What makes Being Beige by The Smashing Pumpkins notable?

Though it did not achieve the commercial success of earlier albums, Being Beige marked a return to form for Corgan, showcasing his continued evolution as a songwriter. The album received positive reviews, with critics noting its introspective tone and cohesion amidst an era where alternative rock was becoming more fragmented. Released in 2014, Being Beige is part of The Smashing Pumpkins' later discography, following the band's 2012 album Oceania. At this point, frontman Billy Corgan was navigating a period of artistic revitalization, moving away from the mainstream sound that characterized their earlier works in the 1990s.

How many songs are on Being Beige?

Being Beige has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Released 12 years ago this October

Being Beige

The Smashing Pumpkins · 2014

3 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A reflective exploration of melancholy wrapped in lush, atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Being Beige — The title track serves as both an introduction to the album's themes of existential reflection and a showcase for Corgan's haunting vocal delivery paired with intricate guitar work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The track's introspective nature and layered sound create a cohesive listening experience, though it lacks broader impact.

What we noticed

The track features a slow, steady tempo with layered instrumentation that builds gradually throughout its duration.
Vocals are delivered in a soft, contemplative manner, allowing the atmospheric elements to take prominence.
The song employs a repetitive structure, with verses and choruses that create a sense of introspection and continuity.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Showcases continued artistic evolution in the later phase of Corgan's career.
Career context: Released in 2014, Being Beige is part of The Smashing Pumpkins' later discography, following the band's 2012 album Oceania. At this point, frontman Billy Corgan was navigating a period of artistic revitalization, moving away from the mainstream sound that characterized their earlier works in the 1990s.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Soundgarden· Radiohead