Reviews (page 5 of 13)
At one point in my life, when I had such a thing as a favourite band, Pixies were it. I hadn't listened to this in full in many years, though Allison and Velouria pop into my head on a regular basis, not least when i meet someone called Allison. Heard in full, it is still great and it might not lose a star if it didn't come after Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, but it doesn't quite hit those heights.
Pretty dang good. I don’t know if any of the songs on this album will still be played 100 years from now like some of their other classic songs, but this album is super solid.
Hey, you know who gave me this album for Christmas? Santy Claus! I do love Pixies, but I will say while I enjoy this one (and thank you Santa for bringing it to me) it’s not my favorite, I think the previous Pixies products are superior. But this is full of really really goodness.
It’s got to be hard to try to keep up the quality of their previous two albums. And they didn’t. Still a really good album, though. Despite my rating, this could not be on this list, I think. Surfer Rosa and Doolittle are a good enough representation, right? Two of the best albums of all time? Why push it. Maybe could have freed up a slot for the Presidents of the United States of America.
This one wasn’t as good as Doolittle for me personally, but this was still a great time. The tracks feel a little weaker than some of the hits from Doolittle, but they are still very catchy and have the band’s charm. Velouria and Is She Weird especially are earworms. And it feels like the perfect transition between the 80’s and the 90’s, carrying the hard arena guitar sound from the prior decade and the more experimental, weird sound from the latter decade. It’s not the peak Pixies, but it is still the Pixies. Favorite track: Valouria Other hits: Is She Weird, Dig for Fire, Stormy Weather, Havalina, Allison
This was more fun than I imagined. I’ve always felt kinda weird about not knowing their stuff as someone who’s lived in Boston for 20 years, but I think I do actually know their stuff, I just might not have realized it was them. And this isn’t even their “best” album.
It's not Doolittle but it is terrific. Some fantastic songs on this one.
Whoa. The Pixies. I’m surprised they didn’t just make up the entire list. I like quite a few of their songs. Interested to see how this one plays out and if I can finally ascend to the final plane of nerd euphoria. I’m ready RYM and r/music. Take me upon your gentle wings to the promised land. Nick Cave and Tom Yorke will greet me with open arms. Alright. I’ve heard this somewhere it feels like. Decent intro. Nothing crazy, nothing grating. Not bad. Heaviness!!!! Oh sweet Jesus it’s beautiful. Even if it’s ironic, this is a cool song. As a critique of loud rock or otherwise this is fun. They write nice songs. The eerie synth running under the whirring guitars and the well sung vocal refrain are all elements of another good song. Great alt rock/pop-rock track here. Even get a little gallop in there. Basically an interlude, but highly entertaining. Is she weird?? Gee whiz I sure hope so. I pray for weird every time I open this browser. A lot of repetition here, but I still love it. Incredible attention to detail in these songs. This one is less to my taste, but we’re in a pretty great spot still. Wow. This is one of the best ones so far. So ahead of its time as well. This is the stuff that Weezer would emulate years later. A clear progenitor of 90’s alt rock. So bloody cool. That’s the thing. It’s interesting and musical, but it feels fresh to me, even now. There are elements that reach into arena rock choruses which isn’t my thing, but 90% of this track rules too. Cool, heavy, fun. I have a ranch I call Number 52 that you CAN see. This was a lie. I don’t have a ranch. This song starts heavy and continues into another excellent low-key alt rock song that doesn’t shy away from making sound. That’s the difference between quiet music and music with restraint. Anyway. Another win. A let up. Let off?? Whatever. It’s still really good, I just can’t say it’s a highlight. This is crazy. Why do I love every song. The screeching, the lyrics, even if they’re only two bloody words, the drive. This record keep impressing. Hmm. The only grating track so far. That’s crazy. One grating moment. Nice, ballad-esque closer. There is nothing wrong with this album. Not a track passed with me thinking it was bad and I’d say all but one passed with me thinking “that was great.” I don’t know how this band is so popular, because they’re truly excellent. The music is accessible and welcoming while having an alternative edge as well as a downright aggressive tone at times. It was hard to formulate praise over and over. I am a much more eloquent hater. There’s almost a guilt about rating an album highly that hasn’t been pre-ordained as one of the “perfect albums” but I truly believe there are no objective truths in art enjoyment. This is exactly what I was hoping to discover. With a half point deducted for the slight monochromatic nature of this record, this is almost perfect. I thought this would be a more poetic moment. I thought it would be my best review and the words would flow as they never had before. While that might not be true, I have an album to return to again and again. 4.5 HIGHLIGHTS: Rock Music, Allison, Is She Weird, All Over the World, Down to the Well, The Happening, Hang Wire
Pixies har altid mest været Surfer Rosa, og Doolittle for mig. Der er momenter på det her album som jeg kan værtsætte, men kvaliteten er bare ikke lige så høj.
Pixies vil ofte alt muligt på deres albums. Det kan give nogle mega spændende albums med den tilgang. I dette tilfælde bliver det sådan lidt Hit ‘n Miss. Nogle numre fungere mega godt. Andre tiltaler mig mindre. Standout tracks: - Cecilia Ann - Rock Music - Is She Weird - Down To The Well
The sum is better than the parts on this alt rock classic
interesting album, different to other pixies albums
Pixies > Sonic Youth. I listened to this album 3 times, so I clearly don’t hate it. That being said, I don’t think it’s amazing. Probably 3.5 stars.
Great album, great band. I really should have paid more attention to them in the 90s when I was falling in love with many similar bands, but they didn't get as much exposure here in the UK. I like this album lots, it feels comfortable, like slipping on a favourite pair of boots.
Probably their third best album. That said, it's still really good. It's a solid four. Pixies were all class. Innovative, imaginative, cool. Four stars.
Day381 - i’m becoming a pixies fan
4 songs in - exactly what i expected it to be based on the era, artwork and band. Enjoying it but very easy listening pop rock... like i walk into Cheapo and they're spinning this for sure while i sift through the carly rae jepsen records 8 songs in - i listened to a lot of music that was derivative of this while growing up because my brother thought he was edgy so this isn't really doing much for me. While i don't think it's bad by any means, it so easily gets lost in the noise for me. With another listen or two, i feel like i might pick out more to enjoy but currently it's feeling very one note. With that last note being said, I feel like this will be a solid 4 star album from me in the end since I can tell if i was paying a bit closer attention i'd be really into it. Down To The Well .. liking this song
this started and i just immediately said “absolutely.” very much my shit. obsessed with Allison!! wonder who that diva was… all over the world!!! let’s gooooo girlllsss So different than the songs i previously knew the pixies for!! this album sounds like so many of the artists i listen to today it’s so fun to see the influence!!!
Somewhere between 3 and 4, but I already gave Coldplay 3 so I have to do 4 now.
Nice blend of catchy hooks and edgy songs.
Heavier than expected
not as good as Doolittle but, Havalina
It’s good, the Pixies bring always bring it.
“Rock Music” will never get old! It’s definitely one of my go-to tracks when I need a pick me up. As for the rest of the album, it’s solid. This one feels more polished than their previous releases, and it might just be their most cohesive and consistent effort up to this point.
After Surfa Rosa and Doolittle, I did wonder whether the Pixies could pull three absolutely amazing albums out of the hat - and they did. It’s all there - the growl of Frank Black, the accompanying harmonies of Kim Deal, the guitars of Joey Santiago - and it just works. The Pixies were, and remain, the GOAT.
My second Pixies album on this list. This one was more polished and coherent, yet not quite as interesting. It took a few listens for it to click, but it's a vibe.
Classic. Not outdated, one of the albums I'll listen again.
underrated pixies album
Incredible.
Going back and adding reviews for the couple albums that I didn't early on. But re-listening to the album first to collect my thoughts. Kinda understanding why I didn't write a review previously. Just don't got a ton to say about it. It's not as good as Doolittle which was basically my memory of why I rated it the way I did. Will say, it does explore different sounds throughout that Doolittle doesn't, for example the very first song Cecilia Ann being a kinda western sounding surf rock song, and I appreciate that. This album is also produced a lot dirtier and noisier than I remember Doolittle being, which I like (Rock Music being a good example of that). Overall, re-listening to this album has allowed me to appreciate it more, and am gonna bump my rating up from a 3 to a 4.
Was very pleased to see this pop up. I mean it's no Doolittle for me but still excellent. It's funny how different style wise this is compared to Doolittle only a year apart. Not massively so. Hard to put my finger on. Just slamming songs, catchy riffs, loved it
Yeah it's great stuff. I never really listen to Pixies but they are damn good
some were pretty good, a lot faded into each other. for now not really my style, but i thought the intro idea was cool
Some gold here, Jerry! Some gold!
I might be incorrect about this but I got a lot of Weezer vibes from this album. Favouirte Songs: Velouria, Is She Weird, Ana, The Happening. Least Favourite Songs: Rock Music, Allison.
Maybe not as iconic as Doolittle, but their sound is so unique and exciting
Flows really well, a solid offering. Only missing memorable hooks. 4.2
Pretty cool, you could tell they influenced Nirvana and others
The got my attention right around Velouria
surf rock pra gente esquisita. esse tem umas guitarra boa demais vsf. acho esse QUASE no mesmo patamar segundo album deles (que ainda está por vir). mas porra, é bem melhor que o surfer rosa, na minha opinião. é mais centrado no que se propõe e envelheceu muito bem. velouria e the happening são ABSURDAS demais
Great, particularly enjoyed Rock Music and Dog For Fire
Of all the original Pixies albums, this is probably the one I've spent the least amount of time with. Released on the heels of their breakthrough, Doolittle, this one is less "punchy" and warmer in tone. The bass dominates on most tracks, creating a fuzzy boundary within which everything else plays out. The run from Is She Weird to All Over the World is fantastic. Is She Weird is one of my favorite songs that they produced. Thrumming bass with tight songwriting that is just catchy as hell. Ana drops into what I can best describe as downtempo surf-jazz, with clear surf guitar bleeding a slow progression; all complemented by airy vocals. Then there is All Over the World which pulls closer to the unpolished tones of Doolittle and Surfer Rosa with some wonderful blistering guitar interludes between polished segments. Down To The Well is another classic. Love the weird high pitched alien sounds that are buried in the mix -- delightfully bizarre. Sum total I really enjoy this album. While it doesn't hold the same level of appeal to me as Sufer Rosa or Doolittle, it still scratches a certain itch and truly that run from Is She Weird > All Over the World is among the best on record I've heard in a while. In my eyes this straddles high 4 / low 5 territory. Like a 9.0
I feel like I should like the Pixies more than I actually do. There are great aspects of songs but something rubs me the wrong way on a bunch too. Velouria rules though. Elvis Costello's Allison > Pixies Allison. Is She Weird was weirdly awesome. Idk if I was listening more to this than the others or in a different mood but I really enjoyed this. Weird but with some cool instrumentals.
7/10
i can understand why someone would consider this inferior to Doolittle (it is), but i don't really think it's that much of a step down. in fact, i think you could slot a few of the cuts on here into Doolittle and most people wouldn't even notice -- what's even changed? they do surf riffs sometimes? the snare is a bit gated? it's still the same band that made "Hey" and "Gouge Away". what's the crime, not being "Doolittle"? They already made that album! i think there's maybe a few slow bits, like "Ana" and "Blown Away", but i don't think anything's gone wrong other than some songs being a bit less memorable than the constant hookfest of the last album. Pixies docked their surfboard-ship on the station they built with the hull duct taped together and the engine sputtering, but it still runs, dammit.
Soft
Allison / Dig for Fire / Velouria are all top drawer
Another great Pixies album. I really regret not giving Surfer Rosa 5*, to distinguish that it is better. But, this is still a banger with quite a distinct cohesive sound rather than particular stand-out anthems. Velouria was the first pixies song that I downloaded on Napster, so holds a special place in my heart.
rad
not the best from the pixies (it’s still pretty damn good though)
Better than I thought it would be. Not my bag, but I have to admit some of the tracks are very good. I'll give it four stars.
This was interesting, if a bit confusing by the album title. I think that overall, I enjoyed the album - solid instrumentals and vocal work. I do feel like it got a bit samey throughout though. 'Is She Weird' was my fave.
Personal enjoyment: 4/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5
Great!
The Pixies record a mellow Western soundtrack. It is great, but still has some filler songs. I absolutely love "Velouria", by the way.
Cool rock songs, not my cup of tea, but the craft is there and I can appreciate it
This got me into a Pixies mod this weekend and I relistened to the first four albums a couple times. So so good but the drop off between the first two is definitely noticeable. Still a generational run.
It's a fun and dynamic album, but it's not my favourite of the Pixies. Nice to see them on this list though
A little better than Surfer Rosa, but Doolittle is still by far my fav from them.
Liked a lot of it to my surprise. There were some very irritating bits though. But in the end liked it enough for 4 stars.
Pretty good consistently
Very good but lacks Kim Deal’s freshness
I really really liked this album. I see how Nirvana considers them one of their biggest inspirations. The similarities are strong. There also seems to be some similarities with R.E.M. Favorite parts: From "Ana" until "Hang Wire" ...all those songs HIT. "Blown Away" will be in my constant rotation
liked songs: Rock Music, Velouria, All Over the World It's the Pixies. Not quite as good as Doolittle, but still excellent 4
Pretty good
Still sounds great
Doolittle is my favorite Pixies album; this was the first time I listened to Bossa Nova multiple times in its entirety. I would definitely revisit this one; I'm not sure if it's a 5 for me (and to be fair, Doolittle is likely a 4?), but I could see this growing on me to be a 3-4. More on the grunge side of Pixies, which I like; the first track (2 tracks) are leaning heavily into that harsher sound, and the rest feels very much like a good Pixies album.
Not the best Pixies but still good Pixies. You get a 4 but only because Surfer Rosa and Doolittle deserve 5s and they're better.
I liked this more than I expected! Released in 1990, it sits right between 80s hair bands and, like, Nirvana. I would listen again. I felt like someone who goes to record stores listening to this album.
Feels like a slightly tamer version of the Pixies when compared to Doolittle / Surfer Rosa, but I kinda like that.
Pre-hiatus Pixies are all pretty beyond reproach. This one to me is probably the one that sticks with me the least. The laid back surf guitar vibes along with some super solid standout tracks make it a great album for sure, but not nearly as great as Surfer Rosa and Doolittle. Still an excellent and classic record though.
solid 3.5. cant decide between 3 and 4, so went with 4 because i liked it but it was just a bit too grunge for me. idk if thats the right word but it felt very emo. good music though, better than i expected. fun to listen to. made me feel like a teen boy lolol
I really dig Pixies. I love love love Doolittle, and I assume it's also on this list, and I will give it a 5 when I get to it. I know some of their other songs, so I was surprised I didn't recognize any of these ones. This is still a really solid album, even if I do prefer their earlier stuff more. My favorites right now are Is She Weird, Down To The Well, and The Happening.
опять альтернатива/// первые несколько песен заслухал думаю не вообще не моё. потом подрубилась is she weird и за эту вещь отдельное спасибо группе. круто. потом подрубил альбом заново, понял - вторая половина альбома - огнище. там атмосферу главное поймать.
Never really got into the Pixies as much as I probably should have. Nothing wrong with this album though.
So Dave Grohl just copied them
Bossanova is the third Pixies' album, and the follow up to their breakout Dolittle. This album continues with the Pixies "loud-soft-loud" dynamic - their music often uses radical changes in volume, rhythm, and style, for the effect of the transition. Theirs is the hard, edgy side of guitar driven alt-rock, and "soft" segments do more to established melodies and narrative elements. This collection of songs is a reasonable match to - but not much of a departure from - the band's previous work. These are good tunes, but seem to lack the glimmer of brilliance that ran through Dolittle.
4.5 The most under-rated Pixies album
I’m a massive fan of Dolittle, and also enjoy surfs Rosa. But this was actually the first time listening to this album today. This one is also great but just doesn’t quiet match up to their first two albums, but it’s the pixies and they are still head and shoulders above most bands.
Bossanova was an album that came so unbelievably close to being a 5 star album but it just barely missed the mark. The majority of this album consisted of nothing but pure, full on bliss. The guitars were heavy enough to easily make it an album that you can easily rock out to while the melodies were prolific enough to make the album always move me no matter what it tried. My only issue is that some of the songs were not as great as they could be and should have either been cut or improved. If that slight blunder was fixed, then i would have easily given this album 5 stars but as it stands, it sits at a very high 4 stars Best Song: Velouria Worst Song: Is She Weird
Good rock music, I liked the instrumental intro song
great opening track with Cecilia Ann....then Rock Music was probably the weakest on the album (screaming vocals are not my thing). apart from Rock Music, I really enjoyed this album-great driving guitar, drums, and kept the songs from dragging on. Hang Wire was great wrap to the album. 4.5 stars
Solid album. I thought the weird, sometimes nonsensical, lyrics were fun. Even without knowing beforehand that they inspired Nirvana, I could hear it here. Favorites: "Velouria", "Is She Weird", "Ana", "The Happening"
when i started listening it transported me to a rich new york moment, and really felt uplifted and inspired and had enjoyment of the instruments and his voice. by the 3rd song though it all blended together and i felt like it was all the same i couldn’t get passed song 6. great sounds and voice, but i would probably continue to enjoy his music song by song sporadically rather than listening to a full album in one sitting.
Pixies, one of my favourite bands! They were hot when I was in uni and I remember when this album came out. I have always loved their quirky mix of punk, rock and grunge. Very recognisable sound. Lyrics don't make much sense which makes them at least much better than bad lyrics. Simple but highly effective bass lines from Kin Deal, and aggressive yet musical guitar by Black Francis. Only giving it a 4 because I don't think this is their best album, a bit too poppy at times, but a great band.
Is She Weird -> Ana
sweet album, didn't hear before. quite a few hits.
Feels so ahead of it's time
This is my first Pixies record and I loved it. They've got such an influenced sound that creates something even more influential. They took the best from genre's I hate and made something not too shabby. Favorites were Velouria, Down to the Well, and Stormy Weather
While not having the heavy hitters that Surfer Rosa and Doolittle have this album is a model of consistency. No song outstays its welcome and the whole album provides a consistently good sound. I would say this album is very well paced. Needed more Kim Deal vocals. Highlights for me were Cecilia Ann, Velouria, Allison, Dig For Fire, The Happening, and Stormy Weather.
Fun album! I liked a lot of the songs and loved Is She Weird.
Dies ist ein Konzeptalbum, das man nur im Gesamten anhören kann, um die besondere Note der Alternativ Rockband zu erkennen. Einzelne Stücke wirken für sich belanglos, Mainstream. Da würde man dem Album insgesamt Unrecht tun.Sehr gut produziert. In einem Rutsch anhören, dann geht das Konzept auf.
An album that feels very much like “one thing”. Enjoyed it.
This album was rockin…becoming quite a Pixies fan through this project. Didn’t love this one as much as Doolittle but still super solid.
3.5
Tru
Pro Tip: Don't listen to any album after Joni Mitchell's Blue--take a day off. This album was better for me than Doolittle and my instinct is 4, but is it on par with Blue? IDK ... it's a 3.5 and bumping to 4. Maybe Blue is really a 5 ... it's at least a 4.5 and that makes me feel better.
I hadn't listened to this album before and honestly I liked it more than a lot of the pixies stuff that I know
Gorgeous
On the surface, this is a pretty standard album that hits right in that transition from 80s rock into grunge. But the more you listen, the more complex this gets. The harmonic structure is really impressive throughout the album. Definitely worthy of inclusion on this list.
Not as good as Doolittle, but it's Pixies so I like it.
Solid
My least favorite of the three big Pixies albums, but still a good listen.
I dig the guitar and the bass.
pretty solid album. i like the pixies well enough but haven't explored their music beyond listening to doolittle. i enjoyed the evolution shown here but i felt like although the songs were pretty consistent, they were a little bit of a step down from doolittle. but overall, a good album with great production.
Was pgood forgot to fucking write which song I liked the most and shit. Might re listen soon
Pixies are a band I've been trying to get into for about a year now, but every time I try, it just doesn't do it for me. I'm glad this album in particular showed up here as it was an album I hadn't tried to listen to yet. I was pleasantly surprised. I quite liked it. Chock full of short and sweet alt rock bangers with maybe even a little Surf Punk influence on a couple of songs? Really interesting music, whilst not being super unique. Though in truth, does music really have to be unique to be enjoyable? I think not. I find the biggest strength of this album are the long songs that are explored a little more than the others, especially with tracks like Is She Weird and the Happening that stand out from the rest for their interesting ideas. Overall a really good listen, and maybe a good gateway into other albums by Pixies? Hopefully?
Like, it's decent! It didn't blow my mind though! It just sounds like 90's rock music.
Sounds like the Pixies. I’ll round up from 3.5.
The Pixies set the stage for so much of 90s alt-rock, particularly the loud-quiet-loud song structure. You can hear a bit of what they do in so many other bands. Bossanova doesn’t have any hugely well known songs, but maybe that’s for the best. 4⭐️
Listened to it twice, back to back.
Only knowing Pixies from "Where Is My Mind?" and "Waves of Mutilation" (shoutout Rock Band on PS2), I was expecting a more alt-rock, indie vibe from this album. However, this 1990 release proved to have more grunge and punk intermixed, which was a pleasant surprise. This band has been on my list to delve into for awhile and this record just makes me more excited to do so since they wade in more of the waters that some of my favorite bands are in. Notable Tracks: - Cecilia Ann - a rare instrumental album opener - Ana - All Over the World - The Happening - Hang Wire - Havalina 7/10
Not at all what I expected from an album titled “Bossanova.” I think the first instrumental track set a high bar that the rest never quite reached; nothing here was a definitive standout or an instant favorite, but I liked the overall sound. There’s just enough darkness and variation to keep things interesting. (Actually, yeah - by the end, I was pretty much sold.) Favorite tracks: Hang Wire, Javelina
Great album but my 3rd favorite of the 1987-1990 trifecta of Pixies albums. Still a smash hit album with great quacky references and wonderful pop punkish melodies way before the genre would have a name.
I have a liking for Pixies. And I can’t quite put my finger on it. They just work. Terrible live though; which was hella disappointing
ayy
Good album. There are a lot of great elements to this album. The tracks are pretty tight, which works well for the whole. There are some fun influences and guitar work/arrangements (e.g., surf rock). Vocals are a little indistinguishable on some songs. I like it. ****
I have never really liked the Pixies before, but I loved this album. It has some great songs on like Alison and Is she weird. Its a solid begining to 90s rock, yet slightly repetative after 6-7 songs. You can see Ash, Feeder and other bands like that being really inspired by the Pixies and this album. Its very close to their sound. Favourite song: Alison Least favourite: Hang wire and stormy weather. Album artwork: I love the artwork
This is not my favorite Pixies album, but Bossanova is still an amazing album with so many gems: Dig For Fire, Is She Weird, Velouria, Allison. It’s not a 5-star to me but it’s quality is undeniable.
A great album showcasing what feels like a more mature version of the Pixies. My favorite song on the album, Dig for Fire has all the hallmarks of what I love about them. Brash and loud swinging to quiet and melodic, with lyrics that just barely make sense.
Great album
Mucha potencia musical. La voz del cantante me cuesta en el primer tema, pero se recupera muy bien en el segundo. Original Is she weird, me gustó. El de la marciAna es una muy linda canción también. El resto transcurre entretenido, sin grandes sobresaltos. Hasta esos grandes temas que son Happening y Havalina.
A very strong album
Pretty solid!
Another Pixies album! Just had one 4 days ago. This first track was dope!! Cecilia Ann. It's a shame I have not heard more of these guys. So it's been nice to be introduced to their albums lately. I like this sound. You know I never really listened to The Pixies a whole lot, and only ever really knew Where Is My Mind? thanks to Fight Club. But just in the last week I've had 2 of their albums for the album of the day thing. I think I have a new found appreciation for them. They're pretty awesome. IMO. 4 stars.
It’s a cool listen. Very fun guitar and vocals. It’s good!
4.5/5. Never listened to any tracks from this album before and it only took the first three songs to get me hooked.
It's a good album! But, like, this is maybe one of the issues with the 1001 albums list: looking at the overall album list (you can find a spreadsheet online) there are ... three Pixies albums? And this one, which is GOOD but not, like, an album you need to listen to before you die if you've already listened to Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, was chosen over a bunch of artists that aren't represented but probably should be. anyway... four stars.
The Pixies were so good the first time around.
J'y vois un album qui aura influencé Arcade Fire. Les Pixies ne ressemblent à personne et sont difficiles à décrire; toujours au bord du précipice, dans l’énergie de la dernière chance, une expérience cathartique
Rating: 8.5/10 Great album overall. Incredibly catchy while also being unique to the Pixies' trademark sound. The riffs are mostly fantastic, the instrumentation and vocal melodies are great, as well as the production. Some songs are a bit underwhelming but the highlights are amazing. Favorite songs: Cecilia Ann, Velouria, Allison, Is She Weird, Ana, All Over the World, Dig for Fire, Down To The Well, The Happening, Hang Wire, Stormy Weather. Worst song: Rock Music.
Not the greatest Pixies album, but not bad album. In retrospective, the music is good.
Pixies. 4
Pretty soft 4, only criticism is that it's pretty same-same all the way through. But enjoyable
Bossanova is more garage/grunge music that is presented with more consistent song production and writing than their previous albums and yet they still never compromise their core sound. It is easily the most consistently enjoyable album of The Pixies on a track by track basis. Having said that it does not have a generational single on it on the level of "Where Is My Mind?" from SURFER ROSA or "Wave of Mutiliation" or "Here Comes Your Man" from DOOLITTLE, but ultimately I enjoy Bossanova more as an album, and the previous albums as a collection of songs that I can cherry pick songs I can bear. I enjoyed the lovely surf rock nods in "Ana" and the instrumental "Cecilia Ann" (which is a cover of a Surftones track), the post punk of "Dig for Fire" and "Hang Wire"; and the beautiful "Havana".
Potentially controversial inclusion this. Will review this on the basis that Doolittle is yet to come…..if not then hell has surely frozen over. So, Bossanova is probably the Pixies 2nd best album. Polished sound, great blend of thrash and melody. Stand out songs include Velouria, Ana and Dig for Fire, but it’s all good. Lacks some of the raw quality of the first two albums which some will dislike. Great to hear this again.
Recognised a few tracks off this but for the most it was new for me. What can I say, it’s the Pixies, you know what to expect and it’s largely great.
Preferred Doolittle to this album, there were a few tracks that didn't do it for me (including the cowboy intro) but when it's good it's great. Still sounds loads like Les Savy Fav but there's more Weezer and Ash in this too. Velouria, Allison and dig for fire are great.
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.
8/10 - Nice crunchy riffs
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
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.
"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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
- 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
Doolittle was always going to be a tough act to follow, but this album definitely still stands up 30 years after its' release.
Highly enjoyed
I few stinkers but I enjoyed this
Liked this one more than the other Pixies albums on here - mainly because Kim Deal didn't do too many vocals.
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.
havalinaaa
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.
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
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!
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.
Love this album! Probably the Pixies 3rd best. Some classics on this one. Still hits hard! 4.5/5
Wow, Im such a loser not having listened to Pixies at all til now.
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.
dobri stari pixies
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.
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
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!
Enjoyed it, will listen more regularly
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!!!
Honestly I like this more than Surfa Rosa
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.
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.
I legit didn’t know this one. And my wife is a huge pixies fan.
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.
Solid but not nearly as interesting as previous two albums.
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.
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
Excellent!
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.
As good as Alt-Rock can be. Fucking superb live band.
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.
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.
Super cool
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.
Great album. One my my favorite bands. I'm saving my 5 star reviews for a couple of their offer albums.
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.
Je connaissais pas les Pixies tant que ça. Cet album m'a vraiment surpris. C'était excellent.
Reminds of a lighter Nirvana. High 7
above par
great surf rock influences, might like to listen to this when on a hangover.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
4,... ayudándolo
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.
I've always liked the Pixies, Surfer Rosa in particular. And while I have probably heard most of this record before, never all at once. I like how this album is decently hard, has softer moments, and flows really well from song to song. Standouts for me are Rock Music, Down to the Well, The Happening, and Stormy Weather. It's a short record but it does what it does well. 3.5 stars but round up to 4.
Such a strong alt rock record.
Grunge before it was cool. Pioneers of the Seattle sound.
A wonderful example of the beginnings of alt rock. It is a fun and lively album perfect for any pre-teen rebel to yell along to in their bedroom while their parents argue loudly downstairs
Pixies are definitely my style, hard grungy rock with unpredictable and witty vocals . I found myself going back and listening to their older album , I love that song @where is my mind? I’ll be keeping the pixies in my rock vibes rotation from now on
Over the years, the Pixies have grown on me, and this is rather a standout album with great sound, though of course their 'loud-quiet-loud' sonf structure can grate a bit.
Very good, wasn't really in the mood for this type of music but it still hit. I can see the influence on Weezer and even other modern poppy rock bands.
Great flow, wasn’t familiar with surf rock but that’s exactly how I would describe the album
Pixies as a band is a geoup I've always been aware of. I knew their big hits, I knew Doolittle by name, I even knew what came of members splitting into groups like the Breeders. Despite all of this, I had no clue this album existed. I knew not a single track off of its selection, and not even the cover rang familiar. In fact, it reminds me of a Primus album cover more than anything for some reason. So, this was an all new, fresh experience for me. It is certainly a step down from Doolittle and its copious amounts of power and strength it presented, but we're still looking at a good album with tons of catchy riffs, jarring-yet-satisfying vocal change-ups, and a solid record over all. I think it just loses a bit of that staying power that the album prior had down already, and feels like its standing in the shadows of its older brothers, but if you go in with an open mind you're still getting a great rock record with a lot to like.
muy bueno
Kraftvoller Rock der gefällt. Kannte die Band nicht.
I dig it! Ich mag dases meh modern tönt als de klassisch rock vom Vortag, isch eher so min Gschmack drum fiiri da scho recht cool. Es isch aber grad so ah de Grenze wonis jetzt nid ständig chent lose aber ab und zue isches sicher richtig cool :) 4.1/5
He i ha mer wieder mol viel zwenig notize gmacht, aber han s album huere geil gfunde. Vor allem gege mitti findi isches besser worde. Han etz is she weird nomol glost weli mer de notiert gha ha und find da album isch e 4i. In depth analysis do
nonie es pixies album ghört aber au acho vernoh dass mega acclaimed sind und so. bi gwundrig Cecilia Ann. sehr coole groove und gitarresound. bitz western film time. au afoch en instrumentale track wo chli tätscht als erste findi super. rock music. ok sie screamed? mag de desorganisierti vibe irgendwie. Velouria. geili alt-rock gitarremelodie. ok dasch jetz en richtige song. ok cool theremin und d bassistin singt bgvs cool. hübsche song. d kritike seged vorallem dass sie meega mit dynamik schaffed und au nirvana beiflusst heged. Allison. hössigi gitarre und bitz glangwilti vocals findi meistens geil. hook seeehr cool. die songs sind sooo churz mega punk. Is she weird. guete titel, geile bass cooli snare und giti melodie hinedra super. jop de kurz cobain het sowas vo pixies glost. Ana. bitz meh en interlude? oke nai afoch churze song. aber sehr sehr cool. super schöni chords. booah da gfallt mer fuck bin ich musigkritiker. bäsele drums? suuuper tasty. uuuuf sie moduliered uf de schluss. All over the world. guy redet? sie singed gad guet bitz schräg so dases geil isch. ooookay jetz isch dynamik time olötzlich mega lärm. au geil schrägs giti solo. ui weezer hend au pixies glost mega viel. de song fühlt sich jetz plötzlich mega lang ah well die andere so churz sind. aber isch immerno geil, sehr dark und mir gfallt würklich wies singed. Dig for Fire. giti wo ein ton spielt und zieht gfallt mer. refrain aau geil. powerchords nocher sind hammer. seehr coole song. au geile titel. down to the well. guuuete rock chorus mit vorher gitarre melodie. super. und eimol churze und denn lange refrain. seeehr grunge-vorläufer au. the happening. hässige blues haha. das clean gitarre riff wo sich durezieht isch super. und de sänger häääässig. drums no mega gated, schono bitz 80er. s outro wos uf eim ton blibed im gsang isch sehr nice. Blown Away. isch do kim deal am gsang? weissnld aber gsang isch voll verwäsche no cool. Hang Wire. ok fangt cool ah bitzli talking heads gsang mit punk instrumental. chorus luut und hässig. Stormy weather. langsame rocksong time. wieder legère gsang mit rock instrumentals. oke mer werded schneller mmmhm mit gitarresolo. es isch es bitz fuessball chant type? aber es isch echt tome for stormy weather. havalina meega schön au hammer closer, mega dreamy gfallt mer. da git e starchs vieri du hobbala ich bin musigkritiker ich mag d pixies.
Early influences heard throughout this one.
A solid Pixies album, but not up to the heights of Surfer Rosa or Doolittle. Still, there are some great tracks here; Velouria, Allison, Havalina etc.
Soft rock, not really my style. But there's some pretty good stuff in it.
As a fan of rock/metal, I enjoyed most of the album. Rock Music was my least favorite, it was too hectic for me but the rest of the album was great. 8 out of 10.
Good album, but not their best.
Cool album! Shame that many of the songs just meld into each other and I can't remember which song is which. Once you've listen to a few of the tracks, you've practically listened to them all. Still, while very similar, the tracks distinguish themselves enough to provide variety, and I otherwise enjoyed it! 4/5 "Above average enjoyment" and "Would happily listen to it again."
I love, love, love the Pixies, but tbh this is not my favourite album and I haven't listened to it much. I think it was pretty hard for them to follow up after Surfer Rosa and Doolittle (my fave) but I think it's still a fun alt-rock grungy vibe which is very much my scene. Kim Deal is up there with with gutsy women rock legends - love her. Fave track: Cecilia Ann - I love an instrumental! (this one sounds like it could have influenced Muse, Knights of Cydonia? Thoughts?)
Un autre très bon album des Pixies, je ne comprends pas pourquoi j'en ai jamais plus entendu parlé avant considérant leur impact sur la scène alt et comment leur musique est super solide. Vraiment du bon rock qui capture l'essence des annès 90s sans tomber dans les stéréotypes et qui passe très bien l'épreuve du temps. La première moitié était plus solide que la deuxième mais reste un très bon album dans son ensemble. 8/10
Love this album
I really love the Pixies and I've never heard this album before so I was really excited to get this one. I think it truly did not disappoint as it incapsulates their grunge sound really well, which is what I love about them. My favorite on this one is probably "The Happening". 4/5
A toss up between Doolittle for my favorite Pixies album, which I guess means I prefer their polished sound.
It's pretty nice
This one is cool! I love the playing, songwriting and overall vibe of the album. The voice not that much, but I think it's part of the charm? Maybe I need to grow more warm to it! Will definitely do a discography dive! 8,5 out of 10
4.25
Probably the best opening to an opening track on any album ever. Made an excellent soundtrack to stomp through the festive crowds in town. 4.4
Grungy post-punk with an oddly fitting mix of surf rock. The description 'surf rock for goth kids at the beach' is pretty apt. This album has a creative mix of sounds and all of them fit together really well. It's clear to see the influence this record had on various rock genres into the 90s and beyond.
It felt nostalgic in a weird way, until I found out that they were extremely influential and pioneered the alt/rock movement in the 80s. They inspired artists like Nirvana, the Strokes, Weezer, and Radiohead. Would def listen to again but a lil too old sounding for me. I say 4.5 stars really. They have a "loudquietloud" identity to their sound. Thoroughly enjoyed.
this album prompting me to revisit my rating ethos. because I am so predisposed to love it, obviously, but it’s definitely not my favorite pixies album! I can’t really fault it and I really enjoy it but does it make me jump and shriek in glee…not totally. so for now on 5 stars = not only perfect to me but also extremely personally engaging and thrilling. I stand by all my previous 5 stars and recognize that in this case the pixies are sadly being penalized for being familiar to me. we’ll see if I can stick to this 🙏
It is safe to say I was not ready for this. The extent of my knowledge for this band was relatively limited, so I was swept away by how heavy this album is. This is some of the most consistently interesting blasts of noise pop energy I’ve ever heard. Cecilia Ann sets the stage in the same way Politik sets the stage for A Rush of Blood to the Head. But instead of leaving me feeling short of breath and claustrophobic, Pixies got me amped up and ready for more. Each song has the same groundwork, but is uniquely vibrant and engaging. I was initially thrown off by the vocal style, or lack thereof, because of how raw it is. It’s unfiltered. There wasn’t a load of fine tuning and training for him to achieve that voice. He is just an average guy who sounds cool and can get really loud. This very much feels like the energy of the beginning of the 90’s. Loose and unorganized, and ready to break out into something new. Rating: 8/10
Not as good as Doolittle or Surfa Rosa, I don’t really think much more needs to be said. Allison is a great song
8/10
I 'missed' the Pixies by a couple of years in my youth - any introduction to them was via older siblings of friends of mine and I never really took much notice. Something I regret a bit on listening to this album. It's got some great songs on here - standouts for me are "Velouria", the sludgy "The Happening" - and they strike the balance between melodious choruses and spiky angular verses/intros very well. Had I been 13-15 when I first heard this, I'd have probably given it 5 stars and worn out my tape copy...
Not as good as Doolittle but still good
This noise won't kill you... I should just stop there because that's all you need to know. It's not the most enjoyable album, but it's holds my attention. It's like the teacher's calming hand on your shoulder when you're working through some statistics problem in middle school. Furthermore, It doesn't rush you or even bother you at first, it's barely noticeable and has the potential to fade into the background... but there's always the possibility that it could get interesting. To cut to the chase ... There's nothing amazing about this album, but as far as 90's alt noise rock goes, it is delicately enjoyable.
“Bossanova” starts with a great instrumental on “Cecilia Ann,” then descends into a mess on “Rock Music” until some signature Pixies guitar emerges in the second half and smoothes the way into the excellent “Velouria.” It stays solid from there, only getting weird for “Is She Weird?,” which is the kind of Pixies weird I like. Unfortunately, they don’t really push past solid. “All Over the World” is great, and “Hang Wire” and “Stormy Weather” are pretty good, but beyond that I think they needed to dig deeper for the fire.
Now that we’ve had three Pixies albums, I can say that I dig the Pixies rather than just one album. Surfer Rosa was not my favorite due to its chaos. Doolittle brought back memories of uni and a new found appreciation for the band. Boss’s nova is a natural continuation that I like. There are still chaotic sounding pieces here and there, but by and large the songs bring enjoyment. I like that the sound is crunchy and rough. Based on Doolittle and Bossanova, I will be checking out their follow on albumins too.
A bit of a departure from Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, but it's still decidedly a Pixies album. Solid, but not up to the excellent standard of its predecessors.
It's good, but not as good as Doolittle. Favorite song: Allison.
I’m a Pixies fan, it’s official
I've never really given Pixies a chance, not sure why since it is right up my alley. They're good. Will I listen to again: 80%
Kind of a wild ride as it always is with Pixies. I love the Kim Deal/Black Francis harmonies, the dual guitar wall of noise, the verging on out of control lead vocals, the esoteric and inscrutable lyrics, the asymmetrical over the bar line compositions, the unusual but not too avant garde chord progressions... I will have to listen to it a few more times again to get the full experience. THis album bears repeated listening for sure. Also interesting to hear it in the same week as the Throwing Muses album, lots of compare-and-contrast available between these two. Killer album from an important band.
Kind of amazing. Back in the day I used to listen to the pixies but somehow I never listened to this album. There was lots of instrumentals which is also really great. It is hard to hide when there is not vocals.
One song was super screamy. Several good ones. Great guitar and the lead singer's voice is unique.
This is a really solid album. I've been a big fan of Pixies since early high school. I was less familiar with this album as a whole than some of their others but recognized most of the songs and really enjoyed it on a relisten. I love the surf rock vibes that they incorporate into their sound, really feels unique to them as a band within the 80s/90s alt-college rock scene. Standout Tracks: Cecilia Ann, Velouria, Allison, Ana, All Over the World, Dig for Fire, The Happening, Havalina
Alt music!
Listened to this years ago after discovering Pixes but couldn't get into it so never bothered with it since. Wrong decision. Only a couple of listens in but I think this is going to be a grower similar to Doolittle. Excited to dive deeper into it.
Not as good as some other albums by the Pixies, but still a very solid rock album.
Always happy to hear from Pixies. Brilliant album and a joy to listen to.
Been a fan of Pixies for years. Not always, but ever since my music taste evolved 15 years ago or so.
Overall I liked this album. Very familiar with them but only a few songs I knew before listening straight through (Velouria, mostly). Cecilia Ann, Dig For Fire and The Happening big highlights for me. Stormy Weather also solid
10/31/23. Happy Halloween! Was treated to this Pixies album I’ve never listened to. Some good songs, but feel like is a step down from Doolittle and Surfer Rosa. With that, still a solid album that captures the Pixies.
Lots of bangers on this album including stormy weather, rock music, hang wire, and Alison. I wasn’t familiar with this album but ended up loving it.
- 'Cecilia Ann' is an epic opening - Great contrast between 'Rock Music' and 'Velouria'
Classic 90s Alt.
Te puedo decir altiro, ya en la tercera canción, que ésta es la melodía que buscaba en el rock en esos años de los 90.
If you can successfully combine elements of surf music and early '90s grungy alternative music, then you've done something interesting. I quite enjoyed this today.
Hit or miss for me. I most enjoyed the first track
Shame on me but this is my first encounter with the pixies music. And they don't disappoint - love the guitars, vocals and the general edginess of their sound. Great stuff
Surfer Rosa and Doolittle set a very high bar, but this stands up well. Quality album, even accounting for my somewhat biased Pixies fan perspective.
3.25? I liked it but it none of the songs were particularly unique or ones I'd purposefully pull up. Good background store music
definitely my type of music
Lovely stuff - highlights include 'Rock Song', 'Blown Away' and 'Hang Wire', plus the decision to begin proceedings with an instrumental surf rock cover was inspired. Only a little sag in the middle; otherwise, this was a fresh-sounding, immediate and well-crafted collection of alt rock songs. Every track seemed to have its own personality, and the range of moods and feelings the band cover in the span of forty minutes is impressive. Hell, the whole endeavour is impressive.
Grungy and just a little out of the box. Emblematic of the decade.
no big winners but enjoyable overall
Solid
Pretty fire and almost shoegazy pixies album
Pretty solid. My first real delve into The Pixies. Excited for their other albums.
Very catchy and fun Favourite tracks: Cecilia Ann, Velouria, Allison, All Over the World, Dig for Fire, Blown Away
Probs not gonna listen to the whole thing again but I love this album so much I could poop my pants