Smashing Pumpkins pick teen to be next drummer, chosen among 1,000-plus who answered open call
By APTuesday, August 18, 2009
Smashing Pumpkins pick new drummer after open call
PORTLAND, Ore. — Drum roll, please. The Smashing Pumpkins have a new member of the band.
The band posted on its Web site that 19-year-old Mike Byrne of Portland was chosen from the more than 1,000 drummers who responded to the group’s open call to replace Jimmy Chamberlin.
Frontman Billy Corgan says Byrne has “that X-factor that all the great drummers have, a stunning blend of power, speed, and grace.”
Byrne, who started the drums at 11, will play on the Grammy-winning alternative rock band’s next album and go on tour. He saw the Pumpkins when they toured Portland two years ago and says the opportunity he’s been given is a dream come true.
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