11 Underrated Smashing Pumpkins Songs: Rare Tracks

Hey there, music enthusiasts! TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and dedicated music aficionado. Today, I’m super excited to share something special with my fellow DJs and all you passionate music lovers out there.

We’re diving into the treasure trove of The Smashing Pumpkins’ discography to unearth 11 underrated gems that deserve more spotlight.

Why this list, you ask?

Well, while everyone knows their chart-toppers, The Smashing Pumpkins have an array of incredible tracks that often fly under the radar. These songs showcase their versatility, lyrical depth, and musical genius that goes beyond their mainstream hits.

So, let’s embark on this sonic journey and rediscover the magic of The Smashing Pumpkins through these hidden masterpieces!

Here are the underrated Smashing Pumpkins songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Smashing Pumpkins Songs

Underrated Smashing Pumpkins songs in a list format:

1. Starla

Album: Pisces Iscariot (1994), Virgin Records
“Starla,” an epic 11-minute journey, is a standout track from the compilation album “Pisces Iscariot.” This song, written by Billy Corgan, features mesmerizing guitar work and a slow build-up that culminates in an explosive and emotive climax. The track showcases Corgan’s guitar skills and James Iha’s subtle yet effective backing. The reason for its selection is its incredible dynamic range, which takes the listener through multiple phases of intensity and emotion, something characteristic of the Pumpkins but not often recognized in their more popular songs.

2. Whir

Album: Pisces Iscariot (1994), Virgin Records
“Whir” is a beautifully understated track, again from “Pisces Iscariot.” Written by Billy Corgan, this song features a gentle, melodic guitar line and reflective lyrics. The rhythm section, with D’arcy Wretzky on bass and Jimmy Chamberlin on drums, adds a compelling depth. It’s chosen for its lyrical vulnerability and the way it contrasts with the band’s more grandiose works, showing their range and Corgan’s songwriting prowess.

3. Obscured

Album: Today (single) (1993), Virgin Records
Found as a B-side on the “Today” single, “Obscured” is a hidden gem written by Billy Corgan. The song has a dreamy, ethereal feel, enhanced by Corgan’s haunting vocals and layered instrumentation. This track is a prime example of the band’s ability to create a powerful emotional landscape within a song, making it a must-listen for anyone exploring the depth of The Smashing Pumpkins’ catalog.

4. Plume

Album: Pisces Iscariot (1994), Virgin Records
“Plume” is a grungier, more raw offering from The Smashing Pumpkins. The track, penned by Billy Corgan, features a heavy guitar riff and a more aggressive vocal style. It’s a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to straddle the line between alternative rock and grunge. Its inclusion here is to highlight the Pumpkins’ grunge influences, often overshadowed by their more polished hits.

5. Hello Kitty Kat

Album: Siamese Dream (Deluxe Edition) (2011), Virgin Records
Originally a B-side to “Today,” “Hello Kitty Kat” is a dynamic, high-energy track. Written by Billy Corgan, this song is characterized by its intense guitar work and raw, emotive vocals. The urgency and energy of this track make it a standout, showcasing a more aggressive side of the band that often gets lost in their more melodic mainstream releases.

6. Frail and Bedazzled

Album: Pisces Iscariot (1994), Virgin Records
This track is a true showcase of the band’s early sound. Written by Billy Corgan, “Frail and Bedazzled” features a mix of heavy guitar riffs and melodic interludes. The song has a sense of rawness and urgency that captures the essence of the early ’90s alternative scene. It’s an essential listen for those who want to understand the roots of The Smashing Pumpkins’ sound.

7. Blew Away

Album: Pisces Iscariot (1994), Virgin Records
Penned by James Iha, “Blew Away” offers a different flavor to the Pumpkins’ usual style. This song stands out for its melodic, gentle approach, showcasing Iha’s softer vocal style and songwriting skills. It’s a beautiful contrast to Corgan’s more intense compositions and highlights the diverse talents within the band.

8. Pissant

Album: Siamese Dream (Deluxe Edition) (2011), Virgin Records
“Pissant,” a raw and punchy track, was initially a B-side on the “Cherub Rock” single. Written by Billy Corgan, this song is characterized by its fast tempo and aggressive lyrics. It’s a perfect example of the band’s ability to deliver high-energy, punk-infused tracks, showing a different side to their musical persona.

9. Set the Ray to Jerry

Album: 1979 (single) (1996), Virgin Records
“Set the Ray to Jerry” is a more mellow, bass-driven track, featuring soothing vocals by Corgan. This song, found on the “1979” single, is a testament to the band’s versatility, capable of creating beautifully introspective and atmospheric music. It’s a standout for its stark contrast to the heavier sounds of their other works

10. Mouths of Babes

Album: The Aeroplane Flies High (1996), Virgin Records
“Mouths of Babes” is a track from the box set “The Aeroplane Flies High,” known for its energetic and gritty sound. Authored by Billy Corgan, it exemplifies the raw power and dynamic range that The Smashing Pumpkins can deliver. Featuring a driving guitar riff and Corgan’s distinctive vocal style, this song captures the essence of the band’s heavier side. It’s an essential track for understanding the depth and breadth of their rock capabilities, often overshadowed by their more famous singles.

11. Marquis in Spades

Album: Zero (EP) (1996), Virgin Records
“Marquis in Spades,” found on the “Zero” EP, is a hard-hitting, fast-paced track written by Billy Corgan. This song showcases the band’s ability to blend heavy, distorted guitars with a melodic sensibility. The energy and intensity of “Marquis in Spades” make it a standout, representing the band’s flair for combining the aggressive elements of rock with poetic lyrics. Its inclusion in this list is to highlight the Pumpkins’ prowess in creating songs that are both powerful and artistically rich.

Fun Facts: Underrated Smashing Pumpkins Songs

Starla

• Unique Recording Process: “Starla” was recorded in a home studio, which was unusual for the time and added to its distinctive sound.
• Guitar Pedal Experimentation: Billy Corgan used an extensive array of guitar pedals in “Starla,” experimenting with different sounds, contributing to the song’s psychedelic feel.

Whir

• Acoustic Charm: Unlike many of their other songs, “Whir” features a predominantly acoustic arrangement, showcasing a softer side of the band.
• Fan Favorite: Despite its B-side status, “Whir” has remained a fan favorite over the years, often celebrated for its simplicity and emotional depth.

Obscured

• Dream Pop Influence: “Obscured” shows the band’s dream pop influences with its ethereal sound, a departure from their usual heavier rock style.
• Music Video Rarity: A music video for “Obscured” was made but is rarely seen, making it a sought-after item among hardcore fans.

Plume

• Personal Lyrics: Corgan has mentioned that the lyrics of “Plume” were inspired by his personal experiences, making it a more intimate song.
• Grungy Texture: The song’s grungy texture reflects the band’s versatility and ability to delve into different sub-genres of rock.

Hello Kitty Kat

• Live Energy: Known for its high energy, “Hello Kitty Kat” has been a crowd-pleaser in live performances, often energizing audiences with its intensity.
• Recording Sessions: This track was recorded during the same sessions as the band’s acclaimed album “Siamese Dream,” adding to its historical significance.

Frail and Bedazzled

• Early Pumpkins Sound: “Frail and Bedazzled” is a perfect example of the early Pumpkins sound, combining heavy and melodic elements, reflecting the band’s evolving style.
• Compilation Highlight: It’s often cited as one of the highlights of the “Pisces Iscariot” compilation, showcasing the band’s B-side prowess.

Blew Away

• James Iha’s Spotlight: “Blew Away” is one of the few Smashing Pumpkins songs prominently featuring James Iha on lead vocals, highlighting his contributions to the band.
• Contrasting Style: The song’s gentle and melodic style provides a stark contrast to Corgan’s more intense compositions, demonstrating the band’s musical range.

Pissant

• Punk Influence: “Pissant” shows the band’s punk rock influences with its fast tempo and straightforward, aggressive style.
• Lyrical Directness: The song’s lyrics are more direct and confrontational than many of the band’s other works, reflecting a different aspect of Corgan’s songwriting.

Set the Ray to Jerry

• Fan-Loved B-side: Although a B-side, “Set the Ray to Jerry” has been consistently praised by fans and critics alike for its atmospheric and soothing qualities.
• Unique Name Origin: The title of the song is unique and its origin remains a topic of speculation among fans, adding to its mystique.

Mouths of Babes

• Box Set Gem: As part of “The Aeroplane Flies High” box set, “Mouths of Babes” is often considered a hidden gem within the band’s extensive catalog.
• Energetic Live Performances: The song is known for its energetic performances in live shows, often becoming a highlight of the band’s concerts.

Marquis in Spades

• High-Energy Composition: “Marquis in Spades” is noted for its high energy and fast pace, showcasing the band’s ability to create compelling rock tracks.
• EP Standout: The song stands out on the “Zero” EP, often cited by fans as one of the best tracks, demonstrating the EP’s diversity beyond its lead single.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers – a deep dive into the lesser-known yet absolutely fascinating world of The Smashing Pumpkins. These tracks are more than just songs; they’re stories, emotions, and artistic expressions waiting to be rediscovered. So plug in, turn up the volume, and let these hidden gems take you on a memorable musical journey.

Thanks for reading.

TBone