Money aside, because I’m sure they still made a ton, one could argue Pavement‘s reunion was plotted all wrong. Whereas some bands make their long-desired comeback with a string of North American dates and an appearance on Jimmy Fallon first (i.e. Guided by Voices) before taking to the Coachellas and Lollapaloozas of the world to offer one final hour of nostalgia, Pavement went the Australia-to-Japan-to-Coachella-to-Europe-to-Sasquatch-to-Europe-again-to-Pitchfork-to-Europe-a-third-time-and-then-along-the-way-let’s-release-a-greatest-hits-album route before finally embarking on a full US headlining tour in September. Consequently, much of the initial reunion excitement has appeared to run dry, leaving many with $50 tickets they’re now trying to spin off — though, as New Yorkers will tell you, that’s way easier said than done.

Pavement has to have heard the stories about massive amounts of tickets being listed on Craigslist as well as low turn-out numbers in major metropolitan areas. So, maybe it’s not too coincidental that amidst the band’s five night run in New York City this week, they made time for two marketing ploys/late night appearances, including one which provided one fan the once in a lifetime opportunity to play guitar with the band. His name was Steve Goss and his award came last night when Pavement took to J-Fal for a performance of their classic “Stereo”. And while I’m not saying it’s a result of his presence, they did sound way better last night than they did on Colbert.

Plus, Malkmus even cracked a smile.

Update: Pavement also played “Unfair”. Video for that is posted below, as well.

“Stereo”

“Unfair”