The Pixies have returned to the music scene with vigor, culminating in two unforgettable performances at Encore Theater in Las Vegas on June 13 and 14.
The band’s unique approach to presenting two distinct sets during their shows has piqued the interest of fans. On the first night, dedicated followers were treated to an exhilarating playthrough of their classic early-90s albums, Bossanova and Trompe le Monde. The following evening catered to a more varied audience, delivering a comprehensive overview of the band’s extensive discography, appealing to both young fans and casual listeners alike.
The current lineup features three original members—frontman Black Francis, guitarist Joey Santiago, and drummer David Lovering—who have all aged gracefully into their sixties without showing any signs of slowing down. Emma Richardson, their recently added bassist, rounds out the group, contributing her talents to kick off their North American tour, which is set to last until September.
During the June 14 concert, fans were delighted to hear the band perform different versions of the beloved song “Wave of Mutilation.” The night featured the original rendition from their iconic album, Doolittle, followed later by the well-known B-side “UK Surf” version. Furthermore, the Pixies introduced their audience to seven newly released tracks from their upcoming album, The Night the Zombies Came, adding a fresh vibe to their performance.
In addition to their new material, the Pixies ensured that concertgoers experienced their timeless classics. Santiago expressed his unfaltering enthusiasm for performing the band’s legendary hit “Where Is My Mind,” which became the encore piece on the first night and a key highlight on the second. Fans also reveled in hearing classic tunes like “Hey,” “Here Comes Your Man,” and several other tracks from Doolittle—although “Gigantic” was notably absent from both setlists.
Emma Richardson has seamlessly integrated into the band since her arrival last year, following the departure of long-time bassist Paz Lenchantin. The established members acknowledged Richardson’s contributions, allowing her to take the lead on both the opening and closing songs of the June 14 show. Richardson kicked off the night with a captivating cover of Laurel Near’s “In Heaven (Lady in the Radiator Song)” and concluded the set with the cherished B-side “Into the White.” Her presence exemplifies the band’s commitment to featuring female talent more than three decades into their career.
Las Vegas has served as an inspiring backdrop for many of the band’s songs, and their 2024 composition, “The Vegas Suite,” made its live debut on June 14. In the song, Black Francis reminisces about his Vegas experiences, invoking cheers of recognition from the audience, which was comprised of fans of all ages. The scene was vibrant, filled with Gen X couples who swayed together to the nostalgic tunes they cherished during their youth, showcasing the enduring impact of the band on multiple generations.
The energy in the venue was infectious, enhanced by fans who engaged intimately with the performance. An excited, blue-haired superfan even stepped to the front of the stage, igniting a wave of similar expressions of enthusiasm as other audience members joined in by following her lead. The atmosphere was notably warm and familial, as demonstrated by parents singing along with their teenage daughter, clearly illustrating that the Pixies’ influence remains strong across generations.
As the Pixies embark on this ambitious tour, their Las Vegas performances serve as a testament to their enduring legacy in alternative rock. The unique combination of classic and new songs creates an exciting experience for both longtime fans and newer listeners alike.
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