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Kyle Meredith catches up with Black Francis of Pixies to discuss their latest release, The Night the Zombies Came. The frontman also touches on the current touring landscape (they’re on the road with Pearl Jam in Australia and New Zealand, and launch their EU/UK headlining tour next spring; get tickets here) and his 1994 solo album, Teenager of the Year. Listen above or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Discussing the creative process behind The Night the Zombies Came, Black Francis dives into how certain themes, like the undead, seem to manifest organically in the studio. “Once an idea is in the room, it sort of lingers and pops up in different ways,” he says. Rather than forcing a concept album or rock opera, he believes in allowing themes to arise naturally, creating a mood that’s more impressionistic than narrative-driven. “Rock music should be open-ended, allowing the listener to interpret it,” he adds, drawing parallels to artists like Neil Young who explore universal themes without over-explaining.
Francis also reflects on his approach to lyrics, admitting that while fans often attempt to decipher his words, much of his process is about setting a tone or mood. He cites “Motoroller“ from the new album as an example, noting, “It doesn’t matter if anyone fully understands the lyrics; it’s about the vibe.” He likens writing to looking through a “keyhole into a larger universe,” capturing fragments of ideas in a way that’s abstract and psychological.
Looking ahead, fans of his solo work have reason to celebrate as Francis is gearing up to tour for the 30th anniversary of Teenager of the Year under his Frank Black moniker. (The trek kicks off in January, and you can get tickets here.) Reflecting on that album, he recalls its chaotic, joyful recording process, marred by natural disasters and relocations but ultimately fueled by creative freedom. “We didn’t care what people would think; we just made a record we loved,” he says. That unfiltered spirit, which continues to drive his music, is part of what makes Black Francis and Pixies such enduring figures in rock.
Listen to Pixies’ Black Francis discuss The Night the Zombies Came and Teenager of the Year above, or watch the interview below. Keep up on all the latest episodes by following Kyle Meredith With… on your favorite podcast platform; plus, check out all the series on the Consequence Podcast Network.
