| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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08/13/2001
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Review written by: Kabir Akhtar (kabir@toolshed.down.net)This was this reviewer's 14th Tool show
Yow. That was pretty outstanding. =) Seeing a Tool show in L.A. is a tricky proposition - the band has a lot of friends and family in town, and their guestlist fills up quickly. After failing to get tickets the old fashioned way (my sister was in town when they went on sale, and she drew 5th in line ... needless to say, it was over before it started), I managed to score tickets through a record label hookup. I was actually working down the street from the venue, and got out of work early enough to drop by and say hi to some of the crew folks that I know. Happened to walk in on a part of the band's soundcheck, though I was actually more interested in the video projection gear they had (I know, I know - what can I say). The only bit of the soundcheck I heard was "The Patient" and another song which I probably shouldn't mention. All I can say is that apparently there's a push to play it live this fall occasionally. Don't ask me because if I could tell you, I would have. I left, went to collect my pal Lauren, and we eventually made our way back to the show. The Wiltern was a really beautiful theater, complete with very polite staff. It felt more like a night out for some finer art than "going to a show." I thought that added a very nice feeling to the evening, though it did limit the amount of energy the crowd was able to give - there's only so much bobbing you can do. Did meet a lot of folks who knew toolshed, that was pretty cool, they were all very friendly. King Crimson was really something cool, I knew very little about them before, but it became clear that Tool was quite influenced by them (as Maynard would later say, "we ripped them off a lot.") The crowd went nuts when their drummer took off midway through their last song, and Danny stepped in. Apparently only some of King Crimson knew that was going to happen. Very funny. The setlist has been posted below, and mostly gone over in detail, but a few things that really made this one of the best performances I've seen by the band were the little touches: * "Stinkfist" had the little extended jam bit before "I'll keep digging... " * "Prison Sex" had the extended vocal bit in the middle * Robert Fripp (of KC) handled a deep soundscapey intermission, which the audience seemed much more in tune with than the "Schism" video screenings they had late last spring. * "Sober" ended as it sometimes does, with the end vocals screamed instead of sympathized * "The Patient", starting with "Eon Blue Apocalypse" ... I think this reminded me most why I like this band to begin with * but the highlight for me was seeing "Undertow", complete with a Maynard scream at the end over the closing riff. Yow. So yeah, the show was pretty awe-inspiring. Special thanks to the gal who insisted on buying me a drink before the show started, because I actually felt the caffeine burst through my system right as "The Grudge" tore through the audience. It being nearly a full week after the show, much of it has settled into my subconscious, and the standout shreds in resident memory don't begin to approximate the chills you would have gotten if you had been standing there for the actual show. The Wiltern only holds 2200 people, but you can bet your copy of "Opiate" most of them will be at the next LA show, hopefully happening this November. That is, as long as we can all get tickets =)
Review written by: Sean (seanson1@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:01:15 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
Setlist was: The Grudge (Ions) Stinkfist Undertow Prison Sex Schism (Aeon Blue Apocalypse) The Patient Disposition Reflection (Break w/Robert Fripp) Sober Parabol Parabola Aenema Lateralus Almost no scalpers to be seen. I had to pull some undercover mojo to get in. Great art deco venue. Eclectic mix of folks. Lots of unnecessary "Maynard!?" yelling, when one ought to have been listening instead... Whatever. Captivating show. I'd almost say mellow, as the spectacle renders one into a trance more than a frenzy. Probably the quietest Tool show I've seen. Great balance though, and great pace to the whole setlist. Hopefully it will change a little tomorrow, but I should be thankful for what I get.
Review written by: Rebecca (becbngwatr@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:07:53 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
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Review written by: Rebecca (becbngwatr@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:09:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I can't even believe what I just experienced. Here we go with the cliches...with the words I thought I would never be submitting to this web page. This was my first show and it surpassed my expectations....and let me not forget to quote myself pre-show- "I have no doubt that this will be the best experience of my life to this date". It sounds crazy to give that much credit to a show. These are the experiences that Tool create. Maynard kept refering to the "feeling you are having right now." I know that I've never felt a goddamn thing like it before and I have been to quite a few shows. I'm kinda blurry the setlist but I am sure that I will be corrected later on if I screw it up: The Grudge Stinkfist (with a new twist....fucking amazing...catches you offguard and blends in perfectly) Undertow (thank the lord....evreyone went apeshit...the real heads were in the crowd tonite) Prisonsex (another twist...even better than what they did with Stinkfist in my opinion) Mantra Schism The Patient Reflection ---intermission you thought it was gonna be the slow version of Pushit...but hold on.... SOBER!!!! Parabol Parabola Aenema Lateralis And lets sum it up by saying....Tool is so amazing that they didn't do a fucking encore... It was a very very nice welcome home party tonite kids....too bad for any fan that couldn't be there. The Wiltern was fantastic....no bad seats....excellent sounds.....beautiful lights....a stream of images and video that I would have paid the price of my ticket to see without the music (these visuals carried you away). Nothing was wrong...not a damn thing. And I'm sure that all the lucky people who experienced this tonite will carry out Maynard's small request and create something possitive. long live this amazing group of individuals who bring us these gifts. and longer live the fans that keep them alive. -Rebecca .
Review written by: Master Reviewer Ryan Gresch (Greschpants@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:19:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Are you Fucking kidding me? That was the best show I've ever been to. Audio was perfect(vocals could be louder in the first half of the show.) Lights,(the shit) KC kicked ASS. All in all, the best show of the year,FUCH EVER...TOOL FUCKING RULES!!!!!!!
Review written by: Berj Doudian (berjd@ucla.edu) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:46:24 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
That was the best of 3 shows I've seen =) Undertow. Extended Prison Sex. The Patient. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! Everyone else pretty much says it all... I thought it was a little too mellow =) I'm not in favor of getting my head kicked in a mosh pit, but everyone just kinda... sat there. The entire two rows in front of us didn't even STAND UP. Whatever... better view for me =) -Berj
Review written by: Morgan Light (mathematical_impossible@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 07:50:48 ET
This was this reviewer's ???? Tool show
Ever since I saw Tool at the '93 Lollapalooza, I've been increasingly impressed with their performances. With this concert, the bar has been raised yet again. Others can go into detail about the set list (which if you've followed any of the 1st leg of the Lateralus tour, would see most of the same songs), so I'll just point out some of the highlights. First and formost, this West Coast mini tour with King Crimson was an idea long overdue. KC was brilliant and kept the attention of the arriving Tool fans. I hope there'll be some new KC fans as a result - they're talented guys. A nice touch at the end of their set was Danny slipping behind the drum kit for the last minutes of KC's "Red" Between opening with "The Grudge" and closing with "Lateralus" as has been the case thus far, Tool threw in a few nice surprises. "Stinkfist" had a sweet extended section coming out of the solo, and they further impressd by dusting off "Undertow". The rarely played "Eon Blue Apocalypse / Patient" also made the set list, with Maynard picking up a guitar(!) for the tune (which he slung again later in the show). The intermission began with a nice droning jam by Adam coming out of Disposition / Reflection", repeating his outro as KC's Robert Fripp played his Soundscapes. It was fantastic! After Fripp played his ambient sounds for a while, Tool reappeared to stear the avant gard noises into "Sober". While I was a touch unhappy to see "46 & 2", "Pushit", "Eulogy" and "Opiate" not make the cut, it's good to know that Tool is changing the set up from town to town to give us fanatics a nice variety. And I challange anybody to find another performance of "AEnima" more viseral and intense than tonight's. Sorry to all you kids who missed such a wonderful show. Word has it they'll be back around in November, so start saving your pennies - you'll regret mising it, but will never forget seeing them. ps. - I met Kabir (this site's webMASTER) out in the foyer before the show and chatted for a few minutes. He is not only a cool guy but a genuinely nice person. If you see him at a show or just have a moment to email, let him know how much you enjoy this site or appreciate his work on it. He deserves it.
Review written by: tonedog (linamumlindrum@cs.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 08:25:56 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
DAMN damn DAMN !!! This was the most awesome, ass kicking show of my life. Crimson ruled ridiculously. and Tool??? DAMN! Maynard kicked it hard! and they mixed it up double tonight. Danny came out in the Crimson show and took over from their drummer for the last tune. and Fripp played in the middle of the Tool set.
Review written by: Eric T. (JIMBOJET@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 08/14/01 08:34:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
man, thier is no poem i could write, no song I can sing, and no picture i can draw to describe what I witnessed at the wiltern. King Crimson was amazing, tool was awe inspiring. The lights go down, the tibetan monk sounds are played over the sound system. One by one the members of tool walk onto to the stage. They are met with roaring applause. Each of them standing stern awaiting danny to hit the drum sticks together 3 times. Most notably maynard who looks almost millitant in his long black leather trench coat. In an instant we are swept away into "The Grudge". Maynard went friggin off during this song. Very fun to wacth him spazz and twist around. Well the set list was great. You can read it above in one of the first reviews. High Lights -they played undertow, wasnt expecting that. -they played the version of stinkfist with the added break down. -Maynard ribbing on Hobos and bums. -Danny's gold drum set. -Robert Fripp and adams jam session -The intesity of Ćenema -The speech about taking our feeling back and making some positive art. Over all it was everything I wanted and an avalanche of so much more. I look up to tool as artists. They are a shining example of mucians making it completely on thier own. I hope they keep spreading thier art for as long as humanly possible.
Review written by: Natalie (Lateralus413@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 09:29:04 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Hey, Well, this was my first TOOL show and may I say I am hooked. King Crimson was weird as hell but they were cool. When TOOL came on the place went crazy and they are better live than on the CD's. Seriously the CD's do not do TOOL justice. I think that they hypnotized the whole audience in some way cuz everyone was in a weir trance state. They did Reflection which was awesome and then when they were done with that each band member went off stange one by one and then they left the crowd waiting for what seemed like an eternity. Then when they came back they did Aenima which was the best song of the night. I was a little dissapointed that they didn't play Opiate but hell if they only played one song and left it would have been worth the 275 dollars I spent on eBay for them. Oh yeah and Danny finished the last song for King Crimson. It didn't even seem real and I can't wait to go to another concert.
Review written by: Crimhead (Sleepmeat@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 09:43:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Just saw the show! I'm a total King Crimson freak and it was great to see the Tool fans reaction to Crimso. I just read some other reveiws and I just want to clarify. Crimson's "bass player" plays the Stick or Warr guitar. Both are touch sensitive instruments. It's NOT a bass. It can only be played with the two-handed tapping technique. The guy playing this instrument is Trey Gunn. Anyway, I have to say King Crimson blew Tool off the stage. It's not Tool's fault, as they played admirably. But you might as well have The Beatles open up for you. King Crimson are the Prog- rock-metal Gods! Tool never had a chance. With that, I was very impressed with Tool. A great band, for sure. Especially in this day and age of crap. I'm glad they are bringing progressive rock back in the spotlight along with Radiohead. The Wiltern theater is a great venue. Good sound and vibe.
Review written by: Rob (ten257two@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 14:47:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I just had an epiphany.....it is 10 am and I am doing a redesign on a website at my job......I have my mp3's on random and "Lateralus" just came on. I just heard the song in a different way. It was the most amazing feeling to hear a song in a different way, I had to share it with someone. If I had shared it in the office, I would have been sent home sick, or sent home for good. This is the best way to get it out. Spiral out if you will. I am in Philly and I spend some of my time reading reviews....I have been saving my pennies, and I cannot wait for them to migrate to the east coast. I am 28 years old, and I am inspired by many things. The guys in Tool have been inspiring me for years. I am what I am today partly because of their music. I will take them to my grave. Like deadheads and Elvis fans do. Go listen to Maynard speak on Lateralus and hear him swing on the spiral once more....it was an amazing feeling this morning. Thanks for reading. Kabir, sorry about breaking the rules about posting, I had to share this. --Rob
Review written by: Eric K. (cotigo@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 16:21:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
SO often the word "artist" is used to discribe bands, In most cases this is unmerited. In tools case they are artists in every sense of the word. There show on Monday night at the Wiltern in LA was something to be witnessed.
Review written by: Roman Sokal (rsokal@tapeop.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 17:16:51 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
i don't think it was mellow in any way- it was PERFECT- I came down for these shows from Toronto Canada- and judging by the insane energy and screams at this show- Los Angelenos make Canadians seem ultra-mellow! in a way, the wiltern thing wasn't a 'show'..it was something else- i don't know what to say either- it was like being a movie- the visuals, beautiful venue and the mind-fuck of tool's music and solid performance. i think i came like 10 times during the show! one more night to go!
Review written by: Sandy (saijala71@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 18:04:52 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
All I can say is....AMAZING SHOW ALL AROUND! My husband and I were lucky enough to have front row Mezzanine seats so we had a very clear view. The sound was excellent as well. I saw TOOL twice before in LA (Palladium and Universal Amphitheater) and this was undoubtedly my favorite show. The crowd was pretty cool, except for the occasional scream of "MAYNARD!" during quiet parts. I guess it's to be expected...:) My highlights included: Undertow and The Patient! I almost LOST IT during The Patient and Parabol cuz Maynard has such an amazing vocal range. One thing sucked...we brought a tiny disposable camera which, as everyone knows, the pictures come out shitty anyways. One of the lame ass tough guy bouncer dudes grabbed it right out of my husband's hands...and was a complete dick about it. We had other pictures on the camera - namely the Cult at House of Blues so we were extra pissed off when he took it. So, for all you people sneaking in cameras tonight...BE CAREFUL! As Maynard so eloquently pointed out, we just wanted to REMEMBER the show, because THIS IS WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT! Thanks to Maynard, Justin, Danny and Adam for being THE most innovative, talented, original, and amazing band out there today. You guys never cease to amaze me!
Review written by: Natalie (toolsgrl5@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 18:18:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom.
Review written by: Natalie (toolsgrl5@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 18:34:52 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
What can I say that hasnt already been said??? The show was so fucking rad!!!! The set was beautiful, the band rocked, and Maynard's voice was sounding perfect. The crowd was pretty intense in the back, i really dont know what happened to the people in front...sorry. The last time I saw them was at Coachella. They really rocked, but there was something about tonight that did it for me. Reflection, Sober and Aenema were fucking beautiful. It was pure purfection. LOVE YOU, TOOLHEADS!!!! Natalie
Review written by: Brian Putnam (BrianDPutnam@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 18:49:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show
My Grudge- I have checked our websites daily waiting with drool hanging from my mouth for TOOL to come back to California for another concert. Since seeing them last at Coechella 2 years ago, it has been way to long of a wait to see them "come out and play". Finally when it is posted that the tickets for a LA show are coming, I strapped on my life perserver and headed down to the local ticketmaster. Me being first in line I felt I should have no problem being within the first 10 rows of a show that is destined to rock. When my 2 tickets are pulled up I am 5 fucking rows from the ceiling, and the second show is already sold out! My jaw dropped to the floor, popping my life perserver. Later I find out that TOOL did a presale, and almost sold out the concert before tickets even went on sale.... They mailed out info to all part of their fan club, in my regrets they no longer have my email address from 4 years ago. Time to pass the stone and let the grudge go... As i sat in my seat with my head touching the ceiling, i felt lucky in a way that i was not one of the hundreds waiting outside the venue beging to pay $300 a ticket to see TOOL. Eventhough I may not be able to see the black strip maynard has painted down the middle of his face, I can hear the music and see the art that has influenced my life so greatly the past 6 years. The highlight of the night was when maynard picks up a guitar. At first you are like... hmmm this should be cool... but then you realize he is not going to beable to move around like his regular self... by the time the second song came for him to play you could read his body language this was not his thing.... where is buzz to play 2cnd guitar when you need him.... Thank you TOOL for another great experience!! -Brian Fresno, Ca
Review written by: Rebecca (Becbngwatr@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 18:50:38 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Sorry to post again but I was wondering if anyone wrote down that email address of the person who said they were video taping the show. I would really like to get my hands on a tape. Please email me if you know anything. Thanks a lot. -Rebecca
Review written by: APlover (odilio24@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 19:32:04 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
King Crimson were excelente. Chin-gon. Too bad many people can't appreciate their music. they were too busy drinking mixed drinks and mingling outside. Saw Paz Lenchantin from APC at the entrance. we talked to her and she was very nice and shy, i'm in love. What can i say about Tool. I was in tears by the end of 'The Grudge' just seeing the power and emotion that they were unleashing. That Danny Carey is unbelievable. I was so hipnotized i was forgetting to blink. Can't wait till tomorrow at SDSU.
Review written by: Rose (MJKtoolfreak1@msn.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 20:21:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
I've seen them quite a few times, but this is one of the few times I can honestly say that I was dead sober at a show, & LOVED every bit of it. If I hadn't been, I wouldn't have felt the intensity I felt last night , be able to remember it & share it w/you..........The sound, lights, graphics, music, & definitely Maynard's beautiful voice took me on a fantasy jaunt - & believe me, I did not want to come back home. The girl next to me was so overwhelmed, she was actually crying......I felt that same emotion......I wanted to cry as well, but I stopped myself, because I knew if I did, my blurred vision wouldn't have allowed me to clearly focus on Maynard's beautifully sculpted body & the way he stomped, jolted, stared & mesmorized the audience & myself. The set list was perfect.....the mood was calming, made me SUCK IT UP even more.........BRILLIANT ARTISTS, THEY ARE!!!!!!!! BRILLIANT MAN, MAYNARD IS!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you've got half a brain, you won't let them pass you by next time around............
Review written by: Master Reviewer (noloveinfear@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 21:14:48 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
The Grudge Stinkfist - extended version Undertow Prison Sex - extended version Schism Aeon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Disposition Reflection (Intermission w/ Robert Fripp) (Adam plays tail end of Merkaba) Sober Parabol Parabola ĆNEMA Lateralus I was fortunate enough to only have to pay regular price for this concert, but I would have paid $300 if necessary, and STILL have gotten my money's worth. The Wiltern Theatre is one of the best venues I have been too. We (my girlfriend Patricia and myself) were about 5 rows from the back, yet we could see and hear everything perfectly. King Crimson is one of the few bands that my mom has tried to get me listen to that I still haven't, but after seeing them live I realize that I should have picked up their stuff a long time ago. It is very apparent that TOOL was influenced by these guys, and it was nice to see a band opening for TOOL that wasn't booed! If you weren't there, words cannot describe how they sounded. TOOL was in top form, and the perfection achieved on their CDs is improved upon during their live performance. Completely mind blowing, once again. Out of the 4 TOOL shows I have been to, this was by far the best, even better than my first, back in 1994 at the San Bernardino Arena, where I think about 500 people were in attendence. If you do only one thing in your entire life, go see a TOOL show. You'll have lived a fulfilling life.
Review written by: Bernard (bjutzi10@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 21:28:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Tool kicked ass like always...there's no way you'll be dissapointed if you see them live. King Crimson played some wierd ass shit! I was very impressed by their music. What some people call a 12 string bass is actually a warr guitar, not a bass. Somebody mentioned this already, somebody who definetely knows what he's talking about. There is another band that uses this instrument called Laundry. Laundry opened for A Perfect Circle when they first started. The drummer/singer of the band is Tim "Herb" Alexander, who plays drums in "The Hollow", Mer de Noms' first song. Anyway, I recommend that you listen to Laundry, they're a very interesting band (only 3 guys!). Too bad I didn't see Paz, but fortunately I had the chance to meet Tom Morello...he was part of the audience and I'm sure I'm not the only one who saw him or recognized him...really nice guy...can't wait to hear him play with Chris Cornell! Undertow and Patient, the nice surprises, Aenema, the best performed song. I still can't believe they didn't play a single song from Opiate. The only song they didn't play from Lateralus was Ticks and Leeches. The sound wasn't that good during the first few songs, but I'm sure the technicians fixed it because towards the end the sound improved a lot. I'm sure the sound is going to be better at the Open Air Theatre at SDSU...great venue...too bad I didn't get a ticket. I'm worried that there's not gonna be any scalpers around...too much demand and not enough supply! We'll see what happens, I don't have too much money anyways...forget about paying $300 for a ticket.
Review written by: Vern (vernwoodhead@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/14/01 22:33:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Yes indeed, this was a great show. It seems like Tool fans didn't boo King Crimson like they did elsewhere. King Crimson is amazing. Trey Gunn was awesome. And I couldn't believe Danny came out to play Red. I love that kind of stuff. Tool's show was over the top. I must say that it was great to see how into Ćnema Justin was. I must say that the most amozing part for me was Robert Fripp's intermission. It took me to another world and then when Tool burst in with Sober (I had not noticed they were all back on stage) they ripped me through many barriers into another world entirely. Unbelievable. I saw Paz Lenchantin outside before the concert with my friend, APlover, and that made our experience un-fucking-believable. She was so shy and I simply asked her if she was from Argentina (in Spanish) and she replied, "Si." I was touched. I'll be back after SDSU.
Review written by: someone (someone@somewhere.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 00:48:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Sandy if you and your husband were stupid enough to attempt sneaking in a camera in your HANDS, you deserve the damn thing to be taken off you by some over sized monkey.
Review written by: Robert (Schism49@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 00:51:06 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Greatest fucking experience of my life!! Met Kabir...really nice guy...I recommend if anyone see's him at a show...go up to him and say what's up and tell him what a fantastic site he's running. Anyway, King Crimson was amazing....and Tool was even better in my opinion. The energy in the the Wiltern was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Everyone went crazy during The Grudge. After Reflection Robert Fripp from King Crimson did some beautiful things using his guitar. I thought it was over...but then Tool came back out and they performed some more songs. Sober was fantasic and Lateralus was perfect. The visuals were mind blowing...I espescially liked the visuals during Reflection. Disposition was beautiful. The only way desribe this experience really...is to say that I can't describe it with words. Anyway, I would like to thank Tool for creating some baeutiful music. The best I have ever heard and the best I will ever hear. Thanks to Tool....and thanks to Kabir. Lates.
Review written by: jason kuhlman (jasontk@mac.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 03:00:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show
first off...Kabir, it was a pleasure to meet you and your friend, (Lauren?), i hope you both enjoyed the show. OK, King Crimson was AMAZING. i am a fan but had never seen them live until this show. wow! pat and trey are quite possibly the most beautiful rhythm section i have ever witnessed, (if only i could have seen them with bruford as well...oh man...) anyway...i have seen Tool quite a few times, in venues as varied as a tiny old movie theater and an immense open outdoor field. i must say that i was EXTREMELY upset with the sound quality of this show. this was not only the worst sound quality at a Tool show that i have ever heard but also the first time i have had the beauty of the live Tool experience significantly marred by the sound quality. first of all, it was not as loud as i would have hoped but yet it still had a little of that "painful" aspect you would associate with an overly amplified concert. second, the mix was absolutely terrible, on a per instrument basis even. there was no real differentiation in the sound of danny's highest and lowest toms, they all gave the same dead, mushy "thud." also, there were many times that i couldn't even hear his crash cymbals. justin was nearly inaudible for probably 50% of the show as well. i suppose his bass might have been part of the constant rumble that i heard but there was no real tone to be heard. adam was washed out quite a bit as well and during Parabola, where his guitar is tuned down to B(?), almost all of the notes played on the low string were totally inaudible. maynard was the only part of the band that seemed to have a semi-decent mix for most of the show. of course, this doesn't change the fact that they still performed amazingly, with intense emotion and passion. for me, the high point of the night was danny playing at the end of Red with KCrimson. that was like some giddy dream. unbelievable...also, Fripp with Adam during the post-Reflection, Soundscape stuff. that was phenomenally beautiful. oh, yeah...WHY, tell me, WHY WHY WHY! WHY do people have to yell MAYNARD! is he the only person in the band?!? If the other 3 members of Tool were to leave permanently and it was only Maynard up there on stage doing the same thing, would it be the same for you?!? I DIDN"T THINK SO. Tool, thank you SO MUCH for your continued desire to share your passion and your beauty with us. it means a lot to me.
Review written by: matt (stohlemite@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 05:02:29 ET
This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show
This show was much more "tame" than others that I've seen (proabably due to the venue setup), but it still kicked ass. I made a trip down from AZ to see this show and wasn't disappointed. Still part of me wishes that TOOL would play more of their songs that don't get radio play. I know in AZ sober, stinkfist, aenima, and schism are over-played. Don't get me wrong...they are still great songs but it would be nice if they played some of the tracks that aren't "radio friendly." Tool never ceases to amaze me with their musical talents. Thanks for continuing to put out exceptional music/art. also...I ran into Tom Morello in the lobby. He was standing in line waiting for the restroom. Surprising that no one noticed him.
Review written by: Erica (kittyhazel@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 07:03:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
What can I say but what hasn't allready been said? I'm in utter amazement still, 24 hours later. Tool is an immensely talented band... and I feel bad for anyone who wanted tix to that shopw and didn't get them. Upon walking in, I was amazed by how close the stage was (I was in orch, row U). King Crimson was allready playing when I finally was able to make it down to the venue... I started getting into KC after the first 30 minutes or so... very good.. I think I will be buying a CD. The visuals were fucking amazing. Very acid-infleunced IMHO. I was watching the visuals more than anything else.. Maynards body silouetted against the small screen made for a wonderful effect. The undertow ribcage animation was perfect for Maynard.. Like the other audience members, I was in a trance watching the screen.. it was a very mellow-trancelike vibe all around. Even if you weren't a Tool fan, you could easily enjoy the visual aspect. Either way, it was by far the most impressive visual show I've ever seen. Tool's CD's do NOT do them justice.
Review written by: Sandy (saijala71@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 16:05:00 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Hey "Somewhere", If you're going to insult someone on a concert reviews page, at least have the balls to print your real email. To update everyone else, I snuck the camera in my pants. I didn't think I had to SPELL IT OUT. Who would carry a camera in the front door in full view? The bouncer grabbed it when we were actually taking the pictures during Aenima. Because we were in the front row MEZZ, he snuck up on us. We had no cover. I saw TONS of people taking pictures and I don't think any of them DESERVED to have their cameras taken away.
Review written by: dabel (vertigod0000@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 20:13:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 4st Tool show
I was dropped off in front of the Wiltern after spending the day on an amtrak from oakland and a bus from bakersfield ca. I did get to read a chunk of bob frissells book though. It was like five o'clock. heads were already outside the venue trying to scrape up the last reissued tix for the night. I went up western, past the line and the door to the backstage opened as I walked by and I heard "46 + 2" I think/ part of the sound check anyways, but I had my luggage and I just wanted to...checked into my hotel accross the street and went back outside. some dude accross wilshire and the venue asked me if I could watch his outdoor tapestry vendor, his name was john, i said ok and sat there for like 15 mins while he took a shit. i then went to dennys to eat because i convinced myself that it would be cool if i ate in the same structure as the show and I sat down and ordered and right after I saw Danny C walk by the window, I was stunned for a sec, but the got out of my booth and ran outside, he was already down the block (tall guys walk fast) and going around the corner, oh well... so I ate a club sandwich from dennys...hmmm.... and I got out of there and continued to walk around. I made it to the backstage area driveway place and there were three really happenen nice kids from santa cruz who just helped Adams wife get her car unstuck off the curb, I was like no way, but sure enough she came back up to them and asked for their names and returned with custom drawn pictures and signatures from her husband to them....the coolest sight of gratitude I have ever seen from anyone in a rock and roll band.... so we chatted and I went back to my hotel to get my ticket and got right into the venue being called batman because I was wearing a batman shirt that my girl just gave me, but I covered that shirt with a $33 "Tool with King Crimson in Concert" The $33 could mean less, I got a shirt with two of the best bands ever playing together on it all west coast and shiot (im from NY) so I was pimping the #9 shirt and drinking pineapple juice in one of the creepiest but elegant venues I've ever been in. I loved the place, I thought it was from another world. my seat was all the way in the back, mezz 'N - 6', corner, but I still felt close to the stage and had a good view, IOW the venue was small and intimate and this would probably be the last time I see Tool in a place so small so I really freaked when they played THE PATIENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It just re enforced the experience I had to finally get to see them after all the previous let downs before hand. The show was a reflection for me. Of everything. When Maynard talked about a delay of the following LA show due to "I don't know, maybe an EARTHQUAKE" I realized beforehand that I might, and then that I was witnessing Anima being played live in LA. I had a great moment of my life there, again that was what it's all about......................over and out
Review written by: Thomas (spearman@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 21:42:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Thought the sound was much better tonight than the 1st Berkeley show--had seats higher up--but oddly enough was closer to the stage than the Berkeley community theatre-- KC's set seemed shorter and not as well focused--may have been the hooting and hollering taht was going on but not sure. The WIltern should really turn on some AC cause the place was just waay too hot. Again with the ennui about song six--past the undertow tune...still wasn't feeding my TOOL jones (like 8/10) and without the creature comfort of a cool place to chill, I just couldn't bear the heat of the mezzanine and decided to split early. Wish I was going to San Diego--cause there it'll be plenty cool and quite frankly I think outdoor shows for TOOL are the shiznat! No Maynard _White Lines_ 'cover' into the band's performance BLOW (read unlike the Friday Berkeley show) --spearman (not a real happy camper, but..oh well. My concert buddy, Dave, gave up his ticket stub to a worthy soul lingering outside--hope he got in and that TOOL fed his jones this night.)
Review written by: Thomas (spearman@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/15/01 21:45:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
oh and the balcony swaying was really un-nerving.
Review written by: David (trismegistus7@aol) Review posted on: 08/16/01 20:57:51 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
The day started out well enough, I had met some "True Fans" and was more then happy to talk with them. Among the fans was Kabir, who has to be one of the most inteligent fans I had met there. Overall there were few of what I have begun to call,"Schism Posers" (So called fans made aware of Tool by the recent release of Schism on the radio)and I was ready for the show. KING CRIMSON- For those of you who havn't heard them, they are an awsome band, largely instrimental (little singing) with most of the sound heard being the higher strings played with frightiningly melodic percision. I don't know his name but who ever it was that was playing the 12 string was playing in such a unique way and manipulating the guitar to produce some of the most dream-like sounds. They were in a word, ...Awsome TOOL!-I'm not gona lie, when Danny, Adam, Maynard and Justin came out under the dim light, there were tears. This one expirence was perhaps the greatest of my life it will be followed for a long time after with reflection and a new insight into the band. -Danny's new drums were awsome! they exhibited such an awsome power and filled the air with pulpatations that left the stomach fealing delightfully tingely. He did exeptionaly well during The Grudge and (of course) everything else! -Maynard moved with the fluidity of a dream and was a spectical of the bizzar and the beatifull as he moved in trance like paterns and well calculated jerks and stomps. his singing was spectacular and beatifull as always. -Jusin looked like some grim figure of the macabre, there was something about his features that made him stand out as a serial killer or something, cool none the less! I could have never anticipated his playing style, it was something akin to struming, the whole time I think he oney looked up from his Wal once. The best demonstration of his abillity was when he crouched down to perform the delicate tone sweeps from The Patient. -Adam his work being my greatest insperation in what I do now, was awsome. The way he executed his riffs, with flawless percision... It was mind blowing! One could feel the anticicipation from every one around, right before he would play those Ohh so familiar riffs that we fans have commited to memory through the years.He had a supreame command over his Gibson and every one in attendance could feel it. -Since the expierence itself can't really be put into words there little else to say. Be content with the performance discriptions ect. - thank you Hermes T, Aleister C, Henry D. T, Carl J, Kabir, KING CRIMSON And THANK YOU TOOL!!!
Review written by: Tool SUX!!!!!! (fuck_you@tool_sux.com) Review posted on: 08/16/01 22:58:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 0st? Tool show
ok..... fuck tool and fuck you!!!! tickets were impossible to get and they didn't play enough shows..... they don't look like they will be on the west coast again, so all i have to say is fuck you tool!!!! i will burn all of your cd's tonight and will never listen to your fucked up music..... obtw, most of you tool fans are a bunch of fucking pieces of shit..... !!!!!!
Review written by: David (Trismegistus7@aol) Review posted on: 08/17/01 08:23:49 ET
This was this reviewer's !!! Tool show
Let me just say that whosoever writes blasphomy against TOOl, truely deserves a rapid-growing-pubic hair virus that will ultimately consume the recipient turning him into another "Cousin it". FUCK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
Review written by: Eric (eqdethe@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/01 15:40:33 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Get ahold of yourself little buddy, it wasn't impossible. As for the concert.... Adam and Justin were 99% motionless (one time I looked over and Justing was standing sideways lifting his knee and pounding his foot). They played mostly with their heads down hair draped to their chest. The fact that this mindblowing music was coming partially from these two statues and Maynards sillouette simply was a reminder it was about the music and the moment itself. . Everything previous posters said about ripping down realities barriers and the fucking amazing (acid influenced?) videos were very true. The erratic motion in Stinkfist gave me that skittish feeling that time itself may not be moving smoothly along somuch as flashing from frame to frame... I just wished it stopped! They walked off the stage two hours later and I was smiling thinking cool, not much of a goodbye, means they'll be back for a few more ,, HA ! btw ... Camping out the night before to acquire the tickets, the limo ride, holding my hand druing Stinkfist
Review written by: Eric (eqdethe@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/01 16:32:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
as to the above ,, I wish it NEVER stopped... and to add to the cut off section,, my girlfriend/fiance/reflection/Aenima can fully take credit for setting up the best night of my life. The fact that it was my birthday couldn't make it any better.
Review written by: Teri (brown_eyed_grl@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/01 16:54:48 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Quick your fucking whinning.... tickets were NOT impossible to get... let me let you in on a little secret... they went on sale at the box office where you were allowed to camp over night. I was 3rd in line and was there for 17 hours and ended up with 2 front row center tickets!!!! FUCK YEAH!!! I was very surprised to find how few people were there camping with me. I got there at 7:30 p.m. Friday and was the last one in line for 4 hours. By 4:00a.m. there were maybe 8 or 9 more people. We all sat together front row. >;p
Review written by: Eric (eqdethe@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/01 17:02:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
<<< ^^^ Thats my girl
Review written by: Mike B. (mnb808@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/01 20:56:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 16th Tool show
This was my 16th TOOL show, and I must say that their shows just keep getting better and better. The Wiltern is a great small venue to see such a powerful performance. The band sounded incredible, I thought the sound was great, and the new visuals were captivating. It was great to see King Crimson open up for them, and quite a treat to get to see Danny join them. What more can I say that hasn't already been said in the other reviews? Maynard was his usual funny self, and Danny, Adam, and Justin were all right on the money. Everybody seemed to be in really good spirits. My favorite songs of the night would have to be THE GRUDGE, UNDERTOW, DISPOSITION, and LATERALUS. They all sounded sooo amazing. The night was truly a spiritual experience, as usual. So, let me finish this review by saying that TOOL NEVER DISAPPOINTS, and their musicianship and ideology is on another level. Definitely check out a show if you can. You won't regret it. Personally, I can't get enough. -Mike B.
Review written by: Chris Burke ("Corky" from Life Goes On) (samysalib@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/18/01 16:05:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd? Tool show
ughguhg! eeheghe! I WANT CORNDOG! UGHGUGHNHNHGHNG! ENGHGNGHA! (drool) Maynah - U Shore Sing Pretty!!! UGHGUGUHNHNGH!
Review written by: Stu Horn (StuartHorn@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/18/01 23:44:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Well, you can say I'm a very big TOOL fan. I went to tickmaster early on, and they said the tickets wouldn't be on sale until saturday. I went back saturday and they were sold out for the shows at the Wiltern. I couldn't drive from L.A. to San Diego on a work day (would never make it after a long day at work then back that night). So, I didn't get to see T00L, my favorite band. Not very happy about the whole mess.
Review written by: Neal (mjkx13@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/19/01 17:59:31 ET
This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show
I didn't really go to the LA show, but i was too late to post the shows i did really see. I followed The Reverend and his mates from Colorado over to CA for the Berekely shows. Being from Detroit made it a little expensive, but worth wild to see the TOOLGODS live for the 7th, 8th, and 9th time. Only one negative thought.... Wish i was there to hear The Patient!!!!!! I won't babble on about how big of a Tool fan i am, because i know it myself...I just want to say: "day by day, show by show, preaching by preaching, my mind is being openend to thoughts and ideas i've never had before! Thank you TOOL! Neal See you soon in Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Grand Rapids, Chicago, and Indianapolis.