We want your input into dotmusic, in the form of reviews and playlists, so that we can continue to represent all your favourite bands. Obviously we can't publish everything but we will include the best that we recieve. The following review of the Smashing Pumpkins at London's Dominion Theatre was sent in by Gareth Nolan.
This concert arrives amidst a background of much controversy. Within the last year alone drummer Jimmy Chamberlain has rejoined, founding member D'arcy has left, ex-Hole bassist Melissa Auf Der Maur has joined and Ozzy's wife Sharon Osbourne managed and then sensationally quit claiming that head Pumpkin Billy Corgan 'made her sick'.
This was just the last year. Within the last week, Filter, the Pumpkins' support for the European Tour told dotmusic that the Pumpkins were to split. Corgan, it was then revealed, was stricken by flu and was told that performing would permanently damage his voice. This led to the cancelling of both the Brussels and Manchester concerts. Tonight the band had much to prove.
They began, predictably, with the 'Everlasting Gaze'. Restablishing the sneering vocals, gnashing guitar riffs and bombastic drums that first heralded the Pumpkins' sound, this was perfect. New material, 'Heavy Metal Machine', 'Glass & the Ghost Children', 'I of the Mourning', should serve to make the upcoming 'MACHINA/the machines of god' the album which fans have been waiting for.
The foray into old material was equally pleasing. 'To Sheila', the first track from the low key 'Adore', was outstandingly rearranged to accommodate Chamberlain's drumming style. An acoustic performance of '1979' was the first encore. But it was a rendition with a twist; a drum machine was employed to cover for the seemingly multi-talented Chamberlain who was playing guitar.
It seems that the controversy surrounding the band on the night served to fuel the their fire. 'Tonight, Tonight' was only just recognisable, played at increased speed to make it practically thrash metal.
Nonetheless, at some points the gig did appear to be a struggle for the sick Corgan. Half way through the eclectic performance of 'Cherub Rock', as if it was too much for him, he requested the crowd to help him, explaining that he was struggling. Once or twice it became apparent that he was a little jaded, yet he continued with every ounce of energy that he could muster. All this simply served to create a truly unique and personal Pumpkins experience. It seems after all that Corgan is flesh and blood just like the rest of us.
Tonight's show proved that Corgan's once stated belief that, "rock is dead" was little more than empty hyperbole.
Gareth Nolan
