March 31st, 2009
No Pumpkins For Jotto Drummer Either
Kristian Almgren, drummer for Philly’s own Jotto, has also weighed in rather thoughtfully on our question regarding Billy Corgan’s open audition to become the Smashing Pumpkins’ new drummer: “If you weren’t in your current band and had no other musical obligations, would you audition to become the drummer of the Smashing Pumpkins, and why or why not?”:
“While I did grow up listening to the Pumpkins and still consider them one of the better bands of that time, my short answer would be ‘Naw, I’m good.’ Reason? There are a few. First, I consider myself a musician and artist, not a hired gun. While I have massive respect for those cats that can run the hired guns game (’cause they are usually BAD ASS — I’m looking at you, Josh Freese), it’s not something for me. I enjoy being a part of the creative process and shaping songs and being inspired by my bandmates, not just just being told what to play. Second, I hate the idea of open auditions. I think there is a lot more to band chemistry than the ability to show who you are as a player in a tryout setting. I have had some of the best musical connections with people that I had personal ones with also. I know that could come over time with Bill et al, but it puts a sterile damp feeling on most open auditions.
Plus, wouldn’t that be just like Rock Band?”
