Pixies

Definition

Pixies are an alternative rock band formed in 1986 in Boston, Massachusetts, known for their influential sound that blends punk rock energy with melodic elements and surreal lyrics. They played a crucial role in the development of the alternative rock genre, particularly in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a distinctive style that includes dynamic shifts in volume and tempo, contributing to the sound of many bands that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pixies gained significant attention with their album 'Surfer Rosa' released in 1988, which featured raw production and innovative songwriting.
2. Their song 'Where Is My Mind?' became especially popular after being featured in the film 'Fight Club,' helping to introduce their music to a new audience.
3. The band's dynamic shifts, including loud-quiet-loud song structures, became a hallmark that influenced many alternative rock bands that came after them.
4. After disbanding in 1993, Pixies reunited in 2004 and have since continued to tour and release new music, maintaining a dedicated fanbase.
5. They were pivotal in shaping the sound of the '90s alternative rock scene alongside other influential bands like Nirvana and Radiohead.

Review Questions

• How did Pixies influence the sound of alternative rock music in the late 1980s and early 1990s?
  • Pixies influenced alternative rock by combining punk energy with melodic elements and surreal lyrics. Their innovative use of loud-quiet-loud dynamics set a template for many bands to follow, creating a sound that was both energetic and introspective. This approach contributed to the overall evolution of the genre during that era, leading to greater experimentation in song structure and themes.
• Discuss the significance of Pixies' album 'Surfer Rosa' in the context of alternative rock history.
  • 'Surfer Rosa' is significant because it showcased Pixies' unique sound and helped define the alternative rock movement. The album's raw production and eclectic songwriting attracted critical acclaim and set the stage for future bands. It not only solidified their place in music history but also influenced countless artists within the genre who drew inspiration from its innovative style.
• Evaluate the impact of Pixies' reunion on their legacy and the contemporary alternative rock scene.
  • The reunion of Pixies in 2004 revitalized interest in their music and solidified their legacy as pioneers of alternative rock. Their ability to attract both old fans and new listeners demonstrated the lasting influence of their sound. By continuing to tour and release new material, they not only kept their original fanbase engaged but also inspired a new generation of musicians who are drawn to their distinctive blend of styles.

Related terms

Alternative Rock: A genre of music that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by its diverse sound and rejection of mainstream pop music conventions.

Grunge: A subgenre of alternative rock that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, known for its heavy guitar sound and themes of angst and disillusionment.

Indie Rock: A genre of rock music that is produced independently from major record labels, often associated with a DIY ethic and a diverse range of sounds.