The Pixies have announced a remastered and expanded reissue of their 2001 compilation, Complete B-Sides, marking a significant addition to their extensive discography. This compilation, which originally collected bonus tracks from the band's early singles, is now being reissued on vinyl for the first time, alongside a 2CD edition. The release is a testament to the band's enduring legacy and their commitment to sharing their extensive catalog with fans worldwide.
What makes this release particularly intriguing is the inclusion of previously unreleased live tracks. The original set already featured a diverse range of songs, from the raucous cover of Laurel Near's 'In Heaven (Lady In The Radiator Song)' to the Kim Deal-sung 'Into The White' and Neil Young's 'Winterlong'. The addition of live performances, recorded at various venues, provides a unique insight into the band's energetic live shows and their ability to capture the essence of their music in a different setting.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this reissue is the attention to detail in the artwork. The use of photographs from Simon Larbalestier's archive, known for his striking imagery on the band's classic albums, adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the release. This is particularly interesting given the band's iconic status and the impact of their visual aesthetics on their music.
From my perspective, the release of Complete B-Sides on vinyl is a welcome addition to the band's catalog, offering fans a chance to appreciate the nuances of their music in a different format. The inclusion of live tracks and the remastered sound quality enhance the overall experience, making it a must-have for any dedicated Pixies fan. However, I must admit that I find it a bit surprising that this compilation has not been reissued on vinyl before, given the band's extensive use of this format in their early years.
In my opinion, this release is a testament to the band's ability to capture the essence of their music in various settings, whether it's the studio or the live stage. The expanded tracklist and the remastered sound quality make it a valuable addition to any Pixies collection. Personally, I think this release is a great opportunity for new fans to discover the band's extensive catalog and for long-time fans to relive the magic of their music in a new format.
