Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan has announced an exciting new chapter in his musical journey. This summer, he'll hit the road with a fresh lineup called Billy Corgan and the Machines of God, performing beloved tracks from the Smashing Pumpkins catalog alongside new material.
The tour, titled "A Return to Zero," celebrates two major milestones: the 30th anniversary of "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" and the 25th anniversary of the "Machina" albums. Starting June 7 in Baltimore, the 16-date tour will showcase both fan favorites and rarely performed deep cuts from these acclaimed records.
Joining Corgan in this new venture are recent Smashing Pumpkins addition Kiki Wong on guitar, Jake Hayden behind the drums, and bassist Kid Tigrrr (Jenna Fournier). The quartet will deliver intimate performances across various venues in North America, including stops in Boston, Toronto, New York City, and Minneapolis.
The celebration extends beyond the tour, with several special releases planned. An extensive 80-song box set combining both "Machina" albums will be available exclusively through Corgan's Madame Zuzu's tea shop in Highland Park, Illinois. Fans can also look forward to a vinyl reissue of "Machina/The Machines of God" on August 22.
In a unique collaboration, Corgan has partnered with Chicago's Lyric Opera for "A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness," featuring seven performances from November 21-30. This special series will present the classic album reimagined with the Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra and Chorus.
Tickets for the "A Return to Zero" tour will be available through an artist presale starting April 1, with general sales beginning April 4.