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The Pixies

Acoustic: Live In Newport DVD

Review by Gary Hill

I have to say that I approached this DVD with both anticipation and a little trepidation. I’ve always liked the Pixies quite a bit, but part of what I found so intriguing about them was the wall of distorted sound that they created. I think that it’s amazing how something like that can be turned into a sound that feels quite accessible and downright catchy. So, with that distortion removed in an acoustic setting, how would it translate? “Pretty darn well” is the resounding answer. It’s interesting that once you remove the effects you find that the reason the music comes across is so accessible is that it’s very well written. While the distortion and such adds to the overall effect, all of the songs are solid to begin with. That makes sense because otherwise it wouldn’t work as well. Therefore from the point of view of a Pixies die-hard this really gives you a new insight into the musical genius of the band. You get a whole new flavor to the classic tracks. I’m not sure I’d recommend this as a first choice to someone not familiar with the group, but for fans of the outfit, it really should be on your “wish list” – and the short part of it at that.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2006 Volume 5 at lulu.com/strangesound.
 
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