The Smashing Pumpkins - Adore (2LP)

"Adore," the fourth studio album by The Smashing Pumpkins, was released on June 2, 1998. This album marked a significant departure from the band's earlier work, showcasing a more subdued and electronic sound compared to the heavy, guitar-driven style of their previous albums like "Siamese Dream" and "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness."

The production of "Adore" was influenced by several factors, including the departure of drummer Jimmy Chamberlin in 1996 due to his struggles with substance abuse. This led the band to experiment with drum machines and electronic beats, which are prominently featured throughout the album. The production was handled by Billy Corgan, the band's frontman, along with Brad Wood and Flood, who had previously worked with the band on "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness."

"Adore" opens with the track "To Sheila," a hauntingly beautiful song that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The song features delicate acoustic guitar work and Corgan's introspective lyrics, which are a recurring theme throughout the album. The second track, "Ava Adore," is one of the few songs on the album that retains some of the band's earlier rock elements, with its driving beat and dark, brooding atmosphere.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Perfect," which features a catchy, upbeat melody and electronic instrumentation. The song's lyrics reflect Corgan's feelings of loss and longing, themes that are prevalent throughout "Adore." Another notable track is "Daphne Descends," which combines lush, atmospheric production with Corgan's emotive vocals.

"Adore" also includes several ballads, such as "Once Upon a Time" and "Tear," which showcase Corgan's ability to write deeply personal and emotionally resonant songs. The album's closing track, "Blank Page," is a somber piano ballad that serves as a fitting end to the introspective journey that "Adore" takes the listener on.

The album received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the band's willingness to experiment and evolve their sound, while others were less enthusiastic about the departure from their earlier style. Despite the mixed critical reception, "Adore" has since been re-evaluated by many fans and critics, and is now considered an important and influential album in The Smashing Pumpkins' discography.

Commercially, "Adore" did not achieve the same level of success as the band's previous albums. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart but quickly fell off the charts, and its sales were significantly lower than those of "Siamese Dream" and "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness." However, the album has since gained a cult following and is appreciated for its artistic ambition and emotional depth.

In conclusion, "Adore" is a unique and introspective album that showcases The Smashing Pumpkins' ability to evolve and experiment with their sound. While it may not have achieved the same commercial success as their earlier work, it remains an important and influential part of their discography. The album's blend of electronic and acoustic elements, combined with Corgan's introspective lyrics, make it a compelling and emotionally resonant listening experience.