I am guessing that most people's opinion of this CD will depend on how much they like Billy Corgan. This is a Smashing Pumpkins disc in name only and is NOT return to the sounds of Siamese Dream or Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. This is probably closer, musically, to Zwan or Billy's solo release. This isn't to say this is a "bad" CD, it is just forgotable.

The music on this disc is pretty disjointed as it starts with a few alt/grunge tunes, progresses into some songs that are more melodic (and sound a bit like classic Pumpkins) and ends with some Queen-like operatic cuts that simply don't work. What is sorely missing is the classic Pumpkins verse-chorus-verus melodic structure. Most of Billy's vocals sound like he was completely uninspired.

In a previous post, I commented that I thought "Tarantula" was just ok. While I stand behind this comment, "Tarantula" is one of the better songs on the disc. The best track is "(Come On) Let's Go" as this is the closest to old-school Pumpkins. Unfortunately, for anyone who bought this disc unaware, the ltd-edition bonus tracks are also quite good.

Stellar, the iTunes exclusive track, is interesting but not a "must have". It is an atmospheric track with almost a Coldplay/Pink Floyd feel. Death from Above, the Best Buy exclusive track, is a great melodic rocker (and Corgan's vocals sound inspired). Zeitgeist , the Target exclusive track, is a great acoustic number that is carried by Billy's voice.

To sum up my thoughts, this release is for Billy Corgan fans only. There just aren't enough good tracks on this release. If you feel compelled to purchase this, I'd recommend either the Best Buy (still on the shelves in NYC) or the Target versions as the bonus tracks are pretty good.

Links:
Smashing Pumpkins Main Website (link)