The Smashing Pumpkins albums ranked

The Smashing Pumpkins: A Journey Through Their Albums

For over three decades, The Smashing Pumpkins, led by the enigmatic Billy Corgan, have defied categorization and pushed the boundaries of alternative rock. Despite being mistakenly labeled as a grunge band early in their career, the band’s sound transcends any single genre, drawing from influences as diverse as goth, psychedelia, metal, and electronica.

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The Smashing Pumpkins: Alt Rock Icons from Chicago

The Smashing Pumpkins are an American alternative rock band formed in Chicago, Illinois in 1988. They are considered one of the most influential and successful bands of the 1990s, selling over 30 million albums worldwide.

Band Members:

Billy Corgan (vocals, guitar, songwriter)
James Iha (guitar)
D’arcy Wretzky (bass)
Jimmy Chamberlin (drums)

Musical Style:

The Smashing Pumpkins’ sound is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, contrasting dynamics, and Corgan’s distinctive vocals. Their music often blends elements of alternative rock, grunge, and dream pop, with lyrical themes that touch on alienation, angst, and existentialism.

Hit Songs:

“1979”
“Bullet with Butterfly Wings”
“Tonight, Tonight”
“Cherub Rock”
“Disarm”

Let’s embark on a journey through their discography, ranking their albums from worst to best.

12. Zeitgeist (2007)

Following the collapse of his short-lived supergroup Zwan, Billy Corgan reunited The Smashing Pumpkins for their seventh studio album, “Zeitgeist.” However, only Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin were involved in its making, with Terry Date and Roy Thomas Baker sharing production duties. While the album features some decent moments, it ultimately feels like The Smashing Pumpkins on autopilot, lacking the spark of their best work.

11. Cyr (2020)

With their eleventh full-length album, “Cyr,” The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a self-produced collection of 20 songs exploring new sonic territories. While diehard fans embraced this experimentation, casual listeners might find themselves surprised by the lack of traditional alt-rock riffs. Nevertheless, tracks like the title song “Cyr” and “Wyttch” showcase Corgan’s talent for crafting memorable melodies in a synth-pop landscape.

10. Shiny And Oh So Bright, Vol.1 (2018)

Produced by Rick Rubin, “Shiny And Oh So Bright, Vol.1” marked The Smashing Pumpkins’ return to the studio with guitarist James Iha since 2000. While the album has its moments, such as the single “Solara” and the gospel-infused “Knights Of Malta,” it suffers from pacing issues and a relatively short runtime. Despite these shortcomings, it’s a solid effort that hints at the band’s potential for future growth.

9. Machina II/The Friends & Enemies Of Modern Music (2000)

Originally intended as part of the “Machina/The Machines Of God” album, “Machina II” saw Billy Corgan’s bold move to press only 25 vinyl copies and distribute them for free on the internet. The album, featuring the classic lineup, kicks off with a burst of energy on tracks like “Glass” and “Cash Car Star,” showcasing The Smashing Pumpkins at their raw and unfiltered best.

8. Monuments To An Elegy (2014)

Featuring guitarist Jeff Schroeder and surprise guest drummer Tommy Lee of Motley Crue, “Monuments To An Elegy” offers a refreshing departure from the band’s signature sound. Tracks like “One And All (We Are)” and “Drum + Fife” demonstrate a leaner, more pop-rock-oriented approach while maintaining the band’s trademark intensity. Clocking in at just 32 minutes, it’s a concise yet satisfying listen.

7. Oceania (2012)

Described by Corgan as an “album within an album,” “Oceania” draws from the abandoned Teargarden project and features bassist Nicole Fiorentino and drummer Mike Byrne. The chemistry among the band members shines through on tracks like “Quasar” and “Panopticon,” offering a return to form after the disappointing “Zeitgeist.” With its blend of heavy riffage and dreamlike atmospheres, “Oceania” showcases The Smashing Pumpkins at their most dynamic.

6. Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts (2023)

Released as three separate albums over six months, “Atum” is the third installment in a trilogy of concept albums, following “Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness” and “Machina/The Machine Of God.” Set among the stars, “Atum” offers a multi-layered story accompanied by diverse musical styles, ranging from synth-pop to classic Pumpkins riffs. While its ambitious scope may be daunting, fans will find plenty to explore within its 33 tracks.

5. Machina/The Machines Of God (2000)

Originally envisioned as a double album, “Machina/The Machines Of God” saw The Smashing Pumpkins returning to form with producer Flood and a creative resurgence. The inclusion of drummer Jimmy Chamberlin injected new energy into the band, resulting in standout tracks like “The Everlasting Gaze” and “Stand Inside Your Love.” While it may not reach the heights of their earlier work, “Machina” remains a compelling chapter in the band’s discography.

4. Adore (1998)

Following a series of personal tragedies, including the overdose of touring keyboard player Jonathan Melvoin, The Smashing Pumpkins embarked on a new musical direction with “Adore.” Exploring themes of grief and loss, the album leans heavily into electronica territory, dividing fans with its departure from their signature sound. Nevertheless, tracks like “Ava Adore” and “Perfect” showcase Corgan’s poignant songwriting and the band’s willingness to evolve.

3. Gish (1991)

Released just before the explosion of Nirvana’s “Nevermind,” “Gish” established The Smashing Pumpkins as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative rock scene. Produced by Butch Vig, the album seamlessly blends stadium-sized choruses with introspective shoegaze, setting the stage for their breakthrough success with “Siamese Dream.” Tracks like “Siva” and “Snail” remain standout moments in the band’s early catalog, hinting at the brilliance to come.

2. Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness (1995)

Following the critical and commercial success of “Siamese Dream,” The Smashing Pumpkins embarked on their most ambitious project yet: a 28-track double album spanning a diverse range of styles and emotions. With producers Flood and Alan Moulder at the helm, the band delivered a masterpiece that defied categorization. From the anthemic “Tonight, Tonight” to the angst-ridden “Bullet With Butterfly Wings,” “Mellon Collie” remains a landmark achievement in alternative rock.

1. Siamese Dream (1993)

In the midst of personal turmoil and creative challenges, The Smashing Pumpkins crafted their magnum opus with “Siamese Dream.” Despite internal conflicts and Corgan’s perfectionism, the album stands as a testament to the band’s artistic vision and musical prowess. From the explosive opener “Cherub Rock” to the introspective “Disarm,” each track on “Siamese Dream” captures a moment of raw emotion and sonic brilliance. With its blend of heavy riffage and heartfelt lyrics, it remains the quintessential Smashing Pumpkins album, securing its place at the top of their discography.

Tours:

The Smashing Pumpkins have embarked on numerous worldwide tours throughout their career, headlining major festivals and playing sold-out arenas and stadiums. They are known for their energetic live performances, which often feature extended improvisations and visual elements.

Legacy:

The Smashing Pumpkins are considered one of the most important bands of their generation. They helped to popularize alternative rock and paved the way for countless other bands. Their music continues to resonate with fans around the world, and they remain an active force in the music industry today.

The band has undergone several lineup changes over the years, with Corgan being the only constant member. The current lineup features Corgan, Chamberlin, and Iha, who reunited in 2018.

In addition to their critically acclaimed albums, The Smashing Pumpkins are also known for their music videos, which often feature innovative visuals and storytelling. Their video for “1979” won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video in 1996.

In conclusion, The Smashing Pumpkins’ albums offer a rich tapestry of sound and emotion, spanning three decades of musical evolution. From their early days as alternative rock pioneers to their more recent experiments with electronica and synth-pop, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of what rock music can be. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a casual listener, there’s something in their discography for everyone to enjoy.