3 Libras is a song by the rock band A Perfect Circle, released on February 13, 2001. The song was the second single from their debut album Mer de Noms. The song was well received both critically and commercially, with it peaking at number 12 on both the US Billboard Modern Rock and Mainstream Rock charts in 2000. As with all of the Mer de Noms album, 3 Libras music was written by guitarist Billy Howerdel, while the lyrics were written by vocalist Maynard James Keenan.
Two official remixed versions of the song have been made; the Feel My Ice Dub Mix by band member Danny Lohner, and the All Main Courses Mix by Robert 3D Del Naja of Massive Attack. They were compiled in 2004 on the band’s remix album Amotion.
While much of Mer de Noms‘ sound is identified with a conventional hard rock aesthetic, 3 Libras sound is primarily driven by acoustic guitar and violin. Majority of the song consists of melodic, clean guitar tones, and a violin melody played over, composed by band bassist and violinist Paz Lenchantin.
Drummer Josh Freese plays the rim of the drum kit on every eighth note, with the song being performed in 6/8. The song finishes with a full-band performance and distorted electric guitars in the song’s outro, ending on a dark guitar chord.
Tracklist:
- 3 Libras
- 3 Libras (All Main Courses Remix)
- Judith (Live In Phoenix)
- 3 Libras
A Perfect Circle
Maynard James Keenan: vocals
Billy Howerdel: guitar
Josh Freese: drums
Paz Lenchantin: violin
Troy Van Leeuwen: lead guitar parts at end of song
