Description
In the spring of 2000, Mer De Noms (French for “Sea of Names”) arrived as a seismic shift in the alternative rock landscape. Marking the highest-ever Billboard 200 debut for a rock band’s first album at the time, the record introduced the world to the visionary partnership between guitarist Billy Howerdel and vocalist Maynard James Keenan (Tool, Puscifer).
The record is a meticulous study in dynamics, defined by Howerdel’s lush, layered guitar work and the precise, rhythmic backbone provided by Josh Freese and Paz Lenchantin. Mer De Noms remains a raw, emotional blueprint that set the stage for the sophisticated evolution seen on later albums like Thirteenth Step and Eat the Elephant. From the blistering, irreverent energy of the lead single “Judith” to the haunting, violin-laced beauty of “3 Libras,” the album explores deeply personal themes of faith, loss, and the “shadow aspects” of the human experience.
To celebrate this monumental legacy, Mer De Noms is being reissued as part of the RSD Essential series. This limited edition 2LP set is pressed on striking Orange, Yellow & White Splatter vinyl. A stunning visual tribute to an album that continues to resonate as one of the most important and well-produced rock records of the turn of the millennium.
To be released March 6, 2026
Tracklist:
1. LP
The Hollow
Magdalena
Rose
Judith
Orestes
3 Libras
2. LP
Sleeping Beauty (Extended Intro)
Thomas
Renholdër
Thinking Of You
Breña
Over (Alt.)
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