Ex-HOLE bassist to join PUMPKINS.Wall Of Sound reports that former Hole bassist Melissa Auf Der Maur will fill the vacancy left by D'Arcy Wretzsky, who parted ways with the group in September. Auf Der Maur does not appear on Smashing Pumpkins' upcoming release, MACHINA/the machines of God, but will play their world tour, which begins January 7 in Sweden.

SEMISONIC plans studio time. It isn't closing time yet for the multi-platinum band, according to AllStar News. Semisonic is currently working with over 50 songs for possible inclusion on a follow-up album to Feeling Strangely Fine, scheduled for release in mid-2000.

Compiled by Glennie Rabin
News Editor