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Free Music Notes for Siamese DreamFree Music Review: Establishment in a Single Album Hit: 5 Stars
Although not their first, this album established Smashing Pumpkins (at least in my mind) as a leader in creativity and versatility. Whether its the lazy-paced but in depth sounds of Cherub Rock (an instant classic), or the melodramatic lyrics and melancholy rifts of Disarm (the first song that caught my eye on this album), the Pumpkins prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they excell in all chapters of modern alternative.Unfortunately, I don't know what they started thinking after the success of this album. While Melancholy and the Infinite Sadness offered a variety of cunning and creative sounds, it hardly stood up to some of their previous work. Follow that up a ways down with Adore, a failure in what originally had terrific potential, and you have what seems to be a legendary dry spell. Bullet with Butterfly Wings was able to bat a few eyes (Melancholy and the Infinite Sadness), not lasting enough to hold them up throghout they're troubles. They're return album, Machina: Machine of the Gods, is Corgan's way of proving to the public that they are not dead and have plenty of energy stockpiled. Although I have Machina now (pre-ordered from Amazon, anxious to see what lies in store), I don't feel I've truly listened to it enough for a review. (Although I will note the first song, seemingly a signature of Pumpkins, seems the best).
Free Music Review: Flawless!! Hit: 5 Stars
After releasing their debut, "Gish", the Smashing Pumpkins then went on to release this monster of a record. Not only is this their best work to date, it also successfully combines elements of both "Gish" and "Melloncollie...". "Siamese Dream" has its grungy but melodious moments as heard on "Gish", but it also has its quiet and profound moments as is found abundantly on "Melloncollie...". On a more personal note, this was my first Smashing Pumpkins album, and to be honest it took me some time to get used to Billy Corgan's thin whine. However, as I got used to his voice, I began to realize that he changes the tone of his voice constantly because of the profound pain and angst in his deeply felt lyrics. Apart from this being a very heady album lyrically, the immense guitar work and powerful drumming continues to add to the atmosphere on the heavier songs. The guitar work is so good in fact, that after several listenings you begin to break down the the immense walls of riffage, and discover the subtle moments in the background. There is just so much dimension, and so much to discover in this album that the music continues to sound fresh even after several listenings. So do yourself a favor and pick up this timeless classic, sit back and let it take you on a journey as it did for me.
Free Music Review: "The only great Pumpkin's album!" Hit: 5 Stars
These were the days. Back before Billy thought he was God and before the rest of the band started to let Billy do whatever he wanted to. I will always hope for the Pumpkins' return to rock, but I won't hold my breath. This album starts out fast and never lets up. "Cherub Rock" is a good song. Its not one of my favorites but I really love the intro. "Today" is often recognized because of its sweet little intro, but it blows up into a tremendous song. "Disarm" is one of the most beautiful ballads I have ever listened to. I love the orchestra arrangments. "Soma" is another great song. It starts out so quiet and then turns into uncontroled frenzy. "Mayonaise" is an often forgotten track, but if you listen to it you will wonder why (as I do) why it hasn't had more attention. "Spaceboy" is another ballad that almost country. I mean its definately not country but for a second you think, "Oh God". "Silverf*ck" is my favorite song on 'Siamese Dream'. Its pure aggression, but then it goes into this quiet part then back to aggression. This is one of my top albums of all time. I guess the only bad thing is that, its sad to think that we will never hear this again from the Pumpkins. I mean, cause you know, Billy Corgan is a rock God, yeah right!
Free Music Review: Penultimate 90's Rock Hit: 5 Stars
The second Pumpkins album represented everything 90's Rock was capable of,blessedly free of all the overkill and cliches the band's admirers feared.The opener "Cherub Rock" is a miracle of tightly compressed sweep and dynamics,as the guitars pummel and soar,and Jimmy Chamberlain nails the track to the floor with his drumkit.Billy Corgan's repeated angry plea to "let me out of your scene" summed up his unfasionable will-to-power,as he refued to wallow in slacker ennui,knowing full well what his talented, accomplished band of misfits were capable of.As this astounding album progresses,all doubts as to his sincerity are blown away."Quiet" is a gnarled,billowing rocker;"Today"could justifiably be called a "Power-Ballad",but it's exquisitely wrought textures and aching meloncholy put it light-years beyond 80's sap-metal."Soma" is this record's jaw-dropping centerpiece,with it's hushed,down-tempo dirge-like opening and Big-Rock closeing section,it restores the good name,and more importantly,the creative spark to multi-tracked guitars and artful song-craft.By fusing genuine creative passion in an age when irony ruled,and idiosynchratic personalities to universal themes,the Pumpkins carved out an indelible niche for themselves in the Rock pantheon.
Free Music Review: Singing through the mouth still Hit: 5 Stars
Siamese Dream had the unfortunate setback of being released at the same time that Nirvana were at the peak of their popularity, therefore everyone's attention was forcused on them.
If this album had come out a year before or a couple years after, I'm sure it would've rose to greater heights initially.
Of course, in hindsight, it's considered a masterpiece. And for good reason, this is one of the great rock albums of the 90's.
Instead, because Nirvana burnt out in 1994 (the band, not the popularity), 1996's Mellon Collie album got more attention and applause. However, Siamese is a far better album. The best Pumpkins album. It shows the huge talent of the musicians and the amazing talent of Billy Corgan's songwriting. An almost unbelievable step forward from their previous effort Gish.
The opening track sets the perfect tune for the whole album. Great lyrics, lots of rolling drums and amazing guitar solo's.
In my opinion, this was the Pumpkins in their prime. Still enjoying what they're doing, they don't hate each other's guts yet, not all addicted to a bunch of drugs and before Corgan started singing through his nose.
The final track is the most beautiful on the album and a great mood setter for a dinner at home with you and a date.
5 stars!!
More Free Music Notes: First Review 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
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