ATUM is billed as a direct sequel to the band's iconic albums Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995) and Machina/The Machines of God (2000).
The Official Music Video was directed by Linda Strawberry and features the band's current lineup, including original members James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlin. The Smashing Pumpkins – Beguiled Lyrics - Genius
The repeated refrain "Return the faith" acts as a command for submission to a future society. ATUM is billed as a direct sequel to
Corgan noted that the song explores the concept of "trusting the message," drawing a parallel to public skepticism during the pandemic: "Anytime anyone asks you to trust them, that's when I run". Release Information
is the lead single from The Smashing Pumpkins' 12th studio album, Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts , released on September 20, 2022. The track marked a high point for the band’s modern era, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Rock Airplay chart, their first top 10 hit since 2007. Sound and Style Corgan noted that the song explores the concept
Frontman Billy Corgan has stated the lyrics are sung from the perspective of an authoritarian character delivering propaganda to the masses.
It features a "four-to-the-floor" rhythm with palm-muted chugs and high-pitched Whammy pedal squeals , reminiscent of their 1995 classic "Zero". Sound and Style Frontman Billy Corgan has stated
The song is characterized by heavy, "chugging" guitar riffs that draw comparisons to classic metal acts like and Judas Priest .