A Perfect Circle "Mer De Noms" Musical Deep Dive: Part 3 (Orestes, 3 Libras)

[@iximusic]

If you enjoyed this and you'd like to hear my thoughts on Thirteenth Step, there's a live listening party recording on my Patreon that you can download! www.patreon.com/posts/59493734

[@LouieShowers]

Three libras is one of the most emotive songs ever written. It's just undeniable.

[@Wafflesfordays]

Says C sharp minor and plays the power chords from I stay away. I'm now connecting the dots as to why I like AIC and APC so much...

[@tomvice]

Rick beato has nothing on you. I love watching your breakdowns

[@sacredgeometry]

Rick Beato stoped doing breakdowns of songs years ago unfortunately. They were quite good. You are right. These are better.

[@johncarolina4950]

3 Libras makes me cry like a baby every time. Being passed over and not seen is one of the most painful hurts you can feel.

[@sureimhappy]

Story of my life, kind of numb to it now, lol

[@williamthomas5780]

I was suicidal back then. Can one be wholly empty yet full of emotion? Completely numb yet hyper sensitive? Wanting no part yet crying at the least bit of kindness shown (even by actors in a box)? Yeah, strange times. Glad to be here still watching it unfold from the outside - yet not affected. Poor then me.

[@Deebee950]

I can hardly play this album anymore, partly because it brings out such intense emotions I can hardly stand it, partly because the nostalgia of it almost makes me feel like I can literally melt into that time again, and partially because it feels too good to take advantage of by listening to too much. You do such an incredible job of breaking these old epic songs down I had to see what you’d say😊

[@kvop32984]

3 Libras is one of my favorite songs…not just from A Perfect Circle, but from anyone. Amazing piece of music, thank you for doing this one.

[@maxnorton4893]

I can't wait for the Thirteenth Step breakdown. Orestes is such a criminally underrated APC song.

[@magusking9215]

Not really - they play it on every single tour - The Hollow, Orestes, 3 Libras make that record

[@michaelgoodyear9369]

@@magusking9215 I saw them in Orlando FL two years ago and they didnt play Orestes. I was bummed. Great show though, they played most of the good ones. It was halloween season and maynard was dressed like Beetlejuice

[@magusking9215]

@@michaelgoodyear9369 Yeah if they have a shorter set they might not but it's very rare - also if Maynard is not 100% they might not play it cause that's the song where he's gonna go off key

[@UpspoonOneTwo]

This. All day this.

[@KillerAngelM40A3]

Can we take a minute to appreciate Josh Freese's amazing drums in Orestes? One of my all time favorite songs!

[@edparr4670]

Ill be 60 in January and I can honestly say (imo) that.mjk is the goat 🤟🍺🍺🍺

[@yairt516]

I'm addicted to these kinds of videos, i've watched hundreds of them. Often as many as I can find about the same song. This is the best dissection i've ever seen, and I learned more advanced music theory from THIS video than even Rick Beato's videos. I lol'd at "this is the best". I also wish that "one more medicated peaceful moment" line went on forever. Extraordinary!

[@robertjones4361]

You're mesmerizing......I've wondered for years why certain chords and harmonies hit me differently and why I was drawn to certain bands......you've unlocked a trove of understanding for me, And I am truly grateful

[@PlasticMacele]

I know this is a year old, but I'm a newcomer to her channel. Why doesn't this video have 1.5m views? If you ever wished to have a grad level musical theory breakdown of a song, here is ixi.

[@seamusmaher3600]

I agree that 3 Libras is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. It's one of the few songs to ever move me to tears, and I pity anyone who's never had that experience.

[@rycolligan]

From the first time I heard it, Orestes always blew my ears off. I couldn't stop listening to it for weeks after this album dropped. I feel like it is the thesis statement for what APC should sound like.

[@michaelcastillo3231]

This album is almost everything to me musically other than one handful of other artists. This album is a masterpiece and should be treated as such.

[@michaelgoodyear9369]

Truth

[@jackfarley055]

I knew these songs were made with an immense amount of talent, but you breaking it down blows my mind how carefully curated this song was made. You are very good at showing why these songs are amazing!

[@TheMatazzmo]

I know this is 2 years ago, so glad I found it now haha! This album started with me as a teen and yes focused more on the grunge back then, but i think it also always appealed to me from the complexity of the chords and textures you hear (was a music student then haha), the progressions feel pulsing and alive and tangled/tortured. The more i relisten to this as an adult now, I just keep picking things up from it and further appreciating it (musically and lyrically). Your break down of this album is amazing, I really have enjoyed this series and will hunt out some more! Random side-thought, a lot of the pieces in here reminded me of the 'darker'/'spread chords and tones heard within Les Miserables (just a tad - mainly thinking of empty chairs, empty tables). Sorry for my poor musical language, alas it has all been forgotten with time haha

[@DAMusic-qu2ec]

Maynard’s voice is unparalleled. APC was my first live concert when I was 14. Amazing band.

[@donstapleton8453]

You can near The Cure in several of Billy's guitar parts. I love that atmospheric sound.

[@agraciotti]

About the vocal harmonies, I always thought of Depeche Mode. They have always done it like that, and I'm sure Billy is very inspired by them in the way he writes and produces APC songs.

[@guitaristssuck8979]

Definitely!

[@anthonypallen7919]

Ok, I see it . Good analysis

[@mjweber0313]

Their song Clean comes to mind right?

[@darkalman]

7:25 - Wow, You and Maynard harmonize really well I admit I love singing this one in the car, but I lack Maynard's vocal range lol

[@brandoncrow3741]

Most human beings do, don't feel bad...😁

[@tarnishchris]

Me too ....... Even in the car I sing quietly

[@Quarker]

All those Sus2 chords in 3 Libras finally explains that song's ethereal feel. I'm really excited for Breña

[@peter2f6]

Did you know that my consciousness could sit inside the vamping of your piano outro to this video for all of eternity?

[@bosettastoned]

Those songs on piano just makes a lot more of sense... I would love to hear you playing the full album on the keys

[@alanm.thornton4055]

I always envisioned the harmonies of Maynard and Billy as a sort of waltz with two dancers: two 'individuals' moving together but remaining individuals.

[@williamthomas5780]

Absolutely stunned at this breakdown. How you're so thoroughly analytical and truly spiritual in such a short span is beyond my words anyway. I'm wondering...Portishead much? So appreciated. Yup.

[@MrMnchstr]

I think these guys do what comes naturally as artists and it sounds much more interesting when broken down with theory.

[@michaelrobles6420]

your analysis is astounding!!!!! i dont know much of {formal music theory) BUT the FEELING i can get is there. absolutely!!

[@d00mf00d]

My wife bought this album midnight the day it released for me. This album always moves me.

[@panbeing]

i am kind of obsessed with this series. i am not much of a music-savy person, i just like listening to songs that fit my taste. but here, while you analyze the music, it gives me a chance to analyze what feelings it awakens in me and why i like what i like. absolutely great work!!

[@earlsfield]

Orestes still stays as a masterpiece and an important song in my youth - I was about 20 when Mer de Noms was released, and I got the cd during that summer ...We have been listening this song on repeat for the entire autumn and winter and it keeps up precious memories in its notes... Also, this is one of those songs you wish had MORE, when you hear that first verse, you hope to hear at least one more... Maynard used to sing an alternate lyrics during first APC tour, adding entire verse in front of the original song. You should get a demo sung by Billy and compare it to album version. Just to add on your comment about the guitar intro, hard left/right panning of C#m and D# make perfect question/answer momentum.

[@UpspoonOneTwo]

Yeeeees one more medicated peaceful moment is the best part of that album

[@Arakiel9]

3 Libras, like Judith, is a song that shatters me. You pinpoint the reasons early in your discussion. The Dsus2 chord and the G5 chord/use of G natural in the melody. They are everything. I mean, without the rest of the song, without the context... obviously you need everything... but the pay off. Oh my God, the pay off. It's powerful enough that given my memory of the song, the harmonies, the context of watching your video, just playing the D at 21:53, before getting too far into it, that alone was enough to start the tears. Let me be clear, they are very, very good tears. :) I LOVE your point around 22:49 about the 3rd sounding like a SUS. I hadn't thought about it that way before, never diving into the specifics or looking at a score. That is amazing. My favorite part of the video was when, right around 25:49 you talk about the stylistic choices Maynard made for his performance. His voice takes on characteristics in places that remind us of a stringed instrument. One of the (many) things that has always elevated this song to the level of a masterpiece, to me, is exactly this, paired with the use of strings in the song. The combination is so complimentary and powerful that I get all giddy. I was very happy that you noticed and commented on that! As always, I am grateful for what you do. It is wonderful. Your knowledge helps me learn even more about some of the music I am most passionate about. So good! Thank you.

[@countingcoup]

I really love this path through Mer De Noms, its the best analysis that speaks to me so far in YT. I am beginning to feel convinced Maynard is singing in the Hijaz scale used in Flamenco Bulerias… Definitely a western approach using English of course but his use of the Phrygian Dominant in both melody and harmony seems prevalent ~

[@Screwsandrods]

I'm blown away by your ability to hear the tune and explain each chord. Maynard and each band have distinct sounds from Tool to Puscifer. The melodies all have the ability to move our senses, mesmerize and tickle our brains to his sheer genius of an artist, wine maker, husband, son and the man he is. Integrity to his crafts makes his words and his meanings to his songs so unforgettable.♥️ Definitely would love your take on Hania Rania, F major live at studio.🤘🏻☮️🌸

[@jamesdeangelis1434]

Love this. Great job. I think Alice in Chains harmonized in fourths and fifths.

[@happyeddie]

Can't wait for Brena :)

[@dev0ved]

I think hearing you cover 3 Libras would be pretty fantastic #JustSayin

[@nathanduysen9094]

I think Orestes may be my favorite perfect circle song ever. It is just amazing! Thanks for breaking it down!

[@Brotha_Teresa]

I’m right with you there. Orestes always takes me on an emotional journey.

[@lizperry2322]

Yes... 3 Libras, as you put it, is Exquisite!

[@robesdebah4811]

Since you started this, I couldn't wait till you got to Orestes. It keeps making the 'wrong' move on purpose. As a kid learning jazz, it was this song that drove it home for me that you can hit an interesting note and keep hitting it until it's right. Also, I'm watching this while dog sitting, and I swear that every time one of those 'off' harmonies comes up, she sits up and perks her ears...scanning the room for something unexpected.

[@mikecochran1759]

you know i had no idea how unspeakably beautiful those songs are just with piano. I can so hear the piano version of 3 libras and Orestes in this show i want to make.

[@humzakhalid7902]

there are some great piano covers of both of these songs here on youtube along with a bunch of others...it always amazes the hell out of me some brilliant musicians out there who play tool songs on piano playing not just the guitar n bass parts but the vocal melody aswell on the same damn instrument...blows my mind u should look em up

[@vaughnrobinson5933]

When you voice these chords, it does something to me, to my heart. I physically feel like I’m being touched.... I’m so fucking weird.

[@iximusic]

well you're not alone!

[@rodrigotellom]

Beautiful Ixi. You should have a [insert favorite streaming service here] TV show with budget to interview musicians and go nerdy on WHY and HOW they're using the 6th flat

[@brianarsuaga5008]

I searched many times for exactly this video ("orestes reaction analysis") months and months ago, but youtube put it on my front page today like a weird delayed reaction. Instant fan! I'm not slick with music theory, but you helped me hear even more out of two of my favorite songs, and I can kind of sing it better now (well, karaoke at best). Subbed and checking out more of your channel, but honestly, I'm kind of hoping I hear either some outright covers or original music from you! I'd LOVE to hear your full take on Orestes especially. Thanks for this!

[@luizmarcondesmusica]

That's it. I'm naming my daughter Hemiola! 😂

[@jaimeecherivel2927]

The harmonic tension that’s built throughout Orestes actually builds more value to the story of Orestes that the song is named after.

[@kam_lam13]

Thank you, Ixi for doing Mer de Noms! I loved this album, and it resonated for me so distinctly for a period. It's difficult not to have a special place for this album and especially 3 Libras.

[@jarrahdrum]

probably my favourite album and like you, I bought this when it came out. At the time I actually bought it because I knew that Josh Freese was on it, thank you so much for this

[@GimmeJimmy23]

Best, most relatable intro ever! Chicks, dudes... Whatever!

[@zyzxxinfinity]

“Orestes” is still one of my favorite songs of all time, and definitely my favorite from APC. ❤️

[@johncarpenter3751]

Orestes is the best song on this album!! Forget rock n roll or genres in general “. This song is just amazingly written. I conceived my first child to this album. Unfortunately she didn’t make it, and I’ll always love this song until the day I die

[@zinnbuddhism]

Orestes has always been my favorite MDN song. 🔥🔥🔥 thanks for breaking down those harmonies. Billy is one of my favorite guitar players because of his melody

[@grntbggr126]

Josh Frees does not get enough credit for his drumming on this album and particularly on Orestes.

[@bren1210]

How Josh kicks in at 14:45 it blows my mind. So beautiful

[@ChristopherRoss.]

3 Libras never fails to bring me to tears. Wonderful analysis, thank you.

[@richskater]

People always say "fastest click of my life", but no, I savored it. I took this click out to dinner first. I put the kids to bed, dimmed the lights, poured an adult beverage. I made sure the scene and mood were perfect, and then I did it.

[@mikasasukasa4479]

mm it's good to see that someone understands this

[@oddbender423]

I've been saving these videos for when I can really absorb them appropriately

[@Demention94]

Madman

[@chrisstone-streetlightinte5629]

One of the thing that really lends to that uneasy drifting feeling is the reverse reverb on the guitars along with the unresolved chord progression. It's like you know you're dreaming, but you you're not sure if its going to be a pleasant ride or not. Also, for some reason I find myself always playing along when watching these...well at least I'm practicing.

[@ludlow555]

So glad you’re taking us on this journey with this album, which has been so important to me.

[@DanRyanCarter]

Ixi you are one of the best creators on KZbin. Every single video is excellent. Thank you for making them 🖤

[@kchvera]

I ate this up like candy. You explain everything so well and as an beginner music theorist and intermediate multi instrumentalist, your videos really really help me understand harmonies and I really value that you name all the little parts that go into the song. I love and appreciate what you do ♥️

[@treflatface]

thank you, you've made me appreciate mer de noms even more!

[@shrugsmemes917]

3 libras has always radiated this like. whimsical medival vibe to me and for that it's one of my fave songs to relisten to

[@ELJAY7SCSU]

In 3 Libras around the 27 minutes mark you mention the snare drum "cross stick". I tend to feel similar to your interpretation of the change between life and memories...you recognize the time by memories rather than the ticking of the clocks...the concept of the "cross sticks"

[@tarnishchris]

3 Libras is one of my all time favourite songs

[@dereklundblad]

cripes i wish this was all in a book but I'm taking a lot of notes for songwriting. You fkn absolutely rock the way you explain these choices and contrasts. Thank you!

[@MarsXandria]

This video has made me realize or remember just how beautiful Orestes is, and 3 Libras too really, like my god man so damn good and you make all this stuff even better!!!!

[@michaelgoodyear9369]

Such a good video. Thank you. APC os such an interesting band and its very cool to see it broken down. Many things I couldnt pit my finger on. Thank you, very very cool video. Two of my favorite songs.

[@jarrahdrum]

totally fascinating for me, you've given me a new pair of ears so thank you

[@TurboShred13]

I enjoy singing all APC. Nice video. 🦹🏻‍♂️🎸

[@thomasmalmin6194]

First time viewer and instant subscriber after the "WTF???" bass breakdown montage. Lol! Expert analysis AND adorably self-deprecating humor (the APC aspect didn't hurt ;-) )? Sign me up! BTW, that's Paz's brother, Luciano, accompanying her on strings on 3 Libras.

[@iximusic]

Thank you, and thanks for the info about Paz's brother!

[@LaLa-dh7bl]

Wow. Great. You should do the live version, hypnotic

[@markwarrensprawson]

"Are those flutes?" Methinks it might be mellotron. My "MDN" go-to for sure. This song has meant so much to me over the years. Thanks so very much for sharing it with us in such detail. Gnar! And the wee solo at the end, I could just die!

[@n0tk0sher]

When Mer de Noms was released, I must've listened to the whole album every day for a year or longer. Greatness.

[@muaddib667]

I still do

[@bagmanh6120]

3 Libras is one of the most beautiful songs I've heard in my life, thank you so much for the explanation. When you put the melody in that harmonic context it all makes so much more sense!

[@nemogfr7029]

My most favourite songs of the album in one video

[@lydia5649]

"Orestes" was and stays by far my "Mer de Noms" favorite song ♥

[@bobhatescomputer]

😀 "Every time!" 😀

[@danieldiettmann8190]

never seen your channel before, glad you see how beautiful these songs are, most people aren't that blown away and i don't get it.

[@sinkler123]

Yes! Finally a proper musical analysis of my favorite APC songs. I love deep dives into theory and harmony, So happy i stumbled upon your channel. Thanks from an amateur guitarist. Insta subbed. :)

[@SquirrelSeb84]

I wasn’t expecting to wake up to be schooled on music theory on a Saturday morning but in this video I’ve learnt so much I feel I made the week worth it for my brain. Thanks!

[@michaeldomec5275]

Epic breakdown!!! Cheers from Texas

[@oldwestdemons]

Your videos keep me from doing stupid things to myself, thanks.

[@jsebastian9547]

Two of the best off the album.

[@Bryant.Defiant]

As a fellow music nerd I'm absolutely in love with this series. Can u please do eMOTIVe or Thirteenth Step album next?!

[@charmingjoseph]

loved the piano playing at the end of your video! (and everything else) incredible stuff

[@hollis68]

Absolutely mesmerizingly phenominal. Thank you for explaining technically everything my ears have stored over time.... incredibly talented ear and intuition!

[@Scottrick]

Whenever I think of vocal harmony in metal music, I think of Fear Factory. Especially their later stuff. It's really distinct.

👏👏👏 I have just discovered your channel. OMG you are absolutely marvellous, what a great analysis. This kind of videos are pure gold, you deserve much more with your channel. Congratulations for your brilliant work. You have a new fan here 🤟🤟🤟🤟

[@enkindel]

Thank you for the really good breakdown of the songs.

[@danielpalmer643]

Very cool analysis! I always noticed how Orestes immediately feels different from most things that get radio play because of the chord structure. It's not just a I-IV-V rock song for the masses, it's extremely atmospheric. I especially love the lyrics. Maynard is one of the best in rock music, and the lyrics are really shocking (like Greek drama).

[@atraveleronthesea9806]

Big fan of 3 Libras. Even more so now!

[@circlesix3858]

best re-enactment ever.

[@iximusic]

😆

[@fog152]

ixi your'e a true genius

[@Death_By_Media]

Orestes is hands down one of MJK’s most emotive performances that mixed with Howerdale’s fusion of modern progressive guitar rock and classic goth rock just equals out to an amazing track ! I have always wondered if the vocal harmonies were a little bit of a nod to Alice In Chains Lain and Jerry’s off kilter way of harmonizing as well , seeing as MJK and Lain where friends and the possible tragic nod in the lyrics ?

[@muaddib667]

I feel like I should have paid for the wealth of information crammed into this video.

[@UIVOUF]

what you do is absolutely great! Essential! I actually work with/for a friend on a folk prog project with some electronic and piano inside, you help me a lot... Fantastic ;)

[@Metakrlll]

This community needs these videos so much! Thank you so much 😊

[@NQuiroz17]

Listen to the live version of this song. Maynard hits those melismas hard!

[@rodrigotellom]

3 Libras analysis was beautiful Ixi! Thanks again, as always for sharing.