The Pixies' 2016 release, Head Carrier, is a masterclass in alternative rock. Released on 30 September 2016 through Pixies Music, this 33-minute album is a succinct yet powerful collection of tracks that showcase the band's signature sound. From the opening notes of the title track, Head Carrier, it's clear that the Pixies are on top form, with Classic Masher and Baal's Back following in quick succession to set the tone for the rest of the album.
As the record progresses, the Pixies' eclectic style is on full display, with tracks like Might as Well Be Gone and Oona demonstrating the band's ability to craft infectious, high-energy rock songs. The likes of Talent and Tenement Song offer a glimpse into the band's more introspective side, while Bel Esprit and All I Think About Now showcase their capacity for crafting soaring, anthemic choruses.
The second half of the album is just as strong, with Um Chagga Lagga and Plaster of Paris providing a frenetic, punk-infused energy, before the record closes with the haunting All the Saints. Throughout Head Carrier, the Pixies' unique blend of surf rock, punk, and alternative influences is evident, making for a compelling and engaging listen. With Head Carrier, the Pixies have created an album that is sure to delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike, and its concise runtime makes it the perfect introduction to the band's distinctive sound.
Vinylscout