This compilation is, in most parts, made up of live performances the Pumpkins did allover the world in 1993. Most of the tracks on offer originally appeared on their “Siamese Dream” album.
Highlights include a much heavier version of ‘Disarm’ recorded live for English TV, an acoustic version of ‘Cherub Rock’ performed for MTV in Europe and a breathtaking version of ‘Soma’ recorded in London.
The songs here have a much rawer sound than that of their original album versions. Some tracks lack the emotion that the original version possessed but they are all nevertheless great tracks and different enough to sound interesting. Also on offer here are a few non-LP tracks such as a powerful live version of ‘I am one.’ There is also ‘Bugg Superstar’ is a curious minute and a half piece that sounds a lot more like the Pet Shop Boys and ‘Pulseazar,’ an interesting distorted piece with Billy Corgan’s soft vocals goes over it. It sounds more like a demo version that could have been produced into something more.
The album closes with the 15 minute, guitar driven instrumental ‘Why am I so tired.’ Here Billy Corgan is able to better demonstrate his skills as a guitarist. It does get a bit dull after a while and it ends rather suddenly, it is nevertheless a good listen. This is without a doubt a must for any fan of the Smashing Pumpkins. Once again they’ve filled the CD with 76 minutes of awesome music so you’ll definitely be getting your moneys worth!