Smashing Pumpkins have announced the replacement for drummer Jimmy Chamberlin who quit the seminal Chicago grunge rockers in March.

The band held a series of open auditions throughout the year and today confirmed that 19-year-old fan Mike Byrne from Oregon is their new sticksman.

“I’m super excited to be playing with the band. Dream come true, man,” said Byrne. “I’ve always thought that Billy’s [Corgan, vocals/guitar] interpretation of music was a real fresh one.”

“I’m excited to work with him moving forward – he truly deserves this opportunity,” added Corgan. “I believe in my heart he will push me to be a better musician.”

Byrne will make his studio debut with the band on the forthcoming follow-up to 2007′s Zeitgeist which is expected later this year.

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