Zeitgeist

Performer: The Smashing Pumpkins
Distributor: MSI Music Distribution

Notes: Following the demise of the short-lived Zwan and an ill-received solo album (THEFUTUREEMBRACE), singer/guitarist Billy Corgan decided to revive the Smashing Pumpkins, issuing ZEITGEIST, the revered alternative-rock group's first official studio outing in more than seven years, in the summer of 2007. Pared down to the core of Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlain for the album's recording, the Pumpkins sidestep past sonic indulgences, avoiding the overt lushness of MELLON COLLIE AND THE INFINITE SADNESS and the electronic leanings of ADORE, to create a sharply honed aesthetic that is enhanced by the presence of veteran producers Roy Thomas Baker (The Cars, Queen) and Terry Date (Deftones, Soundgarden). While there are lighter moments on ZEITGEIST (see the shimmering "Neverlost"), the Pumpkins seem most at home when doling out heavy, upbeat numbers, particularly the searing "Doomsday Clock" and the hard-charging "Tarantula," which showcase Corgan's signature six-string ferocity and Chamberlain's percussive punch. By reining in his often-overactive muse, Corgan has arguably crafted his most focused record since SIAMESE DREAM, making the reinvigorated Pumpkins--rounded out by touring musicians Jeff Schroeder (guitar), Ginger Reyes (bass), and Lisa Hamilton (keyboards)--much more than just a halfhearted reunion act.

Rolling Stone (p.90) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "The best thing about ZEITGEIST is that Corgan is back to what he does best: hard-rock architecture. His wall-of-guitars overdubs are exhilarating in their details." Rolling Stone (p.115) - Included in Rolling Stone's "50 Top Albums of the Year 2007" -- "[They] make an art-pop roar worthy of the Pumpkins crown." Spin (p.105) - 3.5 stars out of 5 -- "[T]his is a loud, almost triumphant statement that finds the Pumpkins' founder rediscovering his strengths..." Entertainment Weekly (p.67) - "This resumption of a brand name and sensibility brings the thunder; if you're nostalgic for the 90's, it's like curling up with a warm Marshall stack." -- Grade: B Uncut (p.94) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "ZEITGEIST is irrefutable evidence that Corgan's vividly haunting and singularly menacing songwriting faculties are indeed still intact."

Before The Smashing Pumpkins, alternative rock had yet to touch upon the grandiose arena rock of the 1970s. Leader/singer/guitarist/songwriter Billy Corgan composed songs that were somehow part Boston, Cure, Queen, and Jane's Addiction. The Pumpkins were rewarded by becoming one of the biggest rock bands of the '90s. Corgan broke up the band at the beginning of the new century, yet after trying his hand as the leader of the band Zwan and as a solo artist, he reformed Smashing Pumpkins with a new line-up. The band has been touring and recording since 2005.

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