What makes Monkey Gone to Heaven by Pixies notable?

This EP is notable for its critical acclaim and significant impact on the indie rock movement of the late '80s. It features the track 'Monkey Gone to Heaven', which became an anthem of sorts for disenchanted youth and influenced countless bands in the grunge and alternative scenes that followed. Released in 1989, 'Monkey Gone to Heaven' was pivotal for Pixies as their third EP, following the acclaimed 'Come on Pilgrim.' This release solidified their unique sound and marked a turning point in their growing influence within the alternative rock scene, setting the stage for their later full-length albums.

How many songs are on Monkey Gone to Heaven?

Monkey Gone to Heaven has 4 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Monkey Gone to Heaven

Pixies · 1989

9 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A surreal blend of haunting melodies and biting lyrics that capture existential dread against a backdrop of raw alternative rock energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Monkey Gone to Heaven — As the standout title track, it encapsulates themes of environmentalism and existentialism while showcasing the band's dynamic range from quiet introspection to explosive choruses.
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Manta Ray — This track's unconventional structure combines playful lyrics with a driving rhythm, highlighting the band's knack for blending absurdity with catchy melodies.
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Weird at My School — Capturing teenage angst and alienation, this song’s raw energy and witty observations reflect the band’s signature style, resonating with listeners navigating similar experiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

62 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases strong songwriting and production while maintaining a unique sound that resonates within its genre.

What we noticed

The title track features a dynamic shift between quiet verses and explosive choruses, creating a stark contrast that emphasizes its themes.
The EP includes two tracks with similar rhythmic patterns, which creates a sense of cohesion but also risks redundancy.
The lyrics in 'Monkey Gone to Heaven' employ surreal imagery and existential themes, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the content.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Monkey Gone to Heaven 2:59
2 Manta Ray 2:42
3 Weird at My School 2:01
4 Dancing the Manta Ray 2:13

What to play next

Listen next

Doolittle

1989

Go back to

Surfer Rosa

1988

Full Pixies discography Where to start with Pixies Artists like Pixies

alternative rock indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata