Is She Weird - Pixies

About This Footage

The Pixies' 1987 studio recording of "Is She Weird" is a rare gem that offers a glimpse into the band's formative years. This footage, captured during the sessions for what would become their debut album, showcases the band's raw energy and creative potential.

At the time of this recording, the Pixies were still an underground entity, with a sound that was as much influenced by surf rock and punk as it was by indie folk and art rock. The band's unique blend of styles was beginning to take shape, but they were still finding their footing in the studio. This footage provides a fascinating insight into the band's creative process during this period.

One of the most striking aspects of this clip is its raw, unpolished quality. Unlike many of the Pixies' later recordings, which have been meticulously produced and polished, "Is She Weird" sounds like it was captured in the heat of the moment. The guitar work is loose and improvisational, while Black Francis's vocals are more subdued than they would become on later tracks.

The Pixies' early sound was characterized by its eclecticism and experimentation. They drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including surf rock pioneers like Dick Dale and Link Wray, as well as punk bands like The Stooges and The Velvet Underground. This clip captures the band's ability to blend disparate influences into something entirely new.

The fact that this footage is rare makes it all the more significant. Many of the Pixies' early recordings were lost or destroyed over the years, making this clip a valuable artifact for fans and historians alike. It provides a unique window into the band's creative process during their formative years, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of their sound.

Viewers will be struck by the energy and intensity of the Pixies' performance in "Is She Weird". The band is clearly still finding its footing, but there's an undeniable excitement to their playing. Black Francis's vocals are raw and emotive, while Joey Santiago's guitar work is both melodic and abrasive. The rhythm section of Kim Shattuck (bass) and David Lovering (drums) provides a solid foundation for the band's sound.

One of the most interesting aspects of this clip is its context within the Pixies' broader discography. "Is She Weird" would eventually be released on the album "Surfer Rosa", but this version is significantly different from the final product. The song's arrangement and instrumentation are more stripped-back, with a greater emphasis on guitar work.

The Pixies' early years were marked by a sense of creative freedom and experimentation. They were one of the first bands to sign with 4AD Records, a label that would go on to become synonymous with indie rock. This clip captures the band's willingness to take risks and push boundaries, even in the face of uncertainty.

In watching "Is She Weird", viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the Pixies' creative process during their formative years. They'll see a band still finding its footing, but one that is already beginning to develop its unique sound. This clip is a rare and precious artifact, offering a glimpse into the early days of one of alternative rock's most influential bands.

Curated from public records and music databases.