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Briefly: Smashing Pumpkins, Ministry, Nick Lachey, Grandaddy

Frontman/guitarist Billy Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin reportedly are about to begin work on a new Smashing Pumpkins album.

MTV.com and Billboard.com report that former Pumpkins members James Iha (guitar) and D'arcy Wretzky (bass) won't be involved in the new project.

Corgan broke up Smashing Pumpkins in 2000, and went on to form the quartet Zwan, whose lineup included Chamberlin. Zwan released just one album, 2003's "Mary Star of the Sea."

Last year, Corgan issued his debut solo album, "The Future Embrace." On the same day the album hit stores, Corgan took out an advertisement in two Chicago newspapers, stating that he had "made the decision to renew and revive the Smashing Pumpkins. I want my band back, and my songs, and my dreams."

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"Rio Grande Blood," the 13th studio album from industrial-rock pioneers Ministry is scheduled to hit stores on May 2. Three days later, Ministry launches a previously announced co-headlining tour with Revolting Cocks.

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"What's Left of Me," a new single from Nick Lachey , premiered Friday (2/3) via the AOL Music website, along with an interview with the artist.

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Grandaddy 's forthcoming fifth album, "Just Like the Fambly Cat," will be the band's last, the group has announced. The Modesto, CA, band, which has been together for 14 years, has no plans to tour behind the new CD, which is due in stores May 9.