Very few bands and artists make a significant mark on the evolutionary arc of modern music.
Names like Nirvana, David Bowie, Radiohead and Alice In Chains are routinely cited as groundbreaking figures in their respective scenes. Notably, all these acts openly share a deep admiration for – and influence from – the Massachusetts-formed group Pixies.
The band's explosive influence on alternative rock and the eventual birth of grunge remain undeniable. Their signature quiet-loud-quiet structure, surreal lyricism and unconventional songwriting paved the way for generations of musicians who would go on to define decades of sound.
Nearly 40 years on from their debut, Pixies have continued to reinvent their sonic identity. Their tenth studio album, 2024's 'The Night The Zombies Came', invites listeners into a cinematic soundscape full of gothic-inspired theatrics, Morricone-style western guitar tones, and even touches of medieval imagery.
Rather than repeating past formulas, the band delivers a fresh yet unmistakable Pixies experience. It's a record that feels like a strange, dark film – at times bizarre, other times oddly beautiful – but always compelling.
Lead guitarist Joey Santiago describes the band's evolution from abrasive riffs and chaotic vocals to their current melodramatic and thematic style as simply "an expansion to our musical knowledge".
Santiago's musical tastes span a broad range of genres and eras. His influences include Jeff Beck, Jamaican post-punk dub outfit Creation Rebel, Brazilian group Novos Baianos, as well as contemporary acts like Run The Jewels and the legendary Gary Numan.
However, one album remains his creative anchor: 'The White Album' by The Beatles, which he described as the record he will always return to for inspiration.
Pixies' legacy extends far beyond their discography. Their pioneering sound laid the foundation for what would evolve into grunge – a movement that reshaped mainstream rock in the 1990s.
Santiago notes that he sees a similar spark in artists today, highlighting the Irish hip hop trio Kneecap as the next potential game changers. "They will be big, they are going to be huge."
Australian audiences have formed a special bond with the Pixies, who are returning to the country next month only a year after touring alongside Pearl Jam. Reflecting on that experience, Santiago says: "It was great to play to such big crowds, and we didn't feel like just the opening soundtrack to the audience."
Over the decades, the band has remained a regular visitor to Australia, playing extensive tours and building a loyal fanbase.
Their upcoming Australian tour takes a special approach: the band will perform two different types of shows in each city. The first night will be a unique double-set performance of 'Bossanova' and 'Trompe Le Monde' albums played in full – a dream for longtime followers. While the second night will feature a classic Pixies set packed with fan favourites.
Looking ahead, fans have even more to be excited about. Santiago confirmed the band already has several tracks lined up for their next album. "We're going to finish them, probably at the beginning of 2026," he revealed, suggesting Pixies remain creatively active.
Even after four decades, Pixies remain creatively restless and sonically adventurous – proving that true innovators never truly stop evolving.
Pixies 2025 Tour Dates
Sat 8 Nov - Fremantle Prison* 'Bossanova' & 'Trompe le Monde' performedSun 9 Nov - Fremantle Prison* classic Pixies set (final tickets)
Thu 13 Nov - Hordern Pavilion (Sydney)* 'Bossanova' & 'Trompe le Monde' performed
Fri 14 Nov - Hordern Pavilion (Sydney)* classic Pixies set
Sun 16 Nov - The Fortitude Music Hall (Brisbane)* 'Bossanova' & 'Trompe le Monde' performed
Mon 17 Nov - The Fortitude Music Hall (Brisbane)* classic Pixies set (sold out)
Wed 19 Nov - Festival Hall (Melbourne)* 'Bossanova' & 'Trompe le Monde' performed
Thu 20 Nov - Festival Hall (Melbourne)* classic Pixies set (final tickets)
