Well, I will be honest,I am a big fan of the Smashing Pumpkins, and the work they did in the 1990’s. The departure of James Iha, Darcy Wretzky and Jimmy Chamberlain in 2000 cemented the end of an era, as they retired at least twice. The band has been somewhat of a mess with a constant revolving door of players in the last 16 years. Well, that 1990’s era may be re-awakening. James Iha, the founding guitarist of the band, made it on stage with Corgan and Chamberlain this past Saturday night. Seeing James Iha back on stage with Billy Corgan was a welcome site. Iha, who has famously left in 2000, was announced by Billy Corgan on stage this past Saturday night at the ‘Ace Hotel’ in Los Angeles. “Yes, it’s James Iha”, Corgan said on stage, to a wowed crowd flashing their smart phones with photos and videos. It was the first time in 16 years they have been on stage together. Iha, who was a guiding force on guitar for the band, and wrote many of their songs with Corgan in the glorious 1990’s, left under much negativity in 2000.

Iha had celebrated his 48th Birthday earlier in the day, and seeing him on stage was just a kick ass moment. They went on to play many of their signature songs from their 1993 album, ‘Siamese Dream.’ Apparently, whatever animosity existed between Corgan and Iha, has vanished. Amazing what time will do to heal wounds. To me, it’s time to re-set the band, and see if Darcy could also re-join. This band reunited would be a big deal to many of us who grew up listening to this band. They were clearly one of the leaders of the 1990’s Alternative/Grunge scene. Cheers, boys, let’s keep it up!

-Mattie