3.74°C The Colchester Castle Summer Series has unveiled its latest headliner – legendary alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins. They will take to the stage on Thursday, 14 August, with special guests Skunk Anansie and White Lies, making it one of the most anticipated nights of the series.
The Smashing Pumpkins (Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha) are among the most influential and revered bands in alternative rock history. Since forming in Chicago in 1988, they have sold over 30 million albums worldwide and won multiple awards, including two Grammys, seven MTV VMAs, and an American Music Award. Their vast catalogue includes seminal albums such as Gish (1991), Siamese Dream (1993), and the diamond-certified Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995), which remains one of the best-selling double albums of all time.
Famed for their dynamic live performances, The Smashing Pumpkins bring an electrifying energy to the stage, making their Colchester appearance a must-see for alternative and rock fans alike. Tracks like Tonight, Tonight, 1979, and Bullet with Butterfly Wings cemented their legacy, influencing generations of musicians and shaping the sound of the ’90s and beyond. Their latest album, Aghori Mhori Mei (2024), marks a return to their signature guitar-driven rock sound.
Joining them on the night are two iconic acts. Skunk Anansie, led by the powerful Skin, have been a defining force in British rock since the ’90s, delivering hits like Weak and Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Good). Meanwhile, White Lies, known for their atmospheric post-punk indie sound, will add another layer to the night with anthems like Farewell to the Fairground and Bigger Than Us.
Rob Waller, MD of Soundcrash, said:
“We are thrilled to bring this legendary band to Colchester for the Colchester Castle Summer Series. Performing in such a historic setting will make this a truly unforgettable night for both the band and their fans. It’s an honour to host an act with such a profound legacy and cultural impact. For over 30 years, The Smashing Pumpkins have been pioneers of alternative rock, leaving an indelible mark on the music world and inspiring generations of artists.”
The Smashing Pumpkins join an already impressive 2025 line-up, which includes Craig David, Madness, Texas, Busted, and the Out of Time Festival with James, with more announcements still to come.
Colchester Castle Summer Series 2025 – Latest Line-up
- The Smashing Pumpkins – 14 August
- Busted – 15 August
- Craig David Presents TS5 – 16 August
- Roots East – 17 August
- Texas – 21 August
- Out of Time Festival with James – 22 August
- Madness – 23 August
Tickets for The Smashing Pumpkins at Colchester Castle go on sale at 10am on Friday 14 February.
For more information and to book, visit colchestercastlesummerseries.co.uk.
Photo Credit: Jason Renaud
