This is largely down to what Billy was talking about, that oft missed difference between Smashing Pumpkins songs and the dynamic clothes in which they are dressed. For all the electronic thump of Dulcet In E, Ramona or the excellent title-track, these are also instantly, knowably the work of Billy Corgan. Indeed, there’s a familiar tone to opener The Colour Of Love, an almost post-punk banger, and the heavy, low keyboard notes and fizzing guitar of Wyttch. But the way the songs have been brought to life this time around is through one particular lens. And that lens is synth-pop that’s aesthetically more reminiscent of latter day Ulver or Carpenter Brut at their most restrained.
Does it need to be quite as much of a lengthy binge as it is? Maybe not. But second helpings of something that’s fundamentally good are never a bad thing. And in the moment that Smashing Pumpkins currently find themselves – three-quarters reunioned, confident, dare one even say comfortable – there’s joy to be heard throughout, as they turn over rocks and see what they can find. And, truly, that’s a very traditional Smashing Pumpkins way of doing things.
Verdict: 4/5
For fans of: Ulver, New Order, Trent Reznor
Cyr is released on November 27 via Napalm
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