What makes Thirty-Three by The Smashing Pumpkins notable?

Thirty-Three received critical acclaim upon its release, showcasing a softer side of The Smashing Pumpkins while still achieving commercial success. The single reached number 2 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, further solidifying the band's presence in the alternative rock scene during the mid-90s. Released on November 11, 1996, Thirty-Three came during a period of transition for The Smashing Pumpkins, following their commercially successful album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. At this stage in their career, the band was exploring more contemplative themes and sonic experimentation, marking a shift from the anthemic rock sound that characterized their earlier work.

How many songs are on Thirty-Three?

Thirty-Three has 4 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Thirty-Three

The Smashing Pumpkins · 1996

20 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal melodies blend with introspective lyrics, creating a soundscape that feels both expansive and intimately personal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Thirty‐Three — The title track stands out for its delicate instrumentation and poignant exploration of nostalgia and longing, encapsulating the album's reflective tone.
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The Last Song — This track features haunting melodies and introspective lyrics that delve into themes of finality and acceptance, making it a pivotal moment on the album.
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The Aeroplane Flies High (Turns Left, Looks Right) — Clocking in at over eight minutes, this song showcases the band's ability to construct expansive soundscapes while maintaining emotional depth through lyrical storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases varied arrangements and introspective lyrics, reflecting a transitional phase for the band.

What we noticed

The lead track features a steady, mid-tempo rhythm with layered guitars that create an expansive soundscape.
The second track introduces a more stripped-down arrangement, focusing on piano and vocals, contrasting with the opener.
The final two tracks incorporate varied dynamics, with 'The Aeroplane Flies High' featuring a more complex structure and tempo changes.

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

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: Deep Cut — A notable single that showcases a softer sound, but not a defining album in their catalog.
Themes: nostalgic longing· intimate reflections· finality and acceptance
Career context: Released on November 11, 1996, Thirty-Three came during a period of transition for The Smashing Pumpkins, following their commercially successful album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. At this stage in their career, the band was exploring more contemplative themes and sonic experimentation, marking a shift from the anthemic rock sound that characterized their earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors: Alice in Chains· Soundgarden· Radiohead