Had to make the trip to Melbourne as none of my Sydney friends had any intention of spending the A$100 (50 quid) to see the Pixies. Fortunately, a mate in Melbourne was keen so off I ventured for a long weekend. :D

The venue was excellent; close to the Docklands area and just around the corner frm Etihad Stadium. Inside it was reminiscent of many London venues such as the Town & Country Club & The Grand.

My mate had failed to get tickets for the standing area so we were perched on the side but slowly made our way into a fairly good position unbeknown to those fun guys (sic) who parade as security officials. ;)

The venue was more or less full (1,500 at a guess) and this was the third show of four they were doing in the Victorian capital. We missed the support band and only had to wait 15 minutes before the intro music kicked in.

Interesting pieces of video art were screened at the back of the stage before and during the gig which seemed to enhance the overall experience.

Unpretentiously, the four members strolled onto stage amid rapturous applause and began with a few rarities to warm the crowd up. My mate had been wondering whether a 37 minute album would amount to value for money if this was what they were only going to play! :ohdear:

As pictures from Doolitle revealed themselves at the back of the stage Black Francis launched into Debaser as the rather reserved crowd cheered in unison. To say his voice is still excellent is an understatement. It roared and spat out the tracks that all fans hold dear to their hearts. Tame, Monkey, Hey & Chained were particularly fine but Gouge Away was the pick in my opinion. :thumbsup:

Then there was the farewell as they held hands, bowed and thanked the crowd. Waves to all corners of the hall were appreciated as they departed.

A couple of encores followed including tracks from 'Come on Pilgrim' and inevitably they finished in handsome style with "Where Is My Mind."

The band are seemingly enjoying themselves and, whatever disagreements there have been in the past, it appears that this is all water under the bridge.

Even though he is the size of a small house, "the big man" carries the band superbly and, the now French beret wearing, Joey Santiago and Kim Deal are right on the money also complimented by the energetic drumming of Dave Lovering.

Having missed them in oz three years back and been ill on the night of a London gig nearly 20 years back it was a privilege to see them. :applaud:

nice one ha, had a ticket for the sydney gig the other week but couldn't make it (dicky shoulder and that), so good to see a report here and glad you enjoyed it.
:)
looks like they're taking their time going round the country too, which always bodes well i think.

Excellent review, thanks - it sounds great.