Portal:Alternative music/Selected albums/3
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Surfer Rosa is the debut album by the American alternative rock band Pixies, released in March 1988 on the independent record label 4AD. The album's unusual and offbeat subject material references mutilation and voyeurism, and is augmented by lo-fi production and a unique drum sound, which owes much to the input of sound engineer Steve Albini. The album continues many of the themes raised in the Pixies' earlier output, including Spanish lyrics, and references to Puerto Rico.
Because of 4AD's independent status, distribution in the United States was handled by Rough Trade Records. Surfer Rosa failed to chart in the UK, and "Gigantic" was the only single taken from the release. Although it only reached #93 on the UK Singles Chart, Surfer Rosa was rereleased in the U.S. by Elektra Records in 1992. Despite its lack of chart success, in 2005 Surfer Rosa was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Although Surfer Rosa was not a commercial success, it is often cited as a favorite of music critics, and is frequently included on professional lists of the all-time best rock albums. Many alternative rock artists, including Billy Corgan and PJ Harvey, have cited the album as inspirational; Nirvana's Kurt Cobain frequently admitted that Surfer Rosa was a strong influence on Nevermind, and in 1993 hired Albini for his band's album In Utero.
