The Pixies are an American alternative rock band formed in 1986 in Boston, Massachusetts. The original lineup consisted of Black Francis (vocals, rhythm guitar), Kim Deal (bass, vocals), Joey Santiago (lead guitar), and David Lovering (drums). The band was influential in the development of the alternative rock genre in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Some of their most popular songs include “Here Comes Your Man”, “Debaser”, and “Monkey Gone to Heaven”.
The Pixies are currently on a world tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of their album Surfer Rosa. As part of this tour, they will be performing at Cardiff Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales on March 27, 2023. This has created a lot of excitement among Pixies fans in the Cardiff area who are eager to see the iconic band perform live.
About the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
The Cardiff Motorpoint Arena is a large indoor arena located in Cardiff, Wales. It has a capacity of 5,000 for concerts. The arena opened in 1993 and has hosted major music acts over the years including The Rolling Stones, Kylie Minogue, Sir Elton John, and Iron Maiden. It is considered one of the top large-scale indoor venues in Wales.
Some key facts about the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena:
- Opened in 1993
- Located in Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales
- Can seat up to 5,000 for concerts
- Has hosted major music tours and events
- Home arena for the Cardiff Devils ice hockey team
The arena represents an important concert and entertainment venue for big-name acts touring through Wales. The Pixies show there in March will allow the band to connect with their Welsh fanbase.
Pixies’ Connection to Wales
Although the Pixies formed in Boston, the band does have a connection to Wales. Original Pixies bassist Kim Deal is married to John Murphy who was born in Cardiff. Murphy still has family located in the Cardiff area. This personal connection provides a nice link between the band and the local Welsh audience they will be playing for.
The Pixies also recorded parts of their album Trompe le Monde in the Welsh town of Llanbrynmair in 1990. So the band is no stranger to spending time in Wales both professionally and personally through family ties. Their upcoming show allows them to strengthen their bond with Welsh fans who have supported the Pixies throughout their long career.
Who is Supporting the Pixies?
When big bands go on tour, they often recruit smaller acts to open their shows and warm up the audience. For their Cardiff show, the Pixies have selected two opening acts:
Warmduscher
Warmduscher is a British punk rock band originally formed in London in 2014. Their music style mixes garage rock, new wave, post-punk, and electronic music influences. Some of their singles include “Midnight Dipper” and “Greasin’ Up Jesus”.
The band is still fairly new but has developed a reputation for putting on energetic live shows. They have opened for bands like Iggy Pop and Fontaines D.C. Now they will get the opportunity to perform for a big crowd before the Pixies take the stage in Cardiff.
Sinead O’Brien
Sinead O’Brien is an Irish post-punk singer, songwriter and musician currently based in London. She has been active in the indie music scene since around 2017. Her voice and vocal delivery have drawn comparisons to artists like Siouxsie Sioux and PJ Harvey.
Some of O’Brien’s singles include “Taking on Time”, “Roman Ruins” and a cover of the Pixies song “Gigantic” in 2021. Her punk-inspired music and dark lyrical style should complement the Pixies headlining set quite well. This show gives O’Brien a chance to introduce her music to Pixies fans in Cardiff.
Set Times for the Show
Doors open at 6:30 pm on the night of the concert. Here are the expected set times for each act:
| Performer | Set Time |
|---|---|
| Sinead O’Brien | 7:00 – 7:30 pm |
| Warmduscher | 7:45 – 8:15 pm |
| Pixies | 8:45 – 10:30 pm |
These set times are approximate and subject to change. General admission ticket holders will want to arrive early to catch the opening bands. There will likely be a 30-45 minute break between the end of Warmduscher’s set and the start of the Pixies.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets to see the Pixies with Warmduscher and Sinead O’Brien in Cardiff are available now through the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena website. They can also be purchased through Ticketmaster or SeeTickets.
As of now, there are still tickets available in all sections including general admission floor and reserved stadium seating. Prices range from £39.50 – £65 depending on seat location. This show is all ages but 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Fans are recommended to buy from official ticket sellers and beware of purchasing resold tickets which may be invalid or counterfeit. The concert is expected to sell out closer to the March 27th date as Pixies fans don’t want to miss out on seeing this special 30th anniversary Surfer Rosa show.
Transportation to the Arena
The Cardiff Motorpoint Arena is located in Cardiff Bay which is about 2 miles south of Cardiff city center.
Driving and Parking
There are several parking lots around the arena and also street parking options. Concert goers driving in should allow plenty of time to find parking as spaces fill up quickly. Pre-booking parking in the official Motorpoint Arena lots is recommended for easiest access.
Public Transportation
Taking public transportation is another convenient way to reach the arena. The Cardiff Bay train station is a short 0.3 mile walk to the venue. Bus routes 6, 8, and 11 among others also drop off near the arena. Planning your travel in advance using the Cardiff public transport website can make getting to the show a breeze.
Ride Sharing
Services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Cardiff area. This is a popular option for groups traveling together to get dropped off right at the arena entrance. Prices surge after the concert ends so expect to pay more for return rides.
Where to Stay in Cardiff
Cardiff has many lodging options for those traveling to town to see the Pixies in concert. Hotels often sell out months in advance for big events at the arena. Here are some top rated places to stay near the venue:
Holiday Inn Cardiff Bay
– 4 star hotel 0.7 miles from arena
– Modern rooms with flat screen TVs
– On-site restaurant and bar
– 24 hour fitness center
– Free parking
Future Inns Cardiff Bay
– 3 star hotel 0.9 miles from arena
– Free Wi-Fi, modern decor
– The Admiral Pub attached to hotel
– Breakfast included with room
– 24 hour front desk service
Jolyon’s Boutique Hotel
– 4 star boutique hotel 1.5 miles from arena
– Free breakfast
– Intimate hotel with 12 rooms
– Onsite cocktail bar
– Airport transfers available
Booking early at one of these conveniently located hotels will lead to a smooth, stress-free trip to enjoy the Pixies concert. Be sure to explore more of what Cardiff has to offer like Cardiff Castle and the National Museum during your stay.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cardiff
Make sure to fuel up with a great meal and drinks before the show or during your time in Cardiff. Here are some top rated options:
Restaurants Near the Arena
– Bayside Brasserie: Waterfront restaurant with patio seating and locally sourced seafood. Great for pre-show dinner.
– Moksh: Top rated Indian restaurant a 5 minute walk from the arena.
– Primrose Cafe: Quaint breakfast and lunch cafe with outdoor garden seating.
Restaurants in Cardiff City Centre
– The Potted Pig: Modern British dishes served in a cozy basement setting.
– Curado Bar: Trendy small plates Spanish restaurant with great tapas.
– Steak of the Art: Popular steakhouse with extensive wine list.
Best Pubs for Drinks
– The Goat Major: Historic pub with great draft beer selection and pub grub.
– Tiny Rebel: Lively brewpub with in-house crafted beers and burgers.
– Porter’s Cardiff: Stylish 1920s cocktail bar hidden behind a bookcase door.
Any of these eateries and pubs will make for a memorable Pixies pre-party or meal during your Cardiff visit. Don’t miss out on the great local food and drink scene.
Things to Do in Cardiff
Extend your trip around the Pixies concert by exploring the top attractions in Cardiff:
- Cardiff Castle – Historic medieval castle and buildings
- National Museum – Excellent art, natural history, and science exhibits
- Cardiff Bay – Waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and walking trails
- Principality Stadium – Home stadium for Welsh rugby and football matches
- St Fagans National Museum of History – Outdoor museum depicting Welsh heritage and culture
Taking the time to visit Cardiff Castle, learn about Welsh history, or walk the beautiful Cardiff Bay area will make your trip complete. The city has plenty to offer besides the Pixies concert.
Conclusion
The upcoming Pixies concert in Cardiff is already creating major excitement among alternative rock fans in Wales. The show marks a chance for the band to reconnect with their Welsh followers. Supporting acts like Warmduscher and Sinead O’Brien will get the night started right before the Pixies take fans on a career-spanning setlist journey.
Concert goers can easily find hotels close to the arena and great dining options for before or after the event. Transportation to the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena is straightforward using public transit or ride shares. This promises to be one of the can’t miss rock events of the year in Wales. Don’t hesitate to lock in tickets and make plans to attend this special anniversary show by the legendary Pixies.