Black Francis plots solo album

Pixies are one of the most important American rock group of their generation. Patenting the whole 'quiet / loud' schtick before Kurt Cobain had even got to first base, they recorded a string of seminal material.

Lead singer Black Francis drove the group on, with his other-worldly howl coming to be one of the group's signature tricks. Reforming in 2004, the return of Pixies has not stopped the singer from indulging in a solo career.

Releasing 'Svn Fngrs' in 2008 Black Francis entered middle age gracefully, but still retained an urge to rock. Since then the singer has been occupied with the Pixies re-union, recently playing their seminal album 'Doolittle' in its entirety.

An acclaimed producer in his own right, Black Francis also took time out to work on Art Brut's new album. 'Art Brut Vs Satan' was an artistic success, cementing the band's position as a cult phenomenon in the United States.

However, it seems that Black Francis has also been busy working on his own material. The grunge pioneer will release new album 'NonStopErotik' on April 5th.

Co-produced with Erik Drew Feldman the album will contain all new material, with Black Francis remaining tight-lipped over a possible new direction. Meanwhile, Pixies have confirmed that they are set to play a series of shows across Europe, Australia and New Zealand this Spring.

Pixies are due to release their new album 'NonStopErotik' on April 5th.