It appears Smashing Pumpkins have opted to go the socio-political route on Zeitgeist, their forthcoming album. The fresh cover art, a minimal red, black, and white depiction of the Statue of Liberty overtaken by water — mmm…global warming — was created by Obey Giant designer/Spin20 poster creator Shepard Fairey, who, according to frontman Billy Corgan, “summed up very simply a lot of complex themes,” and “was just on point.”
“Global warming is an issue that is currently relevant, time sensitive, and a symptom of the shortsightedness of the U.S.,” Fairey said in a statement. “As a broader metaphor, the drowning Statue of Liberty, a revered icon of the U.S., symbolizes the eminent demise of many of the ideals upon which the nation was founded. Civil liberties, freedom of speech, privacy, etc. have been decreasing since 9/11. The sun in the image could either be setting or rising and this ambiguity shows that there is still hope to turn things around.”
Whoa, heavy.
In response, bloggers are offering their critiques of the album’s artwork, Smashing Pumpkins’ apparent newfound political lean, and the band’s return in general.
Also Read
Compact Discs: Sound of the Future
Here’s what bloggers are saying about the Zeitgeist cover art:
“Looks cool. I wonder if it’s going to be political…” — Oculine, hereisnowhy.com
“Again, mixed feelings. Kinda making a political statement. Not sure if this is what I am used to, although I can certainly accept it. With a curious/confused heart…I will accept the new Smashing Pumpkins openly and then decide from there on.” — blog.myspace.com
“The Statue of Liberty drowning in water…or even could be blood (it depends how deep you want to get).” — Charley Rogulewski , mog.com
“Not sure what it has to do with the album, but it’s a cool image nonetheless” — Jim, slyoyster.com
On the Web:
smashingpumpkins.com
Talk: What do you think of the Zeitgeist cover art?
