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=> GENERAL DISCUSSION => Topic started by: bnyced0 on May 22, 2007, 08:59:00 pm
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Ok folks I??m going to try and keep this short and sweet, it??s late and I have an early flight. I??m not a professional blogger so I??ll leave the set list, photos, etc to others there were enough people there that those will be out on the street likely by morning if not sooner.
Anyway the vibe, the venue was nice (maybe a little too nice) the atmosphere was electric but a little stuffy. It was a theater with seats, orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony. I had orchestra about 6 rows back on the left side (stage right) in front of Ginger. Ok, first off I loved Darcy (pre-crack), and I think Melissa ADM is a talented Canadian goddess, but Ginger is SMOKIN and a phuckin good bassist. Ok so bass wise, we??re all good. Forgive me but I can??t remember the new guitarist name, but I??m sure that??ll be out there as well (I knew it but I??m approaching vertigo on the no-sleep meter) but he??s competent and all the old songs sounded just as good.
The overall sound was excellent, and the look was pretty mesmerizing, they came out in all white with the new logo as a back drop, again I??m sure there will be photos o??plenty of everything.
The set was basically broken into 3 parts, started off fairly heavy, a middle acoustic section, and ended heavy with killer encores. The new stuff was good, I had only heard the Tarantala track in advance so I was trying let the new stuff sink in but it was pretty hard to tell the crowd loved everything so I don??t think that??s a fair test, I loved everything so I don??t have much objectivity either.
I guess what you really wondering is whether they??re the real deal or a facsimile of their former selves. They were as good as any other time I??ve seen them, including with the full original line up at a fetish club in LA in 91 a show that made me a SP slave for life, the old tunes didn??t seem to suffer nor did the new stuff seem forced. The length of the show sneaks up on you because you??re kinda of wondering what??s coming next so a couple of hours passed it felt like nothing. I went to the 2nd to last show in Chicago before they broke up and the vibe was sort of like that, you knew what you were getting but you couldn??t quite believe that it was happening. This felt like a real show not a reunion. A comparison to the RATM set at Coachella, where you knew every song word for word and also that the concert would only be about 1.5 hours, this was more intense because you just didn??t know what to expect. Bottom Line?
It was fucking awesome.
Goodnight.
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Thanks for the report, bnyced0!
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Now that I??ve had a few hours to let this marinate in my mind, a few additional thoughts. I??ll reiterate that the show didn??t have a ??reunion? feel to it, it just seemed like a gig. I guess the biggest difference was that there wasn??t a feeling of nostalgia, that was probably due to the immediacy of the new songs, and soundness of the performance of the old songs with the same subtle changes in a live setting that has always been apart of SP gigs.
Another thing that has occurred to me is that this also doesn??t seem like a crass cash grab, the fact that they are planning smaller shows (3K or less in Europe) and the residencies (I paid less for a ticket to Asheville than the surcharges on most festival tickets) in the US along with the festival appearances shows at least to me that they are trying hone their chops and kind of get a real band vibe going before playing arenas, etc. Just by a way of contrast, the Pixies endless reunion while great never rose above their past, which if you were there in the past wasn??t all that illustrious. They kind of took advantage of the fondness of the old fans, and the feeling of missing something of the younger newer fans. I was apart of the problem in the sense that I went to at least a dozen of those shows and was at another half dozen of the festival appearances, and the set list varied little over the 2 years of touring they did. This isn??t a criticism as much as a comparison, the Pixies made a lot of people happy and they sounded great. I have the feeling that SP on the other hand isn??t (specifically Billy doesn??t want to) merely rest of past accomplishments, make a bunch of cash, and bug off again.
Now the shrewdness of the whole come back effort has to be applauded albeit a very cynical enterprise. Announcing 2 years in advance ??they? are coming back, keeping everything shrouded in secrecy as to who was in the band and not releasing any new material until the last minute, has whipped everyone into a frenzy, a very 2007 viral campaign. I think Billy has spent a long time reviewing the BUSINESS of rock and roll and I think he??s calculated this all very carefully, and I also think he??s looking at this from a fan??s perspective and how he would want one of his favorite bands to comeback.
I could be naïve, or merely hopeful. But based on the energy of the playing last night, this is not going to be a joke. They were one of the biggest bands in the world, but the world has changed since 2000. But I think it could happen again, you can??t fake this shit either you??re good or your not. They are fucking good.
I??m not one of the those in denial about Silversun Pickups sounding like old SP and that is certainly the reason why I like them so much because I??ve been starved for the genuine article. The real thing is back, and you can try and be a purist and say without Darcy and James it??s NOT the real thing. I can only say this, listen to the music, whoever the fuck is playing it you get the same feeling, that??s the only litmus test I can follow, and I got the same feeling.
Alright I??m done.
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So what were you doing in Paris?
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Except, uh, the Pixies shows were REUNIONS. This is Corgan solo playing Pumpkins songs. Who is this different than the new GNR?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Just by a way of contrast, the Pixies endless reunion while great never rose above their past, which if you were there in the past wasn??t all that illustrious. They kind of took advantage of the fondness of the old fans, and the feeling of missing something of the younger newer fans.
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Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
So what were you doing in Paris?
I was in England for ATP over the weekend, I just came to Paris for the Pumpkins show once it was announced. I'm heading back home for a couple of days in a few hours.
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Was France in the awful mess that people on this board seem to portray it as being in?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
So what were you doing in Paris?
I was in England for ATP over the weekend, I just came to Paris for the Pumpkins show once it was announced. I'm heading back home for a couple of days in a few hours. [/b]
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Originally posted by nkotb:
Except, uh, the Pixies shows were REUNIONS. This is Corgan solo playing Pumpkins songs. Who is this different than the new GNR?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Just by a way of contrast, the Pixies endless reunion while great never rose above their past, which if you were there in the past wasn??t all that illustrious. They kind of took advantage of the fondness of the old fans, and the feeling of missing something of the younger newer fans.
[/b]
Like I said, you can be the judge of the music. If you're going to be hung up on the fact that only two "original" members are in the new line-up that's on you. Over the history of the pumpkins I'd dare say there were more shows played without "the original line-up" than were but since I don't have the precise figures or even really care I can't swear to it, but I think it must be close. And what I heard was NOT Billy solo, but I'm also not going to try and be an apologist and defend them if you think they suck so be it, but if you want others to be unenthusiastic because it's not the line-up from 1991 you're going to be shit out of luck. I'm not the same from 1991 and neither are you, shit happens and we move on. Like I said this wasn't a nostaglia trip, it was just a great band sounding great.
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Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
Was France a fantastical utopia of svelte, beautiful, tastefully attired people; none of whom live below the poverty line?
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Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
Was France in the awful mess that people on this board seem to portray it as being in?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
So what were you doing in Paris?
I was in England for ATP over the weekend, I just came to Paris for the Pumpkins show once it was announced. I'm heading back home for a couple of days in a few hours. [/b]
[/b]
What poverty, racial violence, and laziness? It didn't seem like it to me, but I'm there fairly often and the other bullshit stereotypes I've read from people on this board arent' true either. I do know the dumbassess running our economic policy in the states have not only squeezed out the middle class and raised the numbers falling into poverty, but our currency isn't worth shit and was raped on the exchange both in UK and in France. But that's another argument.
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Will this tour allow Billy to buy another 8 million dollar lakefront property?
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I happen to like the pre-Mellon Collie albums quite a bit, and I've seen the band a handful of times previous, so it's not like I think they suck*. I just think it's a little weird to think this isn't some type of cash grab. Billy's tried two things since the split: Zwan, which tanked, and a solo record, which also tanked. If he had toured solo, with a backing band, and played the exact same set as you saw, would you have been as excited? Would it have made as much news and money? No...people are buying into the Smashing Pumpkins brand.
But I also honestly don't get the difference between this tour (two original members playing some new material and a lot of old tracks) and GNR (one original member, one auxiliary member, and a lot of bigger names added playing some new material and a lot of old tracks). How is one a nostalgia trip and the other isn't? How is one authentic and the other not?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by nkotb:
Except, uh, the Pixies shows were REUNIONS. This is Corgan solo playing Pumpkins songs. Who is this different than the new GNR?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Just by a way of contrast, the Pixies endless reunion while great never rose above their past, which if you were there in the past wasn??t all that illustrious. They kind of took advantage of the fondness of the old fans, and the feeling of missing something of the younger newer fans.
[/b]
Like I said, you can be the judge of the music. If you're going to be hung up on the fact that only two "original" members are in the new line-up that's on you. Over the history of the pumpkins I'd dare say there were more shows played without "the original line-up" than weren't since I don't have the precise figures or even care I can't swear to it, but I think it must be close. And what I heard was NOT Billy solo, but I'm also not going to try and be an apologist and defend them if you think they suck so be it, but if you want others to be unenthusiastic because it's not the line-up from 1991 you going to be shit out of luck. I'm not the same from 1991 and neither are you, shit happens and we move on. Like I said this wasn't a nostaglia trip, it was just a great band sounding great. [/b]
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Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
Will this tour allow Billy to buy another 8 million dollar lakefront property?
you're such a miserable prick.
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OK, I have a plane to catch so this will be the last thing I have to say about this. My point wasn't that you think past SP sucks in general, but rather that you seem hellbent to think THIS SP sucks/will suck/etc. I can say one last time, listen to them, if you don't like it fine. But I think if you like what the SP represented in ANY time period you probably won't be as disappointed as you expect. Now you may be stubborn enough to deny any legitimacy in this new enterprise and that's on you. As far as the differences between this and GnR I won't insult your intelligence, if you want to go with that analogy fine I'm not in the mood for a pissing contest over something that simply doesn't have any validity from my perspective. All I can say is that I've seen them, heard some of the new tunes, and I think they're good, once you do you can make a knowlegable opinion based on what you've witnessed rather than speculation. If you choose to just sit on sidelines and heckle have at it, I can only think of one person that loses in that scenario. I'm outa here, Pumpkins are back deal with it.
Originally posted by nkotb:
[QB] I happen to like the pre-Mellon Collie albums quite a bit, and I've seen the band a handful of times previous, so it's not like I think they suck*. I just think it's a little weird to think this isn't some type of cash grab. Billy's tried two things since the split: Zwan, which tanked, and a solo record, which also tanked. If he had toured solo, with a backing band, and played the exact same set as you saw, would you have been as excited? Would it have made as much news and money? No...people are buying into the Smashing Pumpkins brand.
But I also honestly don't get the difference between this tour (two original members playing some new material and a lot of old tracks) and GNR (one original member, one auxiliary member, and a lot of bigger names added playing some new material and a lot of old tracks). How is one a nostalgia trip and the other isn't? How is one authentic and the other not?
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Fair enough...but I'm genuinely curious. I don't think this will suck, although I'm not remotely excited for it. I'd see one of the shows if it happened to be at the Club, and of course I'd make up my own mind.
I just think it's a little weird to think this is a "pure" reunion that's for the music and not the money. If it was about the music, and strictly the music, why does he need the Smashing Pumpkins branding to get people excited? He was the main contributor; shouldn't his solo record be as exciting? And if he's the only songwriter, why does the name matter?
I just don't really get the level of excitement. Can anyone explain it to me? I can get the "never seen them before" vibe; I'd probably jump on that bandwagon if I hadn't gotten a chance to see them in their prime. But to say "the Pumpkins are back" seems SUPER over the top to me.
If Paul & Ringo put a band together, played all Beatles songs and toured the world, would the Beatles be back? That's fairly similar: one main songwriter and a drummer.
Again, I'm not trying to be a killjoy...I'd really like to know why it's so exciting.
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lucky.
i love paris.
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Maybe he can get the 8 million dollar condo this time around!
From the Chicago Tribune:
Billy Corgan buys a piece of the Gold Coast
Ten months after selling his Victorian painted lady mansion in Lake View for $1 million, former Smashing Pumpkins lead singer and chief songwriter Billy Corgan has paid $2.95 million for a recently renovated, historic six-room condominium on the Gold Coast.
After disbanding the Smashing Pumpkins, Corgan formed a new group, Zwan, which is playing three sold-out shows at the Double Door this weekend.
Through his tour manager, Corgan declined to comment on the purchase of the two-bedroom condo. His tour manager confirmed that the singer-songwriter recently has been staying at the condo while rehearsing for Zwan's current tour, but said the Chicago-area native ultimately intends to lease the condo in a 110-year-old building to someone else. The unit has an oak-paneled living room, reception room, balcony framed by granite columns, four fireplaces, walnut parquet floors and a large terrace.
Corgan has shown an affinity for vintage properties. After moving out of the more than 100-year-old Lake View home at 3448 N. Greenview Ave., which he owned from 1993 to 2001, Corgan temporarily stayed in a penthouse in the Haberdasher Square loft development, 728 W. Jackson Blvd., a former manufacturing building that dates to 1926. And in 2000, the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois awarded Corgan its President's Award for his commitment to historic preservation.
Since Corgan sold his Lake View home, one Smashing Pumpkins Web site reported that he has been living in Italy, but in interviews he has declined any comment on his permanent residence.
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Show of hands, everyone: Who cares about the real estate holdings of musicians besides Rhett? Anyone?
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Obviously, the Chicago Tribune thinks some people do.
Oh, and by the way, I'm not a musician.
Originally posted by Darth Ed:
Show of hands, everyone: Who cares about the real estate holdings of musicians besides Rhett? Anyone?
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Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
Oh, and by the way, I'm not a musician.
I didn't say you were.
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But you implied that with you question....
Who cares about the real estate holdings of musicians besides Rhett?
Originally posted by Darth Ed:
Originally posted by Charlie Nakatestes,Japanese Golfer:
[QB]Oh, and by the way, I'm not a musician.
Um, I didn't say you were. [/b]
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Very well. I shall rephrase the question to disambiguate:
Who besides Rhett cares about the real estate holdings of musicians?
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Originally posted by nkotb:
I just don't really get the level of excitement. Can anyone explain it to me? I can get the "never seen them before" vibe; I'd probably jump on that bandwagon if I hadn't gotten a chance to see them in their prime. But to say "the Pumpkins are back" seems SUPER over the top to me.
If Paul & Ringo put a band together, played all Beatles songs and toured the world, would the Beatles be back? That's fairly similar: one main songwriter and a drummer.
Again, I'm not trying to be a killjoy...I'd really like to know why it's so exciting.
I'm 100% with you on this one. I liked "Gish" and thought of them as sort of a My Bloody Valentine that actually released records. (Just like I initially thought Oasis was a Stones Roses that actually released records. I was severly disappointed on both counts.) But after that they lost me. Billy Corgan and his minions insisted upon themselves.
And this new album? Doesn't the cover of "Zeitgeist" look exactly like an Offspring album cover?
As for the Beatles, at least you can say baby boomers are efficient. Let's consolidate! What are Ringo and Paul? A drummer and a bass player! Who have died from the Who? A drummer and bass player! Get 'em together! Pete Townsend, Roger Daltrey, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney. The Whotles. Think about it. They could sell-out two (maybe three!) nights at Wolf Trap!
Brian
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Billy Corgan has tens of millions of dollars. He's turned down opportunities to use Today and Tonite Tonite in commercials that would have paid over ten million dollars. So, I don't think he's exactly aching for cash. I don't see why it's so hard to believe he actually wants to play Pumpkins material and isn't looking for cash. Their solo shows are selling for $20-25 a ticket when they could easily charge three times as much and sell out the same venues.
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Originally posted by Brian_Walalce:
Originally posted by nkotb:
I just don't really get the level of excitement. Can anyone explain it to me? I can get the "never seen them before" vibe; I'd probably jump on that bandwagon if I hadn't gotten a chance to see them in their prime. But to say "the Pumpkins are back" seems SUPER over the top to me.
If Paul & Ringo put a band together, played all Beatles songs and toured the world, would the Beatles be back? That's fairly similar: one main songwriter and a drummer.
Again, I'm not trying to be a killjoy...I'd really like to know why it's so exciting.
I'm 100% with you on this one. I liked "Gish" and thought of them as sort of a My Bloody Valentine that actually released records. (Just like I initially thought Oasis was a Stones Roses that actually released records. I was severly disappointed on both counts.) But after that they lost me. Billy Corgan and his minions insisted upon themselves.
And this new album? Doesn't the cover of "Zeitgeist" look exactly like an Offspring album cover?
As for the Beatles, at least you can say baby boomers are efficient. Let's consolidate! What are Ringo and Paul? A drummer and a bass player! Who have died from the Who? A drummer and bass player! Get 'em together! Pete Townsend, Roger Daltrey, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney. The Whotles. Think about it. They could sell-out two (maybe three!) nights at Wolf Trap!
Brian [/b]
You have the wrong analogy. If Paul McCartney and John Lennon got together and started writing songs again, would that be worthy of the Beatles moniker?
Corgan and Chamberlin were the songwriters in the Smashing Pumpkins. That's a much more appropriate comparison.
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But that's exactly my point. Why not just play Pumpkins material? Why brand it the Smashing Pumpkins when it's clearly not the same band? What's different about his solo album and Zeitgeist, especially if he's the main songwriter of both?
Everyone is shitting their pants over the reunion. If he had decided to tour under his name, even with Jimmy Chamberlain playing drums and playing the exact same set lists, a fraction of people would care. By putting that name on it, he knows people will respond. That sounds a little greedy to me.
Originally posted by Julian, faux celeb-porn CONNOISSEUR:
I don't see why it's so hard to believe he actually wants to play Pumpkins material and isn't looking for cash.
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Hey, if Bonnie Princess Billy can do it, why not Billy Princess Zwan?
Originally posted by nkotb:
But that's exactly my point. Why not just play Pumpkins material? Why brand it the Smashing Pumpkins when it's clearly not the same band? What's different about his solo album and Zeitgeist, especially if he's the main songwriter of both?
Everyone is shitting their pants over the reunion. If he had decided to tour under his name, even with Jimmy Chamberlain playing drums and playing the exact same set lists, a fraction of people would care. By putting that name on it, he knows people will respond. That sounds a little greedy to me.
Originally posted by Julian, faux celeb-porn CONNOISSEUR:
I don't see why it's so hard to believe he actually wants to play Pumpkins material and isn't looking for cash.
[/b]
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According to allmusic.com, Corgan wrote a vast majority of the songs. James Iha was credited with at least co-writing credit on 6 songs. Chamberlain on none. Just saying.
Originally posted by callat703:
Corgan and Chamberlin were the songwriters in the Smashing Pumpkins. That's a much more appropriate comparison.
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Originally posted by nkotb:
According to allmusic.com, Corgan wrote a vast majority of the songs. James Iha was credited with at least co-writing credit on 6 songs. Chamberlain on none. Just saying.
Originally posted by callat703:
Corgan and Chamberlin were the songwriters in the Smashing Pumpkins. That's a much more appropriate comparison.
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So six songs out of a catalogue of what? A few hundred, counting B sides?
Songs credited to James Iha:
...Said Sadly
Believe
Blew Away
Bugg Superstar
Go
Take Me Down
The Bells
The Boy
Quick! Somebody sing the refrain from The Bells!
I think it's safe to say this version of the band will not be playing any of these songs.
If you've read any interviews with Billy Corgan, he has (throughout the band's history) cited Jimmy Chamberlin as his songwriting partner and creative foil. Just sayin'.
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Right. So how is this not a Billy Corgan solo show?
Originally posted by callat703:
I think it's safe to say this version of the band will not be playing any of these songs.
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Originally posted by nkotb:
Right. So how is this not a Billy Corgan solo show?
Originally posted by callat703:
I think it's safe to say this version of the band will not be playing any of these songs.
[/b]
Wouldn't that also indicate that the Smashing Pumpkins were always a "Billy Corgan solo show?" I mean, seriously - the band almost never played any of those Iha songs live throughout their tenure with the original lineup. I'd venture to bet that some of them have NEVER been played live.
Take Me Down is a nice enough song, as is ...Said Sadly and Go, but I don't think anybody would contend this was ANYWHERE near the best the Pumpkins had to offer.
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Blah, in the end, I guess I really don't care. I'm bored at work and needed something to do, and pointing out that stinks of forced nostalgia and blatant greed. But hey, if that's your thing, more power to you ;)
Originally posted by callat703:
Wouldn't that also indicate that the Smashing Pumpkins were always a "Billy Corgan solo show?" I mean, seriously - the band almost never played any of those Iha songs live throughout their tenure with the original lineup. I'd venture to bet that some of them have NEVER been played live.
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You're pretty cool, nkotb. (Does that stand for "New Kids on the Block?)
I just think a lot of people are naive enough to think that Smashing Pumpkins was EVER anything other than Billy Corgan's ego trip. I mean, he's been on the outs with Jimmy, D'arcy and James at various points in their history. I guess now it's the "Jimmy's cool, James and D'Arcy suck" era.
And if the music was there, I'd give it to them. But it just isn't. Rock n Roll is full of "talented a-holes." And sometimes the suffering is worth it. In this case, I don't feel it is.
Plus, I think there are SOME fanatics out there who own "The Aeroplane Flies High" and know every riff in "The Pastichio Medley" but let's face it, in a dire industry, you can make some profit off of "90's/alt" nostalgia (I just read yesterday that Counting Crows, Collective Soul, Third Eye Blind and Live will be touring together this summer. What, Sponge and Spacehog were too busy?) Most of the people going to these Smashing Pumpkins shows know about five, maybe six songs. They're trying to recapture a past and an era that never existed.
Brian
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Originally posted by nkotb:
Except, uh, the Pixies shows were REUNIONS. This is Corgan solo playing Pumpkins songs. Who is this different than the new GNR?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
Just by a way of contrast, the Pixies endless reunion while great never rose above their past, which if you were there in the past wasn??t all that illustrious. They kind of took advantage of the fondness of the old fans, and the feeling of missing something of the younger newer fans.
[/b]
First reason this is different than GNR: The Pumpkins have a new record set to be released on an actual date, as opposed to GNR, which have a new record that may or may not exist.
Further reasons: GNR wrote their almost all of their songs as a group and credit them as such. Those that were not a group effort were rather equally split between the members in terms of writing credits.
This just isn't true for the Pumpkins. Like him or not, Billy Corgan wrote almost all of the Pumpkins catalog.
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Did someone forget to change all of your diapers today? Jeez louise. Boy would Billy Corgan love this thread just to see all the attention (good and bad) that he's getting.
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Originally posted by nkotb:
I happen to like the pre-Mellon Collie albums quite a bit, and I've seen the band a handful of times previous, so it's not like I think they suck*. I just think it's a little weird to think this isn't some type of cash grab. Billy's tried two things since the split: Zwan, which tanked, and a solo record, which also tanked. If he had toured solo, with a backing band, and played the exact same set as you saw, would you have been as excited? Would it have made as much news and money? No...people are buying into the Smashing Pumpkins brand.
But I also honestly don't get the difference between this tour (two original members playing some new material and a lot of old tracks) and GNR (one original member, one auxiliary member, and a lot of bigger names added playing some new material and a lot of old tracks). How is one a nostalgia trip and the other isn't? How is one authentic and the other not?
If youre looking for the cash-cow reunion, you should have seen the Jesus & Mary Chain at Webster Hall. With tickets at $45 a pop (naturally not including service charges) and a catalog that is quite deep, they should have played for at least an hour and a half. Jim looked like he would have rather been anywhere else but there (I shouldnt have expected more, at least they faced us) and he just seemed to have no energy. Playing must have been the hardest thing he had to do. I must say the guitars were spot-on and really it probably didnt matter about Jim. They did sound great after all.
But I do wonder if it was all about the money. They played an hour long set, and the crowd was going nuts for them. Came back 5 seconds later to play a one song encore. And then *bam* they were gone!
I did see them in college with Mazzy Star and had such fond memories. This will not be leaving any sort of memory except, thank god I had great friends who were all there just for the music. We danced and had fun. But sadly even great company, didnt make the show worth $45.
The set list was probably something off of 21 singles? I forgot the name of it, but whatever their singles album was.
I guess Im hoping/thinking that the SP reunion is more than what JAMC are selling. The ticket prices are reasonable and Billy seems to be putting his heart into it and at least playing some pretty long shows, seeming to not leave people disappointed.
With so many reunions (crowded house, squeeze) and exorbitant ticket prices, it seems that perhaps the SP are on the right track. Even if its all about money, at least I dont have to pay a fortune to see them. and sadly, i couldnt get tickets so probably wotn be seeing them, unless they somehow play lolla :)
just my $.02. and btw - i initially loved SSPU because it reminded me so much of SP. I describe them to everyone as that same sound. too bad they sucked live (imho).
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First:
Originally posted by Brian_Walalce:
You're pretty cool, nkotb. (Does that stand for "New Kids on the Block?)
Thanks for the kind word. Yes, it stands for New Kids on the Block. I first joined this board to make fun of some poster who complained that the Club raped (his words, not mine) Murder City Devils' fans when MDC cut their show sort torotest someone getting thrown out for throwing a bottle. Long story. Anyway, I figured using that as a screen name was so un-rock-n-roll it would bend the kid out of shape, and then I never felt like changing.
Second:
Originally posted by bearman:
Did someone forget to change all of your diapers today? Jeez louise. Boy would Billy Corgan love this thread just to see all the attention (good and bad) that he's getting.
Bearman and a lot of the rest of you are so concerned with music being "authentic," you have to come down on bands or posters that you don't considering real music fans. It just strikes me as odd that none of you think this stinks. Seems a little hypocritical to me is all. It's deemed indie-rock-worthy to think this is ok, but not in other cases. It's just like the argument about Arther Lee's death vs. Layne Staley's death we were having last week.
Third:
Originally posted by callat703:
Like him or not, Billy Corgan wrote almost all of the Pumpkins catalog.
I'll never argue against this. And I couldn't care less about any song James Iha has ever written. But no one has answered yet what the difference is between Billy Corgan's solo work (which was pretty universally dismissed) and the "reunited" Pumpkins band (which is universally revered, at least on this board). Does it being labeled the Pumpkins all of the sudden get him his inspiration back? Probably not, but it certainly get all of you salivating, didn't it!
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Originally posted by nkotb:
But no one has answered yet what the difference is between Billy Corgan's solo work (which was pretty universally dismissed) and the "reunited" Pumpkins band (which is universally revered, at least on this board). Does it being labeled the Pumpkins all of the sudden get him his inspiration back? Probably not, but it certainly get all of you salivating, didn't it!
I don't know how to explain it, but the Pumpkins had a certain sound or style and Corgan explicitly stayed away from it during Zwan and TFE. In 2001, when Zwan played it's first shows, they had all these great tunes, virtually none of which made it to the album. When asked why, Corgan said they were scrapped because they sounded too much like TSP and Zwan wasn't TSP. Again, with TFE, Corgan stated that he set out to put out a certain record and wasn't trying to do a Pumpkins-esque record.
So, while I don't think it's about him getting his "inspiration" back, I do think there's a certain element of him making "Pumpkins music" vs. him making "non-Pumpkins music". I haven't heard all of Zeitgeist, obviously, but the live clips I've heard DO sound like Pumpkins songs. I almost think it's like a switch he throws - he's either trying to write "Pumpkins songs" or "non-Pumpkins songs". I'm not saying Zeitgeist is going to be as good as SD or MCIS, but I do think it'll be closer to those then MSOTS or TFE.
(For the record, I thought MSOTS was pretty decent, but TFE was terrible aside from a song or two.)
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I mentioned this on another thread.
I think the key difference when it comes to the solo album versus the Smashing Pumpkins is the intention behind the writing. In the course of a number of interviews I've done with people that have multiple music projects, most musicians are able to separate the material that they use for each band.
One direct example. I interviewed Ted Stevens of Cursive, who also plays in Mayday, and asked him about the writing process for each band, and how he knew when he wrote a song whether it was a Cursive tune or a Mayday tune. And he said it was pretty clear from the outset where the song was going to end up. It had to do with mood and the initial songwriting goals.
I imagine this is the same for most musicians. As a musician myself, I know when I sit down to write something for my band, its different than when I sit down to write something for myself.
So when it comes to the Smashing Pumpkins, I think the name is indicative of Corgan's intent. Zwan set out to be a different project (read this interview I did with Jimmy Chamberlin to see his take on that: http://kyndmusic.com/june05/chamberlin.htm) (http://kyndmusic.com/june05/chamberlin.htm)) in terms of artistic intent, and ended up morphing into something else due to label pressure.
Corgan's solo record is the same thing - way more keyboards, different collaborators, and ultimately a different product.
I think the Smashing Pumpkins name is reflective of Corgan's songwriting intent. And I think the first single definitely supports that - "Tarantula" just DOES NOT sound like Zwan or TheFutureEmbrace. It sounds much more akin to the Smashing Pumpkins than anything else Corgan has done.
Prolific songwriters are like that. Look at Ryan Adams - he has all kinds of random stuff that he does that ends up under different monikers - The Finger, for example, or doing a record "& The Cardinals" versus just using his name. They're just labels that represent the intention behind them.
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Thanks, Julian. That was my only question, snarky comments aside ;)
I'll admit to never having listened to Zwan, or his solo record. Hell, I never heard all of the last two Pumpkins records until I got them from lala earlier this year. And for good reason, because they pretty much blow, IMO. That being said, I couldn't imagine what the big difference would make.
Still not convinced on my end, but that's a personal choice. Still, if I do go to the Virgin Festival, I'd be more than happy to check them out and be proven wrong.
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Nkotb, all I'm sayin' is that everyone is REALLY taking all of this so damn seriously...bynced0 simply reported that he/she saw the show, was excited by it, and everyone has to go and fucking psychoanalyze this shit to death. This thread is going way beyond the pros and cons of "reunion vs. nonreunion" stuff. It's petty, and it just sounds way more emotional than usual. Lighten up. It was a rock show. Even as a fan of the Pumpkins, I find myself totally on the fence and indifferent to them reforming. I kinda sorta dig the new single, I might go check them out...either way, I'm not getting my panties all in a bunch over any of this. I just have one question for bynced0: was the show free?
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Originally posted by nkotb:
First:
Originally posted by Brian_Walalce:
[qb] You're pretty cool, nkotb. (Does that stand for "New Kids on the Block?)[/b]
Thanks for the kind word. Yes, it stands for New Kids on the Block. I first joined this board to make fun of some poster who complained that the Club raped (his words, not mine) Murder City Devils' fans when MDC cut their show sort torotest someone getting thrown out for throwing a bottle. Long story.
But a good one...
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You remember that? God that was irritating. I was fine with the $10 I paid for the show, even with them leaving in a huff...BRMC was the opener!
Originally posted by saco:
Originally posted by nkotb:
First:
Originally posted by Brian_Walalce:
[qb] You're pretty cool, nkotb. (Does that stand for "New Kids on the Block?)[/b]
Thanks for the kind word. Yes, it stands for New Kids on the Block. I first joined this board to make fun of some poster who complained that the Club raped (his words, not mine) Murder City Devils' fans when MDC cut their show sort torotest someone getting thrown out for throwing a bottle. Long story.
But a good one... [/b]
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OH yes. Josh and Eddie I'm sure have more vivid memories that I, but that was quite the evening.
And threads like that one are always entertaining.
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How was Silverfuck? That's the real question... Was it an all new version or what? They play it 9 zillion different ways.
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Originally posted by bearman:
Nkotb, all I'm sayin' is that everyone is REALLY taking all of this so damn seriously...bynced0 simply reported that he/she saw the show, was excited by it, and everyone has to go and fucking psychoanalyze this shit to death. This thread is going way beyond the pros and cons of "reunion vs. nonreunion" stuff. It's petty, and it just sounds way more emotional than usual. Lighten up. It was a rock show. Even as a fan of the Pumpkins, I find myself totally on the fence and indifferent to them reforming. I kinda sorta dig the new single, I might go check them out...either way, I'm not getting my panties all in a bunch over any of this. I just have one question for bynced0: was the show free?
Gawd what a shit storm this seemingly benign subject has started. It??s not like the subject line of the post was cryptic, so I can??t understand why anyone who feels so strongly that the ??new pumpkins? is a farce and inconsequential would even click on the thread let alone spend so much time to justify why this is such a bad idea.
As far as whether or not the show was free for me, no I paid my 60 euros just like everyone else, plus the surcharge or having to fly over there and stay in a hotel. But just to give some perspective, everyone has their vices, I have mine and it includes a core group of artists (which includes Sonic Youth, PJ Harvey, Prince, Bjork, Ani Difranco, Depeche Mode, Morrissey, and in the past the Smashing Pumpkins amongst others) that I will travel where ever it??s necessary to see them and some people will find that list unworthy of praise and adulation, and I could give a shit less who likes what I like, I make the money I spend, on the shit I find interesting and my vote is the only one that counts.
Anyway my intention wasn??t to start a fight over this subject I just wanted to give my impression of how the pumpkins were to those who care, because I was fairly certain that there would be some curiosity. I honestly don??t give a shit who likes them and who doesn??t. I don??t work for them, not on their street team, and not interested in their personal lives, or anything else that doesn??t have to do with the music. If they??re successful more power to them, I??d be just as happy if no one gave a shit and they had to play Velvet Lounge to pay the rent.
With that said, I don??t think people are going ape shit in a vacuum, and if some think they are exploiting the smashing pumpkins name who the fuck are we to determine that, and try to dissuade them from doing what they want to do? The market will take care of all of this, if they suck no one will care, right?
So let??s see what happens, my first impression is that they don??t suck and all I care is about the quality of the music, someone else can spend their time worried about the other bullshit.
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QUOTE]Gawd what a shit storm this seemingly benign subject has started. [/QB]
I think the all-caps heading got folks fired up.
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Originally posted by Mobius:
QUOTE]Gawd what a shit storm this seemingly benign subject has started. [/b]
I think the all-caps heading got folks fired up. [/QB]
If that's the case, my apologies I was using a funky EU keyboard at the time and dead tired such that my online decorum was slipping so I'm sorry I didn't mean to make it an exclamation like that.
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If that's the case, my apologies I was using a funky EU keyboard at the time and dead tired such that my online decorum was slipping so I'm sorry I didn't mean to make it an exclamation like that. [/QB]
I didn't mean to say it was inappropriate. I thought the topic was worthy of the all-caps.
I'm glad to hear they're in good form. And if the bassist is hot all the better. I don't think the d'arcy/iha contributions should be discounted (more chemistry than pure musical contribution) but if this new marriage works then cool, i guess.
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i really liked the review. It only made me sad that I didnt manage to get tickets to their show in asheville. but it was great to hear they were in top form.
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Last night's set list was sick, geezus they're giving people their money's worth. Now I'm a little dissapointed about monday and the festival gigs in general where they only have about an hour and a half. Never thought I'd envy anything about dusty/smelly Bonnaroo but at least they let 'em play as long as they like. Oh well.
http://www.smashingpumpkins.com/photos_gallery_1018?ID=460 (http://www.smashingpumpkins.com/photos_gallery_1018?ID=460)
<img src="http://www.smashingpumpkins.com/photos_gallery_1018?ID=460" alt=" - " />
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Not to stir up the debate again, but this is a nice article about bands that lose members, etc.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/newsletter/mu-html/chi-0605_bandsjun05,0,6457323.story?coll=orl-middayupdate-ent (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/newsletter/mu-html/chi-0605_bandsjun05,0,6457323.story?coll=orl-middayupdate-ent)
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I think the whole band reunion thing is purely subjective. In all cases, you need to see what the product is, either through a new record or a tour. Even though the Buzzcocks reunited well before this whole reunion craze started up, their "reunion" lineup lasted way longer than their "classic" lineup did. Of course, one can argue that they were always better originally, but they sure have put on some blazing shows post-reunion.
To me, the Misfits of today are NOT the real Misfits. Jerry Only (or Only Jerry) can put on the most spirited presentation, but it's just not really a Misfits show without Danzig's pipes. Some people argue that the Germs are nothing without Darby Crash, but in my mind he wasn't God...he was a druggie fuckup that offed himself (sad as it was), and when I saw the "reunited" Germs last year it turned out to be one of the best concert experiences of my life. Kudos to them for handing people's asses to them.
Look at it this way: you have a job, and three other people get hired at the same time. Day in, day out you work together. Maybe you form bonds with them and hang out after work. Maybe you hate a coworker's guts, but you still manage to achieve goals and beat deadlines. Now imagine you're in a band with those people...I hate to make it sound like band members are just coworkers, but it's sort of true, especially when you watch the Pixies movie "loudQUIETloud". I try to be more forgiving when it comes to bands wanting to re-form, but only when they demonstrate that they still care enough about the music being played and not just about how much dough is in it.
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Mr. Cornell weighs in (in the latest issue of...ummm..'Stuff' magazine):
Q: Is there a difference between being a front man of a rock band versus being a solo performer who plays with a backing band?
Chris Cornell: "Some bands are formed around an egocentric, control-freak singer, and others are more democratic. I mean, if you are playing as a Smashing Pumpkin, is that much different from playing in Billy Corgan's band?"
Oh, SNAP!
Actually, there is a disturbing trend here. Chris Cornell is announced as performing at the V festival (with Bill Corgan and his Minions II performing), then is mysteriously dropped from the line-up...
Mid-90's, Pavement are announced as performing at Lollapalooza (with Bill Corgan and his Minions I performing), then are mysteriously dropped from the line-up...
Admit it Seth, was the reason Cornell was dropped from V 2007 due to a pissy, hissy fit from old Baldy?
Brian
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And you say he's not doing it for the money... :eek:
Pitchfork link (http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/article/news/43795-smashing-pumpkins-to-fans-indie-stores-fuck-you)
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Bands who do this are so pathetic and low class. Blink-182 did something similar with "Take Off Your Pants and Jacket" a couple years ago. But at least they didn't make you go on some bizarre scavenger hunt. All three versions of the album (each with two different bonus tracks) were available wherever. But it's not like I had a lot of respect for Blink-182 in the first place...
What you don't understand is that for an album called "Zeitgiest", Bill Corgans wants it to be No. 1. He NEEDS it to be No. 1. It has to be the most important release of the 21st century. Otherwise, why did he go through all the effort of putting those hired guns into Smashing Pumpkins costumes and make-up?
Brian
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Originally posted by nkotb:
And you say he's not doing it for the money... :eek:
Pitchfork link (http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/article/news/43795-smashing-pumpkins-to-fans-indie-stores-fuck-you)
I suppose there's a point there if there are enough dumbasses that are going to buy each version for the one track. But to act like this is a new thing is a silly. In the UK each single usually comes out in about 2 cd versions and couple of 7" with an extra track that the hardcore scoop up to have everything. But if you're not a collector and just want the tunes, one of the plus sides of having itunes available is that you can just buy the extra tracks, as it will inevitably show up on at least one of the US, UK, or Canada Itunes stores. Of course the AAC version blows compared to ripping full size off a CD but that will hopefully be remedied as storage becomes increasingly cheaper and they stop butchering downloads.
As far as this being proof of a money grab, I still don't buy it. The group of people that will even be cognizant of there being multiple versions, and then follow up by buying them is so phuckin small that the additional revenue by exploiting those knumbskulls will be minimal and I have to believe the number crunchers know that but this a vanity play more than anything else.
The larger point about the state of indie resellers is far more troubling but even if he went the other route and made the exclusive versions ONLY available to indie resellers does anyone with a brain in their head actually think it would make a difference to the reality that these stores are heading for extinction in any case? Billy is not helping the situation but to think that one album is going to destroy independent resellers is ridiculous.
But it does add fuel to the fire of those that already think he's a douche bag, and I don't think ANYTHING short of him showing up and blowing each and everyone in that camp on a continual basis would change that.
Again they are playing nearly two dozen shows in small venues charging people less than $25 per show when without question they could have charged four times that and had the same response or played slightly larger venues and made even more.
But if this record release strategy means that he's an asshole in the eyes of many what's new? I'm not looking for a best friend, so let him be an arrogant asshole...um talented arrogant asshole. I just want good music and couldn't give two shits about the rest.
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Hate to say I agree with Pitchfork, but I do. That is just nonsense. If Billy really cared about the fans and not their almight dollar, he would have released those tracks for separate purchase on iTunes. As if he needed to sell more records...he did pretty well for himself in the 1990's.
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Bingo. Or at the very least allowed some sort of exclusive download from his website like Wilco do with their records. Oh well.
Originally posted by bearman:
If Billy really cared about the fans and not their almight dollar, he would have released those tracks for separate purchase on iTunes.
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That is primarily because CD's in the UK are expensive.
Originally posted by bnyced0:
But to act like this is a new thing is a silly. In the UK each single usually comes out in about 2 cd versions and couple of 7" with an extra track that the hardcore scoop up to have everything.
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To be honest, I care less about the indie stores than I do the fans. Billy Corgan is not, in anyway, remotly related to anything vaguely indie rock. The guy's a rockstar, and has been almost from the get-go, so it's not like he has any allegiance or loyalty due to small retailers.
But you'd think he'd have a little more respect for his fans. After all, these are the people shelling out bucks to see his half-reunion. Oh well...maybe the original line-up didn't provide a retirement plan?
Originally posted by bnyced0:
I heart Billy Corgan unconditionally.
PS: Only giving you a hard time with the above, bnyced. Promise :D
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I'm sure you'll be able to download the bonus tracks at blog sites. Bloc Party did the same for their last album and I got the bonus tracks online.
Originally posted by nkotb:
And you say he's not doing it for the money... :eek:
Pitchfork link (http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/article/news/43795-smashing-pumpkins-to-fans-indie-stores-fuck-you)
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Originally posted by bnyced0:
The group of people that will even be cognizant of there being multiple versions, and then follow up by buying them is so phuckin small that the additional revenue by exploiting those knumbskulls will be minimal and I have to believe the number crunchers know that but this a vanity play more than anything else.
I don't know. Do you KNOW how few albums are being sold these days? The Queens of the Stone Age album debuted at No. 14 and only sold 52,000 copies.
One thousand SP fans who buy all four versions the opening week could mean the album debuting five, six spots higher.
If chart placing means anything to you in 2007.
And it probably does to Billy Corgan.
After all, he remembers the 70's and Cheap Trick.
Brian
P.S. I'm thinking "The Smashing Pumpkins" should go on Oprah, The Today Show and "America's Got Talent." They'd sell a LOT of CD's. And Billy Corgan isn't above any of those shows. I could even see him on Rachey Ray making something with sausage and feta cheese.
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Originally posted by nkotb:
Bingo. Or at the very least allowed some sort of exclusive download from his website like Wilco do with their records. Oh well.
Originally posted by bearman:
If Billy really cared about the fans and not their almight dollar, he would have released those tracks for separate purchase on iTunes.
[/b]
I think we're a little ahead of the facts here. I believe these extra tracks will be available on itunes and the only thing that sucks is that I cringe anytime I have buy something there. I love all things apple and it fuels a lot of discretionary spending, but I don't use MP3's or other loss formats on my Ipods so when I hear these (itunes store) substandard versions it grates my ears.
There's also a simple solution here, if you have more than one friend that is a pumpkins fan ...preferably 3 others, you each buy a different version and trade the extra tracks. No additional CD's sold, and everyone has quality versions of the extra tracks. They will all likely buy the itunes versions in order to get the presale tickets, but to each his own. This isn't rocket science folks, maybe Billy didn't think his fans were as big a group of dumbasses as some other think.
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Originally posted by Brian_Walalce:
Originally posted by bnyced0:
The group of people that will even be cognizant of there being multiple versions, and then follow up by buying them is so phuckin small that the additional revenue by exploiting those knumbskulls will be minimal and I have to believe the number crunchers know that but this a vanity play more than anything else.
I don't know. Do you KNOW how few albums are being sold these days? The Queens of the Stone Age album debuted at No. 14 and only sold 52,000 copies.
One thousand SP fans who buy all four versions the opening week could mean the album debuting five, six spots higher.
If chart placing means anything to you in 2007.
And it probably does to Billy Corgan.
After all, he remembers the 70's and Cheap Trick.
Brian
P.S. I'm thinking "The Smashing Pumpkins" should go on Oprah, The Today Show and "America's Got Talent." They'd sell a LOT of CD's. And Billy Corgan isn't above any of those shows. I could even see him on Rachey Ray making something with sausage and feta cheese. [/b]
It might make a difference in the charts, though I doubt it. But I don't think in $$$$ to his pockets. If they make more than a $1 an album sold I'd be shocked, on the other hand I bet they make more $$$ on the shirts they sell in Asheville and SF, then they make on albums sold July 10th. Am I crazy?
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latest on the front page of TM: order zeitgeist via itunes, and get a secret code for presale tickets to their upcoming tour.
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Originally posted by sweetcell:
latest on the front page of TM: order zeitgeist via itunes, and get a secret code for presale tickets to their upcoming tour.
No DC date (besides V fest), I guess? Anyone know?
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Originally posted by nkotb:
Billy Corgan is not, in anyway, remotly related to anything vaguely indie rock.
hasn't he specifically said that he hates indie rock and aspires to be as corporate as possible? does anyone have that quote?
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Originally posted by Hoya Paranoia:
Originally posted by nkotb:
Billy Corgan is not, in anyway, remotly related to anything vaguely indie rock.
hasn't he specifically said that he hates indie rock and aspires to be as corporate as possible? does anyone have that quote? [/b]
I tend to ignore what baldy has to say unless there are some power chords acccompanying it.
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Originally posted by Darth Ed:
No DC date (besides V fest), I guess? Anyone know?
i would expect that *if* there was one, it's under gag order until after VFest - logical business move, one would want the SP fans to sign up for the festival and not hold out for an arena show. i'm not sure if IMP does this, but some promoters limit how soon a band can come back to play an area... maybe SP's VFest contract contains such a clause.
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I'm heading out to SP in the morning for the next two shows. Will report back.
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Originally posted by Julian, faux celeb-porn CONNOISSEUR:
I'm heading out to SP in the morning for the next two shows. Will report back.
^^
as am i!
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Originally posted by distance:
Originally posted by Julian, faux celeb-porn CONNOISSEUR:
I'm heading out to SP in the morning for the next two shows. Will report back.
^^
as am i! [/b]
Be sure to pass on information about the vibe in the town, good/bad bars in the immediate area, unique merch, etc. I've been to Asheville a couple of times, but based on what I've read the entire scene is bonkers right now through 5 July. I'm only doing a fly by on Friday for one show but would still be interested in any quality info to reduce the learning curve for Smashville 2007.
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F.Y.I. for those of you who are Smashing Pumpkins fans...
If you buy the new issue of Spin (with Amy Winehouse on the cover) you get a ten track CD of Smashing Pumpkins cover versions for free. I forget who the artists doing the covers are. One may be Panic! At The Disco. Or at least if you buy the magazine at Borders.
Brian
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Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by distance:
Originally posted by Julian, faux celeb-porn CONNOISSEUR:
I'm heading out to SP in the morning for the next two shows. Will report back.
^^
as am i! [/b]
Be sure to pass on information about the vibe in the town, good/bad bars in the immediate area, unique merch, etc. I've been to Asheville a couple of times, but based on what I've read the entire scene is bonkers right now through 5 July. I'm only doing a fly by on Friday for one show but would still be interested in any quality info to reduce the learning curve for Smashville 2007. [/b]
Asheville is incredible. As a Chicago native, I couldn't figure out why they weren't doing the first shows back in the Windy City. But Asheville was top to bottom a great place with a great vibe. Lots of bars with great beers, live music everywhere, tons of art galleries and nice little restaurants. Check out the French Cafe for their coffee up the road. There is a bar right in the middle of the downtown stretch (can't remember the name) that has something like 70 beers on tap.
All in all, a great town.
And the Orange Peel was nothing short of amazing. They're handling 1000 people every night - will call only tickets - and managing their lines efficiently and effectively. Beer is cheap ($3.75!! for a Microbrew!!), as is water. The room is incredible, with great sound, and plenty of room to move. You don't feel as though the show is completely sold out, as there is plenty of space.
Top to bottom, a great, great concert experience. As far as clubs on that level, the only places I've been that are in the same league are the Metro in Chicago and the 9:30 Club. I'd encourage ANYONE who is debating trying to go down to these shows to go - they'll be unlike anything you've ever seen, and truly a great experience.
As far as unique merch? The Pumpkins teamed up with Drifter - a boutique t-shirt label that you can buy in Nordstrom - and are offering a show exclusive t-shirt for the Asheville residency that is pretty awesome. You can see it on the Drifter website. But it is expensive. Drifter t-shirts sell for about $55 retail anyway; the Pumpkins version was $50 on site. They also have a bunch of the regular tour shirts with the Zeitgeist logo, as well as lithographs and the flag with the new logo.
Trying to think of any other relevant points...feel free to ask if you want to know any more about the town. I stayed in a Red Roof Inn about 15 minutes from the venue, and it was cheap and easily accessible. No problems with parking anywhere either.
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[/b]
are offering a show exclusive t-shirt for the Asheville residency that is pretty awesome. You can see it on the Drifter website. But it is expensive. Drifter t-shirts sell for about $55 retail anyway; the Pumpkins version was $50 on site. They also have a bunch of the regular tour shirts with the Zeitgeist logo, as well as lithographs and the flag with the new logo.
[/qb][/QUOTE]Thanks. Were the Drifter T's avail at the venue or just at a shop (Union clothing I think) in town? Did you go out after the show? And though you drove in, did there seem like there was much going on within walking distance of the venue?
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Originally posted by sweetcell:
Originally posted by Darth Ed:
No DC date (besides V fest), I guess? Anyone know?
i would expect that *if* there was one, it's under gag order until after VFest - logical business move, one would want the SP fans to sign up for the festival and not hold out for an arena show. i'm not sure if IMP does this, but some promoters limit how soon a band can come back to play an area... maybe SP's VFest contract contains such a clause. [/b]
http://www.ticketmaster.com/smashingpumpkins sez:
Smashing Pumpkins fall tour is expected to stop in the following cities:
Atlanta, GA
Boston, MA
Columbus, OH
Dallas, TX
Denver, CO
Detroit, MI
Houston, TX
Las Vegas, NV
Los Angeles, CA
Memphis, TN
Minneapolis, MN
Normal, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Phoenix, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Portland, OR
San Diego, CA
Salt Lake City, UT
Seattle, WA
Tucson, AZ
so philly would be closest to DC (after pimlico)
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Originally posted by callat703:
Asheville is incredible.
how was the show?
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Originally posted by sweetcell:
Originally posted by callat703:
Asheville is incredible.
how was the show? [/b]
If I'm not mistaken, his initial post on his experience was something akin to "Phuckin. Awesome!"
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i'm up for a philly road trip for the pumpkins. in fact, i've never been to philly. so why not?
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Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by sweetcell:
Originally posted by callat703:
Asheville is incredible.
how was the show? [/b]
If I'm not mistaken, his initial post on his experience was something akin to "Phuckin. Awesome!" [/b]
Yep, that's right. I was at the 23rd and 24th. Both shows were about 3 hours long, and both were fantastic. I could do a full review, but bnyced0 was pretty on point with his review from before.
The band is back in full force. And judging by the new songs that they were writing together, they're aiming to be around for awhile yet.
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Originally posted by callat703:
[I was at the 23rd and 24th. Both shows were about 3 hours long, and both were fantastic.
I know what I wanted to ask, did you get a gauge on the NC liqour laws? I can't remember if they sell alcohol in grocery stores, gas stations, etc. or only in package stores.
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Originally posted by bnyced0:
Originally posted by callat703:
[I was at the 23rd and 24th. Both shows were about 3 hours long, and both were fantastic.
I know what I wanted to ask, did you get a gauge on the NC liqour laws? I can't remember if they sell alcohol in grocery stores, gas stations, etc. or only in package stores. [/b]
I bought a 12 pack in a gas station. No idea about liquor, but I was able to buy beer.
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All in all, a great town.
And the Orange Peel was nothing short of amazing. They're handling 1000 people every night - will call only tickets - and managing their lines efficiently and effectively. Beer is cheap ($3.75!! for a Microbrew!!), as is water. The room is incredible, with great sound, and plenty of room to move. You don't feel as though the show is completely sold out, as there is plenty of space.
Top to bottom, a great, great concert experience. As far as clubs on that level, the only places I've been that are in the same league are the Metro in Chicago and the 9:30 Club. I'd encourage ANYONE who is debating trying to go down to these shows to go - they'll be unlike anything you've ever seen, and truly a great experience.
Trying to think of any other relevant points...feel free to ask if you want to know any more about the town. I stayed in a Red Roof Inn about 15 minutes from the venue, and it was cheap and easily accessible. No problems with parking anywhere either.
Not too much to add, that sums it up very well. I stayed at the Days Inn on Patton Ave. It's just a few blocks from the orange peel. Not the best hotel by any means, but not bad for a night or two. There is a bar across the street called Jack of the Wood with good food and good beer. Next door to the orange peel is a good burrito place with excellent margaritas ($4!)
As far as the Orange Peel... well it definitely ranks in the top of venues I've been too. Like was said before... it didn't feel sold out at all. I could go to the bathroom, go to the bar and get a drink, etc. and be back to watching the show in no time. The sound was great, the place looks great, and the beer selection is awesome and cheap.
Met lots of friendly people as well... loved the vibe in town.
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Also - the Orange Peel is nonsmoking. That was an unexpected plus for North Carolina.
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Originally posted by callat703:
Also - the Orange Peel is nonsmoking. That was an unexpected plus for North Carolina.
i'm not sure how long the orange peel has been around, but it was non-smoking as far back as 03. the cat's cradle went non-smoking in the past few years as well.
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About what time have the Pumpkins been going on? 9ish? And no opening band, correct?
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Originally posted by beedubyah:
About what time have the Pumpkins been going on? 9ish? And no opening band, correct?
This is most likely a bit off... but the show I went to the opener was Celebration, I believe Deerhunter is the opener for a bunch of the other shows. Anyway, I'd say celebration finished around 9:30 and the pumpkins went on around 10:30.
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Originally posted by beedubyah:
About what time have the Pumpkins been going on? 9ish? And no opening band, correct?
There is an opener. Pumpkins have been going on at 10.
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Originally posted by callat703:
Originally posted by beedubyah:
About what time have the Pumpkins been going on? 9ish? And no opening band, correct?
There is an opener. Pumpkins have been going on at 10. [/b]
Im hearing minimum 3 hour sets.....And me on no sleep and commuting from Greenville...Man, this will be a late one.
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pumpkins came on around 10, as said.
show ended 1:15? something like that. nearly 3 hours total of music, not including the breaks between sets 1 and 2 and the encores.
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just read last nites setlist, they played both
aeroplane flies high and rotten apples.....
that would've been amazing to see
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I read that Smashing Pumpkins will be at the 930 on July 10th? Can anyone confirm?
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Originally posted by wanderlust featuring j. marshmallow:
I read that Smashing Pumpkins will be at the 930 on July 10th? Can anyone confirm?
Album release day? Where did you read that? As much as I'd like that to be true I think I'd have to be committed if it happened. I already have Maximo Park in Boston on the 11th, Dolores O'Riordan on the 12th, Pitchfork 13-15th...a 3 hour SP gig to start that gauntlet would likely kill my old ass....though I'd die very happy.
If I remember correctly I went to a RATM show at 930 the day Battle of Los Angeles was released. Does that ring a bell with anyone? I know it was after Coachella that year, and I'm pretty sure it was the night of the release. I know it's a totally different subjet, but it's also a precedence of sorts, right? Can you tell I'm looking for ANY kind of cosmic connection to make this rumour seem valid?