Perfect may not be the best word to describe A Perfect Circle this time around, although it comes fairly close.
The band released their sophomore album, Thirteenth Step, on Sept. 16, after much anticipation from avid fans.
The follow-up to their explosive 2000 breakthrough Mers de Noms does not encompass the effect that fans have come to associate with APC.
Despite the inherent differences in the two albums, Thirteenth Step still has the signature power tracks, such as The Package and The Noose.
These songs are the most recognizable as APC because of its rhythmic rage and entrancing lyrics two qualities the band is explicitly known for.
Weak and Powerless, the first single from the album, is perhaps the most unmistakable. It is the absolute essence of Maynard James Keenan, the frontman for APC as well as Tool, a band whose musical abilities need no explanation.
Weak and Powerless is melodic and entrancing. It may be mellow, but its grip is in the lyrics: So desperate and ravenous, so weak and powerless over you.
The album must be commended for its experimental tendencies. Keenan uses a lot of vocal differentiation on this album, implementing variations of pitch in The Package and soft, soothing tones in The Nurse Who Loved Me.
Thirteenth Step varies instrumentally as well. The tracks, while maintaining the band’s sly quirkiness, radically change styles as the album progresses. It opens with power, carries the listener through with exquisitely timed melodies and closes with a hint of hypnosis.
The lyrics are no disappointment either. They focus on addiction, deception, isolation, self-destruction and a slew of other depressing subjects. The beauty of APC, though, is its ability to convey these messages without complaint. The words are entrancing and poetic. No other band (save Tool) can create this feeling in their music.
Just a taste from the song A Stranger, runs, And I listen for the whisper of your sweet insanity, while I formulate denials of your effect on me.
Despite the appeal of the album, it does not pack the same punch that APC’s first album did. Thirteenth Step lacks the power that Mers de Noms first attributed to the band.
Tracks like Judith and Thinking of You caught listeners’ attention and simply would not let go. The haunting melody of Three Libras was chilling, and there’s no way around it.
APC launches its promotional tour for Thirteenth Step on Halloween in San Antonio, Texas. As of yet, no supporting act is slated to accompany APC.
The band will make its way to Knoxville on Nov. 13 and will no doubt tear the roof off of the Civic Coliseum. Tickets are already on sale on the Coliseum’s Web site or by phone at 656-4444.
Rating: B
