3 Libras cover

3 Libras

A Perfect Circle · 2001

21 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

Haunting melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, creating an atmospheric blend of alternative rock that lingers long after the last note.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    3 Libras Start here — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's emotional core, featuring melancholic lyrics that explore themes of longing and disillusionment.
  • →
    Magdalena (live) — The live version showcases the band's dynamic stage presence and raw energy, transforming a studio favorite into a captivating experience.
  • →
    Judith (live) — This powerful live rendition highlights the band's ability to blend aggression with vulnerability, making it a standout performance that resonates with audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodic writing but lacks cohesion due to multiple live and remix tracks.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a slow, haunting melody that builds gradually with layered instrumentation, creating an atmospheric soundscape.
  • The remix alters the arrangement significantly, introducing electronic elements that contrast with the acoustic feel of the original.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • melancholic reflections on relationships
  • short bursts of emotional intensity
  • live versions amplify raw energy
  • intricate melodies demand close listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of longer albums
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This single solidified A Circle's identity and reputation in alternative rock.
Career context
Released on February 13, 2001, '3 Libras' followed A Perfect Circle's critically acclaimed debut album 'Mer de Noms.' At this juncture, the band was solidifying its identity in the alternative rock scene while exploring deeper emotional themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Tool· Deftones· Porcupine Tree

Tracklist

  • 1 3 Libras Start here 3:37
  • 2 Magdalena (live) 4:14
  • 3 3 Libras (remix) 4:32
  • 4 Judith (live) 5:00
  • 5 3 Libras (live) 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata