[robnathanson]

This is the debut album from A Perfect Circle. the cd's title "Mer de Noms" is translated into english to mean "Sea of Names". This cd contains the bands original lineup of

Maynard James Keenan--vocals
Billy Howerdell--Guitars/backing vocals
Paz Lenchantin--Bass/violin
Josh Freese--Percussion and drums
Troy Van Leeuwen--Guitars

The band generated a lot of attention with Maynard, because of his involvment in the high profile band Tool. THis resulted in a high profile release, and many album sales.

The album doesn't disappoint. It is a powerfully driven, easily listenable cd, with (in my opinion) now bad tracks. Everything fits perfectly.

now for my track by track analysis:


1. The Hollow--a powerful, high energy track. Sometimes gives the listener the impression that the band is just another heavy, band, and nothing special. until Maynards voice comes in that is. Maynard always has very meaningful lyrics and a powerful voice, and he shows it off here. This song makesthe band sound like "Tool Lite" but I guarentee you'll be hooked after the first listen!
5/5

2. Magdalena--This song slows down considderably from The Hollow, but it is just as mind capturing. Maynard sings about the most beautiful woman imaginable, and what he would do to have her.
"I'd sell my soul, my self esteem, a Dollar at a time, for one chance, one kiss, One taste of you my Magdalena"
calling the woman an "earthly goddess" also adds to this. a beautiful track, simple, yet effective lyrics, a nice beat.
5/5

3. Rose--My personal favourite track on the album. very catchy, well put together lyrics and music. Altogether another beautiful track.Maynards lyrics describe, how he is refusing to lay down and give away his free will to others. AS I sadi, my favourite track...
5/5

4. Judith--The most Tool-esque song on the album. very heavy, very fast. Maynard at a vocal high. The songs theme is blind faith (following religion with no ambition) This was the First single from "Mer de Noms" and it was with good reason that Maynard didn't originally want it to be released--it sounds nothing like the rest of the album--for all of those who are easily offended by comments regarding religion (I'm not one) I'd say stay away. (Billy shouting out "Fuck your God" is a good example why)...for the rest of you, it is a highly enjoyable song, but not what APC is al about.
4.5/5

5. Orestes--slowing down considderably from "Judith" this is a much quieter, slower, and all around different song. If you enjoyed THirteenth Step (APC's second album) you'll enjoy this song, it sounds a lot like that album. Lyrically, I think this songs is about separating, and becoming more independant. The opening guitar riff/lick thing sends chills up and down my spine every time I hear it. It is an amazing song!
5/5

6. Three Libras--The best orgasm inducing somg on the album. it sounds like nothing I've heard before. amazing guitar work, excellent musicianship on all accounts, lyrically, one of Maynard's greatest works...and all around AWESOME song. Paz's violin on this song just adds to the extravagence.
6/5 -- 6 stars!!! The song is just that good!!!

7. Sleeping Beauty--Returning to the heavier edge of the music (although not reaching the peaks of The Hollow, or the more intense Judith) this is another Musically solid song. combining a perfect mix of the music, vocals, and rhythm. maynard (although never yelling) holds notes for long periods of time, without rest. another great song
5/5

8. Thomas--another slower song, not my favourite on the album, but well done indeed. I'm getting tired of typing, but trust me by my ratings.....they are high, but not easily earned. (I look at all aspects of the music, and these ratings are VERY well deserved indeed)
4/5

9. Renholder--read backwards as RE: D. Lohner (Danny Lohner) who briefly became APC's guitarist after Troy left. he recorded a number of songs on Thirteenth step, before quitting and being replaced by James Iha. There are no lyrics in this song.
3.5/5

10. Thinking of You--Maynards voice is amazing on this track (again) musically, it is NOT sloppy, but other songs sound tighter. an excellent track nonetheless, my third overall favourite on the album. (1-Rose, 2-Three Libras)
4/5

11. Brena--slowing down again, and another tight track, musically. Lyrically, I don't find this song the best, however that is just personal opinion. It's about Maynard's wife (girlfriend?).
3.5/5

12. Over--the final track. it's nothing special.Maynard is just repeating "been over, been over this before" and such stuff through the whole song.
1/5 (for the simple reason that it has a tune/words to it)

---MY OVERALL IMPRESSION---

This is an amazing record. If you are buying it basing it on Tool's music, you may be disappointed. This is NOT Tool. This band has a completely different sound. In fact, each song seems to have a different sound. This record may take some time to get into, although not as much as Thirteenth Step, but it is well worth the time spent listening to it. For me, I got into it the first time. It was, in fact, the first cd that I listened to, start to finish. It is an amazing album, and it's definatley worth $15 (or however much it costs)

OVERALL SCORE--
5/5 Musically
5/5 lyrically

you be the judge.