Tampa Calling

When Billy Corgan first announced his intention to resurrect The Smashing Pumpkins, longtime fans crossed out the names of uninvolved former members (except Jimmy Chamberlain) one by one. We knew there would be no James Iha (now in that silly supergroup Tinted Windows) and no D’Arcy Wretzky (right). Only now do we finally hear what’s up with the silvery-haired bassist! D’Arcy randomly called Chicago alt-rock station Q101 to let us know she left the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle behind in favor of passing her days on a horse farm in rural Michigan. Oh, and she loves Silversun Pickups, who don’t at all sound like The Smashing Pumpkins.

Last month, I reported on Courtney Love and her similar intention to resurrect Hole with minimal involvement from former bandmates. Former Hole guitarist and co-conspirator Eric Erlandson took time out from Buddhism and marketing vegan food for a Spin Q&A. When asked about his feelings on Hole’s return, he responded:

We have a contract. She signed a contract with me when we decided to break up the band, which was like 2002 or something, so I really don’t have a comment on it except that I know my part in that band. The way I look at it, there is no Hole without me. [Laughs] To put it blunt. Just on a business level… I’m open to discussions regarding the real Hole, and if she has a solo album together, I think that’s great.

What did Mrs. Cobain have to say about this? Find out after the jump! Read the rest of this entry »

As a service to those who like to know what bands are playing on the five-nights-a-week late night talk shows, I’ve decided to offer a regular update. Make sure to set your TIVOs or DVRs if you don’t stay up late enough to catch the performances on your own.

The Late Show with David Letterman, CBS
Monday, January 26: Ben Kweller
Tuesday, January 27: Andrew Bird
Thursday, January 29: No traditional musical guest but Graham Nash sits in with Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra
Friday, January 30: The Gaslight Anthem
Read the rest of this entry »