Reviving 'Gigantic': Grohl and Deal Reawaken Rock's Defiant Spirit
Kim Deal and Dave Grohl deliver a powerful rendition of Pixies' 'Gigantic', sparking a raw, uncontainable rock revival at London's Roundhouse.
In the shadowed halls of the Roundhouse in London, on June 20th, 2025, a unique chord resonated—a moment both ephemeral and defining in rock’s perpetually evolving narrative. Kim Deal, a figurehead of alternative rock’s gritty past, invited the perennial Dave Grohl to join her on stage. What followed was not just a performance, but an artful nod to rock history as they revived the Pixies’ “Gigantic.”
Grohl, the ever-amiable frontman of Foo Fighters, embodies the nice-guy archetype in a genre that thrives on edge and rebellion. His playful promise—“I’ll sing whatever you ask me to sing. I’ll do whatever you ask me to do”—added an unexpected charm, melting any cynical expectations. It wasn’t just two veteran musicians sharing a laugh; this was a palpable synergy, a rare kind of generous collision between rock royalty.
Kim Deal, touring solo in support of “Nobody Loves You More”, brought to the forefront her classic, raw verve—a comforting reminder in a music scene that often prizes sheen over substance. Not merely retracing her Pixies days or the gutsy power of The Breeders, Deal’s performance spoke to her enduring influence and ability to adapt while staying true to the spirit of punk rock.
Foo Fighters, having dropped "But Here We Are" in 2023, continue to dominate the global stage, although in this intimate setting, Grohl found a different kind of validation—a departure from arena rock glory to something humbler yet deeply resonant. This wasn’t about audience numbers or chart-topping hits; it was about a raw, unfiltered connection—a conversation through chords.
Today's musical zeitgeist often leans towards the polished and predictable, overlooking the rawness that once defined rock. But in this moment, Grohl and Deal reminded us of rock’s genuine essence. Rather than clinging to past glories, they sparkled with authenticity, showcasing that real artistry isn’t found in the glare of the spotlight but in genuine, spontaneous collaboration.
As Grohl and Deal commandeered the stage, they didn’t merely cover a song. They revisited and reshaped a legacy, injecting fresh life into rock’s chaotic heart. In an industry that sometimes feels derailed by superficiality, their gathering on stage was a striking reminder: music at its best is a dynamic, rebellious, and ultimately uncontainable force. Together, they breathed life into the notion that rock’s spirit, when handled with genuine passion and mutual respect, is far from extinguished.
