RATINGS:
SMASHING PUMPKINS:
1.GISH (GOOD) Released in 1991, Gish marks the beginning of one of today's hottest alternative
bands. "I Am One," "Crush," "Suffer," and "Fristessa" are the strongest songs on this
album, and show that this band has a dynamic hard rocking sound.
2.SIAMESE DREAM (GOOD) Released in 1993, this album is a strong follow-up. "Cherub Rock" and
"Rocket" are two heavy and thoroughly convincing examples of this band's capabilities.
"Disarm" is a slow and captivating tune which shows the group's immense range.
3.PISCES ISCARIOT (GOOD) Released in 1994, this album is a collection of outtakes and b-sides. "Frail and
Bedazzled" and "Plume" are two examples of some of the splendid work which was
originally never meant to be released.
4.MELLON COLLIE AND THE INFINITE SADNESS (EXCELLENT) Released in 1995, this double album elevated the Smashing Pumpkins
from just another alternative act to rock superstars. Both parts of this double album
showcase significant diversity and complexity. The atmosphere of the album ranges from
the sweet sounds of "Tonight, Tonight" to the angry "Bullet with Butterfly Wings." Yet,
no matter whether the song is slow, intense, sad, or angry, the songs are all near flawless
in execution and exquisite in delivery.
5.THE AEROPLANE FLIES HIGH (GOOD) Released in 1996, this five CD set combines the band's hit singles, cover songs, and previously unreleased originals found on five of their CD singles. This CD set is highly recommended for the rabid Smashing Pumpkins fan. More casual listeners of the band however will probably not find this collection of five CDs a worthwhile investment. Of all the previously unreleased material found in this set, the best selection is the title track. "The Aeroplane Flies High" is one of the band's finest songs.
6. ADORE (GOOD) Released in 1998, Adore contrasts with The Smashing Pumpkins' earlier efforts. None of the former hard and heavy Pumpkins sound appears on this album. The unrelenting jams and banshee wails of past albums are replaced here with soft, mellow melodies, and quiet, melancholy vocals. No hardcore jams are to be found anywhere on this album; although, the slow and easy pace is picked up occasionally with songs like "Ava Adore" and "Pug."
These two songs are also two of the best on the album if for no other reason than they distinguish themselves surrounded by so many ballads. The intensity is more often brought up with synthesized sounds rather than heavy guitar strumming. The only time the guitar playing seems to reach a reminiscent vivacity is in the 8 minute "For Martha." Even though the old energy is not here, that does not mean this album is lacking in profundity. This album is a bittersweet collection of songs chronicling such themes as guilt, and loss of innocence which have been touched on in earlier albums. The songs are tender and heartfelt. The ballads are deep and meaningful, and most of all enjoyable. Fans
who only enjoy The Pumpkins' heavier tunes may not enjoy this album. However, the slow songs complied on this album are as strong as any of the Pumpkins previous softer tunes, as attested by the remarkable selections "To Sheila" and "Shame." Adore is a
quality album, but does drag at times. The addition of a couple more up-tempo tunes would make elevated it to a masterwork.
© 1997 t-specht@students.uiuc.edu
