Perfect Circle to release special 25th anniversary editions of first album ‘Mer de Noms’
After celebrating 25 years since the release of their groundbreaking debut album, “Mer de Noms,” A Perfect Circle has announced two exclusive limited edition vinyl reissues. The first, a 2-LP zoetrope vinyl edition, is set for release on September 25, while the second, the Definitive Sound Series (DSS) One-Step Audiophile Edition, will be available starting October 10. Both versions promise a unique listening experience for fans of the band. The 2-LP zoetrope edition features four distinct animations that bring the album’s iconic imagery to life, including glyphs from the album’s design, images from the original photo session, clips from the music video for “Judith,” and a mesmerizing display of the APC logo.
For audiophiles and collectors, the Definitive Sound Series (DSS) One-Step Audiophile Edition stands out as a must-have item. Mastered from 96kHz/24bit source files transferred from analog flat masters and pressed at RTI, this edition is limited to just 3,000 hand-numbered copies. It promises to deliver an unrivaled depth and clarity in the sound quality, allowing fans to experience “Mer de Noms” like never before.
A Perfect Circle’s seminal debut album, “Mer de Noms,” was unleashed on the world on May 23, 2000. Produced by guitarist Billy Howerdel and featuring the haunting vocals of Maynard James Keenan, the record was a fully realized artistic vision. Written primarily from Howerdel’s meticulously crafted demos and enhanced by Keenan’s evocative vocal delivery, the album was recorded across three Los Angeles studios – The Chop Shop in Hollywood, Sound City in Van Nuys, and Extasy in North Hollywood. With Howerdel handling much of the production, instrumentation, and engineering, and Alan Moulder assisting in mixing, the album’s sonic palette hit a perfect balance of polish and raw energy.
Musically, “Mer de Noms” navigates the boundaries between alternative and art-metal, seamlessly blending acoustic elements with heavy, drop-tuned guitars. Critics praised the album’s ability to build tension and release it at precisely the right moment, showcasing Keenan’s unique melodic approach that was distinct from his work with Tool. Tracks like “3 Libras” and “Magdalena” became fan favorites, but it was the single “Judith” that left a lasting impact, with its driving riff and powerful rhythmic pulse.
Upon its release, “Mer de Noms” made an immediate impact on the music world, debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over 188,000 copies in its first week. The album’s success was not limited to the U.S., as it reached high chart positions in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The singles from the album, including “Judith,” “3 Libras,” and “The Hollow,” showcased A Perfect Circle’s ability to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from mainstream rock fans to those who were drawn to more nuanced and intricate compositions.
Overall, “Mer de Noms” solidified A Perfect Circle as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative and metal music scenes. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim have cemented its status as a timeless classic that continues to captivate new listeners 25 years after its initial release.