Alternative rock band formed in early 1986 in Boston, Massachusetts, US. The original lineup consisted of Black Francis (real name artist IV) (vocals, guitar), Kim Deal (bass, vocals), artist (guitar), and artist (drums).
Kim Deal left the band in 2012 and was replaced by artist for their 2013 tour. Paz Lenchantin joined the band in 2014 and remained in the lineup until 2024, when she was succeeded by artist.