Pixies, the legendary Boston band, are gearing up for a major release that will delight fans and critics alike. The announcement comes as the band celebrates their 40th anniversary, a milestone that has already been marked with a UK and European tour for 2026 and numerous festival appearances this summer. Now, they're set to release their 'Complete B-Sides: 1988-97' album on vinyl for the first time, remastered and as a 40th anniversary edition. This marks a significant moment for the band, as the original album was first released on CD in 2001, 25 years ago, and has been a cherished collection of B-sides from their classic '4AD' era. The new release will feature a fourth side of bonus live tracks, adding to the excitement for fans.
The 'Complete B-Sides' album is a treasure trove for fans, offering a glimpse into the band's early days and their creative process. It includes tracks like 'Wave Of Mutilation (UK Surf)', 'Into The White', 'Bailey’s Walk', and 'The Thing', which were recorded during a time when the band was almost a decade into a hiatus. The album's re-release is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their commitment to sharing their music with fans in new and exciting ways.
This release comes as a companion piece to the recent reissue of Pixies' 'Live At The BBC' compilation, where designer Chris Bigg created new art for the cover, using previously shelved photos of Black Francis and the band. The band's recent activities have been nothing short of impressive, with their latest studio album, 'The Night The Zombies Came', released in 2024, and their tour plans for 2026, including a UK outdoor gig at On The Mount at Wasing and festival appearances at Bearded Theory, NOS Alive, and Mad Cool. The band's willingness to perform classic albums in full, as seen with 'Trompe le Monde' and 'Bossanova', has been a highlight for fans, and it seems they're eager to continue this tradition.
In an interview, Joey Santiago expressed his love for such performances, citing Steely Dan's 'Aja' show as an example. He mentioned the excitement of knowing that it would be all of 'Aja' and the thrill of having drummers like Danny Carey, Josh Freese, and Pat Wilson watching the performance. This passion for their craft and their dedication to their fans is what makes the Pixies such an iconic and influential band. The 'Complete B-Sides: 1988-97' release is a must-have for any fan, offering a deeper dive into the band's history and a chance to appreciate their music in a whole new way. As the band continues to celebrate their 40th anniversary, this release is a fitting tribute to their enduring legacy and a promise of more exciting music to come.
