Following the demise of the short-lived Zwan and an ill-received solo album (THEFUTUREEMBRACE), singer/guitarist Billy Corgan decided to revive the Smashing Pumpkins, issuing ZEITGEIST, the revered alternative-rock group's first official studio outing in more than seven years, in the summer of 2007. Pared down to the core of Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlain for the album's recording, the Pumpkins sidestep past sonic indulgences, avoiding the overt lushness of MELLON COLLIE AND THE INFINITE SADNESS and the electronic leanings of ADORE, to create a sharply honed aesthetic that is enhanced by the presence of veteran producers Roy Thomas Baker (The Cars, Queen) and Terry Date (Deftones, Soundgarden).

While there are lighter moments on ZEITGEIST (see the shimmering "Neverlost"), the Pumpkins seem most at home when doling out heavy, upbeat numbers, particularly the searing "Doomsday Clock" and the hard-charging "Tarantula," which showcase Corgan's signature six-string ferocity and Chamberlain's percussive punch. By reining in his often-overactive muse, Corgan has arguably crafted his most focused record since SIAMESE DREAM, making the reinvigorated Pumpkins--rounded out by touring musicians Jeff Schroeder (guitar), Ginger Reyes (bass), and Lisa Hamilton (keyboards)--much more than just a halfhearted reunion act.