SMASHING PUMPKINS @ Dos Equis Pavilion
Featuring - Rival Sons & Interpol
The Smashing Pumpkins took the stage in Dallas last night at Dos Equis Pavilion. The near 2 minute introduction into the first song came complete with an extravagant light show that filled every seat with anticipation. It was already clear this would be a night to remember.
The setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites, newer material, and a few hidden gems. The show started with “The Everlasting Gaze” and “Doomsday Clock,” followed by a Talking Heads cover, “Once in a Lifetime.” Next we were given “Today,” and within the first couple of chords, the venue erupted.
Although The Smashing Pumpkins have been performing for over 35 years, frontman Billy Corgan still has the same grungy, powerful, haunting sound he’s had since 1988. His stage presence and interaction with the crowd made me wish I was in the front row. The band’s energy was contagious and injected a whole new life into their classic hits, while keeping everyone in awe during their sprinkled in deep cuts. We even got a stand-up comedy moment between songs as Billy and guitarist, James Iha, referenced their Twitter username, “SmashingPumpkin” and bantered back and forth about forgetting the “s” on their supporting bands’ names, calling them “Interpols” and “Rival Son”. Despite The Smashing Pumpkins’ huge influence on the 90’s grunge era, Billy Corgan had this message for their fans: “We’re tired of being called a 90s band. We started in the 80s.”
The visual production of the show told you how to feel, leading you into every riff and bass kick. The combination of the band’s powerful performance and immersive visuals transported the audience to another dimension. The atmosphere changed, however, when they put on an acoustic performance of “Disarm”. The audience got to connect on a much deeper level, creating an indescribably magical moment.
As the show came to a close, the band played hits “1979” and “Cherub Rock”, silencing many crowd members' anticipation. The band then ended the show with hard-hitting “Zero.” The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a performance that exceeded expectations, reminding everyone in attendance why they are one of the greatest rock bands to emerge from the grunge era. The Smashing Pumpkins’ performance at Dos Equis Pavilion was a night of pure bliss. From their powerful vocals to their unforgettable stage presence, the band proved that age is but a number and that they are still at the top of their game. The audience was taken on a journey through their success-ridden career. The Smashing Pumpkins are a must see band and will give you an experience that will leave you craving more.
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