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Pixies Reform for Coachella

sean by Sean Adams [Edit this content] ▾ 0 comments 10:21 January 15th, 2004
Pixies AARRGGH!
Pixies Reform! Pixies Reform! Pixies Reform! Pixies Reform! Pixies Reform!

The rumours are dead. On May 1st, in Indio, California, The Pixies will return, headlining the first night of Coachella, after 11 years away.

They'll play alongside the likes of Kraftwerk, Prefuse 73, Air, The Thrills, Electric Six, Sahara Hotnights, The (International) Noise Conspiracy and Radiohead at the two-day Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which features a diverse line-up of rock, hip-hop and dance artists - apparently modelled on festivals like Glastonbury and Woodstock.

The rumour-mill is already churning out speculation that the Pixies will also headline Reading, and in some more - how can we put it - friggin'-weird corners of the interweb, people are guessing Frank Black (fresh from being rimmed by Brian Molko) and Jack Black (fresh from eating a box of donuts), will kick Jack White's lilly-white ass, drag him into The Von Bondies' pit and let nature take its course.

Release-wise, there's no news of new material, but 4AD are releasing a Pixies DVD containing all their videos, a live show, and a documentary, along with a 'retrospective compilation'. Pixies front-man, Frank Black, is apparently working on new solo material for release in the spring via SpinART.

DiScuss: What's your favourite Pixies tune? Did Placebo ruin 'Where is My Mind'? Did Fight Club debase 'Where is My Mind'? What's your fantasy festival line-up?

Pixies Frank Black The Breeders

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Really not excited by this news.
Guess it's a good way of making a quick buck (especially if Mean Fiddler do get 'em in for Reading), but what can they possibly offer us other than a 'greatest hits' set?
What are the chances of any new material, if it comes, being as relevant as Surfer Rosa or Doolittle?
NONE.
Leave 'em be, please. Stop digging up corpses when you're looking for gold kids.
Old_Anonymous_Comments | 15 Jan '04, 10:54 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Did not know about the placebo cover but feel a bit ill now i do. The fight club scene is poignant as I feel it is the perfect backdrop to bringing down the corporate world as it is corporate tactics and everyday downsizing that make alot of us ask where our minds are. Hope a tour comes to Glasgow (Green preferrably!).
sjs212003 | 15 Jan '04, 10:55 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Hmm, you are hard to please. Guess the rest of us will have to make do with "only" a greatest hits set.

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Well, I for one would be more than happy to watch the Pixies play a "Greatest Hits" set. I would enjoy it and so would many others.

I don't think anybody is digging up a corpse here. If the Pixies have decided to reform and play some shows to earn some cash, that's fine by me - seeing them live would be adequate compensation. I think it's pretty harsh to berate the band or thier fans because they are simply going to play some shows. Of course it won't be the same as their heyday, but it will be great for those people who missed them first time 'round.

Come on Albini, invite 'em to play ATP!

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

I just can't get excited about the re-emergence of an old band that soundtracked my youth to an extent who have little still to offer... people will be clawing each other's eyes out to get a glimpse of a band that are roughly 10 years past their peak (I mean, look at 'em), and whilst their songs ARE great (of that there is no doubt), I can't help but feel that people will miss out of great new bands whilst they wait impatiently at the front for a glimpse of these tubbies.

I do love the Pixies, really. But there's something about this reunion that's not right.

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Quit whinging, this is fantastic news! ... Excuse me, i think i just came
mooseman | 15 Jan '04, 12:08 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Jeez, I love 'em, the crazy, spanish speakin', paranoid, best-bass-lines-ever, bunch o' perverts, but they've been away so long. They've picked up a following a thousand times bigger than they ever had while they were around. It just means that a whole mass of kids who have an image of this band as being nearly perfect will almost certainly be dissapointed.

Obviously they have to do this if they all want to, but you just have to hope it'll be brief and they go back to their side projects.
silver_son | 15 Jan '04, 12:10 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

That's the fear.
It could totally spoil our appreciation of 'em.
Totally.
Old_Anonymous_Comments @silver_son | 15 Jan '04, 12:13 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Sweet.

Be nice to see them play the festivals. I was too young to appreciate them the first time round.

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Yes, but it might be the best gig you've ever seen. I never got the chance to see The Pixies, and although I would crawl over broken glass covered in dogshit to see them, I'd happily pay £20 or whatever it'll be if they decide to tour over here.

Saying that, if the Mexican Pets reformed I'd stink and be cut to ribbons...

Cheerio, all the best

Ian http://twang.topcities.com
ian_distort | 15 Jan '04, 12:29 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Theres no need to miss out on new bands as you should be able to digest more than one groups music at a time. You also don't have to wait until that gig impatiently as there are plenty of other excellent new bands playing for a few pounds in local venues each week that are crying out for punters. That should keep you busy till the pixes play and buy that time youll be so impressed by the bands that have no doubtly been influensed by the pixes you will no doubt be up for a bit of nostalgia. Living legend radar is going mental!!
sjs212003 @Old_Anonymous_Comments | 15 Jan '04, 12:36 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

I really don't mean to urinate on anyone's parade, since I'm a huge Pixies fan too who really wants to see them live, but is it definitely going to be the same line-up? I haven't read anywhere that all four original members are taking part - remember it was a bust-up between Frank and Kim that helped split them in the first place, and Kim has been reluctant to get back on board.

I really hope it is though....wouldn't be the same band otherwise...
AmyB | 15 Jan '04, 12:45 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Well....
The rumour initially that the Pixies "got together to jam" turned out to be 3 quarters true (ie: the boys did, not Ms Deal)

BUT you wouldn't say "reformed" would you if she wasn't there? Would you? (this IS a question)

Mind you, both Frank B last solo album & Title Tk are wonderful things so no fear of not being at peak of powers

(although fat charlie still wouldn't let Kim write any of the songs anyway of course)

pollydoodle | 15 Jan '04, 12:56 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Oh god how amazing would that be if they headlined Reading. Finally a half decent band to set foot on the Main Stage... I was doubting going this year as last year put me off but even if something like this is just a rumour (which it probably is) i'm definitely more positive about it.
4-35am | 15 Jan '04, 17:31 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Look, I can understand the arguments about the potential disappointment of any new material. But please, give it a rest! I see the Pixies as a real guiding light, possibly more so than any other band. And for years I've always wanted the opportunity to see them play, even if it's just one tour and then goodbye.

I can't help being born in 1985 :)
Smileadelic | 15 Jan '04, 18:27 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Oh and favourite songs:

Where Is My Mind? (Not even Brian Molko can ruin it)
Debaser
Hey
Levitate Me
Number 13 Baby
Smileadelic @Smileadelic | 15 Jan '04, 18:30 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

where was the mention of kim deal not being part of the reunion?
josh | 15 Jan '04, 19:03 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

is that true?

if so it makes a big difference
Gary-dopaminetheory | 15 Jan '04, 19:18 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Artists about to piss on their legacy:


Welcome 'Pixies', you're one Reading performance away from making the grade.
tenwords | 15 Jan '04, 20:16 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Incredible news, if simply to see them play. I am only 15 and therefore was 1 when they released Doolittle, and wasnt really able to appreciate it. Hope they do some sort of new material.
CaviarAndCigarets | 15 Jan '04, 21:51 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

"But there's something about this reunion that's not right."

I'll concede that point. Do I detect the rank odour of a "the tax man commeth" type tour?

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Problem is, I love their music. But I saw the reformed Breeders play at Reading and they were dull beyond compare... I have been told that the same is true of the Pixies live.
Damian | 16 Jan '04, 09:35 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

personally, i think this is fantastic news. the pixies were amazing in their heyday and when frank black & the catholics played reading a couple of years ago, it was only the old pixies tunes that kept the crowd interested.

i remember thinking at the time how great it would be to see the pixies up their performing those numbers. and now i get the chance to see it again. i'll be first in line to buy a ticket when it is confirmed.

as for favourite pixies track - still is and always will be where is my mind?

and from what i've heard kim d will be there.
Old_Anonymous_Comments | 16 Jan '04, 12:19 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

I guess I'm one of those kids (at 22) but if they are bad, it doesn't matter. I'm a bit too young to remember them first time round, so I'm glad I've been given a chance to see them perform.
swimthefish @silver_son | 16 Jan '04, 15:15 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Fantastic. Stop moaning and let them play. You dont have to go see them!
swimthefish | 16 Jan '04, 15:17 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Well, I'm on the fence here...

I'm 35 and spent most of my 20's following this band around. Honestly, my favorite live act of all time.
The first time they ever played in NYC, I left the show with them, and didn't come home for a month!!!

So while I am excited about seeing my favorite live band play again and more excited for the kids that were too young to experience the magic to get at least a whiff of it, the potential for "pissing on their legacy" is a very real issue.

I do know this...I'm going to Cochella for sure and I'll decide from there.

The really were the best live act in the world for a time.
Lets hope this works out
NYCMikeWP | 16 Jan '04, 15:46 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Despite the majorness of The Pixies, they're simply not mainstream enough to headline. You're average teenager who's gone along to watch British Sea Power and The Strokes won't know what the hell's going on, although it would be bloody brilliant to see them. Maybe some one-off dates in that case...
4-35am | 16 Jan '04, 16:10 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Average teenagers here love the pixies!
CaviarAndCigarets | 16 Jan '04, 20:25 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Dude, a little optimism won't hurt ya... This isn't REO Speedwagon, this is the Pixies.

Pixies Reform for Coachella

I love the Pixies, but wish they'd not reform. Will only go to ruin the legacy.
gymmy | 17 Jan '04, 10:48 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

Fuk The Pixies bring back Dinosaur JR.
swearboy | 17 Jan '04, 15:07 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Seeing as I was barely more than a foetus when Doolittle was released even the posibility that I might now get to see them live is enough for me to cast aside all pangs of teenage angst and rejoice with happy music fuelled abandon.
Old_Anonymous_Comments @4-35am | 17 Jan '04, 17:46 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

I think they are big enough to headline a day at Reading and it's probably the only sort of thing they would reform for. I'm torn between being desperate to actually see them and not wanting them to do it - they did say that they would never reform...

I saw the Breeders and wasn't that fussed and have never really liked Frank Black's solo records. It was the alchemy of the four-piece that made them so special. They were a creative force in their time, so to see them return to retread old ground would be, well, amazing obviously, but kind of sad, too.
Oliver_Wright @4-35am | 17 Jan '04, 19:18 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

Yeah, I kind of agree.

But wouldn't it be great to see them...
Oliver_Wright @gymmy | 17 Jan '04, 19:21 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

From what I've read, Albini didn't actually think much to the Pixies - the quote was 'passable college radio rock at their absolute top-dollar best...I have never seen a group of individuals so ready to be manipulated, by management and record labels.' It was quite a shocker to read. So I doubt they'll be playing any Albini-curated events in the near future.

I sympathise with both sides of the debate, but if they reform and tour, I will do my damnedest to get tickets, though, because when the debate about the rights and wrongs of it ends, they will be playing and I'd regret it if I didn't go. And I guess that's why they're gonna do it. Yes, they'll earn a wedge of money and I don't mind them having some of mine. They've given me a lot of joy in the past.
Oliver_Wright @Old_Anonymous_Comments | 17 Jan '04, 19:27 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

am i the only person who is not fussed about seeing them live? i was born in 1985 and ive never really listened to any of the pixies songs apart from were is my mind and monkey gone to heaven. i just dont find the pixies amazing to listen to.
*prepares for boardie abuse*
easy_rob | 18 Jan '04, 10:40 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

What the heck?! Whoever has doubts about this should have their heads examined!! I had the fortunate chance to see the Pixies Live only once but it was the most amazing musical experience I ever had!! If there is the slightest chance of repeating this, we should all be grateful, not doubtful. It is THE PIXIES for Christs's sake! Neither Frank's nor Kim's solo projects come close to what they're capable as the Pixies, so lets support this and make them see that, reunited, they could take over the World - all over again!
Old_Anonymous_Comments | 18 Jan '04, 13:16 | X | Reply

Pixies Reform for Coachella

I really liked the rumour I was told that Frank and Kim hated each others' guts and wouldn't play in the same venue even with separate dressing rooms on opposite sides of the venue, with different walkways to the stage - even for a million bucks!

Having said that, I'd still go and see 'em as I LOVE them!
MissyAggravation | 19 Jan '04, 05:33 | X | Reply

Re: Pixies Reform for Coachella

i say if you ain't excited, it's 'cause you ain't goin'. turn that frown upside down and find-a-way. snoogins......

Pixies Reform for Coachella

I saw the Breeders a couple of years ago at reading and they were unfortunately pretty average, but I saw Frank Black & The Catholics a couple of months ago and they were phenomenal, they stuck in a few pixies songs and I think the verdict was pretty clear - a Pixies reunion is definitely worth the risk. Even if they just do a couple of reunion gigs this year, to have the Pixies back at all is a blessing, however I think to play reading would be a bit of a mistake. Glastonbury on the other hand...
MadeOfPaper | 31 Jan '04, 16:15 | X | Reply

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