Reviews (page 9 of 13)
Creative but very hit and miss for me.
Have not listened to this album in years, so was a nice throwback. It's not their best though, Doolittle is way better. Highlights: The Happening, Cecilia Ann
Allison seems to be a popular girls name to sing about. Strange and a bit melancholy at times which I enjoyed, felt nostalgic despite not knowing them. They reminded me a bit of smashing pumpkins. I like the mix of gentle and rough vocals. Favourites: Velouria, is she weird, dig for fire
Enjoyable album, the actual music was great. I wished their was more instrumental songs like Celia Ann Fav songs: Celia Ann, all over the world
6/10.
I want to give this more than 3 because at its best it’s a tour de force of non-mainstream rock music creativity, but it’s just not quite consistent enough across the board for me. Instrumental opener ‘Cecilia Ann’ sets the tone for the slightly rockier direction the band takes compared to their previous efforts. For the most part, the album follows up on its promises, however its immediately undercut by the heaviest song on the album (and possibly my least favourite) ‘Rock Music’. If the track was placed elsewhere on the album, and the instrumental opener went straight into ‘Velouria’ (a standout track and obvious contender for lead single) and ‘Allison’ (another favourite of mine) perhaps it wouldn’t disrupt the albums cohesion so much, and I may like it more than I do. As it is, it stands as a strange outlier, as far as I see it, offering nothing of the melodic hooks that even the heaviest songs on previous pixies albums utilise to keep my jangle-inclined ears engaged. As I say, the next two tracks are very strong, as is the rest of the album, for the most part. ‘Dig For Fire’ is another solid choice for single due to its catchy chorus and engaging lyrics. ‘The Happening’ is probably my favourite of the lot. It’s outro works well enough on its own as ‘The Thing’ (b-side to lead single ‘Velouria’) but I think the first half of the full version warrants its existence in making it feel like a more complete song. Certain tracks on the album contain a confidence and swagger exceeding that of the previous 2, but it doesn’t have the firepower of Doolittle’s hit-filled tracklist or the coherent lyrical themes, or wider influence of Surfer Rosa. As such, I do think it’s a slightly weaker effort, but one they’ve shown no signs of topping since.
I liked this more than I thought I would! Interesting to see this sound as a transition between 80s music and 90s rock. Is She Weird also really sounded like the theme song from Pepper Ann, so maybe the show borrowed from that song? Didn't love the album on first listen but really appreciated it more upon the second. Really liked songs Is She Weird, All Over the World, and Down to the Well.
Hidden gem, didn’t really have a terrible song, had some good ones, 7/10
Good, but does not deserve a spot on this list. Barely influential with very few standout tracks.
It was pretty good
Nothing exciting. Very samey. Fave : velouria
Fave = Cecilia Ann First half better than second half
Bueno, supongo que hay fans que la pasan bomba, pero no hoy
Alternativ rock har aldri vært noe jeg har prøvd å oppsøke, men dette albumet var absolutt verdt å høre. Åpningssporet 'Cecilia Ann' serverer småtung surfrock jeg gjerne skulle hatt litt mer av, selv om det kommer noen drypp her og der videre utover skiva. Black Francis har et godt spenn av vokalstiler og jeg liker spesielt godt de mer skrikete partiene og de David Byrne-aktige linjene som dukker opp til tider. Skulle gjerne hatt mer Kim Deal-vokal. Forbi midtpunktet på plata begynner det soniske landskapet å bli litt vel ensformig, men de siste to sporene endrer retningen og gir albumet en sterk avslutning.
A good Pixies record
If I was a Black Brit in my adolescence in the early 90s, I would bump Pixies. The album’s second half is so much better than the first half! Favorite Track: Stormy Weather
I am mostly new to their music and probably need a bit more time to appreciate it. For now, I can hear why it was so influential at the time, but prefer the more developed later music from e.g. Nirvana. Or one of the other albums. Three stars.
Right up there in my best pixies albums. Bangers from go to wo. Dig for fire is a fave
I liked the record but I didn't find it groundbreaking or particularly interesting, it's a nice Alt Rock album, doesn't overstay its welcome and doesn't really push too far away. It's very difficult not to compare it to Doolittle, which I liked much more as they were bolder and the music was overall more interesting. Despite this, it's not at all bad, a bit more laid back and straight forward than Doolittle. My favourite song was "Hang Wire".
Yeah, you just gave birth to grunge with Doolittle and toured relentlessly (for good or for bad) and become huge in the UK and Europe, but what have you done lately and, most importantly, how do you follow that? Pixies are, unfortunately, on the downward spiral here, its just beginning but the vibes are most definitely off. "Velouria" is a great song, perhaps my favourite Pixies song on any given day, but the rest is middling at best and tensions are rife.
Fun, but somehow I was expecting more
Sure man
Enjoyable but not one of the 1001 you must listen to before you die
Good album. Not as good as the first couple though
Hørte på da mellom to andre jævlig gode album, så falt litt gjennom der. Men sikkert greit nok hvis man har hørt på dårlig musikk først. Litt lavt volum også
c: velouria
I liked the first 2 songs more than I expected, unfortunately after that I got a little less excited. Overall it’s not bad and I can see why they were so influential in the alt/rock world. I guess I like their “harder” songs but am not as impressed with the slower and/or softer tracks. Solid 3 stars, not necessarily something I’m drawn to but also not something that actively pisses me off.
Not my favorites Pixies album by a long shot -- but still fine.
Bossanova I enjoyed Doolittle and its surfer alt rock, but I had heard a few songs from it previously. With Bossanova I was unaware of any of the tracks, and despite liking the album, I found it a bit underwhelming in comparison. Cecilia Ann is very good, it has some of the vibes of doolittle with a bit more wiry post punk too, reminding me a bit of Magazine. Allison is great too, as is Ana and Havalina. In fact the songs with girl’s names are probably the best tracks, they all highlight their undoubted melodic sense. I think Velouria is a girl's name too, and that fits nicely on that bucket too. And it also works well where they play a bit with rhythms and tempos and lean into the post punk vibe as on Dig for Fire and Stormy Weather. Where their proto-grunge and goth tendencies mix with their alt surfer vibes, like on Rock Show, Down to the Well or Hang Wire I find it less interesting and less memorable, putting me in mind of someone performatively wearing a big black hoody on a sunny day at the beach. Overall it’s a good listen, and similar to Doolittle you can see it’s influence on what came after with the quiet loud bit, although, aside from a few exceptions, I don’t think many of those subsequent bands can match their melodic skill. I think it’s a notch below Doolittle, although still good, so I’ll put it at a high 3. 🧚🧚🧚 Playlist submission: Allison
Standout Songs: Cecilia Ann Is She Weird Down to the Well Hang Wire Havalina The instruments on this album are so loud you can barely hear the singer’s voice half the time. After a while, it sort of all just blends together into… noise. It’s very in-your-face, with the exception of Havalina. I’m not saying it’s bad, I did enjoy it. I just don’t see myself coming back to it any time soon.
The Pixies are a band I wish I liked more. They are that mix of alternative and punk, maybe a little touch of grunge, that I normally enjoy. Unfortunately they have never really clicked for me. The album was nice enough to listen to, but I can't imagine I'd listen to it again.
I can’t quibble as it is band doing what they want to do and I like the commitment. Not their best album and for no real reason I can pinpoint, I would happily never listen to it again. It’s not bad, and while I can see no reason why it’s not my thing, after all it has all the right components, it’s just not my thing.
Not my favourite. Some songs are good but I don't like the loud blaring sounds.
It's a fine album. I don't feel like it breaks any real new grounds and considering they have two other albums plus a solo album, this probably could have been left off.
Good, bad. Honestly decently vibes tho
Solid 3.
nice enough
First day back after week off.
better than the last one. has some great songs. they are a bit loud for my taste but i liked some of them. velouria, ana, all over the world, dig for fire, stormy weather, havalina are ones i liked. others weren’t memorable for me. that is a good amount of songs there. i don’t know if i’d put them on to listen again but they are good songs.
Stu I am laughing at your rating for Yes : ) this Pixies album .. uhhh.. not my fave I give them a 3 just for being them
Has more good songs than I remember. I think at the time it was a bit of a letdown from the lofty heights of the firsr two albums. Not sure it covers any new terrain. Or if it covers any already covered terrain any better. It is 14 songs - new at the time - many of which are quite good. But here's the question - does it need to be on the list. There's already two on the list. They're not exactly evolving. They just recorded some new (at the time) songs and sent them out into the world. People listened and here we are. Does this album have anything to do with why people know who the Pixies in 2025. Perhaps a victim of their own success - it's a better album than most people will ever make but it doesn't really add to the legacy - other than adding color to the cover art. Maybe that's progress.
This band out of Boston has been around a long time, yet I don’t think I know them. Maybe because they are alternative rock. This album started out annoying but improved as it progressed. There are a few good songs here which boosted the rating from two to three stars.
Chill asf
Overall, a good middle-of-the-road Pixies record. Every individual track (except Rock Music) is strong but not anywhere near a masterpiece. The vocals are easily the limiting factor. The whole sound is produced a bit messily, but the vocals are done especially poorly, not doing the already-bad singer any favours. And the singer... well, he's bad. Untrained, often subtly out of tune, even a little whiny at times. And this was the 90s, when the fad of "unprofessional music sounds good" had started to phase out. As an example, try listening to Stormy Weather and pretending the vocals aren't there. It's a pretty good sound, right? Now add the vocals back in, and suddenly the whole ensemble sounds messy, unprofessional, unorganised. But other than the singing, it's really good. The instrumental is up there with pre-grunge legends from around the same time. I like the guitar and bass sounds; unlike the vocals, they're distorted in a tasteful manner. I want to give this album a 2-star rating but it's not quite bad enough. Is the song Rock Music meant to poke fun at rock music, or is it a serious, faithful rendition? It sounds terrible. And rock music (usually) doesn't. 3/5 Key tracks: Cecilia Ann, Is She Weird, Down To The Well
I like the more mellow songs
Another one with Scorpio Energy, proper noun, but not necessarily my favorite
The Pixies definitely have a loud sound and strange lyrics that make them interesting to listen to. In their bio it said they influenced bands like Radiohead and Weezer, which checks out. I liked the sound of it but also not my exact cup of tea. Very screechy and grating at times.
Cecilia Ann - yes. Rock Music - ew, no. Some of the songs have good energy, some don't really do much for me.
The Pixies' sound has always been a bit too busy for my taste. So much happening.
I liked it. Some pretty good alternative rock to start the day.
Solid effort
Since I love Nirvana and Kurt often raved about these guys I expected a bit more. Good, but also a bit underwhelming.
good
Very enjoyable - nothing crazy stand out it seemed on first listen, but definitely deserves another listen through with full attention to pick them out. I did love the sweetness of Havalina.
Fav: Velouria Least Fav: Is She Weird Believe this is the 3rd and final Pixies album on the list, and my conclusion is that they made a few great songs on otherwise ok albums. Most of the songs were pleasant enough but not memorable
I'd better not like this bc they're playing in Leeds next month and I'm breaking the bank paying for gigs lately. Fucking good intro tho. Oh its a bit screamy. Oh no its good. Not really my usual bag but it's not so grungy as to be offputting. Is this pre-grunge actually. Okay I'm back from Wikipedia yeah that's probably why youre preferring it to most grunge mate it isn't grunge. Stop saying grunge. It is starting to fade into the background a bit ngl. Is it actually petering out or am I just losing interest idk. Hm a well organised album I'll say that. Not 100% my bag but i enjoyed it more than I thought I would, will probably listen again but won't go see them in Leeds in may which is the best outcome from this experience actually
I really enjoyed about half of the tracks! I loved how silly and unserious parts of it felt and appreciated seeing their creativity throughout. I loved the weird instrumentation, I think my favorite was Ana or The Happening!
I like the Pixies. Maybe not an inordinate amount, but enough to feel comfortable making that statement. I really appreciate what they're doing here. It's like if you put on waterproof eyeliner before your wetsuit. Problem is, I don't surf. 7.4/10 Favorite Song: Hang Wire
7/10 It is pretty good. Not generational or life changing. Nevertheless, a good album from a good band. Favorite song: Havalina
A Black Francis proto-solo album. I like Pixies, and I always have, but my favorite version of Pixies is one where the weirdness is still catchy. On Bossanova, it almost feels like Pixies are actively suppressing the catchy elements of these songs. In many ways, it’s my least favorite elements of Surfer Rosa (i.e. the white boi-ified Latin-inspired tracks) turned up to 11 and made to be as anti-commercial as possible while still being suitable to release under a major label. It’s good still, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not my favorite version of them. There are a lot of great moments here– some of the best in the band’s discography, even; “Velouria,” “Allison,” “Dig For Fire,” and “Hang Wire” all are a treat. But there’s just as many overblown moments that seem to be too engulfed in the spirit of post-punk for my taste. It’s no shock this is also a 4AD release, and that’s where I start to sign off, like on “Rock Music” or “The Happening.” What actually brings it down a notch, though, is how repetitive it sounds. So many of these songs just drone over the same riffs, the same lyrical line, the same idea. For how short many of these tracks are, they feel like they circle the drain for an eternity, and the longer cuts are even worse. Even songs I’m okay with like “Stormy Weather” just feel tired. And ultimately, that’s my main issue with Bossanova; it feels like a band on the brink of burning out. That drained energy takes what honestly might have been a soft 4-stars for me down a notch, because honestly, who on earth wants to listen to a band who’s bored with themselves? Overall, though, I think Bossanova is a less exhausting listen than Frank Black’s actual solo material, and what the rest of the band does add elevates Francis’ material from good to great in a lot of instances. My love for this band wants to win out here, and I do like a good portion of this record, but there’s just not enough for me to praise it in full, or even revisit it much after this.
falta una gran canción. No es su mejor lp
I like the hits by the Pixies, but I can't say I'm too familiar with their other material. This one didn't leave much of an impression on me, other than the confirmation that there's significant similarities between some songs by Pixies and some by The Pillows, a band I really like. Which is to be expected, the Pillows has a song dedicated to Kim Deal, a member of Pixies.
I'm writing this review a couple of days after I listened to the album, I remember thinking at the time that this album was like a Double Decker chocolate bar. A rocky bottom topped by a punky chewy top layer. But the tracks were a bit samey. And now a couple of days have passed I can't really remember a lot of the tracks.. so ...forgettable. On listening I thought I'd rate it a 4 but downgrading to a 3 because of... I've forgotten
I’ve never got the fuss about Pixies - I was into rock and metal at the birth of grunge and before, but out of all the early grunge bands and influences it was only Pearl Jam that I liked, although I have since discovered Bob Mould. This is ok, but absolutely inconsequential for me. I doubt I’ll ever spin it again.
not really my typical vibe but i enjoyed it enough
For me it borders between rock and punk in a way that feels a little lost at times. There were a couple glimpses of sound I liked but the rest just kind of existed to me. I guess this time (1990) would make sense to be on that edge of rock vs alternative in sound?
Lots of different sounds in one album, I like the musical themes they have going on.
2,5/5 Tasaista taustamusaa.
Again a hard decision between two and three stars for me. Less screaming then on the two other Pixies-albums and therefore in total more listenable but I'm missing the hits. 2,5
Like most Pixies albums, I can find some things I like. Here it's "Velouria" and the opener. But then I lose interest.
Not my cup of tea
Kannte bewusst nur "Where is my mind" und das ist nicht drauf :( Insg rockiger als ich dachte, aber nicht sooo meins
A gap in my music knowledge. ROCK
This is the Pixies record that never really grabbed me. All the brio and egregious reverb usage of the Cult, the lyrical inscrutability of extreme metal band and the no-eye-contact of a band that might open for Kraftwerk. There are some great hooky numbers like "Hang Wire" and "Dig for Fire" and "Is She Weird" - the best Violent Femes song they never wrote - but I find myself skipping a lot of the rest.
The history of popular music is vast enough that there are few acts deserving of multiple entries in a list of 1,001 albums to listen to before you die. So it goes for the Beastie Boys, and so it goes with this album by the Pixies. Hadn't listened to this one in many years. It's a fine album, but it lacks some of the spontaneity and playfulness of previous albums like Doolittle or Surfer Rosa. And perhaps most importantly, it lacks Kim Deal, who was a key ingredient in this band.
This one's pretty meh for me. I wish they subbed this with the Breeders on the 1,001 albums list. It's not a BAD early 90s indie record.
Solid enough work. Although it makes me uncool - I have never loved the Pixies. But I don’t dislike them either.
I appreciate that they were a huge influence on some of the biggest bands of the ’90s — interesting to hear, but not something I’ll put on intentionally. The Happening.
Positively mediocre. 3/5
I loved the heavy metal surf rock instrumental opener and had high hopes for the rest. The next track 'Rock Music' also didn't disappoint, the singer screaming into the mic, heavy guitars. I didn't find this album as good overall as Surfer Rosa though. It's not as harsh and heavy, slightly more boring, straightforward and almost radio friendly. Much more of an indie sound. Though a quick flick through Surfer Rosa and actually they're more similar than I remember, and perhaps a full five stars for that album seems a little high. It's a mostly traditional rock record with noise and aggression sprinkled throughout.
6.5 enjoyed it
Yeah fine, glad I can say I’ve listened to another Pixies album
Historically, this is not my brand of rock music but the genre has grown on me and this album may have something to do with that sentiment. Their songwriting has an undeniable individuality with some of the riffs just feel so instinctual. I enjoyed it and I feel like my score is low...
Täysin uusi tuttavuus, joka ei nyt ihan kyllä uponnut minulle.
Another Pixies album? Ok for starters this one sounds slightly more polished than the last one, good thing or bad thing? Discuss… Well it was easier to listen to than their other albums but not really a “classic” for me dog!
Hit or miss for me song by song. The 3est 3–I feel quite ambivalent.
3.5
A little like the Smashing Pumpkins the Pixies were a band that passed me by in the 90's. But now I can appreciate them, and always like a Pixies session....haven't heard this album, liked it.
Pixies have made way better albums. Velouria is an outstanding song on this decent rock album.
This is such a high-variance album. The opening tracks are god-awful. But there are also a few great songs, such as "Allison." So it ends up in the middle.
A bit shouty and not really my cup of tea. Not sure why this album is considered something I should listen to
Helt solid altrock skiva, me många kivoga riffs o melodier
I want to say to the Pixies, “It’s not you, it’s me.” I appreciated your profile on the 1001 dating app, I feel like we have a lot in common, but something feels off. But really. It’s not you. It’s me.
What to do with the Pixies. I always want to like them, but I just don't get them. I recognize that it is me. Many ingredients are there for a great band, intelligent musicianship, strong sound, quirky and poetic lyrics, etc. I can't even say that they are missing something. They just don't resonate well with me. I did find this album more even as a whole than their other albums, but evenness didn't do it for me. Plus, it lacked a strong, breakout track for me. I will always give them a chance, but every time I do, I am surprised at how hard it is for me to connect with this band (despite "Where is my mind" being an amazing song by them).
I know of Pixies, really never truly listened to much of them. It's ironic, these guys would not make me think of "hard rock". Pixies are definitely more rocking than I would've thought. Very good album.
3 stars
Kan tänka mig lyssna igenom igen, ska kolla in fler album
Op het randje van een 4 maar die kan ik hem net niet geven.
Not as good as dolittle but still pretty good
Un álbum que algunos califican de surf gótico o surf post-punk. En cualquier caso, un sonido muy único, típico de Pixies. Aunque ninguna canción destaque en particular, el álbum en su conjunto es de mucha calidad. Además, fue un álbum (junto con la discografía de Pixies en general) muy influyente en el sonido alt-rock de los 90. Y poco más que decir. Al comienzo esperaba mucho más de este álbum (los tres primeros temas son excelentes), pero conforme el resto de temas han ido progresando, me he ido cansando de él, ya que todo suena un poco igual. Buen álbum para tenerlo de fondo, pero no estoy seguro de que merezca estar en esta lista, más aún cuando ya hay dos álbumes más de Pixies.
It was ok
It was deece
I don't get the hype for the Pixies. They are not bad, but they sound generic. Stand-out: Havalina
I think this is our last Pixies album, and I come away kind of unimpressed by this band even though this was a decent album. This has a claim to being my favorite of the three, but I think it also has a good claim to being the most boring. Not sure what that says about my taste. Best song: Havalina
3 - Pretty decent although the last bit (more than half) blended right together
Better than the albums so far.
Honestly, if I’m in the right mood I can definitely enjoy this album which is surprising after yesterdays indie rock album that I couldn’t listen to Best songs: Cecilia Ann All over the world Worst songs : Down to the well Rock Music
Pixies are very good at doing what they do. Favorite tracks: Cecilia Ann, Ana, Hang Wire
Not as classic as their previous two albums but still an enjoyable listen. Standouts: “Is She Weird”, “Dig For Fire”, “Havalina”
Decent, but better albums from that period. A good pixies album, but muses more my thing.
Pretty good
Прикольный альбом, напомнил нирвану
rough, ragged and raw. Pure energy from the pixies not a record that I thought was very memorable but it was a fine listen overall and I'm a sucker for surf rock songs, so the intro was a pleasant surprise. Favorite track: cecialia ann. Overall score: 6.3/10
"O samba, a prontidão e outras bossas são nossas coisas, são coisas nossas." Black Orpheus I mean Black Francis discovers Bossanova on the third Pixies album but outside of the use of unconventional chords in some songs with complex progressions and ambiguous harmonies it doesn't much sound like Bossanova to me. I liked the first couple albums better, but Bossanova is a great listen just don't go expecting Joao Gilberto.
Not their best, but good.
BEST SONGS: - Allison - Is She Weird
ehhhhh. Isn't Surfer Rosa the one I should be listening to?
This album was alright. The highs were pretty high, but the lows were rock bottom. Songs like "Rock Music" or "Havalina" were really good. The song "All Over the World" though, was the worst song by far. The vocals just made me cringe a bit. I think overall, I liked the album more then I didn't, so for that, it gets a 2.75. Liked Songs & Least Favorite: Listed Above
The Pixies is a band I like, sometimes. They've taken some time to appreciate, from my initial distaste with Surfer Rosa; hilariously, while listening to Bossanova I kept thinking I'd rather have Surfer Rosa. At some point I had to keep reminding myself one song ended and the next had begun. Maybe some time down the road I'll put on more Pixies, and be disappointed that it isn't Bossanova :0 The fact that so many of their musical traits became mainstream in the 90s should be cause for celebration though. Just look at their introduction on Wikipedia- they lay claim to influencing Nirvana, Radiohead, Modest Mouse, the Smashing Pumpkins and Weezer! Woah Complimented this with Pod by Kim Deal’s band the Breeders, released the same year. Definitely some shared musical DNA, it's pretty short but perhaps it could have been here instead of a 4th Frank Black showcase HL: “Velouria”, “All Over the World”, "Ana" February 13, 2025
huge step down from doolittle
Enjoyable if a bit uneven
Big fan of the Pixies. IMO, this isn't one of their better albums but I think I've listened to this about 10 times with the intention of putting in my review and each time it grew on me a little more. Great band to see live and I've definitely heard Velouria a few times in concerts. A few tunes that stood out include Rock Music, Is She Weird, Down to The well and Stormy Weather. You won't find me saying anything negative about these guys and the concerts have always been a great time. I'll give this album a 3.5 but the bad itself are a 5! 3.5
This album wasn't bad, it just did nothing for me.
It's a bit different than what I expected, but definitely not bad.
I quite like the album, but I feel like apart from some songs that really hit with me, it's samey and not much special.
some bright spots
One or two really awful songs but mostly good ones. Pretty much the MO for the Pixies
Been a fan of Doolittle for a long time but hadn't listened to this record. It's a good one really liked it. Debated between 3 and 4 stars. 3.5 stars
My father in law talks of bars in the 80s that would spin only side 2 of vinyls as the theme of the night. This album would have been perfect for that. It got so much better as it marched on. Every track from “All Over the World” on had something for me to love. Alas, me only liking half of the album keeps it below a 4.
The soundtrack for a dated indie flick.
Fine
Was deserving of a better mindframe to listen to
-this has some really good songs damn… it doesn’t hit quite as hard as Surfer Rosa, it def could’ve been cut down a bit. but the highlights are all really good -this was honestly the album that made me want to revisit the Pixies, I feel like I may have skimmed over them too much back in August idk -Favorites are Rock Music, The Happening, and Havelina
Every time I listen to Pixies I have to stop and think, is this the Pixies album I like? They kind of blend together for me. Anyway, better than Surfer Rosa, but still prefer Doolittle probably. Wish I could give 3.5.
pleasant, forgettable.
Velouria feels like a song I've heard somewhere before. Feels very 90s and I am here for it. The rest of the album felt a little boring to me. It was pretty decent rock music, but nothing that really gripped me. Down-the-middle 3.
A 90s rock record if I ever heard one. Pixies certainly have their own unique mystique and charm to their music, which explains their cult following. The music is in your face, but well composed. They certainly set themselves apart in the genre. Solid record.
My 2nd Pixies album. Not as noisy as their debut, but still doesn't do anything for me. Can't really tell why this doesn't appeal to me.
Siento que no sé qué comentar. Me gustó? Si? Tengo que escucharlo otra vez? Mmmm probablemente? Nota: 3.0
All pixies stuff sounds the same but it's still good
3.5
Some good tracks, would I listen regularly, probably not but I don't mind the old Pixies.
сука, я сказал что средняк, душевно но однообразно
I still don't like the Pixies. I don't mind some of the tracks (Cecilia Ann and Velouria) but I just can't get enthused.
Bouncy pop, guitar driven. Down to the Well is good.
I dig it.
I like the indie rock sound, and would have probably been really into it in 1990. But now it just sounds familiar to me.
Well what can I say about this? A group of talented musicians on the whole producing some good music. There is of course one particular track that stands out. I really can't understand the point of the second track (rock music). They could be saying we can play properly, but we can do this if we like. Why bother. Or it could be saying really we are the angry youth (pretentious twats). It really serves no purpose and does you no credit. That said the rest of the album is quite passable 3
Pixies' third album is a polished affair compared to their previous 2 efforts. Still not what I'd call full on mainstream, but just enough oddness to keep them from becoming a huge band back then. As far as I'm concerned it is the start of a downwards spiral for them. Well, there was only one way to go after making two of the finest albums of the 1980's.
musicalmente non mi è dispiaciuto, ma non mi ha colpito in generale. Non ho nemmeno trovato una canzone per ora memorabile.
As a non-Pixies fan, I can see some qualities on this album that may sound much better for those who like them more than I do, even if it does not sound exactly like I expected.
fine, but nothing that really stood out to me.
Good but a tad formula following. Surf/space rock written in the studio. First two are way better. Velouria good though
Loud and ready to rock. Really gets your blood pumping in the morning
Day 0006/1001 of One Album a Day Enjoyable pretty much all the way through but nothing in particular really blew me away. Looking forward to hearing more of the Pixies stuff frfr Fav tracks: Cecilia Ann / Dig for Fire Bad tracks: Rock Music
yet another album on here where I'd rather the singer kept quiet
This has some good grooves but I couldn't shake the overall "smashing a tambourine on the mic" sound of the production it was just tiring to listen to. It had a bit of the grunge wall of noise but it cooled down by the end of the album. These guys are also one of those musicians for musicians. They’re inspiring and probably made a path for future acts, but somewhat bland themselves.
for whatever reason, the pixies never really clicked with me, but this album is pretty good.
#448. I can see Surfer Rosa and Doolittle being on this list, but compared to those two, this is a step down as far as one's desire to listen to it goes. 3/5: it's alright.
If your goal is to travel from 80’s rick to 90’s grunge/rock, this album makes it clear that you must last the Pixies checkpoint. You might even take a long detour or have yourself a long stay. This album is full of sweet hooks covered in hazy instrumental melodies, often singing whistfully about some unattainable girl or situation. Definitely not bossanova though.
Cool Pixies album. 3/5
Joa gut
J'en vois les qualités, mais c'est vraiment pas un style qui me parle
très bon album, je connaissais déjà quelques morceaux mais c'est la première fois que j'écoute ce disque dans sa totalité (cela vaut pour toute œuvre des Pixies d'ailleurs). En général je ne suis pas le plus grand amateur des Pixies, mais cette fois ci je dois avouer que j'ai bien aimé l'écoute. Un album plein d'énergie, de force, mais aussi de douceur. Des titres également très planant qui te mettent vraiment dedans. Coups de cœur : - Cecilia Ann - Velouria - Is she Weird - Ana
The Pixies is always going to be among my favorites. Something about them in general, their energy and willingness to do their own thing. I think the Pixies are one of those bands that would benefit from a greatest hits (if they don't have one, which is unlikely), because many of these songs were first time listens for me which makes it harder for me to objectively rate, as I often need a few plays to feel out a song I never heard. Otherwise it is pretty great, as usual for this band.
3.75
mais um álbum do pixies que eu achei ok, mas não bom guitarrada bacana, mas ainda falta um tempero
# 385 : They've done a pretty decent job, a bit screamy in parts, but a good album overall. Solid, fun, and creative alt rock. I think the whole of the album was a little greater than the some of its parts; none of the songs themselves stood out to me significantly, but the album as a whole was kind of cool.
This one is the actual 3 stars. I would be more likely to listen to this than the ramones record. Not bad, but ultimately inoffensive
recht lärmig und eig nöd so min musiggschmack, aber ich finds iwie no geil.
Täsyin kuunneltavaa musaa ja helppo pyöräyttää läpi. Kuuntelsinko loopilla, en todellakaan.
Aika perus-ok 2,5*
This album notably had no bossanova tracks.
Woah Cecilia Ann to start if off was an absolute jam...unfortunately that was the high point of this album. Didn't dislike this album it just didn't do much for me. There was some cool rock aspects to it but it was just a bit boring. Cecilia Ann is going on my snowboarding playlist though. I can't wait to get reckless through some trees when that comes on
Cecilia Ann Velouria Dig for Fire
Good, but not great. I’d add a few tracks to a playlist but would choose Doolittle or Surfa Rosa for a Pixies full album experience.
Pretty good, better than I thought it'd be.
Theoratically i would like it but meh
Surfer Rosa and Doolittle are the essence of Pixies, as any fule no. I was familiar with Trompe La Monde, though not this. It’s fine. But did nothing to change my mind
Listened before!
It’s real good but it gets a 3 because I know the pixies are capable of much more than this.
3.4.
Pretty cool but mostly misses, velouria song is my fave
I've never quite got the appeal of Pixies, this album mostly feels like "surf rock on valium" and mostly just glazes over me - sorry to all the die hard fans out there, but this is a resounding mneh from me. Also Black Francis' voice just winds me up.
I expected to like this more than I did
This was fine, but nothing special. I lump them with a band like Sleater-Kinney with both having much bigger, more passionate fanbases than I suspect they deserved.
It's more interesting than most rock from the era. I'm second guessing myself, because I think I like it more than my initial reaction. It's ultimately enough to make me want to listen to it again, so I guess it's on the higher end for this project.
My least favorite Pixies album, but still a banger.
Eh, Doolittle is better
Good album, but not my favorite of theirs
Was hoping I was going to enjoy this one more. But a solid album and a good listen. 3.5 for me.
Decent album. A bit tired of generic rock though. Couldn't catch the lyrics all too clearly, so relied more on melody and vibes.
Cool cool not a big deal.
Didn't like this as well as some of their other albums. It's still okay though.
Never heard any of these songs from the Pixies. Could be because they are very ok. They are not bad by any means but not great either. Kind of one of those play in the background kind of albums. 5/10
harder rock, alt than i thought
Ahhh, my least favorite Pixies album. I still love a good chunk of these songs and others I found a new appreciation for on a fresh listen, but, damn, I can't pinpoint what exactly doesn't work with this album. It feels off.
El indie rock tiene en los Pixies uno de sus máximos exponentes, con su mezcla de pop clásico y guitarras sucias y rugientes al estilo grunge. Este disco llegó tras el éxito estratosférico que consiguieron con Doolitlle y quizás por eso nunca ha sido de los más valorados en su discografía. Sin embargo, contiene algunas canciones magníficas, como "Velouria" y su contenido de ciencia ficción especialmente impulsado por el sonido etéreo del theremin. También la clásica del grupo, "Is She Weird", con su contendio sexi y travieso que la hace muy divertida. Me gustan bastante "Ana" y el homenaje confesado de Black Francis a los Talking Heads, "Dig for Fire". Y por supuesto el cirre del disco, el brillante divertimento de "Havalina".
meh
The Pixies made some very good music. This isn't it. It's not bad, but it's not great either.
a bigger sound but significantly less inspired 6/10
didn’t enjoy it anywhere near as much as Doolittle. none of the tracks stood out upon first listen
fun rock album
Not sure what to think of it. This is like grunge with ADHD. It's all over the place, both the individual songs and the album as a whole. I get why people like that, but I dunno. Harmony is important guys. The opener was fantastic and the second half of the album is much stronger than the first in general imo. 6 / 10 Best tracks: Cecilia Ann, Dig for Fire, Down to the Well, The Happening
I liked the instrumental opener(s?). It's definitely a Pixies album!
5/10…alternative rock / indie / grunge
alright indie rock, the sound was consistent but nothing really stood out in particular
I thought I'd enjoy this a lot more than I did It was good, but I just couldn't vibe with it? Something was off and I can't place it 3 ⭐️
Liked it.. didn’t love it.
A good overall album - Allison was a standout for me, but not their strongest .
It's fine, nothing amazing nothing bad. Solid mid, probably not to listen through again as an album
Good. 3.5
This was pretty decent!
okay i guess
It's alright but there are so many other albums in this genre and time period I'd rather listen to.
Pixies have some great songs, too bad none of them were on here. This one's alright but nothing stands out. The Breeders are better anyway
Meh. Bring on the other two.
Yahooooooo!
Some highlights, like the opener, but not enough songs really stood out
very mid. I think maybe 90s rock just isn't my jam.
Where are my fucking songs? 6/10
While I have heard some Pixies material before, I was not previously familiar with this album. This was a fine listen, but nothing particularly stood out to me. I liked it enough to hear again however.
Very good band with a unique sound. Not as familiar with this album, but happy to have listened to it.
2.5
What I would describe as the typical 90s alternative album. Is She Weird All over the World
So far my third favorite Pixies album, alright.
Great album
I like the Pixies sound but could never just get full on the Pixie band wagon for some reason. This was a solid album but not great.
Meh
Muy monótono
It’s on
I like it, but I just don’t think I’d seek it out again. I like Is She Weird the best.
mostly good jams
Classic album, with lots of mileage on these tracks. Not a big fan, but worth a spin now and again.
Velouria is a great song.
Wasn't a huge fan!
Some fun songs
A few good ones, a lot of rock filler imo
Hang Wire should be a much popular tune from this album.
Has a few great songs, but a mid one seen as a whole. Favorite track: All over the world other picks: Valouria, Cecilia Ann, dig for fire, stormy weather
I love the pixies. I've loved them since they started making music. But returning to Bossanova is a bit of an eye opener.... It's their third album. Some would say that here is where they finally came into their sound, confident in their alternative music success, refining all that had come before into a signature aurally. I remember loving this album. Playing it endlessly. Using it as cultural currency in conversations. Happy thst a band I knew already was finally becoming more mainstream and noticed.. But listening to it this week, I noticed something different. Yes, it's a refinement of pixies sounds and signatures, but it's also repetitious. The freshness of Doolittle and Surfer Rosa are recycled here....more of the same. More. Same. The best news for fans who don't want their favourite bands to change, but--from another perspective--creeping stagnancy. Or maybe more kindly...a holding pattern, a careless stasis that comes from touring fatigue and the pressures of being more visible. Energies were being siphoned off already...Kim Deal was recording Pod with her Breeders side project...a fresh and fun new collective.... Not to diminish the power and importance and sound of this album, but its less of a maturing sound than a fatigued one for this amazing band...
Didn't enjoy as much as other pixies stuff I gotta say.
It's fine.
Had a few fun songs, rest of it was okay but not super special.
Not my favourite pixies album, but sounds good
Another one of those, I can take it or leave it albums.
This album has some 4s for sure but not everything is as strong. Great listen, skillfully done, fun to listen to.
This is a fine album. Wouldn't be my first pick to put on these days but it's fun. Some good melodies in there I can hear some of the influence they had on Nirvana in here.
Not as good as Doolittle
Inte lika vass som Doolittle men ändå helt okej.
Now that it's been made apparent, in hindsight, that time was running out for the original iteration of the Pixies, it is clear that Bossanova is made of some peculiar material. The penultimate album from Black Francis, Kim Deal, Joey Santiago and David Lovering, Bossanova alternates between bewildering fast paced speed runs, off-kilter tunes and genuine soon-to-be classics. Perhaps as purposefully uncompromising as it comes compared to the records that came before, Bossanova had become the signpost for what was soon to come and what will never be again. Favorites: Rock Music, Velouria, Allison, Is She Weird, All Over the World, Dig for Fire, Blown Away, Hang Wire, Stormy Weather.
Not my favourite Pixies
Unfortunately listened to it in the background while I worked. It was alright.
This is heavier than i thought they were. I can’t speak for other albums but This album definitely screams 90’s. If I hadn’t known who The Pixies were I may have skipped them completely with Cecilia Ann being their first song on the album and it being instrumental. Stop it with that shit boys. To me, this is not a standout album at all. It’s not terrible but when you’re looking for something to hook you and don’t find it? You get no more than 3 stars Choice cut: Is She Weird
Pretty good, quite my style. Not completly there though
Feels strangely middle of the road. Not what I expected.
One of the tracks was screaming, I did not enjoy that. Generally an alright album.
It’s fun but not a favorite. A tad repetitive.
again, Pixies has a strong first 1/2 of the album, then just fades. 3
So great, for me, better than Doolittle. There it's a kind of zhoegase or is only my perception?
There are 2 much better pixies albums. This one is alright
Love Surfer Rosa, love Doolittle...but this one has always left me a little cold. It's, fine I guess, but nothing approaching their best. I mean even Trompe le Monde has U-Mass on it.
I would have said the Pixies were a 90s band but today I learned they are an 80s band. They seem like the transition from 80s music to 90s music which is exactly the timeline. I cannot understand a word of Rock Music through the screaming. The Pixies should have been bigger than Nirvana. They are like pre-Grunge and Nirvana in particular has borrowed from their sound. First half of the album was better than the second.
Not as good as surfer rossa or dolittle. But still decent.
I like the Pixies a lot. Surfer Rosa and Dolittle are two of my favorite albums. This, as a follow-up, is a little bit of a let down. It is an average album that followed two stellar albums. Clearly there was issues within the band at the time, with Charles and Kim not getting along. But it is still better than Trompe Le Monde, which was the clear sign the band needed to pack it up.
Not usually the kind of rock I’m into but I actually really enjoyed the album. Songs were repetitive but fun to listen to
3 flat
They kind of went off the rails
First half of this is great but then it runs out of steam. The sound of a band writing songs in the studio and dusting down a couple of early cast offs. I'm surprised it is on her when there are no Breeders albums.
I have enjoyed the other Pixies albums on this list. This one needs another listen as it didn't quite quite land for me.
Ahhhhhh shoot. I love Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, they’re some of my favorite albums ever. I’ve never listened to this one before and ugh it’s just missing something, or rather it’s been tainted by too much. It’s over produced, it just doesn’t sound as raw, but worse it doesn’t sound as fun. The drum machine makes everything feel hollow. Imagining a song like Bone Machine with it really shows just how important it is. Some of the songs on here really are good, which shows they still have that it factor.
I've never really gotten into the Pixies and this album doesn't help. I will confess they are a good band, just not my style. But fercryinoutloud, why this album? They've done so much great music and this is the choice? 3/5
Just not my thing but yeah it was solid
Overall good album, but most of the lyrics didn't make any sense. My favourite songs were: Is She Weird All Of The World Dig For Fire The Happening
confusionario: a tratti molto bello, a tratti volevo strapparmi le cuffie. un tre politico.
Wasn't really compelling, didn't actively dislike it either.
Some fun here, but not the Pixies best by any means.
Pretty good punk/grunge whatever. Not as good as Surfer Rosa.
Mediocre.
There are elements of the album that I really like - the drumming, the melodies. But there are elements that I really dislike - the shrieking and discordant elements. So I'll take some and leave some.
I don’t like this as much as Surfer Rosa or Doolittle. Their sound is incredibly clean on this one - which distracts as it loses the rawness of the previous two albums. I will say it sounds like the 1990s. You can hear snippets of all the different sounds that will come in the decade. Velouria and Digging for Fire slap.
Not my bag 2.5/5
Pretty good. 3.5
This was just ok. Mildly entertaining. This band has two legendary records, so are there three on the list? If so, too much Pixies, if not, just another waste of time
forgettable
Alternative indie type rock with some weird stuff thrown in. Mostly fine but nothing in particular stood out.
norm
Good album, not much to say. #99
Not really my jam, but I get the appeal for the era.
Pleasantly surprised about this one
Album almost completely passed me by without realising. Jangly opening not what I was expecting and then suddenly Spotify has queued up something else. Probably not a good thing
Cecilia Ann - 4 Best Pixie song so far. Rock Music - 1 Worst Pixie song so far. Velouria - 3 Allison - 2.5 Is She Weird - 2.75 obnoxiously repetitive Ana - 3 All Over the World - 3 Dig for Fire - 3.5 Down to the Wall - 4 The Happening - 3.5 Blown Away - 3.5 Hang Wire - 3 Stormy Weather - 3 Havalina - 2
Average Pixies
Bossanova by Pixies Tuesday 6/25/24 2:47 S Tier————————— Cecilia Ann A Tier————————— Down To The Well B Tier————————— Dig For Fire Blown Away Havalina Ana Allison Stormy Weather Velouria Is She Weird The Happening Rock Music All Over the World Hang Wire
Pretty ok, actually. I’m not sure what else to say. There were moments where I could really hear the influence they had on Nirvana, so that’s good.
2.75 can't really get into them
A definite unique sound. But a lot of their songs sounded similar to each other. But a rather enjoyable album.
Fine but not crazy about
3/5
This is my least favorite of the first four Pixies albums. That would put it behind Dolittle, Surfer Rosa, and Come on Pilgram, respectively.