Pixies

"Monkey Gone To Heaven" by Pixies from Doolittle (1989)

With references to both environmentalism, numerology and divinity, Frank Black (Pixies front man) questions the traditionally held beliefs about our planet. This canonical alt-rock tune features some of Black's most intense wailing ("Then God is seven! Then God is seven!"), but also maintains a soft chorus sung by Black and bassist Kim Deal. A staple in the Pixies' catalogue, "Monkey Gone To Heaven" offers a more complex arrangement than usually found on conventional alternative rock singles, adding two cellists, two violinists and a piano player to the mix to add a more lush sound.