Smashing Pumpkins Looking For New Drummer

Here’s what the Smashing Pumpkins’ official Web site had to say:

“The Smashing Pumpkins are continuing to make music after the departure of original member Jimmy Chamberlin. When Jimmy originally auditioned for The Smashing Pumpkins, he was playing in a locally touring jazz band that was playing weddings and street fairs. It just goes to show that you never know where the next big talent will come from.

“The Smashing Pumpkins are taking submissions for recording and touring drummers. There may be multiple positions open for this call for entries.”

If that sounds like the job for you, here’s what you’ll need to send in – your resume (including a list of bands, shows, awards and education) along with a photograph/headshot and links to digital files and/or video links showcasing your skills hitting the skins. Send your email with resume and links attached to [email protected].

Auditions are being held in Los Angeles April 10.

The Pumpkins announced Chamberlin had left the band in a late afternoon press release Friday, March 20. His departure left frontman Billy Corgan as the only original member in the band’s lineup.

The statement simply said Chamberlin was leaving and noted he had joined the band in 1988 and played on all of their albums except for 1998’s Adore. It didn’t give a reason for his departure. The press release also announced that Corgan would continue to write and record as the Smashing Pumpkins, with plans to head into the studio this spring.

Four days later, Chamberlin wrote about his departure on his personal blog. He said “there is no drama, bad blood” between him and Corgan but that “I can no longer commit all of my energy into something that I don’t fully possess. I won’t pretend I’m into something I’m not. I won’t do it to myself, you the fan, or my former partner. I can’t just, ‘Cash the check’ so to speak.”

He added that he was glad Corgan was continuing on under the Smashing Pumpkins moniker and “it is his right.” Chamberlin said he will continue to make music with the Jimmy Chamberlin Complex as well as pursuing other musical interests.

Check out the Pumpkins’ Web site here.

Check out Chamberlin’s blog here.