Pixies

Pixies Live at Aviva Studios, Manchester – Sunday, 24 May 2026

Get ready to experience the sonic architects of alternative rock, Pixies, as they descend upon the brand-new Aviva Studios in Manchester for an unforgettable evening of raw energy and groundbreaking music. On Sunday, 24 May 2026, the legendary quartet will bring their iconic sound and electrifying stage presence to this state-of-the-art Manchester venue, promising a night that will resonate with long-time devotees and new admirers alike. This is more than just a concert; it’s a chance to witness a band that has profoundly shaped the landscape of modern music, performing in a space designed to deliver unparalleled audio and visual experiences. Prepare for an immersion into the captivating world of Pixies, where anthemic choruses meet primal screams and quiet introspection explodes into sonic catharsis.

About Pixies

Emerging from the vibrant Boston music scene in the mid-1980s, Pixies quickly carved out a unique and influential niche that would forever alter the trajectory of alternative and indie rock. Composed of Black Francis (vocals, guitar), Kim Deal (bass, vocals), Joey Santiago (guitar), and David Lovering (drums), the band’s signature sound was a masterclass in dynamic contrasts. They artfully blended Black Francis’s often confrontational lyrical themes and primal vocalizations with Kim Deal’s melodic, grounding basslines and ethereal harmonies, all underpinned by Santiago’s distinctive, angular guitar riffs and Lovering’s propulsive drumming.

Their early EPs, The Purple Tape and Surfer Rosa, followed by the seminal album Surfer Rosa (1988), released on 4AD, introduced the world to their innovative “loud-quiet-loud” dynamic, a technique that would be emulated by countless bands in their wake, most notably Nirvana, who cited Pixies as a major influence. Tracks like “Where Is My Mind?” – a hauntingly beautiful exploration of disorientation that found renewed life thanks to its inclusion in the film Fight Club – and the frenetic, almost chaotic energy of “Debaser” became anthems for a generation seeking something beyond the mainstream.

The release of Doolittle in 1989 solidified their status, delivering a more polished yet still uncompromising collection of songs. Hits such as the urgent “Here Comes Your Man” and the sardonic “Monkey Gone to Heaven” showcased their remarkable ability to craft accessible melodies while retaining their experimental edge. Despite disbanding in 1993, their influence continued to grow, leading to a highly anticipated reunion in 2004. Since then, Pixies have continued to tour extensively and release new material, including albums like Indie Cindy (2014), Head Carrier (2016), and Beneath the Eerie Moonlight (2019), proving that their creative fire still burns brightly. Their live performances are renowned for their uninhibited energy and the palpable chemistry between the band members, offering a powerful testament to their enduring legacy.

Venue Information

Aviva Studios is Manchester’s cutting-edge new home for culture, a visionary arts venue meticulously designed to push the boundaries of creative experience. Situated at First Street, this dynamic space is engineered to accommodate a diverse range of artistic endeavours, from ambitious theatre productions to electrifying live music performances. With its advanced technological infrastructure and adaptable design, Aviva Studios provides an immersive environment that enhances every aspect of a show. The acoustics are meticulously crafted to deliver pristine sound quality, ensuring that every note and nuance of Pixies’ complex sonic tapestry will be heard with exceptional clarity. The flexible seating and staging configurations allow for an intimate or grand atmosphere, depending on the artistic need. This is a venue built for the future of performance, offering audiences a truly contemporary and captivating setting. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic journey that encapsulates the full spectrum of Pixies’ revered catalogue. Their live sets are a testament to their enduring power, blending iconic hits with deeper cuts that showcase their experimental roots. Audiences can anticipate a performance characterized by raw, untamed energy. The “loud-quiet-loud” dynamic that defined their early sound will undoubtedly be on full display, with moments of delicate, almost whispered introspection exploding into ferocious sonic assaults. Expect Black Francis to command the stage with his signature intensity, his voice shifting effortlessly from melodic crooning to primal screams. Kim Deal’s grounding presence on bass and her captivating vocal contributions, often harmonizing with Francis or delivering her own poignant lines, will be a central element of the show. Joey Santiago’s guitar work, always inventive and unpredictable, will weave intricate patterns and deliver searing solos that are integral to the Pixies’ sound. David Lovering’s drumming provides a relentless, driving force, anchoring the band’s often chaotic sonic explorations.

While setlists are never entirely predictable with Pixies, you can be sure to hear anthems that have become cornerstones of alternative rock. Classics such as the ethereal “Where Is My Mind?”, the urgent “Here Comes Your Man,” the driving “Debaser,” and the atmospheric “Monkey Gone to Heaven” are almost guaranteed to elicit enthusiastic singalongs. You might also be treated to the captivating “Wave of Mutilation,” the powerful “Gouge Away,” or the politically charged “Rock Music.” Their recent albums have also yielded powerful live staples, so expect to hear material from their latest releases, seamlessly integrated into a set that honours their entire career. The performance is expected to last approximately 90 to 120 minutes, offering a substantial and exhilarating experience for all attendees. The atmosphere will be electric, a shared experience of rediscovering and celebrating the music that has inspired generations.

FAQs

Q1: What is Pixies’ typical stage setup for their live shows? Pixies generally maintain a classic four-piece rock band setup: drums centre stage, bass guitar to one side, and two guitarists on the other, with the lead vocalist and frontman often moving dynamically across the stage. Their focus is on raw performance energy rather than elaborate stage props.

Q2: Will Pixies be playing material from their earlier EPs and albums, or will it be primarily new material? Pixies are celebrated for their ability to bridge their classic material with their newer work. Audiences can expect a comprehensive setlist that delves deep into their seminal albums like Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, alongside fan favourites from subsequent releases and judicious selections from their more recent albums, showcasing the enduring breadth of their creative output.

Q3: How energetic is a typical Pixies live performance? Pixies are renowned for their high-energy, visceral live shows. Black Francis is a particularly dynamic performer, and the band’s chemistry often translates into an intense and captivating stage presence. Expect a passionate and often explosive performance that mirrors the dynamic contrasts found in their recorded music.

Q4: Does Kim Deal typically perform lead vocals on any songs during Pixies’ live sets? Yes, Kim Deal is a vital part of Pixies’ vocal dynamic. She often shares lead vocal duties with Black Francis and provides distinctive harmonies. Her own vocal contributions on songs such as “Gigantic” or “Winter” are highly anticipated by fans and are a key element of the band’s live sound.

Q5: Is there an intermission during Pixies concerts? Pixies concerts typically do not feature an intermission. Their performances are usually presented as a continuous, high-energy set, designed to maintain momentum and immersion for the audience throughout the duration of the show.

Q6: Are Pixies known for interacting with the audience during their concerts? While Pixies are primarily focused on delivering their powerful music, Black Francis has a unique stage persona that can involve interaction, often in his own characteristic, sometimes unconventional, way. The primary audience connection comes through the sheer force and emotional resonance of their performance rather than extensive banter.