WHY DIDN'T THE PUMPKINS COME TO AUSTRALIA???

They were a band called The Smashing Pumpkins. They began with humble beginnings in the era of Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Nine Inch Nails. But, like these bands, they were different in their own, very special, very much appreciated way... and throughout the years, over the course of hundreds of songs and six full length albums, they've kept us guessing. I have had the extreme misfortune of NOT EVER ATTENDING a concert - that's what happens when you get into a band after their peak of fame. And now they are no more - but let their music live on through those people (like me) who will keep playing their songs, quoting those precious lines of wisdom and pain and love, and won't forget what they left here. The music - the wonderful beginning and end of something beyond words.

it's destiny... pure lunacy... incalculable, insufferable...

Billy Corgan

As the principle songwriter, vocalist and guitarist, there is the inevitable spotlight shining down on his presently bald forehead. And there is little doubt that Corgan's mastery at writing songs, both text and music-wise, can be equalled by any other individual. His wonderfully distinct voice can be grating and nasal in one moment, soft and lullaby-like the next. It is often this musical element that makes or breaks the Pumpkins for any potential fan. Billy Corgan's singing annoying? Never!

I'm rumoured to the straight and narrow...

D'Arcy Wretzsky-Brown

The heavy, yet somehow dainty presence of bassist D'Arcy has been a fundamental part of the identity of the band. A backing vocalist in several of the songs, and appearing with her husband's band (Melissa?), her fleeting presence has been one of the trademarks of the Pumpkins that cannot be replaced. I have little to say about the role of the bass in the Pumpkins' songs, except that on the whole it's faultless (if forgettable), BUT, not to detract from D'Arcy's skill as a player - watch any live concerts and her tenacity and skill is evident (while Billy croons away and James plays with feedback).

and I knew the echo that is love...

James Iha

Lead guitarist and established vocalist, with his own independent album and solo career, James, like D'Arcy, has been irreplacable as part of the band. There is no other way to describe him other than strange, and extremely talented. Always appearing calm and unruffled, yet earthily passionate in his songs, some may be surprised at how different his own music is to that which he plays in the band. And who can forget him dressed as a woman in the Today videoclip? A man of many wonders, and surprises, and a rather beautiful voice.

lovely girl, you're the murder in my world...

Jimmy Chamberlin

Possibly the "heavy" force that drove the band in their earlier days, the absence of his drumming is what brought Adore to standards previously untouched, almost in a different genre. Chamberlin was fired for drug use after the death of touring keyboardist Jonathon Melvoin during the tour for Mellon Collie. However, with his return to the band for Machina, they have surprised once again with an eclectic combination of all things alternative.

tomorrow's just an excuse...

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