Billy Corgan: TheFutureEmbrace
After Zwan decided to call it a day after only one album, it was a foregone conclusion that Billy Corgan would continue to write and record songs regardless, and this, his first proper solo effort, is the result. It has to be said that his distinctly nasal vocals and sometimes cryptic approach to lyrics are an acquired taste, but here is proof that it is a taste worth acquiring.
The opening track, All Things Change, gives the impression that he is looking back at his career with the introspective lyrics and the signature distorted, atmospheric guitars. However, don’t assume that this album is an attempt to recapture past glories. There are inevitably aspects to the sound of TheFutureEmbrace that are reminiscent of Corgan’s previous work but this is looking forwards as well as back.
The guitar sounds are pure Corgan, but somewhat more subtle than the bold, almost pretentious ambition of years gone by. There are no over-long experimental epics here: just twelve self-contained songs that keep to less than five minutes each. The majority of the instruments are performed by Billy himself: the drums sound programmed and long-standing collaborator Jimmy Chamberlain performs the drums for one song: Mia. Robert Smith makes a guest appearance on the cover of the Bee Gees ToLoveSomebody with some guitar and backing vocals; in fact, the influence of the Cure seems to have extended to the overall sound of the album, and hints of Joy Division/New Order are also apparent.
Zwan was very much a new beginning, both from both a lyrical and musical point of view; with TheFutureEmbrace this new-found optimism is not as obvious and as a result the songs sound more diverse. Corgan is capable of conveying a wide variety of emotions through his music, whether they are romantic, hopeful, joyful or the depths of despair. This album is therefore a little less samey than Mary Star of the Sea, even if it suffers from occasional downbeat moments. The atmosphere is at times quite moody and almost claustrophobic but it is clear that Corgan is making the most of his new-found artistic freedom.
In Summary
While many fans were secretly hoping for a Pumpkins reunion (as Billy is, if the rumours are to be believed), it’s great to see he still has the enthusiasm to keep writing and performing. While there are elements of his earlier work in this album it still has a character of its own and most importantly of all sounds great. This record might not immediately grab your attention but it sounds better and better with every listen.
Tracklisting
- All Things Change
- Mina Loy (M.O.H.)
- Thecameraeye
- Tolovesomebody
- A100
- Dia
- Now (And Then)
- I’m Ready
- Walking Shade
- Sorrows (In Blue)
- Pretty, Pretty Star
- Strayz
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