A Stranger

A Perfect Circle · Thirteenth Step [2003]

Cast the calming apple

Up and over satellites

To draw out the timid wild one

To convince you it's alright

And I listen for the whisper

Of your sweet insanity while I formulate

Denials of your affect on me



You're a stranger

So what do I care

You vanish today

Not the first time I hear

All the lies



What am I to do with all this silence

Shy away, shy away phantom

Run away terrified child

Won't you move away you fucking tornado

I'm better off without you

Tearing my will down

About A Stranger

"A Stranger" by A Perfect Circle stands as a defining track from their 2003 album *Thirteenth Step*, embodying the band's signature blend of alternative metal and progressive rock. Recorded during a pivotal era for the group, the song showcases the intricate interplay between vocalist Mike Einziger and guitarist Paul "Frankie" King, delivering a haunting melody that balances aggression with melodic vulnerability. The composition reflects the band's commitment to complex songwriting structures and atmospheric soundscapes, characteristic of their work in the mid-2000s. As a staple of their discography, the recording captures the raw energy and emotional depth that propelled A Perfect Circle to prominence within the alternative metal scene. Its enduring presence in their catalog highlights its significance as a representative work of their artistic evolution during this period.