The Smashing Pumpkins

Ah, the Reading Festival in 1995—what a pivotal moment for The Smashing Pumpkins! Just two months before the much-anticipated release of their magnum opus *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness*, this performance came at a time when the band was riding high on the success of their previous album, *Siamese Dream*. Released in 1993, *Siamese Dream* catapulted them into the mainstream, showcasing their distinctive blend of alternative rock with dreamy soundscapes and raw emotions. During the festival set, featuring tracks like "Today" and "Zero," fans got a taste of the evolution that *Mellon Collie* would soon offer—conceptual depth, stylistic variety, and a duality of light and darkness that resonated with so many. In fact, the anticipation around their set was palpable, as they were among the top acts of the era and had garnered a dedicated following thanks to their powerful live performances. It’s no wonder that this moment at Little John's Farm has become legendary; it not only captured a snapshot of a band at the precipice of greatness but also hinted at the ambitious journey they were about to embark upon. What a thrill to witness it, right?

Watch on YouTube