Pixies Live: Acoustic/Electric

Representing two complete concerts (previously available separately on DVD) from 2005, this compilation argues for the continuing cultural relevance of former indie-scene darlings The Pixies. For Black Francis, aka Frank Black (vocals, rhythm guitar), Kim Deal (bass, backing vocals), Joey Santiago (guitar), and Dave Lovering (drums), the decision to reunite in 2004 after their very acrimonious split was warmly welcomed by fans. Acoustic is the more unusual of the two performances here, since the band plays the famed Newport Jazz Festival without their typical amplified blaze, barreling through 22 selections, including favorites such as “Monkey Gone to Heaven” and “Where Is My Mind?” The Electric show, filmed at the Paradise Rock Club in Boston, offers more of what we've come to expect from the foursome, as they rip through 29 tracks before an enthusiastic audience of around 200 rabid diehards, although the intimate setting can barely contain the sheer power of songs like “Bone Machine” and the rollicking “U-Mass.” In fact, these concerts prove that, even after more than a decade of downtime, The Pixies have retained their original sonic sturm und drang—with or without the plugged-in power. Presented with DTS-HD, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM stereo options, extras include rehearsal footage as well as home-movie glimpses of the band circa 1986. Highly recommended. (B. Gibron)