Pixies at the Forum

The heat is almost unbearable in a packed-to-the-rafters Kentish Town Forum this evening. Pixies are playing the first of three nights in the North London venue, and these shows are for the true fans, as the band play their landmark albums Bossanova and Trompe Le Monde back-to-back in full.

An ecstatic crowd greets the band as they take to the stage and Black Francis introduces the first track Cecilia Ann. Originally written by American audio engineer Steve Hoffman in 1989, it started its life as a fake 60s surf song, subsequently ending up as the opener to Bossanova after a chance listening.

Both albums aren’t short by any means, so there’s not much time for chitchat in between songs as the band skillfully rattle through the 29 tracks. Francis’s raw vocals sound incredible as the grit of those unmistakable grunge guitar riffs cut through the air with satisfying ease. Velouria, Allison and The Happening are all highlights, but every song is met with a real appreciation from the audience. Hearing some of them live feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Trompe Le Monde begins with its self-titled track, followed by the raucous Planet of Sound. Space (I Believe In) is received with jubilation, as the audience excitedly shouts “Jefrey!” referring to the infectious chorus “Jefrey with one f Jefrey!”. Subbacultcha’s pulsating bassline fills the venue impeccably while the dark tones of Motorway to Roswell provide a slower break.

There is no obvious interval for an encore, and after Trompe Le Monde ends on its final track The Navajo Know, Pixies launch into new number Vegas Suite. It’s a sombre sounding rather epic track, filled with emotion and accompanied by Black Francis’s acoustic guitar. Up next is a slightly slowed-down version of Wave of Mutilation, followed by Nimrod’s Son. The show closes on the undeniably brilliant Here Comes Your Man, which is met with a rapturous response, perfectly ending an explosive and unique set from one of the world’s most influential grunge bands.

Hannah Broughton
Photos: Miguel de Melo

For further information and future events visit Pixies’s website here.

Watch the video for Velouria here: