 2,75/5

Tolles Alt-Rock Album, das irgendwie einfach Spaß beim Hören gemacht hat. Die Grunge-Einflüsse haben mir (natürlich) gefallen. Andere Einflüsse dagegen waren manchmal etwas abgedreht und haben mich etwas rausgebracht. Das Album als Ganzes fand ich aber echt gut, wobei kein Song für mich besonders heraussticht (wie so oft).

Doolittle was always going to be a tough act to follow, but this album definitely still stands up 30 years after its' release.

A delight! I am a long time Pixies fan but didn't consider this as one of my favourite albums until giving it a couple of more active listens. What a delightful mix of strange lyrics and organized chaos. Had to resist dancing on the bus to this! The timeline on this one was perfect for my mood and has no doubt reignited my Pixies obsession. Not even my favourite Pixies album but fantastic none the less! Favourite tunes (hard to choose): Velouria, Havalina, Rock Music

Angry. Good in parts Much more variation stylistically than many of the one dimensional albums in this list. However I don’t like some of the dimensions. When it works, you get a wall of innkvative sound production lyrics performance and soul. They have a lot to say and it might be better spread over 3 or 4 albums. A bit too Manchester too.

I’m gonna be a hater. Ik that’s predictable but, to me this sounds like an album that’s pretending to be a good album. Idk what is it but the tone/style of guitar I find ✨horrible✨ Obvs I don’t like this style of music but I have was willing to look past it, but it wasn’t enough for me :(

was very meh for me. would not listen again

Enjoyed this much more than some of y’all reviews made me think I would - I think the good moments are really good, even if the lows are somewhat low.

Solid album with a unique sound. My two biggest gripes are that I feel like there are too many filler tracks, and I don't like the song order on the album. The Happening is a phenomenal song that in my opinion should end the album. Instead it's followed by a few throwaway tracks that kill the album's momentum. A shame, because a good album is still there. Top tracks: Ana, All Over the World, The Happening

Yuck

Highly enjoyed

Not completely horrible.

This is the type of indie rock I like. Give me this style of music every day. I'd never listened to a Pixies album and this is super dope.

I few stinkers but I enjoyed this

I’ve often heard of the pixies, but had never listened to them until this came up for me today. Now I know why I never listened to them. Definitely not my thing.

Not Dolittle

Liked this one more than the other Pixies albums on here - mainly because Kim Deal didn't do too many vocals.

I expected something very different. Not my sound.

This one didn't strike me the way Doolittle did/does. It's quintessential Pixies, so I'm a fan. But a bit more mid.

Crap

Not the best Pixies album by any means, but still a great listen. There are a couple of lesser quality tracks towards the end, but they don't ruin it. When I first heard this album years ago, I remember reading a review that dubbed it "the best album to listen to while driving across a desert", and I always wanted to test that theory. I finally got the chance a couple of years ago, driving from Las Vegas to Flagstaff along Route 66 in a rented Ford Mustang. Have to say, it was pretty fantastic!

Taking me back to the 90s. Makes me think of patchouli oil and counter culture. Never a huge fan but this album hit me just right. it is very well done and enjoyable.

Fun alternative album.

One of those "All 30,000 people who bought the Velvet Underground's first album went on to start their own bands" kinda deals, I guess. I didn't find anything overly interesting here, and I actually *like* some of the Pixies stuff. My old college roommate was super into this and I'm just like, "Huh?" Nothing here that I'd want to revisit. Unexpectedly bangerish? Ana.

ehh

There are awesome peaks (Happening, Blown Away), a lot of pointless filler (first and last song) and atrocities (Hang Wire). The most uneven of their original four full length albums and unfortunately a sign of things to come.

3.5/5 Beetje eentonig tbh

Ok. Not their best effort.

I didn’t really enjoy this album. Listened on Friday and today is Monday and I honestly don’t really remember anything about it, not sure what else to say.

An OK album

Surfer Rosa and Doolittle are great albums. Bossanova is a good album. Come on Pilgrim and Trompe le Monde are okay. I don’t acknowledge the existence of anything else by this band. I love the Pixies but don’t think this is them at their best. There are still some great songs on here, but nothing that approaches the best songs on their first two albums. And the just-okay songs on Bossanova are way worse than the less good songs on Surfer Rose and Doolittle. Is Bossanova worth listening to? Yes. Is it a top tier Pixies album? For me, no. P.S. My cat’s favorite thing in the world is to roll around in my closet under shirts where she can bat at them and be partially hidden and rub against things while I pet her. When we are doing that I like to sing “Stormy Weather” to her, but I change the words to “It is time . . . it is time (whoah, oh) . . . it is time, for closet cuddles.”

Solid Pixies, but I think I've liked some of their others better.

Great album. Didn't realise this is the one had velouria and the thing we're on it and I've loved them both for a long time. Really enjoyed Is she weird and it was added to liked songs. Mum and dad both love Pixies so I kind of have to aswell but honestly it's no problem because they're a fantastic indie alt rock band and on a random one so nice to fall asleep to. Indie rock is so good to fall asleep to on like a bus because it blocks our everyone around you, gives you something good to listen to but it's also a constant sort of volume and it's just so relaxing I love it.

HAVALINAAAAA… HAVALINAAAAAA

havalinaaa

Joe and Cameron dancing to “Velouria” by the Pixies in season 3 episode 9 of "Halt & Catch Fire" is all I have to say. The first choice, apparently, was Nirvana's Love Buzz. The replacement with its ethereal quality and a sense of longing expressed in captures the moment way better. I could listen to that song over and over again without getting sick.

Great album!

I kind of like Allison

Introduction Released in 1990, "Bossanova" is the third studio album by the American alternative rock band Pixies. It marked a departure from the raw intensity of their previous albums, "Surfer Rosa" and "Doolittle," leaning more towards surf rock and spacey psychedelia while maintaining their trademark blend of noise and melody. In this review, I will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, highlighting its pros and cons. Lyrics Pixies' lyricism on "Bossanova" maintains its characteristic blend of surrealism, humor, and darkness. Frontman Black Francis (Frank Black) delves into various themes, often with cryptic and enigmatic imagery. "Cecilia Ann" opens the album with its nonsensical lyrics, setting the tone for the album's eccentricity. Songs like "Rock Music" and "The Happening" explore themes of escapism and disillusionment, while "Velouria" and "Ana" delve into romantic and erotic imagery. Pros: The lyrics are poetic and evocative, inviting multiple interpretations and adding depth to the music. Cons: Some may find the abstract nature of the lyrics inaccessible or frustrating. Music Musically, "Bossanova" showcases Pixies' versatility and willingness to experiment. The album incorporates elements of surf rock, space rock, and punk, creating a unique sonic landscape. The guitar work by Joey Santiago is particularly noteworthy, with its blend of jangly chords and angular riffs. Kim Deal's basslines provide a solid foundation, while David Lovering's drumming is tight and propulsive. Pros: The music is inventive and catchy, combining various influences to create a sound that is distinctly Pixies. Cons: Some tracks may feel repetitive or lacking in dynamic range. Production Produced by Gil Norton, "Bossanova" has a polished and cohesive sound compared to Pixies' earlier albums. Norton's production brings out the atmospheric elements of the music while retaining its raw energy. The use of reverb and echo adds to the album's dreamy quality, enhancing the psychedelic vibe. Pros: The production quality is high, enhancing the album's sonic textures and atmosphere. Cons: Some listeners may prefer the rougher, lo-fi sound of Pixies' earlier work. Themes Thematically, "Bossanova" explores themes of alienation, desire, and existential angst. The album's title itself references the Brazilian genre of music, suggesting a fascination with exoticism and otherness. Songs like "Is She Weird" and "Hang Wire" capture a sense of unease and dislocation, while tracks like "Allison" and "Dig for Fire" convey longing and romantic longing. Pros: The themes are relatable yet enigmatic, inviting listeners to ponder their meaning. Cons: Some may find the themes repetitive or lacking in depth. Influence "Bossanova" has had a significant influence on alternative rock and indie music since its release. Its blend of noisy guitars, catchy melodies, and off-kilter lyrics has inspired countless bands and artists. The album's impact can be heard in the work of bands like Weezer, Nirvana, and Radiohead, who have cited Pixies as a major influence on their music. Pros: "Bossanova" helped to define the sound of alternative rock in the 1990s and beyond, influencing a generation of musicians. Cons: Some may argue that the album's influence has been overstated or that it has been overshadowed by Pixies' earlier work. Conclusion "Bossanova" may not have the same immediate impact as Pixies' earlier albums, but it remains a compelling and influential work in its own right. With its blend of surreal lyrics, inventive music, and polished production, the album showcases the band's evolution and willingness to experiment. While not without its flaws, "Bossanova" stands as a testament to Pixies' enduring creativity and influence in the world of alternative rock.

Occasionally interesting, IMO.

2/5. I like the pixies, but this is not it.

No

My ears kept hurting during this. Not necessarily that bad but def not gonna revisit

Album 371 of 1001 Pixies - Bossanova Rating : 5 / 5 I've grown to like the Pixies. Even more into Black Francis' releases as Frank Black. They get an extra point just because I enjoy them so and I didn't do Surfer Rosa justice when it was album of the day. Probably not a 5 to many others but today it is, for me.

of the kim deal era.. this is the album i would consider the most "chill" of the first 4 albums.. this being their third album. I probably like this as much as their 4th album.. but in different ways. By the time this album came out.. they were already blown out in the radio waves by bands that they influenced and gained more notoriety and money. what a a shame. There was still room for the Pixies but they were definitely waning after Doolittle. There's not alot i would listen to from this era but luckily I would still spin this gem every now and then

A classic !

I made it through but it's not for me. I don't understand the appeal.

I like the punk sound

Yeah this was alright, but didn't capture the same magic of the first couple Pixies albums in my opinion.

Very enjoyable, this is the kind of album that I want to (re)discover through this list!

I had Doolittle two days ago, what are the chances? This one wasn't quite as #iconic but still some good tracks on here, and I probably wouldn't have sought it out without 1001 albums!

well we just got Doolittle two days ago, so it was funny to see this pop up. sadly, with pixies' best album in the rearview, this one was doomed from the start. it's a solid album but it's no doolittle. the songs on bossanova just don't have that same exciting and novel weirdness. it feels like the rushed next-year sequel to the critically-acclaimed summer blockbuster that ends up with a 65% on rotten tomatoes. it's fine and existing fans will eat it up, but it's just not gonna bring in the numbers. you feel me? the they might be giants cover of havalina is great though, and that was my favorite song going into and coming out of this listen. favorites: velouria, allison, ana, dig for fire, havalina

Great pixies sound. They always sound so raw to me, don’t know how to put it really but I love it!

HATE THIS ALBUM. Honestly. Such a pain to get through. Don't like.

Great

What a contrast to the last album, Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory. I first listened to both of these albums around the same time in 2001, early in college. I fell in love with both of them, and annoyed the hell out of my roommates. Only one of those two stands up still. Bossanova isn’t my favorite Pixies album, but it’s a far slight better than a lot of albums on this list.

I like the sound of the album, but I find it a little uninspired

Liked many of the tracks. A nice eclectic mix.

Cecilia Ann - Liked was good opener Rock Music - Not a fan. Velouria - Liked, bit more chill rock. Allison - Was OK Is She Weird - Nope didn't like. Ana - Was ok All Over the World - didnt finish *Only got this far - CBF listening to any more... Dig for Fire Down to the Well The Happening Blown Away Hang Wire Stormy Weather Havalina

I struggled with this album. I had a hard time wanting to continue it and never really got into it. I thought Dig For Fire and Down to the Well were the best tracks on the album. I recognize that Pixies were influential for the 90's grunge/alt rock movement but I will be choosing the bands they inspired over them every day of the week. Definitely not the worst album we have gotten but it isn't for me.

I love the pixies sound. Driving basslines, noisey guitars, and a singer I can't quite put my finger on. I felt this album was solid all the way through, but never hit highs that made it stand out.

A bit grungy, but nothing about it stands out. Being forgettable is almost worse than being bad. Hang wire was my favorite track

There's some interesting stuff here, but it's not my cup of tea exactly.

Love this album! Probably the Pixies 3rd best. Some classics on this one. Still hits hard! 4.5/5

Pixies are Happening. Album gets better as it progresses; starts with thrashy songs about wierd ex-girlfriends and peaks at Hang Wire. Liked it. (2.7*s)

First listen through a full Pixies album and it's ok enough. You hear people rave about them all the time so I had high expectations. I know some of their songs and do like their sound but this didn't move me like I wanted it to. The songs I know and like weren't on here but there were a few good ones I'd revisit. I think the album is good as a whole and better than a lot of other things that came out in the 90's. It's like experimental surf rock for people who wear jeans and black hoodies to the beach. I liked it just enough to be curious about another full album by them (which I'm sure will appear). They managed to age pretty gracefully, stay out of taglines, and are still somewhat relevant today so props on that. Go Beantown.

I have always heard people/critics say the Pixies are a hugely influential band and I can see how they contributed to the indy rock scene on this album. It has some good range and also sticks to their style. Not an epic, must own album but it has its place and I enjoyed.

I've often heard that nearly all post-90's music stems from Pixies in some way. Not sure if it is a running joke or there is any merit to the claim. Regardless Bossanova is my first time listening to a full Pixies album in unison. While it wasn't bad I wasn't impressed with anything. Nothing notable that lead me to believe why this album was on the list. I'll have to go back to another album to see why they are supposedly one of the most influential artists in music history I guess. 2.3 stars

Wow, Im such a loser not having listened to Pixies at all til now.

Didn't think I would like this album when I began listening but as it progressed it got better. There were certain tracks that were a bit reminiscent of The Cure, a band I like but didn't have the distinctive vocals. This seemed to serve this opinion as my streaming service goes on to select similar genres when the album selector ends. In this case , Pictures of you was the first track selected when Bossanova finished. Not a bad judgement by me I thought 🙂. This album is worthy of 3 stars , would have given it more it it didn't go randomly into screechy vocals which are more akin to heavy metal

Quite good album

This album rocked. Francis Black is such an interesting frontman and I just dig their sound. I think Doolittle was a bit more immediately likable for me, but that might just be because I hadn't heard any of these songs before.

Was fine but did not stand out in my mind

Sublime

AMAZING

Velouria, Ana, Allison.

dobri stari pixies

It doesn't have the hits of their other albums but Bossanova is solid.

Some hitting of some instruments

It was an interesting listen because I've head a couple random pixies songs over the years without really knowing what they're mainstay style was. Let's just say it's not exactly my cup of tea. Not lyricists but you don't have to be to make good music - it's just not my style.

Second album of the Pixies ... Bossanova was worse than Doolittle ... Stupid lyrics and mic screaming. Waste of time. 1/5

Love Pixies.

Way more into the singing than the screaming.

First album I listened to after my dog Countess passed away. She was the best dog ever! I will miss her more than I have ever missed anything. She passed on March 16, 2024. Having said that, I can't really remember much about the album. I like other Pixies stuff though.

The very best

Quite disappointing. I have such a fond memory of Pixies from Where Is My Mind, but I mostly disliked this whole album.

Probably my fourth favourite Pixies album. I enjoy the surf guitar. The run from Velouria through to Dig For Fire excluding All over the World is gold. Velouria is one of their best tracks full stop. Veruca Salt reference Stormy Weather in Number One Blind, which I love. Outside of this I find I like half of songs a lot and can take or leave the other half (The Happening). Doesn't have the bangers Trompe does for me but still more than solid.

Pretty good. I don't know if I'll be delving deeper based on this but I liked it. Especially Dig For Fire. That one spoke to me

3.6 good but it's just never been a wow album for me faves: ana, cecilia ann

Such an influential band. I tend to lean towards Doolittle as my favorite, but this is a great record.

The start of this is so refreshing because of the recent albums. Second song is fucking awesome. Slowdive 's song about a girl with the name Allison is better. But, this one's still good too. It's a pretty straightforward good album. Sick guitar work and the vocals aren't too annoying. It's produced well too. The Happening sounds like a Big Black song (and I just checked: this isn't the Steve Albini / Pixies record) 3/5

OH SHIT OH DAMN OH FUCK. Finally something good! I’ve always liked this one a lot. Pixies discography is pretty much essential listening so kicking the day off with Cecilia Ann feels sooooo right. There’s so much going on right off the bat and it’s just so much fun. I can imagine pixies shows around the time this came out must have been crazy. Good ass simple fun songs with tons of energy, nice and quick listen. Doesn’t need much of a deep interpretation beyond the cool stuff that jumps out, like the crispy guitar tones in The Happening to the radio friendly Dig for Fire it’s like a good ass mess of frenzy and chill.

Solid mix of songwriting, all gas no brakes

Everything I want in '90s alt-rock! The Pixies are masters at blending multiple styles into something, if not unique, at least special in its appeal. Their punk is surprisingly approachable and fun. Their pop is challenging and never cliché. This is a band in their prime, playing off of and complimenting each other's strengths as they create. I'd only been familiar with Doolittle previous to this and that will be changing for sure!

Not as obnoxious as their first album, but not as memorable either. I actually gave their first album a bad rating for being annoying, but it's starting to grow on me. This album is pretty mid.

Not a good album from the pixies, especially considering the previous 2. Bit of a slog to get through

Didn’t love this one, and I do like some of the pixies stuff. Just not this album apparently

Pixies are in my top bands of all time. Love this album! Still holds up and my favorites are and were Velouria and Dig for Fire.

Enjoyed it, will listen more regularly

Unmistakably The Pixies. Undeniably from the ‘90s.

I don’t know if the worst Pixies album from the original lineup is really essential, but I guess it’s fine to say people should really hear an album where they are very good but also kind of boring.

Muito bom!!!

If I was feeling a lot more aggressive when I listened I think it would have gotten a 4 from me, just wasn't the perfect mood for the time and place.

This was a solid album. I enjoyed it, and would maybe put it on again. 6/10

3.5 I was expecting to like this more than I did based on what I knew of the Pixies before starting this project. Very happy to have discovered Is She Weird but the back end of the album really dragged on.

love!

As a very casual Pixies fan most of these songs are totally new to me. On a first play through, i think I actually prefer this to Surfer Rosa - it would certainly be a close run thing. Very satisfying, cohesive album with plenty of pixies weirdness

A really good album! Solid, spiky, punky rock tunes with melody! It’s a real blast! Will definitely return to this one!

Honestly I like this more than Surfa Rosa

It wasn’t bad but I’m unlikely to go out of my way to listen to it again

Very enjoyable from start to finish

I've casually listened to this album once or twice before and liked it well enough. Listening to it again after getting more into post punk music makes me appreciate it a lot more. It's an interesting mix of post punk and surf rock. There are points where it even verges on goth (Is She Weird) and art rock (Hang Wire). The addition of surf rock and more melodic elements to more traditional post punk elements sounds pretty innovative for a genre that can sometimes feel too formulaic. It's easy to see how bands like Pixies and Pavement paved (ha) the way for bands like Nirvana and the grunge movement. Highlights: "Celia Ann" is a banger of a song—it's like a cross between Sisters of Mercy and the Buffy the Vampire Slayer theme song. "Velouria" sounds like it could be a Killing Joke song, really enjoyed it. "Dig for Fire" has a bit of a Talking Heads meets Jimmy Eat World vibe, in a good way. Not so great: "Rock Music" is good musically, but the vocals are kind of annoying. "Blown Away" kind of feels like a darker retread of "Here Comes Your Way"—I prefer HCYM. Not a perfect album—there are a couple I was meh about. But a solid 4/5

Third best album of Pixies. The most simple sound. Surf-rock at it's best.

... aaahhhh the Pixies.

Didn’t like it as much as I presumed considering the band’s near legendary status as grunge forefathers.

Actually a fun Pixies listen front to back

One of those albums where you don't really realize you're listening to it or that it has ended until a song comes on that is obviously not from the album.

Not their best work maybe.

Early days grunge Not great but led the way

Not for me would be 0 star if I could

Not my cup of tea, lots of screamy screams

I kinda like this group. It’s a rock album and really good. Do I love this album, no, but I really like it and will listen to another of the Pixies albums.

It was uneventful. Ho hum and nothing exciting.

I was not that familiar with this band , but I am pretty sure I’ve heard a song or 2 before. I found a few songs that got my attention somewhat. Worth a revisit and checking out the earlier albums. 2.5/5 rounded down to a 2.

I legit didn’t know this one. And my wife is a huge pixies fan.

Another Pixies album? I like them, they are important but I'd say one was enough, and this one seems less vital and original than Surfer Rosa. Nothing much wrong with it, just seems like they are in their groove a bit here.

It was loud and the lyrics & music were just meh for me

A really solid rock album this. I feel with more listening this album can become a classic to me. I really dig the sound and it overall just sounded really nice.

Wonderful

I have this on “CD” but know Doolittle better. Man I’d forgotten HOW GOOD THIS IS!

Amazing rock album, every song is a banger

Niet mijn ding

Some good tracks on this one, album as a whole not as exciting as previous albums.

Solid but not nearly as interesting as previous two albums.

Not bad. Slap bang middle of the road for me. Some good tunes, some not so good tunes.

Much different sound than the one song (where is my mind?) I knew from them before listening to this album. It took me a little bit to get into this one, but I really liked it. Starts out heavy and then slows down towards the end.

This album managed to be both loud and boring.

The only Pixies song I know is "Where Is My Mind." Cecilia Ann - fine Rock Music - wow that's some yellin'! More hard rock than I was expecting. Are they doing like, a song in every genre?

Was alright. I liked the previous Pixies album better. This one would be a middle of the road 2.5/5.

Mehhhh

Finally, now we're talking. I can hear how influential their sound is! :)

Energy and rest--a good mix. Down to the Well seems to have nearly copied the guitar riff from David Bowie's the Man who Sold the World. Although I like the music and the album, I don't really connect with most of the lyrics. They have a strong punk repetitiousness and are certainly odd enough to be interesting.

Decent indie rock, only liked last track

Yes, these are the Pixies. Even if the album isn't one of my top favorites, it's definitely good. And it was nice to hear the Pixies again.

favourite song: hang wire been meaning to get into pixies for a while. really enjoyed this album

Punk, but not the punk that amps you up. The punk that makes you want to ponder. Too distorted and not enough energy to pique my interest

You can see where there is some really interesting composition, and there are a few songs that pulled me in pretty easily. However, the overall sound of the album starts to get a little monotonous, and there isn't as much variety in some of the song structures as I would like. I can't point to one "banger" on this album, so I can't really rate it too highly.

Considering that I can definitely hear this band's influence in a lot of the artists that I have listened to over the years, I was not enamored with this album. Standout Track: Is She Weird

Ya know I just dont like pixies. Started decentish but lost me

Excellent!

Gotta respect any band that is immediately identifiable by their sound and style, and Pixies are definitely that. Right down to the tinny lo-fi sound of the recordings and the alt-surf riffs. When I think of Frank Black I can’t not think of the best Bloodhound Gang lyric of all time: “I’m not black like Barry White, no I am white like Frank Black is”, although that has nothing to do with this album or review. This album is no Doolittle or Surfer Rosa though, which makes me wonder are those yet to come or did whoever made this list totally outthink themselves when it comes to Pixies albums?

While a bigger fan of Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, I think this album still paced well. It was nice to hear more melodies and tempos amongst songs and you can tell by this 3rd outing the band had really come into its own. They remain the kings of the loud-quiet-loud model for song crafting.

First time all the way through this one, didn’t love it and didn’t hate it. I think they’ve got some better stuff, but ultimately this is still pretty listenable.

I think I know one Pixies song. It’s a good song. It was not on this album and that is unfortunate. I mean, there were some good parts and the music was better than the singing. I wanted to like it but there was too much that just grinded for me and a couple parts that made we want to skip or turn it off.

I’m not a huge fan of Pixies and this album didn’t sway me away from that opinion. I’m going low on this album with the expectation for better things to come with Doolittle and Surfer Rosa. 2.5/5

This was hit or miss for me. 2.5 stars that will round up to 3.

This album was okay, I guess. It was fine as background music, but not particularly exciting otherwise. I think Surfer Rosa is a stronger entry from this same group.

I like the Pixies enough to own their greatest hits album, but not enough that I'll ever want to listen to any of their original albums. This was fine.

The only, single, issue with this record is that I know how good Doolittle and Surfer Rosa are. That said, as leadoff batters go Bossanova is a treat.

Tja. Dieses Album ist nett - aber keine Hymnen dabei. Sxhön schräg trotzdem.

I played this while in the car and I was close to falling asleep. Nothing too catchy here.

Not very impressed, nothing stands out to me on this album. I give it a low 2.

not too bad! I think Pixies should only have 1 album on the list, and this would be a solid submission.

pretty cool

As good as Alt-Rock can be. Fucking superb live band.

Good rock and grunge sound. Easy to see the Nirvana comparrisons ( or Nirvana's to the Pixies).

Are the Pixies as appreciated as they should be? Great album, but maybe only their second-best? Solid classic? I don’t know what to say.

Oddly enjoyed parts of this album

I actually quite liked this. The only major fault I see in this is practically every song has the same riff, just a slight variation of it. I kept hearing Wave of Mutilation and that's not even on this album. Still a rather enjoyable album. 4/5

A fun listen! Lots of variety while maintaining a consistent tone, enjoyable all the way through.

Gear: Meze 109 PRO Mix: manche sagen dazu „authentisch“... Musik: Seit Jahren habe ich ein schlechtes Gewissen, weil ich die Pixies vermeintlich eigentlich mehr lieben sollte, als ich es tue - nämlich nur so lala😔 Wertung: 2-3/5

this does NOT sound like their later music so i was very confused and frankly a little anxious listening to this. down to the well was a good song though

Not my type of music

Super cool

Pretty good album. I don’t think I’ll seek it out again, but I enjoyed it.

it's big, it's wide, it's... it's quite the sound, you literally feel like you're surfing the soundwaves. the grungy influences and the deep moody... sort of presentation makes for something i thought was pretty good while it lasted.

Sooo good

Ok?

Great album. One my my favorite bands. I'm saving my 5 star reviews for a couple of their offer albums.

A bit grating

Not bad, but hardly their best work.

I don't care for this album. It's ok, but it's nothing I'd want to revist. 2.5 stars. Sorry, Pixies, you're not for me.

Not the best of the Pixie's albums, but it's still the Pixies. 3.5

It was good, nothing standing out too much.

Probably the Pixies album I’m in the mood to listen to the most. So many classics and The Happening might be my favorite Pixies song. Only a couple misses for me on the entire album and even they aren’t bad or ruin the mood of the album. Rating: 4.9

The Pixies are consistently good but not great for me. I like the punk rock elements but it feels a bit lacking. I would take any of these songs mixed in a playlist without a skip. But there aren't any that I feel in love with.

With the exception of a couple of tracks, I really enjoyed this. You could definitely hear the how they influenced a lot of the bands that came after.

I did not pay a ton of attention to the Pixies before and am glad to be reintroduced. Really enjoy their surfer, punk, indie/alt rock sound and although perhaps not from this album specifically, I appreciate the influence they likely had on some of my favs. I look forward to hearing more of their work.

This is what it sounds like when grunge is being born. This album was good - I liked Doolittle better. 3.3 stars

Not bad. Don't love the singer. If I liked him more, I,d give it another star.

Je connaissais pas les Pixies tant que ça. Cet album m'a vraiment surpris. C'était excellent.

Brilliant

Not their best record but still a gem.

Reminds of a lighter Nirvana. High 7

above par

Meh pretty boring 2.5

Joa, war ok.

great surf rock influences, might like to listen to this when on a hangover.

Unique sound. Rock, punk, metal?

Not my style at all :/ Je crois que j'ai trouvé l'ensemble un peu plat, ou quelque chose qui ne m'a pas satisfait au niveau du rythme

For a band who essentially wrote the template on which 90s alternative rock would be based upon, their 1990s work is regarded as lesser than their 80s work. Sometimes for valid reasons (increasingly marginalized contributions by bass legend Kim Deal, to the point frontman Frank Black even steals her background vocals), sometimes for lesser reasons: Bossanova does not neatly fall into the loud-quiet-loud dynamic the Pixies have popularized. Instead, this is where Frank Black's fascination with space begins, complete with a much grander sound. Cecila Ann and Rock Music act as tonesetters for the albums, the former establishing the space surf rock and the latter reminding you Joey Santiago still was the premier guitar noise pop craftsman while Frank belts out his characteristic nerve-popping screams. Velouria is the real start, a theremin in the background underpinning the heavy guitar blasting off the song. Some of the songs are very short, par for the course for the Pixies. Alison is a fun, fast rocker, over in less than 90 seconds. Dig for Fire is a rare and nice upper song for Pixies standards. Granted, it's not always a slam dunk: Blown Away and Hang Wire are admittedly a bit too standard Pixies, while Stormy Weather is a throwaway joke track (but then again, not all Pixies albums are free of fluff). But the real strength of the album is when Pixies establish something that's not traditionally Pixies, like a more mysterious mood during Is She Weird and Ana, or longer songs that take you on an adventure, such as All Over The World (which feels like two Pixies songs stitched together) and The Happening. Granted, the changes aren't that radical. Don't expect Pixies to suddenly turn into Yes; those longer songs are four or five minutes long compared to the standard length of 2 minutes for the band. Perhaps it's because of those subtle differences that for many, this album pales in comparison to its precedessor Doolittle. Still, for me this is my favourite Pixies album. The Pixies have always flourished in the weird, kitschy and the sci-fi, and Bossanova exemplifies that strength in spades (hell the cover looks like an old Universal Pictures logo). Or perhaps it's because in subsequent albums, they become both too different and too similar to their classic work that Bossanova gets hit by association. Whatever the reasoning, if you like the Pixies, you do yourself a disservice by skipping this album. Strong 4 to a Light 5

Initially I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this album but as it went on it felt almost familiar. I need a few more listens to determine if it will join my rotation.

Hey this isn't bossanova music at all!

IS SHE WEIRD? IS SHE WHITE? I love Doolittle and a lot of these songs sound like they could have been on Doolittle. There are a few misses though, but definitely worth revisiting again in the future.

Not good

I really enjoy the opening track "Cecilia Ann". Getting screamed at next on "Rock Music" was less enjoyable. The rest of the album after that was fairly enjoyable. Maybe I am just getting old, but I have a hard time giving 4 stars to any album where I have to sit through screaming for a track or more. I though Surfer Rosa was a lot more enjoyable.

It's fine, inoffensive at best, mediocre at worst. 3/5.

This is easily the weakest of the “holy trinity” of Pixies albums. Bossanova has a much poppier sound than their other albums, which I mostly don’t love. It’s an interesting product of its time, with a grunge-pop rock hybrid, but it also feels much older since it consists of 14 songs for a total of 40 minutes (less than 3 minutes per song). This feels like the perfect dose; I think I would’ve gotten bored after an hour of this sound. I don’t think I’ve listened to this album in 10+ years and my meh-to-okay rating from then still holds up. I gave the same rating to other Pixies albums and I think I’ll definitely be re-assessing those assuming they come up within the 1001. I can’t imagine Bossanova is on the list without Doolittle or Surfer Rosa, but we’ll see.

Love the Pixies. CECILIA ANN is a great song to open an album - kind of a hard rock Western movie soundtrack. VELOURIA one of the best songs ever...loud driving beat and guitar with soft vocals. Loud/Soft Loud/Soft Loud/Soft Loud/Soft. This album has frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs) with intentional dissonance that really works for them. Includes periodic spoken word by Black Francis/Frank Black. Are you waiting for power chords? Wait no longer. Another reviewer wrote "The best description I read of this album was that it's surf rock for gothic kids who wear black to the beach...." That's not me at all, but I do so love this album and the Pixies in general. Not every song is great, and the album is close to a 5/5, but ⭐⭐⭐⭐ __________________________________ 🎧 LPs reviewed: 27 🎧 LPs left to review: 974 🎧 LPs I found great/relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 8 🎧 LPs I *might* include in my own list: 8 🎧 LPs I will certainly *not* include in mine: 8

9/10 Could easily be a 5 but being critical it's not as good as Dolittle so 4

could i write poetry to this? y

Probably my least favorite of the albums with the original lineup. Still a very good album, but lacking the hooks of the others. This is probably due to the pressures and challenges they encountered while recording it. I can definitely hear where the influence came from when Kurt Cobain called Nirvana a "Pixies cover band." Three and one-half stars. Dinged one half-star for not producing a "hit song."

Imagine an entire album of Kim Deal teaching you how to spell things the way she does on Velouria. That album would get 6 stars.

Too grunge for my taste. I read that the lyrics were about interesting topics, but the gravelly tone of the singing meant I couldn't really understand much. This just isn't a style that resonates very well for me.

I'm familiar with Pixies and some of these songs, but this is my first time listening to a whole Pixies album.

Pretty good.. I’d listen again

Fun at times.

No.

The first cursory listen was fun. A good vibe. A second, closer listen, paying attention to lyrics was less impressive.

It was okay.

4,... ayudándolo

Har nog aldrig hört en annan pixies-låt än Where is my mind De fyra första låtarna har varit både lika och olika, på något sätt. Väldigt varierande längd på låtarna Kan nog vara bra bakgrundsmusik. Det är inget som man blir distraherad av Prel. 5 / 5

• Försöker komma på nått att säga om albumomslaget, men kommer bara på att det är fult och har nån konstig 90-tals grafik som red ut att komma från Command & Conquer eller nått • Väldigt blandat mood på låtarna • Instrumentaliskt rätt bra, kombinerat med sång blir det rätt medel dock Betyg: 3/5

Lite stökigt men inte riktigt mitt typ av stök. Lyssnade mest i bakgrunden pågrund av tidsbrist så gav det inte riktigt en ärlig chans

The second song almost made me stop listening. 3.5

It wasn't what I expected. Worth a listen.

I'd like to like it. A lot of bands i like were inspired by them. And i don't even a little.

Nothing I could say about this band that hasn't been said hundreds of times before. Pixies are quiet but loud, angsty but calm and terrible but great. I love 'em.

Чувствуется какой-то дроп по сравнению с первыми двумя альбомами. Вот вроде всё и ок, песни понятнее, а искр нет. Лучшая песня - Allison.