In a candid interview discussing Pixies' latest album "The Night the Zombies Came," frontman Black Francis revealed plans for an evolving perspective on music releases in today's streaming era.
The iconic singer-songwriter expressed his pure love for the recording process, noting how the modern music industry landscape has transformed his approach to releasing music. "I love recording. I'd do it every six months if I could," Francis shared. "The industry's different now, and I get to just focus on the art. It's less about being on the charts and more about putting something out there that keeps you alive as an artist."
Speaking about the new album's zombie theme, Francis explained it wasn't born from a grand concept but rather emerged organically. "There's a zombie in the room," he said with a laugh, "And once it's there, you just kind of let it stick around." While the album carries undertones of recent global upheaval, Francis opts for metaphorical interpretation rather than literal pandemic references.
The artist, known for his enigmatic songwriting style, continues to embrace ambiguity in his work. "For me, it's less about you understanding the lyrics and more about how the whole thing makes you feel," he explained. This approach has become his trademark, from early classics like "slicing up eyeballs" to newer tracks like "Motor Roller."
Francis also revealed plans for an upcoming tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of his solo album "Teenager of the Year." Reminiscing about its creation, he recalled recording through earthquakes and fires, describing a process filled with spontaneity and joy.
The interview showcases an artist who remains passionate about his craft while adapting to industry changes. In the streaming age, Francis finds himself liberated from traditional metrics of success: "Now, I have no idea how many records I sell—and I love it. It's not about that anymore."