A Perfect Circle

Critically acclaimed 2000 debut from Maynard James Keenan (Tool) features the dark Metal fans of the '90s avatars lay their plastic down for -- but with scattered electronics and a sweeping, theatrical intensity. The roots of modern Staind-style balladry can be traced here, only this is heavier, better than its progeny.

Rush, the mid-seventies titans of stun-gun hard rock and songs about forest gnomes, must
have been a formative influence on Billy Howerdel. A guitar tech for Tool, Howerdel began
his own group, A Perfect Circle, as a labor of love and a vehicle for writing theatrical
instrumental rock for weird imaginary movies. Then the guitarist shortened the songs,
imagining them as diva turns. Enter Tool's occasionally dress-wearing singer, May... More >