| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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rescheduled in the wake of terrorist attack |
Review written by: Matthew Wroblewski (mattw@moocow.com) Review posted on: 09/13/01 23:30:58 ETThis was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
It was fucking awesome!!! The set list was... fuck the set list, it was TOOL. that is all that needs to be said. In all my life that was the best concert I have ever seen. I'm disapointed that they didnt play Eulogy, but it was still great. Think for yourself, Question authority, dare to be diffrent. I love the scottsville clowns!!!!
Review written by: rhcprayl (rhcprayl@aol,com) Review posted on: 09/13/01 23:57:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? 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. ummm cmon somebody post a review!!!!!!!!!plea
Review written by: J. Serba (johnserba@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:14:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show
Here's the set list: The Grudge Stinkfist 46 & 2 Prison Sex Schism Pushit (extended) Disposition/Reflection -intermission- Parabol/Parabola The Patient Opiate Lateralus Opiate was a nice addition, eh? They managed to cram 11 songs into two hours and five minutes. Wow. No other arena acts would ever attempt that... Final rant: Anybody else cheesed off that a lousy T-shirt was $35?? And $50 for a longsleeve? It borders on gouging...
Review written by: Just Wondering (MH45@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:16:02 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I am going to the Columbus Concert on Friday 14th. I would like to know how everything went, how the band acted, and how the crowed felt. I am concerned that it may be to early after the events that has taken place this week. I am feeling guilty for wanting to go to the show. I am also not wanting these bad events to run my life. I feel that I am damned if I do and damned if I dont. What was the mood within the arena?
Review written by: jeff (djdeath@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:18:12 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
god.. fucking amazing!! thats all i have to say. i cant really remember the entire set list cause i was in awe, so ill let someone else do that. my favorite was parabol/parabola. cant wait to see them again in detroit in a few days.. thank you to the best band in the world.. TOOL
Review written by: Mark Hotchkin (m_hotchkin@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:18:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Hey it looks like I'm one of the first reviewers. Most are still probably stuck in traffic, but I live a short walk from the arena. Anyway, Tool was awesome. Definitely a religious- caliber experience. I was completely caught up in the performance from the first notes of The Grudge. Setlist is as follows: (as well as I can recall, anyway) The Grudge Stinkfist Forty-Six & 2 (-) Ions Prison Sex Schism (Mantra as a prelude?) (The famous "head-bobbers" from the video make a stage appearance) - Maynard on gtr. Pushit Disposition - Maynard on gtr. Reflection Triad Tool goes back stage for a while, meantime there is a strange but enthralling performance by 2 nude trapeeze artists against the backdrop of the stage screens - they stay suspended while contorting themselves throughout Parabol and Parabola. Parabol Parabola Opiate Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Lateralus (Some dumbass managed to get on stage during this final song and was tackled as he attempted to high-five Maynard. Maynard leaned toward him, belted a few of the lyrics right into his face, and didn't miss a beat. The "fan" broke free of the security guards and dove into the sea of people in front of the stage. My friends complained that they didn't play Eulogy or Aenima, but it was of little concern to me. Maynard had some interesting comments about Tuesday's national tragedy - "We have 2 choices, we can either choose fear or choose compassion." At one point he was met with a half- hearted chant of USA! USA! from the crowd, to which he responded, "You're going to be really bummed when you find out the U.S. did it." Words spoken by a former army seargent. He also encouraged the crowd to take the "Oath of Independence," which many did. - "Repeat after me - Think for yourself......Question authority.....strive to be different....strive to be unique......Don't repeat what other people say." That was quite amusing. Tool drew more heavily from Lateralus than I expected them to, but I found myself enjoying the more progressive, less radio-friendly style of these songs. Actually, they played the whole album, except for Ticks & Leeches and the last track, which is just gibberish anyhow. Maynard did the show after Schism in speedos, which he did with APC also. I guess he's comfortable with his body. I was a little surprised he didn't make any pointedly "hometown" comments, since he is from West Michigan, expecially playing in VAN ANDEL Arena. Tool is awesome. I hope they continue to make music and perform live. This will not be my last time seeing them unless the world goes into nuclear winter soon, which it very well could.
Review written by: rober (collnite@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:20:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
i echo the earlier guy..wondering the overall feeling ...did mjk talk about it...i have floors for toronto but due to hurt ribs want to trade them for good seats
Review written by: Josie (masta420@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:49:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
I should report that the mood inside was very good only a few random idiots trying to mosh and then cheering when maynard suggested "here we are gathered on th eve of the third world war" . Other than this there was a great atmosphere, I felt safe and at home. There was a feeling of hope and healing. This was my fifth TOOL show and they never fail to blow me away(just wish i could here some more off of undertow). ART SAVES LIVES
Review written by: aaron (aar_o_n) Review posted on: 09/14/01 00:58:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
holy christ on a stick, it was the greatest thing i have ever seen in my 17 years on this planet, and one of the oddest things. i dont care what anyone else says meshuggah was fucking awesome and tool was at there best. the only thing i would change is the people that only knew the words to schism and were wondering why "them folks hanging from a wire" all around terrific show... i love pat snyder.
Review written by: Nuine (nuine@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 01:04:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Show was awesome. Maynard did talk about what the US has been going through. One of the things he said really got to me, He said 'We should take whatever our feelings have been over the past few days, good or bad, and turn them into something positive' He did mention that they were having a little trouble concentrating because of the recent events as well, which is very understandable. Of course you really couldn't tell because they jammed as usual. I wish to tip my hat to TOOL for putting on a great show and lifting the spirits of many through their musical masterpiece during such an emotional time. On the other had I wish to give a big f**k you to all the reserved seating folks that decided to jump down to the floor as soon as the lights went out. That put a lot of people at risk for injury when we were all there just to see a great show. I would also like to say that the security did a great job stopping most of those that continued to attempt to join the floor all throughout the show. I really hope your money was well spent just to get kicked out. Rock on always....
Review written by: Mark (rugbyplayer2@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 01:32:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I drank, I smoked, I ate glue. I fucking just saw Tool. This was the first time I had been on the floor at a major arena show. I was pretty much in awe. Except for the fat buffalos moshing, the floor was quite the experience. Adam was probably 20 feet in front of me. Their set list was a tad different than what I had read before. I was dissappointed that Sober was not played. They did, however, show good taste in removing Aenima from the setlist. I don't think a song about the destruction of an American city would have gone over well tonight (even though it is probably my favorite Tool song). Anyway, the show...rocked...best concert I have ever been to. Thanks to the band, thanks to Messuggah (they rocked also...contrary to earlier posts...I can see where Adam gains influence from them). Thanks also to the blonde chick that was gyrating in front of me and slapping her hair in my face during Reflection. She was quite entertaining and proably creamed herself once or twice. No thanks to drunken fat-asses or the idiot who found it necessary to run onto the stage during Lateralus.
Review written by: Andy (idyllhands@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 01:40:27 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. "Take all the emotions you've experienced over the last few days and DO SOMETHING POSITIVE with them" -
Review written by: Will W (walkerw8@msu.edu) Review posted on: 09/14/01 01:42:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
I went to the Madison show the other night. These show was wayyyyyy better. Far more energy. The cheeseheads just don't know how to rock, I guess. Lets see, Maynard had some nice things to say about the events of the past few days... The set list's already been posted so I'll just add that it's not to surprising at all that they didn't play Aenema like they have been. not surprising at all... this show was definately one to remember for sure...
Review written by: Neal (Mjkx13@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 03:06:38 ET
This was this reviewer's 12 Tool show
Talk about "WORTH THE WAIT". For the twelth time, my eyes have been opened and i was treading on thin ice to let it happen. --The cover over the ice at Van Andel Ice Arena came off and the front 15 feet of the mosh pit was a MAD rink of chaos!!-- (Good thing I was leaning agaist the barricade FRONT ROW CENTER) Well, im off to Colombus tomorrow and hopefully i will hear 'THE PATIENT' 4 NIGHTS IN A ROW, that would be unbelievable Thanks againg my TOOLGODS, Neal Im sure someone else will post the setlist...
Review written by: tyler durden (hfb44@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 03:53:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
show was great !! only the foolish shirtless jocks in the mosh pit got out of control as there where 4 fights with in 2 songs but what do you expect from people that dont understand the point of music?....and a flying boot that almost got a piece of me.........maynard had every one take 5 steps back from the stage after the grudge... maynard also made these comments....... "it is hard for us to concentrate as we are on the eve of the third world war to which we are not happy about", the crowd cheered this as mjk responded with "you are all going to be bummed out when you find out that is was the usa that did it!" he then said that "we had to make a choice of either fear or compasion and love" aslo he asked the crowd to " take the energy that we got from the show and do something positive with it." the sound was very clear !!!!! go see tool before the world ends!!!!!!!
Review written by: Brent Vasher (bnv10@albion.edu) Review posted on: 09/14/01 04:11:14 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
It is now four o'clock in the morning, and only now do I get to review the show I thought I'd never see. After Tuesday's necessary postponement, I was forced to sell my tickets back to TM due to a schedule conflict. Oddly enough, this afternoons rain just happened to open up my schedule. I made the 100 mile trip from school to purchase one of the last pairs of tickets at about seven ten. OOOOOOhhhhhh!!!! was it worth it. Meshuggah was better than expected but I was dissapointed in the clarity of the frontman. The atmosphere was pretty chill until about ten minutes before TOOL took the stage. From this point on it was amazing. American flags were displayed proudly as Maynard spoke of Tuesday's events swiftly, and somberly. The show began with songs of early edginess, and flowed into some more psychadelic realms before closing fantastically with opiate and Lateralus. Tool is the greatest band on the planet simply because they create better music than anyone on earth. THANK YOU! Brent
Review written by: jeff (Agonys_end_01@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 10:19:14 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? 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: eric (toolaws.@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 10:37:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
man this was my first show and it was fucking awesome!! The lineup was sweet and the contortionists' were really cool too. When they played Opiate the whole place erupted and evryone was singing. The visuals just added to the excitement. And this being my first TOOL show i don't believe any other band could match this. At the end of the show somehow i caught danny's drum head that he threw out. That is for sure going into a glass case along with the ticket. This is the best night of my life!
Review written by: jeff (AGONYS_END_01@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 10:38:45 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
awesome, i met danny and justin and justin signed my ticket (i was suprised at his heavy british accent) but danny would not sign beacuse i didn't have a purople pen.When tool started with the grudge it was seriously the best thing i've ever expierienced. the highlight of the show was the extended version of pushit which was a total surprise beacause they haven't been playing it at previous shows. The nude acrobats/contortionists were amazing. i noticed that the bass drums were gradually getting louder and climax during "lateralus" when they were rattling the speakers. "the patient" and "dispsition/reflection" sounded great. I was surprised that mayanard played guitar although i couldn't tell was he was playing. The was a chant both before and during the show of U.S.A started by a bunch of drunk rednecks which i thought was pretty rediculous, but as always mayanard had a wittty coment about it. i was very disapointed with the opening act i was really bored with the cliche metal band(the even wore hockey jerseys) and i thought i was listening to the same song for 45 min. But that side it was the best show i have ever seen and it will remain that way for a long time to come!
Review written by: get it right (analbaby@ass.net) Review posted on: 09/14/01 10:43:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
For a setlist correction Pushit was the SLOW version
Review written by: Shawn (sgerbs@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 11:27:12 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Well it's been four long years since I have seen TOOL perform. When I had read the setlist for the previous concert I was a little disapointed. But the songs they played on this show were close to perfect. Granted I would have liked to have seen Eulogy or Ænema. But it was still well worth it. My favorite songs being prison sex, parabola, and Opitate. The opening act seemed okay, but every song sounded the same. But the two hours of TOOL more than made up for it. So other than some stupid people throwing stuff up on stage, it was a great concert.
Review written by: Ben Cecilio (bcecil@umich.edu) Review posted on: 09/14/01 12:18:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Once again, Tool did not disappoint. since i had class in ann arbor until five, and had to pick up friends in lansing, i didnt make it to the arena until about eight, but i had already seen meshuggah at the indy show, and ill get the esteemed priveledge againg in detroit sunday. but this isnt about meshuggah. tool arrived with the grudge, to the childish delight of myself and the crowd. the setlist has been posted, and i believe one has it right, so i wont address that. i was blown away by the readjusted version of pushit, which they even extended. maynard was a little outspoken on the issue of this weeks events, but his few words were clear. he left the crowd imploring them to take something positive out of all the emotions they have felt this week, as we all knew that tool was using theirs to deliver their powerful music. opiate was a pleasant suprise, as was the patient for the second time for me. my seats were ideal for studying adam and his motions, and he is so meticulous with the sound. an incredible musician among incredible musicians. to all reading who have yet to experience this art, sell your children or siblings or something and get a ticket. and that is all.
Review written by: The Large Chafe Mammal (chafedaddy420@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 12:28:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I am a liar. I did not see the Grand Rapids show. I saw Tool (GOD) Sept. 8 in Indianapolis. I just had to share my feelings and this was the only way. Words cannot describe the experience I had. I can only tell you that I had constant chill bumps, my nipples remained hard throughout, I believe I had several orgasms, and I almost puked three times. It was the most amazing feeling I have ever had. No drugs nor any amount of pussy could ever make me feel that good.
Review written by: Keith (manolyrics@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 12:38:22 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Well I have to appologize for the lateness of my review. I was supposed to stay with a friend in Big Rapids after the show, but was forced to return home that night. I live in Saginaw, so that was a fun drive. I didn't get home until about 3am, so once again, my appologies. The first thing I noticed about the show was the focus of the music. It was eerie just how applicable the lyrics and mood of the songs were to what I am quite sure is the collective mood of the country. At one point Maynard referred to the night as "a soundtrack to healing." I never thought that the emotion of the terrible events that have taken place would be the focus of MY emotion during a Tool concert. Normally my inspiration is from somewhere completely different. In any case, the night brought new meaning to the songs I have grown to know and love. It seemed that everything was a metaphor. Our country will "wear the grudge like a crown" and find what we "will and will not tolerate." We will "keep digging" 'til we feel something. And the symbolism went on, from "I know the pieces fit 'cause I watched them fall away" to "watch the weather change" to "something kinda sad about the way that things have got to be." A couple people in the front had American flags, which I think the whole crowd found quite patriotic. Undoubtedly the special treat of the night had to be the Salival version of Pushit. It was by far the most emotional song in the setlist for myself. After it was over the man to my left and myself shook hands and hugged each other, astounded at how powerful it was. When the woman he was with asked if he knew me, he replied that he didn't, to which I responded "Tool Family." The fan base of this band is truly a phenomenon. A note about Reflection: The rest of the band went for their intermission, while Adam stayed on stage and held out the very end of the song for what must have been 5 minutes. It was an excellent chance to feel the music. He then took his (much shorter) break. Watching the contortionists thrash around suspended in front of the screens to Parabol and Parabola also added to a very inspirational and emotional scene. Opiate was a song that accurately summed up the frustration and anger that much of the crowd was feeling. It is one of the few Tool songs that I can understand moshing to. Unforunately it seemed that Maynard's vocals ere overpowered or not all there for much of the music. You could hear them but there was definitely a different sound about them, whether that can be attributed to sound problems at the venue or something else, I don't know. I only have minor complaints about the fans as a whole. The first, and most glaring: Those who moshed during the first half of Reflection; c'mon people...really... Secondly, a fight nearly broke out near me, but most of the other fans were cool-headed enough to break it up. Third, and perhaps least important, was that there simply wasn't very much of a hardcore fan base there. Granted, it WAS Grand Rapids, a comparatively conservative community compared to that of Detroit, which is where my last Tool concert, the Preseminal Tour date in May, was at. That show harbored the most dedicated fans I have ever seen come for a single band. I support new people discovering Tool, but most of them were just preppily dressed girls, which led me to believe they were either dates or somehow got confused and wanted to hear Judith. Oh well, I am not writing this to pick apart the social diversity of the show. Just my observation. Maynard, like a prophet had very interesting, albeit few, things to say. Here are some of the quotes. After The Grudge, the first song, he stopped to speak briefly. "Hello. Does everyone want to get home safely tonight?" (cheers) "I thought so. So what I am going to need everyone in front here to do is to take two steps back. Thank you. Now how about three more steps back. Five steps back. Take two steps, three steps, five steps back." He seemed to be returning to his less serious form for that last line. It made me think of some line dancing country song. "We missed you," in reference to the fact that the show was postponed two days. He explained that "we have two choices. We can respond with fear, or with compassion." He referred to the night as "the eve of World War III," and pleaded that we "remember, art saves lives." In response to chants of "USA USA" he said "You guys are going to be really bummed out when you find out that it was the US that did it." I imagine that this was in reference to the Oklahoma City Bombing, perpetrated by an American citizen. "Obviously we are having a pretty hard time concentrating tonight." The meaning of this is quite direct. Also, as has been a custom at many recent shows, Maynard said "No matter what you are feeling, be it good, bad, or indifferent, remember that feeling, take it with you, and try to make something positive from it." Right before Maynard got to the part about making something positive of the feelings someone screamed out "and put it in the pit!" What more can I say, it seemed that everything was going back to our country's tragedy and pain. As I said before, Maynard referred to the night as "a soundtrack to healing." He also did the "Non-Conformist Oath" trick to everyone, which brought a nervous chuckle from those he tricked. Lateralus let us see the band as more than figures on stage. WThey all gathered around the front of Danny's drums before the song so that they were all close. As soon as it was over Maynard took off backstage. This struck me as a bit odd because when the music was over Adam, Danny, and Justin all hugged each other. They did again right before they walked offstage. I did notice that throughout the show Adam occasionally moved closer to Justin in a sort of jam session scene. But during this display of band unity where was Maynard? A short note about Meshuggah: Musically they were more complex than other truly heavy metal bands, but this was hard to tell, which could most likely be the fault of the vocalist. I agree with a previous post, that I felt like I was listening to the same song for 45 minutes. When it was announced that they were playing the last song the crowd cheered louder than they did after any song. Perhaps this was just too hard for a Tool fan to digest... In any case, this was an excellent show with what seemed to be an unfortunate theme. If you are in any way affected, directly or indirectly, by the tragedies in New York and Washington, rest assured that for most of the fans it was not about forgetting and "rocking out" last night. My heart and emotion (and I believe those of many other fans there) were and are with you. We are all healing and scarring together. Keith B. 11-14-01 ManOLyrics@aol.com PS: On a lighter note, I have an extra ticket for the Detroit show Sunday the 16th at the Palace of Auburn Hills. It is section 119, lower bowl. The person it was meant for cannot attend. I just want to get my money back for it. No rip offs here. If you are a single female from Saginaw or the surrounding area and would like to just go together that would be great too. Ha! In any case if you are interested please email me and we can arrange something. I don't want the ticket to just go to waste. (Sorry to advertise here.)
Review written by: axxxxxxxx (hah@yehright.fuk) Review posted on: 09/14/01 13:57:48 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st 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: Loki Snake Dweller (_loki_@operamail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 14:00:50 ET
This was this reviewer's Nth Tool show
WoW!... WoW!... WoW!.. Tool was Amazing.. For God Sakes the played the slow version of Push-it what else could you want.. The Contorshonists were amazing... the music was amazing.. the visual's were outstanding.. the couple having sex behind me were awkward.. all said man that was great
Review written by: Meg (obscuredbyclo16@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 17:32:06 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Wow. Last night I saw TOOL at Van Andel, and although we had to wait an extra 2 days, it was well worth the wait. TOOL put on a stunning performance. Maynard's voice amazes me everytime I hear it, and to actually see him up close was awesome. Lightshows were mind-boggling, and the contortionsists were insane-cool. Thanks TOOL for playing in Grand Rapids. Wow.
Review written by: Lance (www.mph@juno.com) Review posted on: 09/14/01 19:30:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Another great show!!!!! The most important issue, the setlist: The Grudge Stinkfist(twisted around version) (-) ions intro 46&2 Prison Sex(addt. verse) Schism(Feat. Osarius Labrynth) Pushit(Salival version-this really kicked ass!!!!) Disposition/Reflection break Parabol/Parabola(Feat. Osarius Labrynth) Eon Blue...The Patient Opiate Lateralus Pushit was definitely the high-lite!! Salival version is so awesome!!! Maynard was very vocal-even had the crowd take the "Question Authority" oath...great show again see u in detroit.....
Review written by: m (m@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/15/01 15:30:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
i have to say without a doubt that was the greatest concert i have ever been to. it was nothing short of amazing, that's the only way i can think to describe it. im sure you enjoyed it as much as i did, even more so since you were on the floor. see you on the flip side my man
Review written by: Riley (winterlong_@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/15/01 21:21:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Well, I saw Tool last night. Finally. It really did feel like the fates were preventing me from seeing this concert. First, the tickets didn't come, so I had to get a voucher... then the concert was postponed due to the terrorist attacks in New York. But last night... it happened. After what has felt like en eternity of preparation I finally saw Tool in concert. And it was fucking unbelieveable. My friends and I arrived excessively early, to avoid any inconveniences that would further detriment our chances of actually seeing the band. This worked out well, and probably to our advantage, even though we had to stand around outside forever. It was freezing outside- the wind was very cold. But it was worth it. We piled our way into the arena at about 6:30, and revelled in the glory of our wonderful seats. Section 122, row J, seats 13-15. These may not sound great, but they were. We were about 20 feet from the stage. The opening band was Meshugah (sp?), and they were absolutely horrible. Seriously, it was like a srain on my conscience to watch them. I felt as though the waste of time was almost a sin. They were dreadful in every possible way. Too loud, out of key, out of time, and just plain sucky. Luckily, they polished off their set in about 30-40 minutes. Then, we waited. The set-up was not too long, and before we knew it we were staring down the immense percussion arsenal that was to be Danny Carey's. As the lights dimmed, and the opening riffs of "The Grudge" kicked in, we were pleasantly surprised by the fact that the kids sitting behind us were sparking up a joint. They handed their prospects over to us without consideration, and we smoked them out. We went through what must have been three J's over the course of the first song. It was brilliant. Then, of course, my perception was a bit off. I just basked in the beauty of the music being made before my eyes. Here's what I can remember of the setlist: The Grudge Stinkfist Forty Six & Two (!) Prison Sex Schism Pushit Disposition Reflection Parabol Parabola (after this my memory gets very hazy) the Patient Opiate Lateralus I am somewhat unsure about the last two songs, but that's probably pretty accurate. The band was awesome. Adam and Justin remained hunched over their instruments, rarely, if ever, lifting their heads to expose their faces. Danny launched a sonic assault on the drums from the house-right side of the stage, and Maynard, perched on an elevated block above and behind his bandmates, swayed and danced with the music, usually bending over the mic in a gorilla-like stance. Adam was wearing black pants and a red shirt, Justin was wearing some sort of leather coat, and black pants, All i could see of Danny was his black t-shirt, and Maynard spent most of the time in blue underwear... this really brought out his blue mohawk. Hehe. Opiate was a high point. They performed with such intensity- everybody in the crowd started to jump and shout. It was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. The band was heavy, but extremely precise. Maynard went political on us, and gave a little speech about the WTC tragedy, but he was pretty silent through most of the show. There was no encore, which kind of upset me, and the didn't play some of the songs I was hoping for (Jimmy, H, Sober, Ænema, Undertow), but the concert was absolutely amazing. I wish, in retrospect, that I hadn't been quite so stoned through the whole thing, but it worked out well. So, that's my story. I saw Tool. Bow down before me, peasants and commoners. I am your new stoner god.
Review written by: dan holleran (highvoltage024@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 01:14:25 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
well all i got to say is maynard is a genious and so is the rest of the band, their performance was beatiful. hearing maynards voice live was like nothing i have ever heard, and watching danny carey play the drums made my jaw drop. i also lied how adam jones looks so calm and mellow on stage. tool absolutely nailed this one. i really loved hearing prison sex and on parabol/parabola the contortionist were defnitely an interesting addition. well people who go to rock concerts they go to see any current band, but those who go to see art, creativity, intelligence all in one performance of music they can only see tool. this concert was the3 best expeirience in all my life thank you maynard, danny, justin, and adam for such a great performance.
Review written by: Steve V (Clockwork17@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 02:28:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd? Tool show
This was a damn good show, I just saw Tool in the Spring at the State Theatre but this felt like a completely different atmoshpere, not really better or worse overall. Well the State Theatre is awesome and small(small is good for venues) van andel is big and impersonnal. I was a little confused at first but it was a much more mellow set, they did not play sober, enema, or ticks and leeches, didn't really bother me besides enema and I completely understood that they didn't play that. The set was very long filled with strange guitar solos in stinkfist and they played the extended version of pushit also it put a big smile on my face when I was the only one in plane view that could sing a long with the extra verse of prison sex. Tool concerts are usually rare and far between which is sad because they are just so damn good.
Review written by: Jered (jered18@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 04:47:36 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I'd like to say that i was one of the ones that jumped and put that pussy from the other review "in danger". for one i didnt seen a single person get hurt other than those that were tackled by the bouncers and if you felt so in danger then dont go to a show at the van andel arena because ive seen many shows there and every time the lights go out people jump the 4 foot wall. so untill you except that you are pussy stay out of the pit and let the real fans see the show. anyways back to my review. this is my first time seeing tool live and it was one of the best thrills of my life from the time i saw the stadium waited in line got in the show listened to some strange but decent sweeden band Meshugga?? jumped the "fence" while the lights were on(being sure to put noone in danger) to the nude trapeeze artists that swung with there arms out upsidedown representing a real- life re enactment of the menus of the tool dvd. to the time were maynard said it best to those that blindly chanted U.S.A. "you guys are going to be bummed when you realize that the US did it". The show overall was the best of all the concerts ive seen and i cant wait to see them again. although there werent many idiots just trying to hurt people in the pit i couldnt understand how someone could be filled with so much anger and aggression while the greatest band filled with so much encouragement, art, and harmony was playing 20 yards from them. the environment of the crowd on the floor was so great and encouraging that you could just look around you and see so many people that feel the way you do about tools music it was so empowering that i was at a state of highness that no drug could give. even though they didnt play my top 11 favorite songs in there set i loved the set the played and the message that they gave. in the time that our nation is going through there needs to be more encouraging like tool did for me thursday night. even though it is one of my favorite songs im glad that they did not play the song aeneima because im not ready for the end of the world yet. but that isnt that fair to say because that is only the direct message of the song. remember "Think for Yourself Strive to be Different Question Authority"
Review written by: Rob Howe (howerobe@msu.edu) Review posted on: 09/16/01 12:58:11 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
Let me start this review by giving kudos to security at the show. I have never been to a show where the security was so concerned about the crowds health and comfort. Bottled water was poured on my head and down my throut several times. My second kudos goes to the two performers on stage. How wonderful is it that to people are so open and dedicated to their art that they would express themselves like they did. Beautiful! Of course TOOL did a wonderful job. I took my Dad to this show (his first) and nothing was cooler than rocking out with him on the floor for the first few songs. When the crazy fan ran on stage did I see Danny grinning? I think so. OK awsome show can't wait to TOOL again. Rob Out
Review written by: jenn (pinkjennjenn@juno.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 16:17:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
i ended up getting a floor ticket last minute and cutting to the front of the line to be with people i actually knew, thanks for everyone behind me for being cool about that. It was simply amazing. I was one of the first onto the floor, and ended up at the baricade, right before where Adam would stand. This is were i stayed thro meshuggah (not as bad as i expected, i dont think i would enjoy a recording as much, but they rocked pretty well live) Tool came out, and 30 seconds into the grugde the floor slid, moving me even closer to Adam. It sure gave the security guards that thought they were about to get pinched between the baricade and the stage a scare. I later found out that 4 feet of ice was exposed in the middle of the floor, luckily i didnt hear any reporst of people being injured. this is the first time ive been on the floor of such a large concert and i enjoyed the experience...i could only stay at the baricade for the first 3 songs tho, being too little to hold my ground. the floor was not violent at all, but there was such a crush of people, at times i didnt even have my feet on the ground, being supported by people squeezing into me. by schism i was one of the last girls anywhere near the front. i want to say hi to the one chick right next to me for quite a while she was smaller than i was and wasnt much more than a head sticking out, but fucking hard core, i moved back after pushit becuase i could no longer see anythign but the backs of people in front of me, and the visuals is so much of what i came for, but i think she stayed up there for the entire show. one of the most amazing moments for me was maynards comments before playing the patient he said, "we're finding it understandably hard to concentrate, this being the eve of the third world war" people in the crowd started to chant usa, and he said "wont you be surprised you find the usa did this" then he said "this is a time to rediscover our intentions, to remember why we do things, and please realize that art can save lives" i found that statement so powerful, and with the patient following it it was the most emotional moment of the nite for me. I want to thank tool for giving us this art, not only the music, but the videos and the dancers, it makes for so much more than a simple concert, but a real experience no tool fan should miss.
Review written by: mike (ogrenm@umich.edu) Review posted on: 09/17/01 00:58:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
whattup. well, this was an interesting show; one that i was very eagerly looking forward to since tool is my favorite band, and i knew that their reactions to the week's tragedy would most likely come out in some aspect of the show, be it set list or simply maynard's comments. i was not disappointed. i saw the show at the state theatre this summer (i got in for free ... what a phenomenol band to its fans!), and it was a life-changing experience. then i saw them this past sunday in chicago, and did not know what to expect as they took their intimate show into an arena forum. they pull it off perfectly, with real emotion, so i knew this would be an incredible experience. their setlist did indeed reflect and touch upon their views towards self-reflection, introspection, open-mindedness, and emotional and spiritual growth: 01. the grudge 02. stinkfist (phenomenol extended version) 03. forty-six & 2 04. prison sex 05. schism (oh no... the hits stop, and the crowd becomes ignorant as hell) 06. pushit (mellower, longer version) 07. disposition (ridiculously beautiful and powerful live) 08. reflection (can move you to tears) ... osseus labyrinth intermission ... 09. parabol 10. parabola 11. the patient (phenomenol) 12. opiate 13. lateralus (my favorite song) okay, clearly you could get a lot out of their music alone, but maynard also chose to express his views to the crowd between songs: "...whatever you may be feeling -- good, bad, or indifferent - - take that energy, and do something positive with it. remember: art saves lives." "...its during times like these when we must reflect and consider why it is that we do what we do." (right before 'the patient') "it seems that we, as a community, as a global community, are faced with some choices: we can either choose fear... or we can choose love, and compassion." beautiful, profound sentiments. however... 90% seemed unresponsive or simply unaware of tool's message in general, or their specific ideas on this night. people chanting U!S!A! ... people yelling that they want their money back since they can't see maynard, since they can't mosh, since they're not hearing their favorite hardcore hits ... on and on. what is this? is tool not about reflecting upon the illusionary elements of our civilization that are so damaging (such as FAKE NATIONAL BOUNDARIES... the dangers of being led blindly by leaders, political or otherwise... etc). i don't know -- it may just be me, but the message that i find to be very consistent and profound in tool's music is that the negativity separating us is illusionary ... that all of humanity, and indeed all life, is simply a manifestation of the same one energy or spirit or whatever. i can't tell you how much it annoys me to hear people make their uninformed assumptions that tool are satanic, etc. when in fact they have helped me perhaps more than any other one thing to realize the blessing that this phase of existence is, that love and consciousness are all that are real, and that life is not illusional boundaries and separations, but instead an opportunity to explore and grow as spirits. okay, this has gotten very long-winded. i apologize. i just wanted to say it was a phenomenol show with a powerful, beautiful energy to it (coming from the band and the music), but it was completely disheartening to see so much of the fan-base was completely missing the point and actually booing the band at times. tool, rest assured that some of us are getting. keep creating. peace.
Review written by: densdream (tossedout@home.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 12:32:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show
To re-state a comment left by many fans---The worst part about Tool is their fans...With the exception of us...
Review written by: densdream (tossedout@home.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 12:35:39 ET
This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show
To re-state a comment left by many fans---The worst part about Tool is their fans...With the exception of us... Great show...not as good as the old days, but one never to be missed..Honestly loved the screens, cool concept. Each tour brings out a whole new side to this band..they arent the same band they used to be..they are better, and will keep up the surprises.....PS: Non-conformist oath was an old Steve Martin comedy bit.......
Review written by: Say Tin (johnifer@yourmom.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 15:47:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
the show was amazing. meshuggah sucked a fat cock, but tool was godly. does anyone have a recording of this show? if so email me. thanks.
Review written by: kristen smith (bettyspaghetti666) Review posted on: 09/17/01 16:27:32 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? 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: Master Reviewer (aimless18@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 16:56:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Did anyone get a recording of this show?? Please email me if so.
Review written by: Paul Greiner (paulisgod33@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 23:48:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I saw this enlightening show about a week and a half ago. I figured that I would give myself a little time to sit back and reflect on what I experienced that night. Buying the tickets was almost as much of a memory to me as the actual concert. Four friends and I decided that we were going to have to realize that if we wanted to do what we wanted to do at this concert, than we were going to have to get pavilion seats to avoid all of the ignorance. We decided to have a gathering and then leave for the ticket store on May 15 4:30a.m. and then have a little nap in front of the place. I recieved lower pavilion tickets and then through sheer kindness of ones heart,I was able to sit in the third row exact center. -The show- Although this was my first live tool experience I did know what to expect. I knew 90% of what was going to happen at this concert. Some people think that this might be deadening to the experience, but I take it as a sort of preperation for what was about to happen. The one thing that i did not expect was for it to blow away my expectations and basically blindside me. Don't take this as negative at all. I have been researching this band for 6 years and I am 17 years old. The level that my study has taken me to is amazing. Tool IS actually a tool. Just think about what I am saying and you will know exactly what I am talking about. Put yourself in the same frame of mind as you were in at that beautiful concert you were at. Do you think you have ever felt like that in your entire lifetime? This band will teach you the beginnings of an unbelievable journey and that is just the beginning. I am not blabbing about how this band rocks. We need much more than that. the catchphrases and the slang belong exactly where you found them. Please truely think for yourself. This is only my opinion. Write me paulisgod33@hotmail.com
Review written by: Joshua Tominski (Dahermitt@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/18/01 08:19:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 3RD Tool show
Awsome show!!!!! Tool is really maturing musicly. Am I the only one that really can't get used to Maynard playing a guitar?!?!?!? Anyone with a recording of the show, please email me.
Review written by: AAGHOST (aaghost@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/18/01 14:26:54 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Well first of all it has taken me about 4 days to take in everything. I just got done reading somebody's statement that there were fans booing the band. First of all, I didn't pay $35 just to go seem some ordinary rock band. I payed to go see TOOL. In my opinion, TOOL put on a great show. The music was great. I thought that Maynard's comment about us being bummed when we find out that the US did the WTC and pentagon plane gigs was quite interesting. It seems to me that one of the main messages TOOL puts out is for us to open our eyes to the reality around us and to stop assuming that everything the media and politicians tell us is true. I'm also not surprised that Maynard walked off right after the end of the concert. That fan obviously did not have much respect for the band although it was entertaining to see him leaping back into the crowd. Overall I would have to tell anyone out there who hasn't been to a TOOL concert that you should go at least once. It was the experience of a lifetime. I would like to give a thanks to the Scottville Clown Band for giving us a great show even though I wasn't sure what to think about the naked guys. Thank you for giving us something unique and different from the template of the rest of the music industry.