concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart
09/19/2001




Review written by: one lamer down the road (benoit.delorme@videotron.ca)
Review posted on: 09/19/01 23:58:38 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

One word : dissappointing. Sad to say, I must admit the show was less than what I expected. Now, don't get me wrong, I love the music, but this show was, for unknown reasons, unusually short. There was not one encore. Some millstone songs were left out (Eulogy, Sober, Stinkfist, to name a few), and the show itself started late. But, while it lasted, it was *great*. It just was *way* too short for my taste (or my friend's for that matter). Oh well, at least I can still listen to it right no w...

Review written by: Hope (iamunclean@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 00:09:48 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I just got out of the shower and my boyfriend has fallen asleep. Poor guy had a long day. So I'm here to praise Tool. The show was spectacular in every aspect. The setlist: Intro The Grudge (-)Ions Stinkfist (extended at "I'll keep digging, til I feel something") 46 & 2 Merkaba? / Pushit (Salival version) Schism (Maynard on guitar, contortionists from video were there) Disposition (Maynard on guitar) Reflection (Maynard on guitar) ------------------------------------ Parabol (contortionists suspended and flailing) Parabola (contortionists suspended and flailing) Ænema Lateralus Maynard didn't say much. However, he did say, "We'd like to thank... Meshuggah. For opening for us. This was their last day on the tour. They've sold their souls to the devil. They're getting fed-exed over to Stonehenge, where they'll have their dicks cut off by three-legged goats with halitosis. But they've sold their souls to satan and get to spend all eternity with him, so you know..." "There's this club, I can't remember the name 'cause I'm so senile... anyway, Fantomas are playing there after the show. I'm not too sure of the exact location." "I'd like to you take these feelings you're having right now and take them home with you. Thake those feelings; that energy and use it to create something positive. Let it act as global healing." "Thank you! Fantomas, Metropolitain. Good night." That show's actually at Metropolis, but what does it matter. Tool were flawless. The set was great. The contortionists were a great touch; very interesting. Were were front and center and Maynard had a white hourglass-shaped strip down his face. It was difficult to tell since there was no spotlight or anything. I imagine people seated further away didn't see anything but Maynard's silhouette. The imagery on the big screens was captivating. Maynard didn't hold the 30 second scream in the Grudge though, he didn't even attempt it. In Pushit as well. Adam makes it look effortless up there. Justin is incredibly talented. Just watching his finger move along the neck of his bass, you can tell how gifted he is. Same goes for Danny and his golden drums. The entire band is simply unreal. They made the day's tedious events melt away. Waiting in line was a pain. Upon entry, they took our entire tickets because their system was broken. We were asked to empty our pockets and were frisked. Though the crowd was very engaged, they were at times abnoxious. One guy yelled out repeatedly to the contortionists, "You're fucking crazy man! You're fucking crazy man!" And the man behind me was gifted with the ability to whistle at over 100 decibels right in my fucking ear. Rather than taking in the art, some resorted to throwing their devil horns in the air and pushing a floor of fans into a barricade-severly bruising the front row. However, the head of Tool security was a great man. He supplied us all with cold, bottled water and came around twice per song to see if everyone was alright. Meshuggah were interesting, the crowd was very receptive. They wrote and performed songs for the catering, road crew and Tool seeing as how it was their last show. It was very funny and I believe they did just swell considering their style and an audience not fit or expecting for Sweedish metal. I think that's it. On a personal note, this was my first Tool show and it was by far the greatest concert I've experienced. Tool elevate the level of art in music to astounding heights. And for this I am grateful. Thank you, Tool. Hope.

Review written by: Kalin (beltas@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 00:12:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Okay I have not seen a proper setlist yet so I will throw mine up, 1. the grudge 2. stinkfist 3. 46 & 2 4. pushit 5. disposition/reflection 6. schism 7. aenema 8. parabol/parabola 9. lateralus let me know if I missed anything (altho I think I got it all, maybe wrong order... anyway other than that, the show was amazing, the videos' were awesome (hard to watch both tool and videos' tho) I would love to get a copy of the videos and the music to go with them The contortionists were a nice added touch I don't have to mention the music since we all know it was amazing I could have done without the ppl asking me to sit down AT A TOOL CONCERT

Review written by: Dany Bujold (twit_18@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 00:39:35 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

this was the first time i saw tool in concert and it was completely awsome, i had never seen something like that before.the song they played was great, it would be cool if they had play songs like sober and eulogy but anyway it's was fucking great.i think if i remember well that they played the grudge stinkfist 46&2 merkaba(the first part) salival(salival version) shism(with the contortionist of the video, wich was very special to see, and maynard was on the gituar) disposition(maynard on guitar) reflection(maynard on guitar) intermission with the contortionist parabol parabola aenima lateralus and they played very well, you could beleive that the cd was playing in your stereo at your house. we didn't see maynard a lot cause he was always in the dark but that doesn't matter cause it make him more speretual and more mysterious.and he didn't talk a lot but when he talked it was to say some funny things.i will never see a good show like that again that's for sure.

Review written by: Dany Bujold (twit_18@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 00:41:20 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

this was the first time i saw tool in concert and it was completely awsome, i had never seen something like that before.the song they played was great, it would be cool if they had play songs like sober and eulogy but anyway it's was fucking great.i think if i remember well that they played the grudge stinkfist 46&2 merkaba(the first part pushit(salival version) shism(with the contortionist of the video, wich was very special to see, and maynard was on the gituar) disposition(maynard on guitar) reflection(maynard on guitar) intermission with the contortionist parabol parabola aenima lateralus and they played very well, you could beleive that the cd was playing in your stereo at your house. we didn't see maynard a lot cause he was always in the dark but that doesn't matter cause it make him more speretual and more mysterious.and he didn't talk a lot but when he talked it was to say some funny things.i will never see a good show like that again that's for sure.

Review written by: Dany Bujold (twit_18@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 00:42:03 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

this was the first time i saw tool in concert and it was completely awsome, i had never seen something like that before.the song they played was great, it would be cool if they had play songs like sober and eulogy but anyway it's was fucking great.i think if i remember well that they played the grudge stinkfist 46&2 merkaba(the first part pushit(salival version) shism(with the contortionist of the video, wich was very special to see, and maynard was on the gituar) disposition(maynard on guitar) reflection(maynard on guitar) intermission with the contortionist parabol parabola aenima lateralus and they played very well, you could beleive that the cd was playing in your stereo at your house. we didn't see maynard a lot cause he was always in the dark but that doesn't matter cause it make him more speretual and more mysterious.and he didn't talk a lot but when he talked it was to say some funny things.i will never see a good show like that again that's for sure.

Review written by: Loic (fourra@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 01:09:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

First i know its not a board but if anyone have a bootleg of the show please Email me !! ok ! I am doing my review in french ... Le show exellent mais pas tres long. moi je suis arrivée a l'avance, jai fait la ligne dehors pis la ils nous on fouillés. jétait sur le parterre et jai réussis a me mettre a la premiere rangée!! je voyais vraiment bien ! Le premier groupe jai pas aime ca mais c'est juste pas mon genre de musique... mais Danny est venu jouer avec eux!!! Pour ce qui est de TOOL : Maynard avec la face maquillé en blanc na presque pas parler Danny etait juste fous les solos etait malade ! Adam et Justin etait aussi exellent. jaurais aimer ca comme tout le monde je crois qu'ils jouent prison sex , eulogy , bottom et third eye ! personellement jaime moins le nouvel album et ils ont joué pas mal de c tounes la mais c'etait tres bon pareil ! Les contorsionistes etaient peinturés en gris et ils etaient pendu par les pieds a l'intermission. mes tounes préférés de ce soir : AEnima 46&2 et stinkfist. the grudge aussi etait pas pire !! finalement un tres bon show !! ah oui ! les bootleg ou photos envoyez moi un email svp! vive TOOL !!!!

Review written by: Philippe (philippechaput@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 01:22:59 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

i'm not too sure i've seen a correct setlist yet but here it goes. the grudge extended stinkfist 46 and 2 merkaba first part pushit - salival version schism (maynard on guitar) sober-like-intro (but no sober :( ) disposition (maynard on guitar) reflection (maynard on guitar) long justin solo - acrobats setting up acrobats having fun parabol parabola aenema lateralus aweome show. only weak points: no undertow material, adam solo simply too long, and two frum solos when they could've put sober instead... good part: FLAWLESS! good sound. good projections. thanks tool.

Review written by: porkie (me_am_friendly) Review posted on: 09/20/01 01:30:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 1.5 Tool show

this is considered my 1.5th show because edgefest didnt really count. now for the songs of tonight live from molson centre in depth as seen by me, and if ur view is different something is wrong with you! 1-The Grudge:Having seen this song already played at edgefest i knew what to expect, although i should only exepect the unexpected i found as maynard's voice was a lot more melodic then before and just seemed different (actually kind of fit the song well). I dont blame him for not trying the 24 second scream he is tired, it was more like 15. 8/10 (rating) 2-Stinkfist(ions intro): Another played at edgefest except this one really changed with an amazing new part before the i'll keep digging. Truly incredible! 10/10 3-46&2:Well played as usual danny's druming kicked ass! This song has it's own little place in my heart (with all the chlosteral there too). 9/10 4-Merkaba/Pushit: Neat little segement before pushit by the band, just shows their talent, SALIVAL VERSION OF PUSHIT is GOD! 10/10 5-Schism:Maynard slaps on de old guitar and apparently is unhappy with it as he gives it back to the roadie... Oh well at least his vocals kicked ass, but his more moledic screams werent cutting it this song. 8/10 6-crazy segement thing/disposition/reflection: Maynard slapped on the guitar again (since the missed notes on schism must have been it's fault) and joins for another crazy guitar thing before disposition, disposition was pretty good but reflection took the cake. That was a great song live much better then i thought it would be, maynard sounded perfect! 10/10 Intermission(the contortionists were neat) 7-parabol/parabola- At edgefest tool got away without playing parabol and i felt empty but this time they played it and boy oh boy it kicked ass. those two songs just complete each other, and they have to be played together for that "special" effect. 10/10 MAYNaRD speaks bout meshuggah having to go to hell being fed exed and having goats take their balls and to spend an eternity with satan blah blah blah the usual...? 8-AEnima-This song rocks, this is tool at it's most rock and or rolling state, keep em coming boys! 10/10 9-Lateralus-No words can describe this song (perfect) sounded 1000000 times better then it did at edgefest. I thank you maynard for creating the greatest song i thank all of tool for this song. 100000/10 Overall tool kicked major ass, and if you ever get a chance to see these guys go! GO! GOOO! even if it is on a sunday and you have to skip church it is worth it! total rating 34847328734728,.23323982/10

Review written by: Justin (cervical80@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 03:20:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Hey you other guys, what about giving a chance to the ones who didn't see the show... It's supposed to be a surprise, oh well.. Messhugah..... nothing to say Tool great stuff! It was a pleasure for the mind.... haaaaa felt realy good. I didn't bother me that the band was not showing off, the are not a boys band! There not exposing their image so everyone acts like them. They took their distance so what! Maynard taked about Fantômas playing at he Metropolis just after but i didn't go, was it good? Like always i bet that their wasn't the half of the people in the Molson center that understand Maynard message about bringing those feeling at home, i always have that kind of feeling with me... inspiration. I didn't know that MJK played guitar, he was even more distant in his little place of darkness. So you never saw Tool on stage yet? don't miss your chance! It's one in a life time experience. But just don't try to bring youself someting to activate your pineal gland.....all gone in the garbage..... stupid security.....

Review written by: jakhobh (jakhobh@thefragile.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 07:19:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

i'm still unable to find the perfect words to describe the feelings i got throughout the show... i'll have to think about it in the next few weeks and try to create something positive for the global community. my favorite song of the night : Lateralus. "With my feet upon the ground, i lose myself between the sound and open wide to suck it in i feel it move across my skin. i'm reaching up and reaching out, i'm reaching for the random or whatever will bewilder me, whatever will bewilder me. and following our will and wind we may just go where no one's been. we'll ride the spiral to the end and may just go where no one's been. spiral out, keep going... going... going... -------------------------------------------------------------------- thank you tool.

Review written by: jakhobh (jakhobh@thefragile.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 07:43:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

i think the showw was a bit short but it was amazing. and i would have love to see fantômas, they are way much better to messugah...

Review written by: Charlie (hopeisgone@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 08:53:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

okay i don't about the reviews before me because they weren't paying attention. Tool did about four to three instrmentals one (before pushit) was merabak from salvia. the intrumentals were long too ...about 5 mintues or more. Adam had a small keyboard that he played for one of the intrmentals. schism included two of actors from the video on stage doing that strange walking with their hands on the ground. they came out later for parabol/a. parabola diffentely great live and the people swinging from the top of the stage... wow. maynard spoke twice no speeches, he said some to the likes of messagah being sacrficed by three cocked donkeys and thats why they weren't countineing on to the US with them. They changed stinkfist in small ways.all and all no complaits. the tree of life connects us all. we are nothing we are everything -the kabbalah the songs:(out of order) the grudge stinkfist( longer version) aienma 46&2 pushit (salvia version) lateralus parabol parabola(with hanging people) schism (odd walking people)* refection(extended about 8 mintues)* disposation* merkahba(without voice samples)* intrumental(with adam playing a small keyboard) intrumental (strange noise with drums) and other assorted long intros/intrumentals *maynard played guitar no full length videos. but every song had a video the one for lateralus reflection and merkahba were my faviots. the end of the show maynard told everyone to go see fantomas who were playing right after in a club near by. anyway sorry about the spelling through out this

Review written by: Jim (gabbie_brand@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 10:08:16 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. There is not much I can add to what has been said about the show ; most of the main things have been said by now. I can say this though ; some girls I saw the concert with compared the excitment of the it to having an orgasim. I didn't see the things like that but fuck was it a good show. The only flaw of the show was that it didn't last forever.

Review written by: Andrew (darkapathy@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 10:48:23 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was my first Tool concert, I had been looking to it for years, since I missed the last tour. I had to wait around Montreal for about eight hours but finally they let us in. About a half hour after we were seated Meshuggah came on, a Swedish metal band. I don't think I could have picked a worse opening act, the leader singer moved like an idiot, the guitars, drums and vocals were so loud it was hard to tell the difference between them. Even the floor was still throughout the entire set, and only started cheering after they had left the stage, the lights dimmed and the curtain was pulled back to reveal the screens. Adam, Danny and Justin came on first. As soon as Maynard was able to be seen on stage, infront of the smaller screen, the crowd filled the arena with cheers, which only got louder as the first notes of The Grudge were played. I sat throughout most of the show in awe, torn between watching Maynard move infront of the screen, and the larger screens above him. No one has said anything that I've seen about it so far, so I will. Maynards voice sounds very different in concert, higher pitched and much better than any of their cds. His screaming as well as his soft singing of Parabol were enough to make my spine tingle and goosebumps to appear all over my body. More than once the lights went out, and just when you assumed the show was over, the screens lit back up again and the drums began, giving everyone around me the sense that we were getting even more than we payed for, or deserved. And finally when it ended I walked out of the arena with a dazed feeling, walking in a fog. And I'm still in it somewhat, almost 12 hours later. The show was simply amazing, and ten times worth the price of the ticket.

Review written by: Loulou (louloucie@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 10:52:35 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Go see Tool. It's a once in life thing. Thank you Tool for the best night in my life.

Review written by: wewe (demonart@colba.net) Review posted on: 09/20/01 11:40:01 ET

This was this reviewer's ? Tool show

I only really, truly enjoy a concert of this kind when I'm alone. Why do people think that's weird? I usually listen to it when I'm alone right? It's not a party, it's a concert. There should actually be quizzes and skill-testing questions to GET INTO a TOOL concert! And anyone who fails should be terminally reconditioned...lol My not too promising location, on arrival, turned out to probably have been the best seats in the house -all for me! My seat was right beside the mostly empty "beside the stage" section, just above the floor... some guy who spoke terrible French and English (from Lac-St-Jean) was talking to me from the seat designated next to mine... I always pass around my binos to folks so they can see close up too and end up talking to everyone around who's friendly. He was harmless and drinking himself stupid but he was a big fan -there with somewhat "cooler" friends who got busted trying to bootleg the show. The SEC guy just came and took the tape away, that's all, even let him keep his recorder. I ditched them for the empty seats right in beside the stage right away -I like to move around and get my view (perk of being alone!) -I jammed totally alone there with no one bugging me, no 6'3" guys who just have to be right in front of poor little me..right by the friggin stage, no one else even there! Security left me alone, (I am female -after all and relatively harmless) and me handy dandy binoculars totally proved to be a TRIP to have at this contextual/installation art kind of show. I got the true full screen and much more enjoyment by having them with. The projected videos, 2-up on 2 huge halves just behind the stage were stark and introspective and trippy. The drummer's an amazing natural who was a pleasure to witness on the instrument -they all are. At one point two people, one male, one female, nude, mounted 2 separate bungees hand over hand hung center stage in front of the two screens in time with the mounting music, slowly. They probably don't go nude in the U.S. shows as they'd most likely be put in jail for obscenity (females ok, but an actual male of the species, fully nude in public?... imagine the horror...spare the children!) Then they looped up their feet and hanged there upside down for I don't know how many minutes while the song played out, swaying and rotating and finally jamming to beat hell to the music... How long can a human being hang upside down and not die? I was wishing they'd hurry and get down cuz I can't take much more death right now. Another symptom. I was actually worried about that... "No thanks death! I've had my fill just now! Thanks anyway though! Maybe around Halloween'd be good!" Anyhoo, what great athletes they were... During some musical interludes which meandered and flowed, the 4 kids I had adopted into my "dream section" a couple rows behind me start screaming, in unison, for some specific song... the band was in middle of playing something! I know it's funny, but I'm not even familiar with the names of most TOOL songs! ...or anyone's for that matter. I read throughout the package when I buy the cd and check it out periodically... but otherwise I just pop it in and go. I told them that the band would most surely play that song if they were screaming for it to begin with... and that we go to concerts to hear what's NOT on the cd, right? They politely took my meaning for what it was worth (with maybe just a hint of eye rolling on their dear, darling, still learning, teenager faces...(shut the fuck up while the band's playing for chrissakes!) -I have a teen sis in Denver, I find them very interesting -from an anthropological standpoint in particular -lol... There were signs on the entrances requesting that people please not mosh/surf at the show, signed TOOL. They were in English only, which was an oversight, considering many, many in the audience here are unilingual French and couldn't understand what it read... but there wasn't a whole lot of that happening down in front either. Overall, it was a disturbing and wonderful show, the music was played to its finest. Let's face it -TOOL's not the happiest music around and these aren't the happiest days to be around... anyone too happy'd be suspect right now anyway right? But it's just good to feel something "en masse" sometimes and that's what a good show's for, I think and hope. I think they live to creep us out of ourselves. Out of apathy. I'm afraid they're that serious and I hope I never am. I feel it too though. Learn to Swim didn't make me as enthusiastic to hear it as I've been in the past... He sang with conviction I hope he felt as per his original thoughts. I inevitably had more real images in my head than some spoiled rich brats who, 2-dimensionally speaking at least, deserve to float face down for just a small while at the very least. Less ideological and more graphic visions have abused us... not TOOL's fault, just reality hurting my eyes again. My mind is too graphic and yet to be big enough to be detached from my human thoughts and emotions -which hurt. His words are too close to true, we've been and are being awful to this place in the most imaginative and profound of ways... and should probably just go soon. He gave the same "Do something positive in the coming weeks" message as I've seen detailed in earlier show descriptions. I think they may have enjoyed a break from the over-testosteroned patriotism running the gamut right now in my fair to a fault, deeply hurt homeland down south... too much of everything being DEFINITELY a bad thing. After I left the building I passed by a small, small man with his right arm missing. He was sitting on the sidewalk leaning against a parking meter with his hat out asking for help. After "helping" I sat on a concrete block nearby and watched as the demographic group with the most disposable income on the face of the earth, just after having their idol suggest to them that they do something positive, pass him by the thousands, without even looking at the man's face. I counted like 5 who stopped and gave something to him. I wanted to go make his night and give him all the cash I had on me -couldn't think of a better reason why the fuck not to -but the little bugger disappeared on me! Can you believe it!? Thwarted again!!! I'm no Pollyanna, but I have my days... that was a bummer. So, yeah, I had a great time and my expectations were met to the fullest... even including the scene with the disabled man afterwards... quelle surprise! Those people think that's fake? The guy weighs like 70lbs and has no freakin right arm and they still manage to convince themselves that he deserves his lot?!!! Fuckin ay -flush it all away indeed! Punks! Oh yes, not to forget the comic relief, pièce de résistance of the night... the reason the little homeless guy managed ot slip away unbeknownst to me was that my friend from seat 4 walked by me, held up between 2 of his buddies. As they passed they saw me and I squawked a "hey, how's it goin?" not quite surprised to see them in such a capacity. Me, I'm already turning away to resume my observation of a decadent society at its best and ... the kid veers off and starts hurling all over somewhere nearby -one of his friends is asking him "hey, isn't that your girlfriend?" I mercifully ignored them till they managed to stuff themselves into a cab and mercifully leave. Maybe you had to be there but it was a pretty hilarious ending... except that my little dude left. I've been a TOOL fan for a long time, the music merits it. Conviction=Intensity and that I love and respect.

Review written by: Sam (samysalib@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 12:41:46 ET

This was this reviewer's best Tool show

This show had the exact same set-list as the night before in Toronto........minus The Patient. Same order of songs as well. This may have come as a disappointment to those who attended both shows. Not only was there no variety between set-lists - the Montreal show was jipped one song. Maynard rarely said anything during the entire performance except for a couple of comments on Meshuggah's final gig, promoting Fantomas for a show that they were doing in town later the same night, and his "Create something positive" speech. So what made this a great show? Unlike many of the reviews posted over the last few days, the crowd was actually really cool. Most of them in my area weren't little punk-ass teenagers who were there to mosh to TooL's hit singles (which were usually the only songs that they would know). Most of the people in my crowd were there to enjoy an experience - which is what I think the band wanted. It was great to share a common feeling with all of them. Examples include their reacion to the extra section in Stinkfist, or the Salival version of Pushit. It was fun to watch Maynard hold a guitar, and not play it. I haven't been able to nail down the exact message that he's trying to portray with that. The visuals were mesmerizing. The male contortionist had a massive cock. (Don't get me wrong - I'm no stool- pusher......I was just impressed by his gargantuous unit - maybe a little jelous). Songs that sounded best were Stinkfist, Reflection, Parabola, Aenima and Lateralis. It was also nice to see an increase in the female ratio within the crowd. Even more so - there was a signifigant decrease in lesbo-goth-ditchpigs as well.

Review written by: Matt (mjgoodri@zoo.uvm.edu) Review posted on: 09/20/01 12:54:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was my first Tool concert, and I must say I am amazed. Listening to the cds just doesn't cut it anymore. I can't say that I liked Meshuggah very much, but I'm not into heavy/swedish metal so that could be the reason. The songs that they played for the crew and production were pretty funny though. The arena was fairly empty until about 8:30. The screens were all prepared, the instruments were tested, and finally - the lights went out. However many thousand people were there started cheering, and it only got louder as danny, justin, adam, and finally maynard walked onto the stage. By this time, pretty much every seat in the arena was filled. Maynard mentioned that it was Meshuggah's last show with them. "They sold their souls to Satan, and he's come to collect. They're being fed-exed to Stonehenge, where they'll be sacrificed by a three-cocked donkey with halitosis. But then they get to spend eternity with Satan, so its not all bad." Near the end he also mentioned that Fantomas was playing at the Metropolitan (or Metropolis, or whatever). There was also the standard "...take this feeling and create something positive..." mantra. The sound quality in the arena was surprisingly good. The weird instrumental near the middle was great - if you're wondering what was making those strange noises, I'm pretty sure that Adam was using an Epilady on his guitar. The show was a decent length (had to leave by 11 anyway to catch a bus, so I'm glad I didn't have to leave in the middle of anything). The songs were all excellent, and I really love the extended stinkfist (and hearing everyone who didn't know about it start singing "I'll..." and then realizing). Aenema was also great to hear. I will definitely be seeing Tool again at the next available opportunity. I suggest that you do the same. It is a very unique and mind-blowing experience.

Review written by: Mike Flynn (mike@mikeflynn.net) Review posted on: 09/20/01 13:05:40 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Extremely disappointing. The guys are at the top of their game, musically. Their musical prowess and talent on their instruments (or singing as it may be) is beyond doubt. The music off of Lateralus especially, and to a lesser extent Aenima, is extremely complex and it heartens me to see them taking the torch of "proggy" mid-Floyd-like music. BUT... hello? Changing the setlist? Even a little? A little creative liberty? And I understand that they're focusing on the new music, but does that discount the significance of the older music? To establish a strong, emotional bond to a song often requires a great amount of time, many listenings, and different events going on in your life allowing you to open up and get on the same wavelength as a particular song. As such, I *love* the older stuff, as I'm sure many people do. Why discount that fact by absolutely and utterly ignoring all music from the first two albums? On top of that, though this is personal opinion of course, the songs they did choose from Aenima were probably my least favorite ones. Aenima itself and Stinkfist were nice though, I guess, as a change from the sprawling, colossal but none- too-melodic progressive behemoths that Lateralus contains. And the length of the concert? It started, there was a quick intermission with contortionists (neat, yeah, but..), then it was over, pretty much. And no encore? Hardly any interaction with the audience? It's just nice to have a bit of interaction, instead of your just observing the band for an hour and a half then getting up and leaving. My first show, didn't leave me particularly happy, so I guess I won't be having too many of those positive vibes to spread around that Maynard alluded to. Guess it's my own fault for not catching their last 2 tours.

Review written by: Karyn (klblondie@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 14:04:18 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

wow,i waited so long to see tool in concert and i wasent sure i would ever see them. i missed the first act but dont really care cos im not into that kind of metal. but what the hell happened??the show was starting at 7:30 and everyone had to stand in this never ending line.it took forever to go in.well im just glad i didint miss one second of tool.my seats were amazing!!:) so they played great songs includind aenema wich i love. the show was just amazing,thoses big screens were so cool. the only thing that pissed me out was how they ended the show.no encores.everyone was like uhh?? anyways,no matter what,it was my first tool show and i loved it.maynard's voice was amazing!

Review written by: Jon (slightfish@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 14:25:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

WOW, It was incredible. I was expecting the show to be REAL good but never as good as it was. This is not just a music concert, it is a unique experience. The tool show is about the craziest human creation ever. The energy that is created with the combination of the music, the videos, mind mending images and light effects. It is amazing what they create. Thank you Tool. At one point of the show there was these two creatures honging from the ceiling. I don't know if I hallucinated but at one point there movements were so fluide that they looked like they were transforming into some kind of liquide. Did I hallucinate or did it really happen? I would like to know. Thank you

Review written by: GP Jason Gagnon (lastrezort69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 14:27:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Hi! First of all, I've been listening to Tool for 8 years now and I had never seen them on stage... I was so eager to get there that I didn't sleep the 5 hour drive to Montreal... I went to see Tool with my best friend who almost had never heard of them... I told him that the show was supposed to be hallucinating but he never thought it would be the way it was in Montreal... We waited for about 40 minutes outside befor coming in and the opening band were almost finishing... We caught the last 3 songs and that was it. They were pretty good and the fans seamed to like them... The we heard a track with weird sonds, and then violins... The Lateralus ring logo apears on the big screen... People went nuts for a while.... All the lights go out and we hear Danny hitting his sticks 4 times... The grudge starts... I'd been waiting 8 years to see Tool and I don't want to sound like a pussy but tears were stroling down my face... I couldn't beleive it! The sound was incredible! Best I've heard in a show... The visuals were unbeleivable to the point were my friend was staring at awe not even looking at the band... Schism had a great twist to it when the dancers from the video came walking in their weird way on stage... They later came back straped to strings or cords upside down... Their movements were a great addition to the show! Adam leaves everyone on the edge of their seat... It seames that he takes the song to a whole new level... He plays so good that I couldn't beleive it! Justin is great on stage, perfect at bass! Danny's crazy! He was so tight at times that I would've never tought a man could play drums like he does! As for Maynard... well let's just say that his voice and his presence fucking rules!!! The Montreal newspaper said that he never (but he did) interacted with the croud but as they later said, it might've broken the ambiance of the show... so right!!! All in all, the show was unbeleivable and I thank Tool for giving me the oportunity to see a show so perfectly made... You guys fucking kick ass!!!!!! Ciao!

Review written by: Mitch Murray (mitchmurray68@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 15:26:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I want to know if anybody who recorded the Toronto show to e-mail i would love to get a copy or something. I saw the show and it was just fucking awsome. No words can describe how good these boys are the greatest band on earth. The show was awsome from start to end, i just wish it didn't end

Review written by: Tool Rules Live (bobrules147@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 18:40:10 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was my first Tool Show, and can i say I was amazed. The combination of great music, awesome videos, cool lighting, and just pure energy only seen at a Tool show. No other band's live shows. The only problems I had were that here were no encores, and that the opening band, Meshuggah, sucked the frickin bag! My seats were free skyboxes, and even the music way up there is amazing. The moshing was controlled and nobody was hurt. I liked the explanation of why it was Meshuggah's last day on tour. But all in all, it was amazing, and i will be sure to be there next time, even if i have to pay. Schism was Awesome, so was Aenema, and Parabolica. It was the most amazing thing i have ever felt. Tool Rooles, Montreal

Review written by: eric (ses@kawartha.ca) Review posted on: 09/20/01 20:58:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

hey anyone who bootlegged Torontos show visually or aurally PLEASE email me it wouod be greatly appreciated. Thanks ps. sorry for wasting space

Review written by: Blondie (godslayer@thefragile.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 21:20:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I have a lot of mixed feelings about this show. First, maybe I had too much anticipation, but it was not far from listening to your cd player. Of course this makes them great musicians, but where is the live magic ? Also, it was awfuly short. not a single encore nor song from undertow and opiate. Sure these cds are not as musicaly complex as aenema and lateralus, but they still exist and still rule ! But, the fans at the show were great (exept for those 3 anglophone bitchs that got kicked out fast enough, hehehe) and securities were kind enough to give us cold water ! As for the music itself, it is mind blowing. I was so close to the stage (2nd row of people in the "parterre") Adam I could easily see what he played on his guitar (very interesting for a guitar player that plays a lot of tool stuff !) but he hid Maynard that was behind him. Just before Parabola, i figured out it sucked to be skeezed in front and that a good old trash would be better. I wasn't wrong cuz this was my best decision that night. You have so much more space there so you can move freely to the rhytm of the songs. Its a must ! I also think that it missed a bit of intensity, only Maynard moved, when he didnt hold his guitar ... The contortionists were great and made parabola even better. Im pissed off they didnt play the patient ... One word about Messughah, i dont know if it was the acoustic, but it sounded as a tv on with no cable plugged added to dog barkings. Conclusion, im am a bit disapointed by the choice of songs, the shortness of the shiow and the lack of intensity. But, tool live is a unique artistic experience and it confirms the musical gift they have. They make us enter an other world, where no one's been ...

Review written by: ME (BABSBIRD@HOTMAIL.COM) Review posted on: 09/20/01 21:54:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 8 OR Tool show

****** IF ANYONE KNOW WHAT THE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC IS JUST BEFORE TOOL COMES ON IS PLEASE SAY SO SOMEWERE ON THIS SITE OR ON TOOLBAND.COM IN THE CHAT ROOMS OR SOMETHING, I REALLY WANT TO KNOW CAUSE ITS REALLY REALLY REALLY GOOD********** HAHAHA,,, TRICKED YOU. I ACTUALLY WENT TO THE TORONTO SHOW AND I DIDNT GET A CHANCE TO WRITE A REVIEW. SO Now its too late im just putting it under Montreal. what can i say, tool has mastered the artisitc screen thing a ma jig. there images are so cool, its hard to even notice them at times cause the screens are so captivating. there light show is just enough to add to there amazing sound and the "OSSEUS LABRINT" is so fucking good. i wont say a word about them except i could not move that way. see tool right now if you can, the live show is the best. here is the setlist from toronto on tues sept 18th, the grudge stinkfist 46&2 pushit(extended slow version) schism disposition/reflection.... little intermission with a special surprise!!!! parabol/parabola the patient aenima lateralus wow,, thats a lot of music and every minute was divine. take care comb your hair +++ IF ANYONE KNOWS WHAT THE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC IS JUST BEFORE TOOL COMES ON IS PLEASE SAY SO SOMEWHERE ON THIS SITE OR ON TOOLBAND.COM +++++

Review written by: ME (BABSBIRD@HOTMAIL.COM) Review posted on: 09/20/01 22:10:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 8 OR Tool show

I GUESS EMAIL ME ABOUT THE INSTRUMENTAL THING, I DIDNT REALIZE IT WOULD SHOW ON THE REVIEW LATER :~}}}}}

Review written by: ME (babsbird@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/20/01 22:13:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 8 0R Tool show

ok just email me, i didnt realize it would show on thie reiview page. so if you know of the cool instrumental music thats comes on just before tool does let me know and tell everyone on the tool chat and were ever else, i really want to find out. thanx again.. later,,,,,

Review written by: Toasty (the_toaster69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 01:37:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Well, what can I say but holy fucking shit !!!! This was my first Tool show, and it was X times better than what I imagined it to be. Everything was visually and musically perfect. Everything has been said already, but it was something you had to be there to experience. The only drawbacks were the missing encore (some Undertow stuff would of been awesome) and those stupid security folks going through peoples cigarette packs! It's a music show for fuck's sake ! Anyways, the joke's on them, they didn't look in the right pack ! Thanks for a great show guys

Review written by: Dave (medfather@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 01:54:10 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Working with the self-acclaimed greatest Tool fan in the world, and believe me, I think he is, I had no choice but to go to this show and see what all the fucking fanaticism was about. I have the Tool releases and consider myself a fan of their music. But I was not prepared for what turned out to be one of the most impresive, visually stunning shows I have ever seen. Technically, they were spot on. Like you would expect anything else. The sound was surprisingly good for an arena show, and the visuals were perfectly matched to the moods of the songs. (yes I know some of the visuals were actual videos for the songs. but even those that weren't worked very well.) The addition of the contortionists during Schism on stage and then above the stage later was fantastic. My only let down is how Maynard remained on the riser in front of the small screen, only in silhouette, the whole show. It wasn't until near the end that I even could tell what he had painted on his face. (Why do anything like that if no one is going to see it?) It created quite an impersonal feeling throughout the show. But then I realized, if I wanted to "see" the band, I could look up one of the millions of photos available over the web. We were there to EXPERIENCE Tool, and what a great experience it was. Yes, this was my first Tool concert, but most definitley not my last.

Review written by: Glenn O'Brien (acousticsin@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 10:10:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, the only thing that comes to mind is this, "I can die a happy man!" It has been one of my biggest dreams to see Tool live in concert, and on the 19th it finally came true. I have seen many bands in concert and Tool had the greatest show that I have ever seen, and my list of concerts does include Pink Floyd. Maynard, Justin, Danny and Adam blew my mind and I don't think that listening to a Tool Album will ever be the same. The only thing that was missing was my best friend Chuck, he wasn't there but when Push It came on Chuck, we were thinking about ya. WIth all that has been going on in the world lately, it was nice to have an event put such a great smile on everyone's face. Tool are the voice of our generation, and will always be the greatest band in the world. P.S- Yann, uoi were right, amazing show. Glenn

Review written by: Arm1tage-j (im@home.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 10:52:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

YES! ps - 3rd eye would have been nice.

Review written by: Arm1tage-j (megafman@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 10:57:44 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I forgot to add that i have a video bootleg of their Metropolis show here in 1995 (which i was at), excellent quality. only trades accepted, this latest show in exchange for the one i have. mail me :o

Review written by: marc (first.chapter@videotron.ca) Review posted on: 09/21/01 16:29:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 6 th Tool show

hi everybody you might think the show was short but it is better short than cancelled. you can notice that there are very few days off on the tour.maynard can t be yelling for 2 hours and a half every nigth. unfortunatly fantomas was starting the day after to play whit tool. i want to thank maynard to us that fantomas were waiting.what a show. it s just ashame that so few people saw it. marc

Review written by: Phydeaux_3 (Phydeayx_3@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 16:41:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This goes out to everyone who's been wondering what that "weird orchestral music" between Meshuggah & TOOL was, I'm not exactly sure, but I _think_ it was Night School off of Jazz From Hell by Frank Zappa. In fact I'm sure it was Frank Zappa only I'm not exactly sure if that's the right song, but I'm fairly certain. Anyone who was there & has bandwidth can check it & let me (us) know for sure? http://members.home.net/phydeaux3/Frank_Zappa_01_Nigh t_School.mp3 TOOL were simply incredible. Listening to Pushit from a Toronto boot today it was like I was right back there, only not quite as loud, unfortunately. Montreal was too good, I'll not soon forget this show. Thanks! Helluva show!! smooches, » Phy³ . . .

Review written by: Pat (pat@inversemusic.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 23:24:31 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Feed My Will to Feel this Moment _______________________________ It’s now September 21st, two days after the show. In these two days I’ve let the feeling set in, allowed it to ferment in my mind, heart and spirit. It hasn’t faded, nor do I want it to escape. This feeling is of blissful comfort, it’s warm, sincere, satisfying, strong and lasting. Those two hours seemed to be accompanied by a divine presence and indeed it was; Maynard, Adam, Danny and Justin graced a stage a few feet before my very eyes where they’d elevate the audience’s awareness and appreciation for a small yet succulent fraction of their lives. Upon arriving at the Molson Center, in the heart of downtown Montreal, fans were greeted with warm breezes in the shadow of the large arena as the sun set beside them. Veiled anxiousness of twenty thousand heads adorned with Tool logos on their chests and hearts on their sleeves endured the pain-staking wait until the arms on the clock pointed straight down. Signs on the doors instructed the people to abstain from moshing and crowd surfing; a suggestion I appreciated. I’d much rather my ears be hit with art rather than an elbow or a boot. The doors opened, ten people at a time filed in. Security requested that everyone empty their pockets and carry the contents in hand through the threshold where everyone was thoroughly frisked rather than simply patted down as usual. I see the World Trade Center tragedy has security everywhere, even a foreign country, uneasy and scared, with good reason. Tickets were taken, floor bracelets were issued, and once through the tourniquets, past the ushers, fans sprinted towards the barricade where they would wait for Meshuggah to stimulate their senses for the tackle and embrace later to come. Swedish metal gurus, Meshuggah took the stage at 7:30, as scheduled. Perhaps a bit out of place, this quintet from Stockholm claimed most of the crowd’s attention and respect. Their extremely off-timed texture was difficult to follow but interesting nonetheless. Deciphering the lyrics posed a challenge, one that would be ignored and merely absorbed by the majority of the people in attendance. A tad too abrasive and heavy for some, I found them quite excellent. In a different setting, with a more metal-oriented bill, this band would destroy. Danny Carey came out to play synth with these beastly Europeans. He’d also stay for a couple of songs and headbang along with the bass and drums which fluctuated drastically in intervals of a few seconds. As their set ran through, during the last song, a styrofoam replica of Stonehenge was lowered on a large hook and chain at center stage. Only later would we find out why. Adam, Danny and Justin could be spotted behind the amps where they wore large grins across their faces. Meshuggah had some thank-you’s to give out. First the catering were shown appreciation with a song, then the road crew and drivers and finally Tool. These little songs done in the vein of humor drew a tremendous response of smiles, laughter and applause. To someone who had a notion of what to expect from this band, they would have been advantaged in the Meshuggah experience, otherwise it may have sounded like noise fronted by Cookie Monster. The road crew took away the Meshuggah gear an pulled the black tarp off Danny’s drums at stage right; an impressive sight indeed. I think I read somewhere that Paiste melted down a bunch of cymbals and forged custom shells for Danny. His set up is impressive on its own and now he’s turned it to gold—giving fans a treat even before taking his seat. A Tool chant and eager whistling ensued. Molson Center staff huddled up in front of the barricade where they were given instructions by the head of Tool security, a tall, bald man who was very nice. He gave out bottled water to the front row every couple of songs and made his rounds to see if everyone was all right. He asked us to help him help us and to let him know if anyone was feeling ill because our safety and well-being is more important than seeing the show from this position, he said. Nice man, very good at his job. The black tarps were then pulled off the rest of the equipment and the lights dimmed. The fiery Lateralus eye circle was projected onto the three screens. Justin marched across the stage, picked up his bass and smiled at the crowd. Danny and Adam would follow. A bit of distortion and bass rumbled through the speakers before Maynard stepped onto his riser behind Adam and to the left of Danny. At this point he was just a black silhouette in the darkness up against a gray screen. The crowd roared. Justin started it off—manhandling his bass as the set was sparked with "The Grudge". Adam stands nearly motionless, merely glancing at the crowd from time to time with a mysterious tinge in his eyes. Justin’s stoic stage disposition seems awkward at first, however you’ll see his head throb and hair fly as intensity increases. Watching Danny play is puzzling. You see it and have trouble believing this man only has two arms and two feet. The time signatures he uses are simply mind- boggling, an octopus/quadruped would have trouble pulling it off. The talent exerted on this stage is immeasurable and anyone in its wake is privileged. Five years ago I was lucky enough to experience a club show where Maynard was painted half blue, half white. Adam was completely blue on Maynard’s right and Justin-white on his left. Sixty-one months, 20 days later, expectations should differ. Maynard’s face had a white stripe down the front, possibly lined in black and silver. It was difficult to tell due to the absence of spotlights. His movements were very flowing and natural as opposed to last time where he bounced around, beckoned and violently swayed. This tour, I’m sure his intention is to make light of the music and visuals rather than focusing on himself and the band. Periodically stomping his foot, the screens would change images in sync to reveal disturbing images such as a large eye whose skin appeared to have been removed around it during "The Grudge". "The Grudge" was followed by "(-)Ions", an interlude from Ænima which would precede the ever powerful "Stinkfist". The video was projected onto the screens. The crowd sang along until the "I’ll keep digging" part where the band included an extra bridge. The video elongated as well where the woman has her thumb caught in the man’s eyelid. That part looped for a bit, then Maynard signaled and the whole building screamed, "I’ll keep digging! Til I feel something!" It was explosive and unanticipated which gave it great power. "Forty Six & 2" began immediately. The imagery on the screens was disturbing. I loved it. Don’t pick scabs, kids, unless you want to pull the flesh right off your arm. Such intensity maintained throughout elevated the crowd to soon be taken down through the "Merkaba" interlude and melodic, extended, improved, alternate version of "Pushit" (both found in the Salival limited edition box set). Apathetic Frenchmen behind me reacted poorly to the change of pace, yelling out obscenities which quickly halted upon my, "Shut the fuck up and listen" insistence, and after which I was able to resume the experience with undivided attention. At first I was expecting "Eulogy" because I saw Maynard holding a gun-type looking thing which he uses during that song, however, it was only used for effects during "Merkaba". "Pushit" was still beautiful. The slowed, more melodic adaptation of this song is an infectious masterpiece which grasps you tightly, builds you up then, then, in turn, pushes you away. The first few notes of "Schism" sounded, prompting a large, piercing cry of approval from the familiarized crowd. Halfway through, the contortionists from the video made a surprise appearance—contorting as they do in the video and walking on all fours completely in the nude, one male, one female, shaved and painted the same bluish-gray. Maynard erected his mic stand on his riser, then picked up a guitar. Something new to me, Maynard on guitar?! He didn’t seem to play it much, it was as though he just held it and stood with it hanging off his shoulder. He’d occasionally move his hand across it. I assume his part was minimal if existent at all. He put it down midway and clutched the microphone again to sing the, "Let go! Let go!," part as the contortionists’ heads rocked back and forth nearly hitting each other. Maynard picked up another guitar for "Disposition". The brooding, mild composition made it easier on the crowd to breathe. Fans backed off and tried to find a comfortable space to take in the experience as Maynard repeated, "Mention this to me, mention this.. mention something, mention anything, mention this to me. Watch the weather change, watch the weather.. change." Danny would lead us into the eleven minute, cathartic, magnificent behemoth in "Reflection" which ran even longer at its conclusion when Adam worked through a five minute, five-chord soliloquy. What the audience didn’t know was, this agonizing repetition was to allow sufficient time for the contortionists to set up their next surprise. They shimmied up a pair of ropes as the band left the stage for a bit of a break. They made it up around fifty feet up in the air above the screens and suspended themselves upside down as they twirled. They reached out and in a quick, violent grasp- hugged each other; inducing applause from the crowd below. After releasing themselves from their embrace, they held their arms out perpendicular to their bodies. The "Salival" man with his arms held out was projected onto the screens—mimicking their genuine rotations. Following some more aerial dances, the band returned to the stage to perform "Parabol" which captivated the audience and plunged them into "Parabola". The contortionists were still suspended and flowing to the music and the liquid-like visuals. I believe this is when Maynard uttered the first words of the night, "We would like to thank Meshuggah for opening for us. This is their last day on the tour for they’ve sold their souls to Satan. They’re being fed- exed over to Stonehenge where they will be sacrificed by a three-cocked donkey with halitosis. But it’s not all bad, they get to spend all eternity with Satan, so you know…" After that amusing little speech, Maynard smiled at the crowd, crouched and breathed, "Hey.. hey.. hey," which sounded the beginning of "Ænema". I totally lost myself within the moment. The order of the "fuck rants" as I call them was different. Retro anything was first, then L. Ron Hubbard, then Smiley Glad Hands. A small technicality I picked up on but who am I to point this out when this song is a personal anthem of mine and am grateful to those four men for writing it. Maynard had another little comment for us, "There’s this club… I can’t remember the name of it because I’m so senile. There’s some friends of ours playing there after the show, Fantômas. I can’t remember the exact location." Then they paused a bit. Adam made his was over to stage right in front of Danny’s drums. Maynard did the same, Justin turned around and Maynard spoke again, "I’d like you all to take these feelings you’re having right now. Take them home with you. Take them and use them to create something positive. Let it act as sense of global healing." The feelings I had right at that moment were mixed. For one thing, I was ecstatic to simply be in the presence of Tool, being on the same wavelength, the same frequency, even breathing the same air were all great thoughts, and those are just a few. However, I knew "Lateralus" was next, and I knew they closed with that beautiful song. I shed a tear, smiled then rode the spiral to the end. That song is so powerful, moving and extraordinary. I just wished that moment lasted forever, for an eternity instead of nine minutes or so. Anyhow, the show was over. The band huddled together for a group hug, they all smiled and this was happening about ten feet in front of my face. Maynard said, "Thank you! Fantômas, Metropolitan. Good night!" The club is actually Metropolis, but he was close. Adam waved a lot, Danny threw his sticks into the crowd, Maynard threw his bottles and I was fortunate enough to grab one. Justin waved, the whole band looked very pleased with their performance and/or the behavior of Montreal. The lights came back on, the stage crew moved in, the crowd loosened up and backed-off. People filed out to the merch tables and rest rooms. I know I melted a urinal cake, holding piss in for five hours is a painful task but I managed. Some short bald guy gave me motivation and will. This was my second Tool show, over five years’ time. I’m at a loss for words. I don’t know how to convey the way I feel right now using English vocabulary. No, not French either. But it was magnifique! For me to pay a compliment in a language I loathe is difficult, but I did it due to the magnitude of Tool’s significance. I feel extremely privileged, honored and fulfilled. I never felt that way at a concert before. I didn’t get pissed on by a guy in a mask who hits a keg with a big pipe again, nor did I witness two rapper morons rhyme over shitty music. This was the good stuff, the art that will be hailed for generations to come. And art is not a term I use loosely. It sounded perfect, what I saw was wonderful, the moments I shut my eyes to feel the vibe were undisturbed, only heightened. Nothing can spoil this moment, absolutely nothing. Create something positive. Pat.

Review written by: goddamnit (mrs_zebra@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/21/01 23:56:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

i'd respect tool a lot less if they respected their "fans"... christ..i can't believe some of you fucking people.. i'd say "to each his own" here, but when you bastards affect other people with your ignorance and inconsideration by pushing people around for no other reason than you can't manage to get laid even though you're in a frat.. yeah, i hope someone knows where i was headed with that.. the show was wonderful, i've been smiling for days (except when i think of you rebellious sheep, but don't worry, i think of the show again and all of the mind-expanding details bring that smile right back). i was and still am surprised to find that the people that actually mentioned the "naked people on stage" always followed it with a simple "interesting"... i guess i'm just ...not you, but i really, REAlly enjoyed those naked people... AND i didn't see a single one mentioning the symbolism of their "dances"..but then again, maybe you felt it was obvious and didn't need mentioning and you're a fuck of a lot brighter than i think.. i actually went and bobbed my head politely for meshuggah again because in a large part of them.. i don't know why just yet, but... i was on the floor second row, so i just put my leg out behind me (i had so much room here!!) in the exact position that would smash an averagely sized male's balls if he were to try to push or mosh anywhere near me.. it wasn't hard and it worked! yippee for pain! SO. tool.. i'll never forget this experience.. ever.. thank you, and instead of just following what maynard says blindly, if you could think about it, understand it, and follow as you see fit instead..it'd make the world a better place and we all know how nice that would be right now. compassion, not anger and fear. *i apologize in advance for the below being even less concert review material* to show disapproval of racism, did they have a black hand shaking another black hand? should we therefore symbolize unity at this time, something that is so incredibly important, with one flag? *if you are either thinking, "i'll mosh all i want" and/or have a great big american flag and a sticker saying to kill all of the sand jockeys on the back and front of your 1979 ford bronco, save me a lot of time and effort by not writing anything anywhere near a tool web site.. or anywhere for that matter.. you know what.. it'd be really cool if you didn't say anything either... just...kinda keep to yourself for a while.. i'm begging you.. lora

Review written by: Brian (brianbrianmcgill@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 02:53:17 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Somebody already posted the setlist. Tool played a typical set list. I won't bore you with the details- you've come to learn what to expect. However, let me enlighten you as to the journey that my emotions, sentimentality and BEING had taken on the night of Sep 19 2001. I'm not going to tell you that I was breathtaken, because I wasn't. I have been exposed to so much bullshit in my lifetime that nothing surprises me anymore. Plus d'importante, almost nothing can shake me from my rocker and the routine relaxation I enjoy when I sit on it. I have been desensitized to everyone and everything; my only solace lies in recognizing my affliction and thus feeling the Tool experience in order to justify to my subconscious that I'm making a valid effort to rid the world of mental slavery. It's all bullshit and I'm the first to admit it. For one, I admit that Maynard's unusual placement on stage built up an intangible barrier between his/their music and myself. I'm sure that this was his intention (ie. to persuade us to "break on through") but, while aware of this, I didn't find myself to possess the capability to feel his message. I've been so corrupted by my current and past environments that I can't correct a fault- even (especially) when realizing its presence beforehand. Am I representative of the musicgoer in general? Second, the motionless guitarists almost provided myself a sedative for the evening. It's as if (and Danny and Maynard must also be included in this attack) it's important- and EXPECTED- for the fan to "feel the MOMENT" in the music, but this needn't apply to the musicians themselves, who happen to be assembling the forum in the first place. It's hypocrisy at it's most fundamental level, and I just can't fully wrap my mind around it. Please don't just accept it because it's Tool; consider it objectively and wonder, Is it really THAT satisfying to waste your youth deliberating thoughts that the authors don't believe in and/or trust for themselves? I have my own theory on how I want to change this fucking world. It doesn't usually involve listening to other people and carrying out their instructions verbatim. If anything (watch the exaggeration- purposeful use of extremism), that would be the FASCISM of free thought, the exact OPPOSITE of what I perceive this band to be promoting, anyway. So I guess the gig provided me with a way to express this sentiment to others (but more importantly, to myself), and in that sense proved productive. Otherwise, I was disappointed- not in the fact that they played their instruments wrong, or said the wrong things, or behaved in the wrong way, it's just that I had expected them to be IMMORTAL dually in studio and on stage. The human element didn't occur to me for awhile, and when it did, I realized that my heroes are within ME- not encapsulated by someone else. I am the "master of my destiny" (pardon the cliche), and I dictate my future- and my present. There's nothing above me, nothing below me. We happen to harbour the same importance, the same strengths and the same power. There's no superior nor inferior. It's the state of equality that drives this world both crazy and normal. I don't suppose this fucking band had the intention of enlightening me on that very topic (offering them too much courtesy would be offensive) but I must say that it WAS their aesthetics, their dynamics and their intangibles that guided me into this Worldly "Space". If that was Tool's responsibility, then I thank them. However, I seriously doubt this to be the case, and I would rather credit MYSELF on using the energy entailed within the Molson Centre to forge a "positive" arena in my mind. Tool is nothing. I am everything. & I truly believe that I can change this world.