Is She Weird - Pixies

About This Footage

In a cramped, dimly-lit studio in Boston's Fort Hill neighborhood, the Pixies are captured in all their early 80s glory. The grainy footage of "Is She Weird" is a rare glimpse into the band's nascent sound, a time when they were still finding their footing amidst the city's thriving underground scene.

It's 1987, and the Pixies have just released their debut album, Come On Pilgrim. But it's this studio session, captured on tape for the Rough Diamonds compilation, that showcases the band's raw energy and unbridled creativity. The song itself is a frenetic, new wave-infused romp, with Black Francis's distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics taking center stage.

The Pixies' early sound was a melting pot of influences - post-punk, surf rock, and indie folk all swirling together in a unique sonic stew. And "Is She Weird" is no exception, its driving rhythms and jangly guitars evoking the likes of The Velvet Underground and The Fall. But it's also unmistakably Pixies, with that signature blend of darkness and humor that would become their hallmark.

This footage is significant not just because it's a rare glimpse into the band's early days, but also because it highlights the Pixies' DIY ethos. They were a product of the Boston underground scene, where bands like Hüsker Dü and The Pixies themselves were pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a shoestring budget.

The studio session is intimate and informal, with the band members laughing and joking as they work through the song. It's clear that they're still finding their footing, but there's an undeniable sense of excitement and possibility in the air. And it's this energy, this sense of creative abandon, that makes "Is She Weird" so compelling to watch.

The Pixies' influence on alternative rock cannot be overstated. They were one of the first bands to bring a level of sophistication and complexity to the genre, incorporating elements of art rock and punk into their sound. And "Is She Weird" is a prime example of this, with its intricate guitar work and Francis's poetic lyrics.

Watching this footage, it's impossible not to be struck by the Pixies' raw talent and potential. They're still finding their way, but there's an undeniable sense of destiny about them. And as they launch into the song's frenetic chorus, it's clear that they're on the cusp of something special.

This clip is a must-see for any fan of alternative rock, or anyone interested in the early days of the Pixies. It's a rare glimpse into their creative process, and a testament to their enduring influence on the genre. And as the song builds towards its frenetic climax, it's clear that this is a band that's about to take the world by storm.

The grainy footage may be low-res, but the energy and excitement are palpable. This is a moment in time, frozen forever on tape - a snapshot of a band at the beginning of their journey, with the whole world ahead of them. And as the final notes fade away, it's clear that this is just the beginning of something truly special.

Curated from public records and music databases.