Frances The Mute
by The Mars Volta
Frances The Mute (LP)
Label(s): Clouds Hill, Gold Standard Laboratories, Strummer, Universal Records
Released: 02/11/2005 (Japan)
Released: 02/21/2005 (Europe)
Released: 03/01/2005 (US)
Released: 08/06/2021 (Clouds Hill Repress)
Recorded: January - October 2004
Length: 76:57 (CD) 77:19 (Vinyl)
Album Lineup
- Vocals
Cedric Bixler-Zavala - Guitars, synthesizers, field recordings, production
Omar Rodríguez-López - Drums
Jon Theodore - Bass
Juan Alderete - Keys
Isiah (Ikey) Owens - Keys, percussion
Marcel Rodríguez-López - Additional percussion
Lenny Castro - Trumpet on The Widow and Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore
Flea - First two guitar solos on L'Via L'Viaquez
John Frusciante - Tenor sax, flute on Cassandra Gemini
Adrián Terrazas-González - Piano on L'Via L'Viaquez, treated clavinet on Cassandra Gemini
Larry Harlow - Trumpet
Salvador (Chava) Hernandez - Trumpet
Wayne Bergeron - Tuba
Randy Jones - Piano
Roger Manning - Trombone
Nicholas Lane - Bass trombone
William Reichenbach - String, brass, piano, and percussion arrangements
David Campbell - Cello
Larry Corbett - Cello
Suzie Katayama - Violin
Fernano Moreno - Violin
Erick Hernandez - Violin
Diego Casillas - Violin
Ernesto Molina - Violin
Joel Derouin - Violin
Roberto Cani - Violin
Mario De Leon - Violin
Peter Kent - Violin
Josefina Vergara - Frogs
The Coquí of Puerto Rico
- CDr
- Released: 2004
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Notes: Presented in a generic plastic sleeve with photocopied track list. CDr has printed paper label affixed to it.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Argentina
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Rights Society: SADAIC. BIEM. AADI. CAPIF.
- Matrix / Runout: A5M01D26/8 2103977 / UNIVERSAL EPSA IND. ARG/27536
- Matrix / Runout: A8M4D4/02 2103977 / UNIVERSAL EPSA IND. ARG/27536
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Industria Argentina
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6 02498 80099 7
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ G
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN USA BY UML
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI 0200
- Notes: Cassandra Gemini is misprinted on CD as "Cassandra Geminni" (spelling correct according to the vinyl and band's official website). The song is also divided into eight arbitrary divisions (having little to do with the divisions shown on the packaging) in order to designate it as an album. Their original idea to make it five tracks - corresponding to the five characters in the story - would have designated it as an EP and they would have been paid as such. If purchasing the album via iTunes, the number of songs is five with "Cassandra Gemini" as one track totaling 32:32 (They really wanted to do six acts and started the album with "Frances the Mute" but it would have made it a double CD, of which Universal disapproved. The lyrics to "Frances the Mute" appears in the CD tray and the actual song was released as a UK CD and US vinyl single). On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This is not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi The Best Buy edition contains a card with download code for “Exclusive Download” of bonus song “The Widow (Live Acoustic Version)” from Best Buy and Napster. The CD itself is the same as the regular release, with “B0004129-02” printed on the front.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Canada
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: [cinram logo] LT40 B000412902 #50128V25 11
- Mastering SID Code: LT40
- Mould SID Code: IFPI6000
- Notes: "Cassandra Gemini" is broken into five sections, but the track breaks do not conform to those sections. The sections are: A. Tarantism B. Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multplespouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi Recorded at: 3734 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Studio, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd., Los Angeles, California. 463 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Carwright Ave., N. Hollywood, California. 3223 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York City, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. Published by: Hija de Lola (ASCAP), Amputekthure (ASCAP), EMI April Music Inc. Flea and Jon Frusciante appear courtesy of Warner Brothers Records. ℗&© 2005 The Mars Volta, Licensed exclusively to Universal Records, a Division of UMG Recordings, Inc. Manufactured & distributed by Universal Music Canada Inc.
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: South Africa
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6009143145931
- Notes:
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal] B00 041 2902 035
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0320
- Matrix / Runout: IFPI L009
- Notes: "Cassandra Gemini" is broken into five sections, but the track breaks do not conform to those sections. The sections are: A. Tarantism B. Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multplespouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi Recorded at: 3734 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Studio, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd., Los Angeles, California. 463 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Carwright Ave., N. Hollywood, California. 3223 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York City, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. Published by: Hija de Lola (ASCAP), Amputekthure (ASCAP), EMI April Music Inc. Flea and Jon Frusciante appear courtesy of Warner Brothers Records. ℗&© 2005 The Mars Volta, Licensed exclusively to Universal Records, a Division of UMG Recordings, Inc. Manufactured & distributed by Universal Music Canada Inc.
- CD
- Released: 21 Feb 2005
- Country: Europe
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Label Code: LC01846
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Matrix / Runout: [4x Universal logo] 00750 210 397-7 01 ✳ 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY UNIVERSAL M & L A
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0146
- Matrix / Runout: 00750 210 397-7 03 ✳ 51577468
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0139
- Matrix / Runout: 00750 210 397-7 01 ✳ 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY UNIVERSAL M & L B
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0134
- Matrix / Runout: [4x Universal logo] 00750 210 397-7 02 ✳ 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY UNIVERSAL M & L A
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0146
- Matrix / Runout: 00750 210 397-7 01 ✳ 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY UNIVERSAL M & L B
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0139
- Matrix / Runout: 00750 210 397-7 01 ✳ 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY UNIVERSAL M & L C
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0116
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as "Cassandra Geminni". However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as "Cassandra Gemini". The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). The inside back cover gives the lyrics to a track called "Frances The Mute" despite this track not appearing on the CD. Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York City, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in the EU Issued in a standard clear tray jewel case with a 12-page booklet. Some copies have a sticker on the front of the jewel case: "The Mars Volta - Frances The Mute featuring "The Widow" - www.themarsvolta.com 075021039773".
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ U
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L009
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0312
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ AC
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L009
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0344
- Other: MADE IN USA
- Notes: Cassandra Gemini is misprinted on CD as "Cassandra Geminni" (spelling correct according to the vinyl and band's official website). The song is also divided into eight arbitrary divisions (having little to do with the divisions shown on the packaging) in order to designate it as an album. Their original idea to make it five tracks - corresponding to the five characters in the story - would have designated it as an EP and they would have been paid as such. If purchasing the album via iTunes, the number of songs is five with "Cassandra Gemini" as one track totaling 32:32 (They really wanted to do six acts and started the album with "Frances the Mute" but it would have made it a double CD, of which Universal disapproved. The lyrics to "Frances the Mute" appears in the CD tray and the actual song was released as a UK CD and US vinyl single). On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This is not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi This version has the FBI-Anti-Piracy Warning on the back barcode.
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Matrix / Runout: UNIVERSAL B00 041 2902 02$ S
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L009
- Other: MADE IN USA BY UML
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0362
- Notes: Cassandra Gemini is misprinted on CD as "Cassandra Geminni" (spelling correct according to the vinyl and band's official website). The song is also divided into eight arbitrary divisions (having little to do with the divisions shown on the packaging) in order to designate it as an album. Their original idea to make it five tracks - corresponding to the five characters in the story - would have designated it as an EP and they would have been paid as such. If purchasing the album via iTunes, the number of songs is five with "Cassandra Gemini" as one track totaling 32:32 (They really wanted to do six acts and started the album with "Frances the Mute" but it would have made it a double CD, of which Universal disapproved. The lyrics to "Frances the Mute" appears in the CD tray and the actual song was released as a UK CD and US vinyl single). On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This is not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: Malaysia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: 12C05 K1506 2103977
- Mastering SID Code: IFPILN40
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 7N38
- Notes: Cassandra Gemini is misprinted on CD as "Cassandra Geminni" (spelling correct according to the vinyl and band's official website). The song is also divided into eight arbitrary divisions (having little to do with the divisions shown on the packaging) in order to designate it as an album. Their original idea to make it five tracks - corresponding to the five characters in the story - would have designated it as an EP and they would have been paid as such. If purchasing the album via iTunes, the number of songs is five with "Cassandra Gemini" as one track totaling 32:32 (They really wanted to do six acts and started the album with "Frances the Mute" but it would have made it a double CD, of which Universal disapproved. The lyrics to "Frances the Mute" appears in the CD tray and the actual song was released as a UK CD and US vinyl single). On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This is not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi
- Vinyl
- Released: 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Notes: 4-record set, re-packaged for this edition in a red vinyl sleeve, including the "Frances the Mute" 12" EP. All vinyl glows-in-the-dark. Limited to 500 copies.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Brazil
- Identifiers:
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta
- CD
- Released: 07 Feb 2005
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4 988005 383143
- Barcode: 4988005383143
- ASIN: B00074C4D0
- Matrix / Runout: UICX-1088 1Y V
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L244
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 4011
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in Japan
- CD
- Released: 07 Feb 2005
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4 988005 383174
- Barcode: 4988005383174
- Matrix / Runout: UICX-1088 1Y V
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L244
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 4011
- Matrix / Runout: UIBX-1065-0-1 1P 11
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L234
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 40D0
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra 'Gemini'. The movements of this track are Tarantism / Plant a Nail in the Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi, listed here as they do not align with the track splits (5-12). Engineered at:- 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- Cassette
- Released: 2005
- Country: Malaysia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 602498811306
- Notes: Limited copies. Made In Malaysia
- Vinyl
- Released: 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6 13505 00961 6
- Rights Society: ASCAP
- Matrix / Runout: GSL·96-1
- Matrix / Runout: GSL96-2
- Matrix / Runout: GSL96-3
- Matrix / Runout: GSL 96-4
- Matrix / Runout: GSL-96-5
- Notes: Artwork etched on the F-side of the vinyl. All sides end in locked grooves, meant to keep the album's segues and "Cassandra Gemini" intact. Published by: Hija de Lola (ASCAP), Amputekthure (ASCAP), EMI April Music Inc Engineered at the following locations: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, California 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California 441 W 53rd Street, New York City, New York Mixed at: Avatar Studios, New York City Flea and John Frusciante appear courtesy of Warner Brothers Records. Some copies also come with a Gold Standard Laboratories catalogue booklet and a 7x8'' black and white Mars Volta glossy photograph.
- CD
- Released: 01 Mar 2005
- Country: US
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 03$ BF
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ G
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ O
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ I
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 01$ D
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ R
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ AC
- Matrix / Runout: [Universal logo] B00 041 2902 02$ N
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN USA
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN USA BY UML
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L009
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0395
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0320
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0333
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0393
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0326
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0312
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0313
- Notes: Cassandra Gemini is misprinted on CD as "Cassandra Geminni" (spelling correct according to the vinyl and band's official website). The song is also divided into eight arbitrary divisions (having little to do with the divisions shown on the packaging) in order to designate it as an album. Their original idea to make it five tracks - corresponding to the five characters in the story - would have designated it as an EP and they would have been paid as such. If purchasing the album via iTunes, the number of songs is five with "Cassandra Gemini" as one track totaling 32:32 (They really wanted to do six acts and started the album with "Frances the Mute" but it would have made it a double CD, of which Universal disapproved. The lyrics to "Frances the Mute" appears in the CD tray and the actual song was released as a UK CD and US vinyl single). On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This does not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Russia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Matrix / Runout: 00750
- Rights Society: SABAM
- Rights Society: BIEM
- Label Code: LC01846
- Notes: Pretends to be 'made in the EU', but actually this is Russian pirate release. Packaged in a Jewel Case. Booklet: 4 pages.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Colombia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: UNIVERSAL 2103977 WWW.CDSYSTEMS.COM.CO 55866 00028158
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LR86
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 3Y05
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra 'Gemini'. The movements of this track are Tarantism / Plant a Nail in the Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi, listed here as they do not align with the track splits (5-12). Engineered at:- 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- CD
- Released: 07 Feb 2005
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4 988005 383143
- Barcode: 4988005383143
- ASIN: B00074C4D0
- Matrix / Runout: UICX-1088 1Y V
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L244
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 4011
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in Japan
- Cassette
- Released: 2005
- Country: Indonesia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6 02498 81130 6
- Barcode: 602498811306
- Notes: Manufactured and Printed in Indonesia.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Australasia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Matrix / Runout: 0162561 2103977 01 SMEA
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L681
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 6515
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 6519
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 6516
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 6520
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 651A
- Notes: Marketed in Australasia by Universal Music Australia under exclusive licence. Made in Australia. On the back of the CD is an outline of each character's song. This is not correspond to the number of tracks on the actual CD. The outline [with appropriate track numbers] is reprinted here: I. Cygnus.... Vismund Cygnus A. Sarcophagi B. Umbilical Syllables C. Facilis Descenus Averni D. Con Safo II. The Widow III. L' Via L' Viaquez IV. Miranda That Ghost Just Isn't Holy Anymore A. Vade Mecum B. Pour Another Icepick C. Pisacis (PHRA-MEN-MA) D. Con Safo V. Cassandra Gemini A. Tarantism B. Plant a Nail in the Naval Stream C. Faminepulse D. Multiple Spouse Wounds E. Sarcophagi
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Mexico
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra 'Gemini'. The movements of this track are Tarantism / Plant a Nail in the Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi, listed here as they do not align with the track splits (5-12). Engineered at:- 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- CD
- Released: 02 Nov 2005
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4988005408556
- Matrix / Runout: UICX-1088 1Y V
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L244
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 4011
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- ASIN: B000BDJ0J8
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in Japan
- CD
- Released: 07 Feb 2005
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4 988005 383174
- Barcode: 4988005383174
- Matrix / Runout: UICX-1088 1Y V
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L244
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 4011
- Matrix / Runout: UIBX-1065-0-1 1P 11
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L234
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 40D0
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra 'Gemini'. The movements of this track are Tarantism / Plant a Nail in the Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi, listed here as they do not align with the track splits (5-12). Engineered at:- 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- CD
- Released: 2005
- Country: Indonesia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Notes: Manufactured and Printed in Indonesia
- CD
- Released: 2006
- Country: Ukraine
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: DD-266
- Mould SID Code: IFPI UAB02
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Notes: CD comes with a 12-page booklet in a standard jewel case Made in Ukraine
- CD
- Released: 04 Jun 2008
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4988005515476
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- ASIN: B0017W7EKE
- Other: Made in Japan
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- CD
- Released: 04 Mar 2009
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4988005541437
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- ASIN: B001P9KUVE
- Other: Made in Japan
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in Japan
- CD
- Released: 21 Mar 2012
- Country: Japan
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 4988005700148
- Rights Society: JASRAC
- Other: Made in Japan
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk.
- Vinyl
- Released: 2015
- Country: Europe
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6 13505 00961 6
- Rights Society: ASCAP
- Notes: Unofficial reissue in triple gatefold cover with printed innersleeves, side F is not etched
- CD
- Released: 2020
- Country: Europe
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Label Code: LC01846
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Matrix / Runout: [Sony DADC] [Universal logo] 2103977 15
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI L555
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 946P
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as "Cassandra Geminni". However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as "Cassandra Gemini". The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). The inside back cover gives the lyrics to a track called "Frances The Mute" despite this track not appearing on the CD. Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York City, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in the EU Issued in a standard clear tray jewel case with a 12-page booklet. Some copies have a sticker on the front of the jewel case: "The Mars Volta - Frances The Mute featuring "The Widow" - www.themarsvolta.com 075021039773".
- Vinyl
- Released:
- Country: UK
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 6 13505 00961 6
- Rights Society: ASCAP
- Notes: Unofficial release in a gatefold sleeve
- CD
- Released:
- Country: Europe
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Matrix / Runout: [4x Universal logo] 00750 210 397-7 03 * 51577468
- Matrix / Runout: MADE IN GERMANY BY EDC D
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LV26
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0150
- Mould SID Code: IFPI 0122
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Label Code: LC01846
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in the EU Some copies have a sticker on the front of the jewel case: "The Mars Volta - Frances The Mute featuring "The Window" - www.themarsvolta.com 075021039773".
- CD
- Released:
- Country: Russia
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Barcode: 075021039773
- Matrix / Runout: Z-00750 210 397-7 01 * 51577468
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Label Code: LC01846
- Notes: This is a Russian pirate release. Packaged in a Jewel Case. Booklet: 12 pages. Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York.
- CD
- Released:
- Country: Europe
- Identifiers:
- Barcode: 0 75021 03977 3
- Matrix / Runout: Universal logo x 4
- Matrix / Runout: 59911415/00075021039773 21
- Mastering SID Code: IFPI LB50
- Rights Society: SABAM / BIEM
- Label Code: LC01846
- Notes: The CD packaging specifies the fifth track name as Cassandra Geminni. However, the artist website and the vinyl release of this album specify its name as Cassandra Gemini. The movements of this track (Tarantism / Plant A Nail In The Navel Stream / Faminepulse / Multiple Spouse Wounds / Sarcophagi) listed here do not align with the track splits on CD (tracks 5-12). Engineered at: 373 Ewingsdale, Byron Bay, Australia. 6540 Matilija, Van Nuys, California. 291 South Lake Street, Burbank, California. 3400 Eagle Rock Blvd, Loa Angeles, California. 453 Mario Julia Industrial Park, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 5161 North Cartwright Ave, N Hollywood, California. 3222 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, California. 441 W. 53rd Street, New York Ciry, New York. Mixed at Avatar Studios in New York City. Mastered at Masterdisk. ℗ & © 2005 The Mars Volta Made in the EU
Frances the Mute is the second studio album by American progressive rock band The Mars Volta released in February 2005 on Gold Standard Laboratories and Universal. Produced by guitarist and songwriter Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, the album incorporates dub, ambient, Latin and jazzinfluences, and is the first to feature bassist Juan Alderete and percussionist Marcel Rodriguez-Lopez. The album also includes contributions from future saxophonist Adrián Terrazas-González, who joined the band during its subsequent tour.
At the time of release Best Buy had an exclusive CD single that came free with the purchase of the album. Included on the CD was the song “Frances The Mute” & a live, acoustic version of “The Widow” which was recorded at The Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, CA on May 6th, 2004.
Frances the Mute, the song, has described as a decoder for the album’s story. Initially, it was stated that it was cut from the album as it would have made the album a double CD which Universal was not willing to support. Later interviews indicate that the intention was to never include the song on the album.
The song Cassandra Gemini is split into eight tracks on the CD version and initial digital releases. This was due to Universal Records stating the album would have to be sold as an EP if there were only five tracks.
Background
Jeremy Ward, audio artist for The Mars Volta until his death, had previously worked as a repo man. One day, Ward discovered a diary in the backseat of a car he was repossessing, and began to note the similarities between his life and that of the author—most notably, that they had both been adopted. The diary told of the author’s search for his biological parents, with the way being pointed by a collection of people, their names being the basis for each named track of Frances the Mute.
Regarding the recording process Omar stated:
“”We’ll sit there and play it forever and slow—real slow—to understand what’s happening. It’s easy to play something fast and loud, but to play it soft and slow takes a certain amount of discipline. Then once we understand the part, everyone’s free to elaborate—their personalities come out and it’s not my part anymore; they get into and give it that swing that I can’t give it. This is the first time I’ve ever been so methodical about recording. Normally I would go into the situation with as good an idea as I could, whether that was from performing the songs on tour or having a general road map. But this was the first instance where I considered every single hit all the way through, every figure up to and including every change. There were no question marks. So when I was tracking with the metronome it was just a question of right or wrong. People filling in ideas can become tedious and counterproductive. You find yourself working backwards. When you’re in the studio ‘what ifs’ are your biggest enemy, so my general rule is, if it’s something you can’t live with—if a sentence begins with ‘I can’t’ or ‘I will not’—then we examine it. But if it’s ‘maybe we should’ or ‘I think that’ then it’s like, hey man, full steam ahead. Not that there isn’t a lot of refinement to what we do—obviously there is— but I consider it a balance of raw energy and refinement.”
Regarding the lyrics Cedric stated:
“A lot of it was [written] on the spot. Omar — because he collects TVs — would set up his wall of TVs again. We used to live together and he would set them up all the time — kind of like in the David Bowie movie, The Man Who Fell to Earth, he had a stack of TVs like that. So he would do that while I would record vocals, and that would be the main inspiration. So it was everything from The Magnificent Seven and any Akira Kurosawa stuff. And I wouldn’t have [lyrics] written right away; I would just do takes of gibberish and then later try to fix them to make them into words. Sometimes he wanted to just keep the gibberish takes which he liked a lot better because it was the first reaction to the music. It’s just really [about] being in a state of being willing to give up to the producer your scratch tracks, as opposed to really working on it and refining it.”
Regarding the sound of Miranda That Ghost Just Isn’t Holy Anymore:
“I’m a big fan of spaghetti-western and I think it shows on “Miranda”. Our Morricone-influence has always been there, but on “Miranda” we let it all out. The last song [“Non-Zero Possibility”] on the last At the Drive-In album, the best thing we ever did by the way, had touches of spaghetti-western.”
Charting
Australian Albums (ARIA) 9
Austrian Albums (Ö3 Austria) 43
Belgian Albums (Ultratop Flanders) 13
Belgian Albums (Ultratop Wallonia) 70
Canadian Albums (Billboard) 6
Dutch Albums (Album Top 100) 34
Finnish Albums (Suomen virallinen lista) 14
French Albums (SNEP) 71
German Albums (Offizielle Top 100) 23
Irish Albums (IRMA) 18
Italian Albums (FIMI) 21
New Zealand Albums (RMNZ) 21
Norwegian Albums (VG-lista) 1
Spanish Albums (PROMUSICAE) 80
Swedish Albums (Sverigetopplistan) 12
Swiss Albums (Schweizer Hitparade) 81
UK Albums (OCC) 23
US Billboard 200 4
Frances the Mute was certified Gold having sold at minimum 500,000 copies.