Smashing Pumpkins Illuminate Gunnersbury Park with 30 Years of Mellon Collie Magic
- Alan Bryce
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Gunnersbury Park, London - 10th August 2025
WORDS ALAN BRYCE / IMAGES MIKE MASSARO - HELLO CONTENT
Smashing Pumpkins, formed in 1988 by Billy Corgan, James Iha, Jimmy Chamberlin, and D’arcy Wretzky, have evolved through numerous lineup changes while blending gothic rock, grunge, heavy metal, shoegaze, and dreampop into their signature sound. After early success with Gish (1991) and breakthrough Siamese Dream (1993), they achieved global stardom with the chart-topping Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995), earning multiple Grammy wins and nominations. Following Adore (1998) and Machina/The Machines of God (2000), the band briefly disbanded before reforming in 2006. Over the years, they released acclaimed works like Oceania (2012) and Shiny and Oh So Bright (2018), while navigating further lineup shifts, including the return of Iha and Chamberlin. Their ambitious 11th album, Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts (2022–23), garnered strong reviews, and in 2024 they released their 13th studio album, praised for its fusion of progressive, alternative rock, and heavy metal, marking another high point in their storied career.
In 2025, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of 'Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness,' the band embarked on the 'Aghori Tour.' The eighth show of the tour, held at Gunnersbury Park, featured Skunk Anansie as the opening act.
Skunk Anansie, led by the charismatic Skin, delivered a memorable performance, engaging the audience with hits like 'Charlie Big Potato,' 'Because of You,' and 'Weak.' Their set was a mix of hard-hitting riffs, soulful melodies, and politically charged lyrics. Skin’s vocals alternately soaring and snarling. She commanded the stage with a presence both confrontational and inviting, leaping onto the monitors, locking eyes with the audience, and inciting a call-and-response that made even those in the back feel like part of an inside joke
As twilight deepened, anticipation grew for Smashing Pumpkins. They opened with the hypnotic chords of 'Glass Theme,' with Corgan's plaintive voice captivating the audience. The current lineup, featuring Corgan, Iha, Chamberlin, Wong, and Bates, delivered a powerful set that spanned their entire career.
The band's performance was a masterclass in musical precision, with each member showcasing their talents. Corgan's vocals were haunting and evocative, while Iha's guitar work provided a perfect counterbalance. Chamberlin's drumming was both powerful and nuanced, driving the band's sound forward. Wong and Bates added depth and texture.
The setlist was a mix of classic hits and newer tracks, keeping the audience engaged and enthralled. Highlights included 'Today,' '1979,' and 'Tonight, Tonight,' each song met with enthusiastic applause and sing-alongs. The band's chemistry was palpable, and their passion for performing was evident in every note.
Corgan's banter between songs was a mix of dry humour and gratitude. Iha's witty comments added a touch of levity. The sound and lighting were spot on, making the performance even more memorable.
The night ended with an extended jam on 'The Everlasting Gaze,' showcasing each band member's skills before a final cascade of feedback and applause. Corgan's closing words, "Thank you, London. Until next time," left the crowd in the afterglow of an unforgettable night.
Smashing Pumpkins at Gunnersbury Park was a celebration of alternative rock from an iconic band, it was a gathering of old friends and new fans, and a night where memories were both relived and created. Skunk Anansie's incendiary support set the perfect tone, reminding everyone of the genre's capacity for both fury and hope.
SET LIST
Glass' Theme
Heavy Metal Machine
Pentagrams
Today
Bullet With Butterfly Wings
Muzzle
1979
Porcelina of the Vast Oceans
Sighommi
Mayonaise
Take My Breath Away
(Berlin cover)
Edin
Disarm
Tonight, Tonight
Cherub Rock
Jellybelly
Bodies
Ava Adore
Zero
The Everlasting Gaze
(with a snippet of Black Sabbath's "N.I.B.")
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