A Perfect Circle
A Perfect Circle is an American rock supergroup formed in 1999 by guitarist Billy Howerdel and Tool vocalist Maynard James Keenan. Their music is characterized by a unique mix of alternative rock, art rock, and metal, with undertones of dark, introspective lyrics.
Howerdel, previously a guitar technician for bands like Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins, and Tool, shared his demos with Keenan, who was impressed and proposed they start a band. The initial lineup included bassist and violinist Paz Lenchantin, drummer Tim Alexander, and guitarist Troy Van Leeuwen.
Their debut album, "Mer de Noms", was released in 2000 and was a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard 200, a rare feat for a debut album in this genre. The band's second album, "Thirteenth Step", released in 2003, also achieved substantial success.
The band went on hiatus in 2004, during which Keenan returned to Tool and Howerdel released a solo project. A Perfect Circle reconvened in 2010 for a series of live performances, and in 2018, they released their fourth studio album, "Eat the Elephant", which marked a shift towards a softer, more melodic sound.
Throughout their career, A Perfect Circle has been known for their immersive live shows and the distinctive fusion of musical styles. Their ability to consistently push creative boundaries has solidified their status as one of the most influential and innovative bands in alternative rock.