Jimmy Chamberlin Complex

The title of this solo debut from the former Smashing Pumpkins and Zwan skin-basher is obviously a reference to his recovery from a near life- and career-ending addiction problem — the one that got him booted from the Pumpkins. But musically this is not some sappy ode to triumph over tragedy. Composed largely with the help of L.A.-based songwriter Bill Moher, Life Begins Again is a swirling, rhythm-driven jazz-rock fusion disc with instrumental numbers that recall Shadowfax or Mahavishnu Orchestra. But when guest vocalists like Catherine Wheel’s Rob Dickinson and even former Pumpkins leader Billy Corgan are dropped into the mix on a few tracks, its more rock than jazz. A surprisingly solid effort.