What makes Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts) by The Smashing Pumpkins notable?

The album received mixed reviews but was notable for debuting at number 1 on the Billboard Alternative Albums chart, showcasing the band's enduring relevance in the alternative rock scene. Additionally, it signaled a return to form for the group, blending classic elements of their sound with modern production techniques. Upon its release in September 2018, 'Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)' marked The Smashing Pumpkins' eleventh studio album and their first since reuniting with founding member James Iha. This project comes after a series of lineup changes and a shift towards more indie influences following the band's earlier commercial successes.

How many songs are on Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)?

Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts) has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)

The Smashing Pumpkins · 2018

3 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A melancholic exploration of nostalgia wrapped in shimmering guitar melodies and ethereal vocals that echo the band's past.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts) — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of memory and reflection, featuring intricate guitar work that harkens back to the band's earlier sonic explorations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The track combines nostalgic melodies with layered instrumentation, though it lacks the depth for high replay value.

What we noticed

The track features a layered arrangement with shimmering guitar lines that create a sense of depth and nostalgia.
Vocals are delivered in an ethereal style, often harmonizing with themselves to enhance the melancholic atmosphere.
The song structure includes a build-up to a more intense chorus, followed by a return to softer verses, creating dynamic contrast.

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: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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 — Shows the band's continued relevance and creativity after reuniting with key member.
Themes: shimmering nostalgia· ghostly reflections· indie revival spirit
Career context: Upon its release in September 2018, 'Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)' marked The Smashing Pumpkins' eleventh studio album and their first since reuniting with founding member James Iha. This project comes after a series of lineup changes and a shift towards more indie influences following the band's earlier commercial successes.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Soundgarden· Radiohead

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)

The verse shifts to vivid imagery of fleeting moments that evoke strong emotional responses from the narrator.

This use of evocative imagery creates a haunting atmosphere, effectively pulling listeners into a contemplative state reflective of the album's overarching themes.