It appears so. Since the original lineup last performed together in 1999, talks of a reunion have been on the mind of just about every Smashing Pumpkins fan. That lineup however, which consisted of constant Billy Corgan, along with guitarist James Iha, bassist D’arcy Wretzky, and drummer Jimmy Chamberlain, does not appear to be happening anytime soon. Although fans can still rejoice with encouraging signs that at least three of the members have plans together for the future.
Chamberlain has toured with the Pumpkins for most of the past two years after seeming to find peace with both himself and Corgan. Iha joined the two onstage for two songs at a 2016 show in Chicago. Wretzky, however as more or less lived in isolation after departing the band in ’99. She would seem to be the missing piece for a full blown Pumpkins reunion. And while recent Instagram posts from both Billy Corgan and Jimmy Chamberlain show the three guys in a Los Angeles studio together with not-so-subtle signs of music (and a tour) to come, D’arcy recently exchanged texts with Blast Echo to confirm what the posts show – she is not involved. Her statement read “My apologies to all of the Smashing Pumpkins fans out there who are excited about this oncoming reunion tour of the original members of the band. I know this is a huge disappointment for me, as well, but it’s not going to happen [with me].”
It’s worth noting however that nothing has been officially announced at all from the Smashing Pumpkins camp. Should Billy(William), James, and Jimmy decide to bring their mighty musical muscle car out of the garage and onto the road, it’s anybody’s guess who would fill in on bass duties. Potential candidates might include former members/touring members Melissa Auf der Maur, Nicole Fiorentino, and Katie Fox.
