PIXIES
The Night The Zombies Came (BMG)
Thirty-five years after their monumental, genre-changing album Doolittle, Boston alt-rock pioneers the Pixies return with 13 new songs on The Night The Zombies Came: a brief Australian tour in November will precede a full month in Europe next spring.
The new songs that comprise The Night The Zombies Came draw on a typically eclectic mix of musical influences and lyrical themes, from Druidism to apocalyptic malls, medieval-themed restaurants, 12th-century poetry, surf rock, gargoyles and 1970s Fleetwood Mac. New bassist Emma Richardson replaces Paz Lenchantin, impressing instantly: her piercing riffs and soulful vocals on Motoroller, which is sang in 7/8 time with elongated lyrics and an anthemic chorus, complement Black Francis’ grittier tone.
Elsewhere, punky riffs come to the fore in Oyster Beds, an energetic instant hit; Chicken offers a mellower Pixies vibe with its laidback vocals, though retaining the band’s trademark punchiness, and The Vegas Suite’s rhyming lyrics, slow drumbeat and acoustic guitars create a distinct 70s atmosphere. No surprise that a band with the pedigree the Pixies boast have delivered another classic album.
words DAVID JAMES
