The Pixies' Complete B-Sides: 1988-97 (Remaster) is a treasure trove for fans, offering a unique glimpse into the band's creative process and their ability to experiment. This remaster, released as part of the band's 40th anniversary celebrations, showcases the band's versatility and their willingness to take risks, often resulting in some of their most captivating tracks. What's fascinating is how the B-sides reveal a more relaxed, playful side of the band, allowing them to explore different musical styles and themes without the constraints of a full-length album. This collection is a testament to their artistic freedom and the depth of their musical talent.
One of the standout tracks is 'River Euphrates', a re-recording of the Surfer Rosa track with producer Gil Norton. This version is full-bodied and swaggering, showcasing the band's ability to reinvent their own material. 'Manta Ray' offers a tender pop moment with a healthy dose of grit, while 'Santo' presents an angular, dramatic, and lopsided sound with a Spanish salsa influence. 'Weird At My School' is a frantic rockabilly scramble with a touch of improbable musical theater, and 'Build High' is a cowpunk adventure with a bone-dry sense of humor.
The B-sides also feature some of the band's most intriguing cover versions. Their take on Neil Young's 'Winterlong' is already an anthem, replacing the original in the hearts of many alternative music fans. The cover of 'I've Been Waiting for You' is lesser-known but equally powerful, thanks to Kim Deal's understated yet captivating vocal performance. The band also injects 'Evil Hearted You' with telenovela passion and transforms 'In Heaven (Lady in the Radiator Song)' into a nauseous horror experience.
What makes this remaster particularly special is the opportunity to hear the band's evolution and experimentation. The B-sides allow the Pixies to let their hair down, showcasing a freer, more deviant side. This collection is a must-have for fans, offering a unique perspective on the band's work and a deeper appreciation for their artistic journey. It's a reminder that the B-sides are often the most revealing part of an artist's discography, offering a glimpse into their creative process and the freedom they have to explore different musical territories.
