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Pixies | Chicago, IL

This past Thursday, August 31st, the Salt Shed had an eventful warm night with Cat Power, Modest Mouse, and Pixies. The second night of shows was marked with amazing performances, setlists filled with hits, and sweaty fans that sang their hearts out. 

Chan Marshall's musical project Cat Power started the night with a versatile set, from Rolling Stones covers to major hits like "The Greatest", the setlist was short, but perfect. Fans started to gather closer to the stage and Marshall's performance was a great introduction to what was about to come. 

While the sun started to set, Modest Mouse took the stage by storm and presented one of the most incredible setlists I have ever seen the band play live. Fans came alive when they heard the first chords of "Dramamine" played by frontman Isaac Brock. The fog onstage, combined with the colorful rainbow-like lights, made the scene look like a dream. You could see the nostalgia in Brock's eyes when playing "Paper Thin Walls" and "Heart Cooks Brain", on the first year playing shows without co-founder and drummer Jeremiah Green. Green passed away early December of 2022 from a devastating cancer, and his presence is missed on stage every night. Long-time fans felt the heartfelt performance of songs from The Lonesome Crowded West, and were reminded about Jeremiah's amazing contributions to Modest Mouse. When the band played "The Tortoise and the Tourist", we could see the crowd light up and jump around. The energy was palpable from every corner of the venue, and the setlist still had many great surprises ahead. The highlight of the night was the raw performance of "Tiny Cities Made of Ashes" that got all fans dancing. "Night on The Sun" closed the incredible setlist, and the night fell over the Salt Shed, where fans now were filled with anticipation for the final performance of the night.

When the lights onstage went out, fans were screaming from all corners of the venue, filled with excitement. Pixies walked in, and started the set with a psychedelic energy, including hits like "You're Such a Sadducee" and "Cactus". The second night of the band at the Salt Shed included a different, yet remarkable set from the previous night - a treat for fans that came for both shows. The audience was transported to punk basement 90’s shows when the band played "Isla de Encanta" and "Debaser". Joey Santiago's blistering guitar solos got the crowd moving through the entire night. The newest member of the band, Paz Lenchantin, brings a fresh dynamic to the crew, especially because of her impeccable stage presence and interaction with the crowd. As the night came to an end, Pixies played their biggest hit "Where Is My Mind" and had the entire crowd screaming the lyrics. The energetic, yet nostalgic performance proved that Pixies are still masters of their craft, and their music will continue to transcend generations.