It’s been rumored for months and now it appears to be official: Billy Corgan revealed in a recent radio interview that the original Smashing Punpkins lineup featuring himself, James Iha, D’arcy Wretsky and Jimmy Chamberlain will reunite this year for a world tour.

In addition to confirming positive talks with Iha, Corgan expanded on the reunion plans: “Here’s the thing, being honest, there’s a willingness for us to play, but there’s also, the world has changed a lot since we didn’t play. 

The reunion thing is always a bit weird, because then people come in with their expectations. So my whole thing is if we’re going to do it, I think we do it to make people happy, and not go against the tide of what people would want to hear and that type of stuff, but my interest in it is sort of limited. I’m not going to do it for 14 years of my life.”

This is a huge statement from Corgan. As an artist who has often frustrated fans by not playing classic songs in concert, the gesture at fulfilling hardcore Pumpkins audiences is a dream come true for many, especially those too young to have seen the band in their prime.

The downside of course is that “limited” statement. But as they say, nothing lasts forever, and even a brief reunion would not only help line their pockets, but would thrill fans who’ve longed to see the original lineup for nearly 2 decades. 

The bigger question is if there’s any new music in store from the reunited quartet. We’ll just have to wait and see. In the meantime, Corgan is readying a solo release produced by Rick Rubin.