James Iha Releasing Second Solo Album After Nearly 15 Years

Although best-known for his 12-year stint with the Smashing Pumpkins as a rhythm guitarist, James Iha moved out of Billy Corgan’s shadow and, rather than joining the reformed band, took up projects in A Perfect Circle and ‘90s supergroup Tinted Windows. A second solo album, announced this past week, is another one of his efforts.

Conan O’Brien’s Team Coco website began streaming the album, called Look to the Sky, last week. Although the work was released in Japan in March 2012, it’s coming out in the U.S. this Tuesday. To hear a preview of the release, listen here.

Iha’s first solo album, Let It Come Down, was met lukewarmly in 1998. Released before the Smashing Pumpkins put out their electronic-influenced Adore, Let It was a distinct departure from the alterna-rock group’s heavier sounds. Iha, who has matured in the nearly 15 years since Let It debuted, said: "I feel like everything should lead up to something and this is a culmination of my journey."

While Iha did the majority of songwriting and production, Look to the Sky features multiple collaborations. Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Sara Quin from Tegan and Sara, and Nathan Larson of Shudder to Think are some of the more notable guest stars.

Iha began recording his sophomore solo effort as far back as 2007. But, playing in two bands, managing a label, and producing likely put his solo project on the backburner.