Review
'Bossanova' is an explosive cocktail of styles - a perfect blend of surf rock, garage grunge, and sci-fi paranoia. Released in 1990, this album is a departure from the Pixies' darker earlier work, bursting forth with bold new sounds. The album title is apt, reflecting the eclectic 'bossa nova' spirit that influenced its creation.
Produced by Gil Norton, 'Bossanova' was crafted in various studios around the world. Despite reported production challenges, the album maintains a sense of cohesion, a testament to the band's evolving musical experimentation. One of the standout elements on this album is Black Francis' vivid lyrical journey through the realms of science fiction and space. Many tracks showcase spontaneous songwriting - some even crafted in just a few minutes before recording.
One standout track, "Velouria", weaves the electronic spell of the theremin through an atmospheric soundscape, complete with its irresistible chorus. Another gem, "Cecilia Ann", is a surf-rock infused take on a The Surftones' classic, echoing the era of '50s and '60s influenced coast vibe. Whether an angsty anthem or dreamy space-jazz crooning, 'Bossanova' embodies each of its unpredictable styles with an audacious swagger, influencing many a musical contemporary. - Zane
