Monkey Gone to Heaven / Manta Ray

Produced by Gil Norton, this lead single from 'Doolittle' famously augmented the Pixies' abrasive loud-quiet-loud dynamic with an ominous string arrangement played by guest cellists. Black Francis's lyrics touch upon environmental degradation, mythological creatures, and Hebrew numerology. It became the band's first track to chart in the United States, cementing their status as pioneers of the impending alternative rock boom.