Reunited Smashing Pumpkins Finally Make it to Cleveland on November 1st

The Smashing Pumpkins will play their first show in Northeast Ohio since 2000 when they take the stage at Playhouse Square's Palace Theater on November 1st. Billy Corgan, who sings and writes the songs for the chart topping band that earned fame in the 90's, was able to lure Jimmy Chamberlin back into to band after a long hiatus. Despite his best attempts Corgan wasn't able to ensnare former members James Iha or D'arcy Wretzky for the tour. Corgan went so far as issuing a plea in the Chicago Tribune, the band got their start in the windy city, but both declined to tour.

Corgan and Chamberlin went back to the studio and released 'Zeitgeist' which came out last summer to mixed reviews. Rolling Stone, for instance, proclaimed " 'Zeitgeist', performed entirely by Corgan and Chamberlin, is a Pumpkins record – and a good one". Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, NME chided Corgan and his effort saying "Let there be no doubt, without guitarist James Iha and either bassists D’Arcy Wretzky or Melissa Auf Der Maur this is a Smashing Pumpkins record in name alone. More realistically, this is a Billy Corgan record, and that’s never a great idea."

The truth be told, Corgan was and always will be the Smashing Pumpkins. He famously played 90% of their breakthrough album Siamese Dream and was only being cordial by asking the ex-Pumpkins alumni along for a little retrospective joyride. While 'Zeitgeist' doesn't match up to Corgan's old side project 'Zwan' it was a nice a complement to the bands discography.

While the Pumpkins may be heading to Cleveland a little late on their tour, it shouldn't dampen your enthusiasm. When Billy Corgan and company, no matter who the company may be, is in town rock n roll fans should reserve the date.