The Smashing Pumpkins

In May 2000, when The Smashing Pumpkins delivered their electrifying performance of "Age of Innocence" at the Universal Amphitheatre, they were riding the waves of their fifth studio album, *Machina/The Machines of God*. This album, released just a few months earlier in February 2000, was a significant turn for the band, showcasing a more introspective sound compared to their earlier, more bombastic work. With this album, they were navigating some choppy waters, both personally and creatively, as it marked the beginning of a period of transition for the group, especially with tensions among band members starting to surface. The performance was notably part of their farewell tour before a temporary hiatus, adding an emotional layer to the live show. The raw energy and poignant lyrics of "Age of Innocence," paired with the intimate atmosphere of the venue, created a moment that captured the band's evolution during a pivotal time in their career.

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