The Smashing Pumpkins’ search for a new guitarist has received an overwhelming response, with over 10,000 applications received for the position. The search began earlier this month after Jeff Schroeder, the band’s longtime guitarist, announced his departure from the band in October 2023. Schroeder joined the band in 2007, touring with them in support of their album ‘Zeitgeist.’ He stayed on as guitarist when co-founder James Iha rejoined the group in 2018.
Despite the overwhelming response, the band has stated that they are taking the time to review every submission carefully, with eight people working full-time to assess each application. The search for a new guitarist comes ahead of the band’s joint summer tour with Weezer in the UK and Europe. They will also support Green Day on the American leg of their stadium tour later this year.
In his statement announcing his departure from the band, Schroeder remarked on how he had no idea what he was getting into when he joined the group back in 2007. Despite that, he described it as one of the best decisions he has made in his life. He further stated that he was leaving the band to make some space to explore a slightly different path.
Schroeder has recorded six albums with the band, including their most recent project ‘ATUM,’ which was a three-part rock opera. The album was described as an ambitious body of work with plenty on it to please any diehard Pumpkins fan. Despite Schroeder’s departure, the band remains optimistic about their future and is keenly looking forward to their upcoming tours
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