Smashing Pumpkins - Pisces Iscariot (2LP)

Smashing Pumpkins: Billy Corgan, James Iha, D'Arcy, Jimmy Chamberlin. Producers include: Billy Corgan, Butch Vig, Kerry Brown, James Iha, Ted de Bono. Includes liner notes by Billy Corgan. Billy Corgan probably never smashed a pumpkin in his life. He was too busy making fun of the macho oafs who fueled their teen angst with power chords and cheap beer. Corgan is much more the type to hide in his room and write sweet songs or bash out manic sludgefests with tricky titles. "Plume," being the perfect example, finds Corgan boasting "my boredom outshines the sun." Boasting aside, Corgan's boredom is not contagious or completely self-serving. PISCES ISCARIOT is a collection of B-sides and rarities that, even more than GISH or SIAMESE DREAM, offers insight into the workings of one of alternative rock's most sought-after songwriters. Corgan's introspective quiet side is exemplified by his cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide" and the Corgan original "Soothe," which, in the spirit of lo-fi, he recorded in his apartment. The other side of the Smashing Pumpkins' sound is James Iha's driving guitar, a psychedelic sonic blast that is quickly distinguishable from the ranks of AOR and typical grungy alterna-rock. If you're a fan of the Smashing Pumpkins' sound, PISCES ISCARIOT will show you where it all came from.

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"Pisces Iscariot" by The Smashing Pumpkins is a fascinating collection that offers a glimpse into the band's creative process during their early years. Released on October 4, 1994, this album is not a traditional studio album but rather a compilation of B-sides and outtakes from the sessions of their first two albums, "Gish" and "Siamese Dream." Despite its nature as a compilation, "Pisces Iscariot" has been embraced by fans and critics alike, often praised for its raw and eclectic mix of tracks that showcase the band's versatility and depth.

One of the standout aspects of "Pisces Iscariot" is how it captures the essence of The Smashing Pumpkins during a pivotal time in their career. The album includes tracks like "Landslide," a cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic, which became one of the most beloved renditions of the song. Billy Corgan's emotive vocals and the stripped-down arrangement highlight the band's ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into existing material.

Another highlight is "Starla," an epic nine-minute track that showcases the band's penchant for blending heavy guitar riffs with melodic interludes. This song, along with others like "Frail and Bedazzled" and "Plume," demonstrates the band's ability to experiment with different sounds and structures, a hallmark of their work that would continue to evolve in later albums.

Critically, "Pisces Iscariot" was well-received, with many reviewers appreciating the insight it provided into the band's development. Rolling Stone praised the album for its "rich, textured sound," while AllMusic noted that it was "a must-have for Pumpkins fans." The album's success was also reflected in its commercial performance, reaching number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, a remarkable achievement for a compilation of B-sides.

The production of "Pisces Iscariot" is another interesting aspect. The album was produced by Billy Corgan and James Iha, along with Butch Vig and Kerry Brown, who had worked with the band on previous projects. This continuity in production helped maintain the cohesive sound that fans had come to love, even as the band explored different musical avenues.

In terms of cultural significance, "Pisces Iscariot" serves as a testament to the prolific nature of The Smashing Pumpkins during the early '90s. It captures the band's ability to create a wide array of music that didn't always fit into the confines of their main albums but still resonated deeply with listeners. This compilation also highlights the band's influence on the alternative rock scene, showcasing their ability to blend introspective lyrics with powerful instrumentation.

Overall, "Pisces Iscariot" is more than just a collection of leftovers; it's a treasure trove for fans and a testament to the creative prowess of The Smashing Pumpkins. It offers a unique listening experience that complements their main discography and provides a deeper understanding of the band's artistic journey. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, "Pisces Iscariot" is an album that deserves a listen, offering a raw and unfiltered look at one of the most influential bands of the '90s.