FRANK BLACK

It's likely that Frank Black will always be best remembered for his work with the Pixies. That's really no dig at his subsequent solo work, just an indication of how truly influential the Pixies were in their prime (and today, for that matter; just look at the buzz that has attended their reunion tour). While it would be impossible to list all of the latter-day acts that have cited the Pixies as a major influence, Nirvana and Radiohead were certainly none-too-bashful in their praise.

Frank Black will release his latest album, Honeycomb, on July 19. I can't say that I'm overly familiar with the man's previous solo work, so I can't really say that this is all that much of a departure. Certainly, though, Pixies fans may find themselves befuddled and/or benumbed by the rather low-key proceedings (complete with tame but tangible country-western flourishes!). And be damned if ol' Frank doesn't come across sounding like a ringer for Van Morrison on a number of tracks.

Anyway, as records go, this one may be a "grower," requiring a few listens to properly insinuate itself. At the very least, it does have a rather comforting, front-porch sort of intimacy to it. Might be nice for those warm summer nights.

Here are my two current favorite tracks from Honeycomb and a few Pixies classics from my favorite album of theirs...

"Sunday Sunny Mill Valley Groove Day"/Frank Black [from the LP Honeycomb, 2005]
Sunday Sunny Mill Valley Groove Day-mp3 [left-click]

"Selkie Bride"/Frank Black [from the LP Honeycomb, 2005]
Selkie Bride-mp3 [left-click]




"Here Comes Your Man"/The Pixies [from the Pixies LP Doolittle, 1989]
Here Comes Your Man-mp3 [left-click]

"Monkey Gone to Heaven"/The Pixies [from the Pixies LP Doolittle, 1989]
Monkey Gone to Heaven-mp3 [left-click]

"Debaser"/The Pixies [from the Pixies LP Doolittle, 1989]
Debaser-mp3 [left-click]