Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts
The Smashing Pumpkins · 2023
138 min · 33 tracks · alternative rock
A sweeping, narrative-driven rock opera that melds ethereal melodies with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
Why this album works
The album's release has been noted for its ambitious format as a rock opera, which is relatively rare in contemporary rock music. Critics have highlighted its narrative depth and thematic cohesion, contributing to discussions about the relevance of the rock opera format today. Additionally, the album's reception reflects a resurgence in interest around The Smashing Pumpkins, demonstrating their ability to remain culturally significant decades into their career.
- Best for
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks sweeping narratives that unfold gradually immersive listening for reflective moments
- Context
- Released on May 5, 2023, 'Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts' is The Smashing Pumpkins' follow-up to their 2020 album 'Cyr'. This project marks a continued evolution for the band, exploring ambitious storytelling and theatricality while showcasing frontman Billy Corgan's enduring vision as a songwriter. The album arrived during a revitalization phase for the group, following lineup changes and various musical explorations over the past few years.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Moby· Green Day· Beck· Linkin Park· Lana Del Rey· Tori Amos· Nine Inch Nails· Sonic Youth
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 ATUM 3:32
- 2 Butterfly Suite 3:28
- 3 The Good in Goodbye Standout 4:40
- 4 Embracer 3:39
- 5 With Ado I Do 2:52
- 6 Hooligan Standout 3:05
- 7 Steps in Time 3:49
- 8 Where Rain Must Fall 4:15
- 9 Beyond the Vale 3:42
- 10 Hooray! 3:43
- 11 The Gold Mask 3:31
Disc 2
- 1 Avalanche 5:42
- 2 Empires 3:10
- 3 Neophyte 4:16
- 4 Moss 2:59
- 5 Night Waves 2:53
- 6 Space Age 3:12
- 7 Every Morning 6:10
- 8 To the Grays 3:12
- 9 Beguiled 3:58
- 10 The Culling 4:30
- 11 Springtimes 3:56
Disc 3
- 1 Sojourner Standout 7:41
- 2 That Which Animates the Spirit 3:55
- 3 The Canary Trainer 3:57
- 4 Pacer 5:24
- 5 In Lieu of Failure 3:26
- 6 Cenotaph 3:04
- 7 Harmageddon 4:21
- 8 Fireflies 3:26
- 9 Intergalactic 8:58
- 10 Spellbinding 4:06
- 11 Of Wings 5:28
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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