After many line-up changes and the odd wrangle, The Smashing Pumpkins recent output suggests that they've, well, mellowed out a bit though not necessarily in a musical sense, although new album "Oceania" certainly leans towards a more dream-like sound than say, "Gish" or "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness".

Billy Corgan's charges no longer include any founders - James, Melissa and, most recently, Jimmy have all departed - but still have an enigmatic presence, both live and on record (OK, download as well, future-lovers). So much so that they've been busy beavering away with a 40+ song concept-album, "Teargarden by Kaleidyscope", from which "Oceania" is an excerpt (previous EPs were issued in 2010 and 2011). Described by many critics as his 'best work for years' and '...the first SP record since Mellon Collie to stimulate the senses' (cheers, BBC), "Oceania" is a bit of a triumph for Corgan and one that should translate well on the big stage.

Great news for fans - The Smashing Pumpkins are heading to the UK for a handful of shows in the summer. As part of a bigger European jaunt, the foursome will call at Manchester on 1st July, followed by Glasgow on the 2nd and, after gallivanting around the continent, Wembley Arena on the 22nd.

Tickets on sale now and will cost £35 to £38.50.