A Perfect Circle
Mer de Noms
(Virgin)
By: Jeff Leisawitz - ModernRock.com
No one was quite sure what to expect when Maynard Keenan of Tool teamed up with Billy Howerdel, a top producer/ musician whose credits includework with Smashing Pumpkins, David Bowie and Nine Inch Nails. No one expected the group's debut, Mer De Noms, to storm the charts and mark the history books as the highest entry ever for a debut rock album. The phenomenal success was partially due to Maynard's devoted fan base as well as the intense support from radio and television. While a major US tour and a spot on the Conan O' Brien show didn't hurt the situation, it was the music that made the strongest impact on fans. The first single, "Judith," swirls with heavy grooves and force fired drumbeats. Maynard's vocals are demanding but soulful. As he questions his relationships, his spirituality and his place in the world, the ground seems to swell and break open between the incessant bass pulses and the tireless wall of sound. Apparently APC likes to use people's names as song titles. On "Rose," the distortion is so thick it seems to stick in your ears. Tracks like
"Thomas," "Magdalena," and "Brena" also pay tribute to the art of volume.
Many cuts here push into the red but some songs, like the extraordinary "3 Libra’s," is quiet and beautiful (at least part of the time). Not all Tool fans will be pleased with the pleasantries. But the rest of the world will appreciate the depth and melodic contribution. One of the strongest and most sonically diverse songs here is "Thinking of You." If the high tech percussive elements don't catch your attention, then maybe the edgy funk of the bassline will. And even if you're deaf to the rhythm, Maynard's vocal approach allows no one to escape.
As an album, Mer de Noms does not hold any pretense. Although the production is a fabulous melange of sounds, textures and stylistic influences, this CD was primarily recorded in Howerdel's garage. Within that safe space APC was free to explore the deep recesses of their musical and creative spirits.
A Perfect Circle is currently opening shows on the massive Nine Inch Nails 'Fragile 2.0' summer tour. Although Manyard swears that his other band is nowhere near breaking up, the pressure is certainly rising with this current project. Tool fans may have to hold their breath for awhile. Meanwhile, the Circle will continue to press ahead, bending the boundaries between the hard rock, metal and alternative genres.
Check out the band's web site at www.aperfectcircle.com
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