On Thursday, October 24th, the legendary Pixies descended upon the Sinclair in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for a sold-out performance the night before the release of their highly anticipated new album, The Night the Zombies Came. With new songs, deep cuts, and fan favorites, the band delivered a powerhouse performance that sent shockwaves through the venue, easily earning the title of an instant classic. The current lineup, featuring founding members Frank Black, Joey Santiago, and David Lovering, along with the dynamic Emma Richardson on bass, wasted no time in captivating the audience.
The set kicked off with a stripped-down rendition of “Cactus.” With it, the band immediately established a sense of what was to come. Songs like “Break My Body” and “Vamos” that followed continued to help build what would become a performance filled with high energy and raw intensity. Richardson’s powerful basslines added a noticeable and fresh dimension to the band’s sound, showcasing her impressive musicianship and seamless integration into the band.
As the night progressed, the band showcased both new and old material. The recently released tracks from The Night the Zombies Came were met with eager anticipation. “Motoroller,” “Chicken,” “Mercy Me, “and the epic “The Vegas Suite” showcased the band’s continued ability to craft intricate and captivating songs. Richardson’s contributions to these new tracks were particularly noteworthy, adding depth and complexity to the band’s sonic palette.
However, it was the classic Pixies tracks that genuinely ignited the crowd. Songs like “Bone Machine,” “Hey,” and “Crackity Jones” were performed with a raw intensity that transported the audience back to the band’s early days. Black’s primal voice, Lovering’s drumming, and Santiago’s guitar work were nothing short of legendary. Santiago delivered moody solos and driving riffs throughout the set that pushed the band’s sound to new heights.
The setlist continued to delight fans with fan favorites and deeper cuts. “Monkey Gone to Heaven,” “Motorway to Roswell,” “Vamos,” “Here Comes Your Man,” and “Mr. Grieves” was performed with precision and passion. Later, the show reached its climax with a mammoth performance of “Debaser,” followed by “Tame” and “Wave of Mutilation. The band’s rendition of “In Heaven”, with Richardson taking over on lead vocals, was particularly moving, creating a haunting and ethereal atmosphere that captivated the audience. The band closed the night with a blistering rendition of “Where is My Mind?”, leaving the audience exhilarated and naturally, wanting more.
The Pixies’ performance at the Sinclair was a testament to their enduring legacy. The band’s ability to blend new material with classic hits, raw energy, and undeniable talent made for an unforgettable night of music.
