August 07, 2024 – Den Atelier, Luxembourg
Playing to a sold-out crowd at Den Atelier, the alt-rock pioneers Pixies- who had a significant impact on the alternative rock explosion of the 1990’s – went all out right away.
Frontman Black Francis proved to be able to still deliver his signature “quiet-loud” dynamic (a style that became highly influential, especially on bands like Nirvana), switching from singing softly in verses to harsh and shouted vocals like he did in harrowing-sounding songs such as “Debaser” and “Where Is My Mind?”. From the whispers to the screams, he sounded amazing. Francis’s quick guitar riffs kept the audience engaged, while his deep, resonant voice provided the intensity required to perform Doolittle hits like “Gouge Away” and “Wave of Mutilation.”
Bassist Emma Richardson joined the Pixies only a few months ago; the third woman to fill the position, she did the role justice and proved to fit in. She provided excellent backing vocals and the lead vocals on “In Heaven (Lady in the Radiator Song)”. The other two original Pixies, guitarist Joey Santiago and drummer David Lovering, were as captivating as ever, too.
The band managed to blend nostalgia with fresh energy, making it a must-see show for both long-time fans and new listeners. The night was a reminder of how influentials the Pixies continue to be in alternative rock.
Setlist
Cecilia Ann (The Surftones cover) – Wave of Mutilation – Monkey Gone to Heaven – You’re So Impatient – U-Mass – River Euphrates – Hey – Planet of Sound -The Vegas Suite – In Heaven (Lady in the Radiator Song) (Peter Ivers & David Lynch cover) – Winterlong (Neil Young cover) – Vamos – Ana – Death Horizon – Here Comes Your Man – Motorway to Roswell – The Happening – Gouge Away – Cactus – Subbacultcha – Bone Machine – Head On (The Jesus and Mary Chain cover) – Isla de Encanta – Debaser – Where Is My Mind? – – – All Over the World
CHIARA ULZEGA 