The Smashing Pumpkins have always thrived on reinvention, and their latest single, “Who Goes There,” from their new album Aghori Mhori Mei, continues this trend. The track is a haunting exploration of identity, isolation, and existential dread, wrapped in the band’s signature blend of melodic complexity and sonic experimentation.
The song opens with an eerie, minimalist synth line that feels like a callback to their Adore era but infused with the sharper, more industrial edge of Cyr. Billy Corgan’s voice—fragile yet commanding—sits front and center, delivering cryptic lyrics that feel both deeply personal and intriguingly abstract. As the track progresses, layers of distorted guitars and dynamic percussion build into a swirling crescendo, showcasing the band’s enduring ability to create dramatic, emotionally charged soundscapes.
Lyrically, “Who Goes There” leans heavily on themes of self-confrontation, with lines like “Am I the ghost or the light that stays?” painting vivid images of inner conflict. The chorus, anchored by a repetitive yet hypnotic refrain, resonates with an almost chant-like intensity. The song doesn’t offer easy resolutions, but it thrives in its ambiguity, encouraging listeners to interpret its meaning through their own lens.
James Iha’s guitar work shines here, adding texture and depth to the track’s more introspective moments, while drummer Jimmy Chamberlin injects a subtle but vital energy that keeps the song from sinking under its own weight. Meanwhile, the production is lush yet precise, balancing the grandiosity fans expect from the Pumpkins with a modern, electronic sheen.
1. Edin
2. Pentagrams
3. Sighommi
4. Pentecost
5. War Dreams Of Itself
6. Who Goes There
7. 999
8. Goeth The Fall
9. Sicarus
10. Murnau
That said, “Who Goes There” isn’t without its flaws. At over six minutes, the track risks overstaying its welcome, particularly during its drawn-out outro, which, while atmospheric, doesn’t feel as essential as the rest of the song. Fans who prefer the raw, riff-heavy style of Siamese Dream might find this experimental approach less accessible.
Still, for those who appreciate the Smashing Pumpkins’ evolution over the decades, “Who Goes There” is a compelling addition to their catalog—a moody, introspective journey that feels fresh while remaining unmistakably Pumpkins.
While not a career-defining masterpiece, “Who Goes There” showcases the band’s ability to push boundaries while maintaining their emotional core. It’s a track that rewards repeat listens and hints at the broader sonic landscape of Aghori Mhori Mei, which promises to be one of their most ambitious projects yet.
