The Smashing Pumpkins

In October 2007, when The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a memorable performance at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium, they were in a pivotal phase of their career. Just a year prior, they released *Zeitgeist*, their first album in over seven years, which marked a significant return to the music scene for the band after a tumultuous period of lineup changes and personal struggles. This album, a powerful blend of alternative rock and heavy guitar riffs, aimed to reconnect with both old and new fans. Interestingly, *Zeitgeist* was recorded without the contributions of founding guitarist James Iha, showcasing a shift in their classic sound while still retaining the essence of what made them iconic. The live performance captured in St. Paul reflects the raw energy of that period—riotous yet introspective, much like the band’s journey at that time. It was a moment where they were re-establishing themselves on the big stage, proving that even after years away, their presence was anything but diminished.

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