It’s certainly been an interesting couple of weeks for The Smashing Pumpkins. First, drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, the lone original member to join Billy Corgan in relaunching the group, said he could no longer “cash the check” and parted ways with his long-time partner. Now, amidst reports of Corgan entering the studio to work on a new Pumpkins record (“The songs sound like Spring!”), there is more news on the drummer front.
Per smashingpumpkins.com:
Billy Corgan is currently searching for talented musicians to join him. If you have an exceptional drumming ability and a desire to be part of a massive creative and progressive musical project with a rich 20-year history, then continue reading below.
The Smashing Pumpkins are continuing to make music after the departure of original member Jimmy Chamberlin. When Jimmy originally auditioned for The Smashing Pumpkins, he was playing in a locally touring jazz band that was playing weddings and street fairs. It just goes to show that you never know where the next big talent will come from.
The Smashing Pumpkins are taking submissions for recording and touring drummers. There may be multiple positions open for this call for entries.
What to submit:
Resume – include a list of bands, shows, awards, education
Photograph / headshot
Any music / audio you have showcasing your talents. Links to digital files are encouraged.
Video links are also encouraged
To submit your information, send an email with resume and links attached to pumpkinsdrummer@gmail.com.
Auditions will be held Friday, April 10 in Los Angeles for drummers who are looking to play with The Smashing Pumpkins.
If this audition process pans out, it’s safe to say somebody’s dream may come true. Instead of merely searching for established artists to join the fold, Corgan appears to be offering a chance to anyone with genuine talent. It should be interesting to see what unfolds after the auditions.
Then again…is this really The Smashing Pumpkins anymore? I understand Corgan is responsible for most of what you hear on their records, and even ex-Pumpkin Chamberlin has given him his blessing to continue on with the name. But this isn’t a Guided by Voices situation, where dozens of musicians came and went over the years. In this case, there was a solid line-up for about a decade (excluding Adore), and that line-up of Corgan, Chamberlin, D’Arcy and Iha seem to be viewed as the definitive Pumpkins.
Anyway, if you feel up to the challenge, don’t forget to trek out to L.A. to audition. In the meantime, don’t forget to catch a previously-recorded interview with Corgan and Chamberlin on The Chris Isaak Hour, this Thursday, April 2nd on the Biography Channel. Check your local listings.
