A Perfect Circle releases Starless, begins European tour

The alternative rock band A Perfect Circle has released a new song, "Starless," marking its first new music in two years and signaling a return to activity ahead of a major international tour. The track, a surprise release, features the band's core duo of vocalist Maynard James Keenan and guitarist Billy Howerdel, alongside drummer Josh Freese.

"Starless" is described as a dark, atmospheric song that moves between guitar-driven intensity and delicate passages. It was recorded earlier this year at Howerdel's Lankershim Ranch Studio in California, produced by Howerdel, and mixed by Matty Green. The release follows the band's 2024 single "Kindred" and is its first new material since the 2018 studio album "Eat the Elephant."

In statements, both Keenan and Howerdel expressed enthusiasm about the new track and its live debut. Keenan said he was absolutely chuffed to debut the song on stage in the U.K., noting that the band's songs always take on an expanded personality once they start playing them live. Howerdel added that while some songs develop over years, this one took shape quickly, as if it had been there all along.

The release coincides with the launch of the band's first...