| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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09/22/2001
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Review written by: Justin Billings (jbdamiata@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/22/01 23:54:38 ETThis was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Well, i just got back from my 5th tool show(third in 2001), and was very surprized to hear some songs that were different than the night before's performance at the Tweeter Center. The songs 46 + 2, Eulogy, Undertow, and Aenemia all made it to the setlist tonight. Very good audio and visuals, nice extended plays on 46 + 2 and Schism. Overall, a very well put together show and a nice change from Mass. Anyone going to Wilkes-Barrie, i'll see you there.
Review written by: tom.style (tom@tomstyle.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 00:43:06 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
alright...now i know why everyone says "wow...holy fuck" when they talk about tool shows. this was just incredible. fantomas doesn't deserve any recognition...at all. every song tool played was incredible, but 'the grudge' and 'ænema' stand out. maynard didn't say much..."good evening" "thanks for coming out. we'd like to stay longer, but i have to pee" and the whole 'take the feeling home and do something positive with it' thing. there was a nice group hug at the end [tom] tomstyle.com
Review written by: Robby (Rob_p@musician.net) Review posted on: 09/23/01 00:43:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
First off, to anyone planning on going, dont worry if you're gonna be late....Fantomas SUCKS.....Mike Patton can be experimental and shit all he wants but if youre gonna sit there and just make weird noises into the microphone, do it on youre on time! As for the show itself.....AWESOME! TOOL is everything and more of what people have said live.....unfortunately, I was in the midst of a giant billowing smoke cloud as I believe I was surrounded by every smoker in Hartford FUCK SMOKERS! The setlist was awesome and the only bad side was that they didn't play my favorite song of all time, "Pushit" The set: 1.The Grudge 2.(-)ions 3.Stinkfist 4.46&2 *Maynard says "Good evening* to the crowd 5.Undertow *I was like "HOLY SHIT! since they havent played it in awhile* 6.Eulogy *woulda preferred Pushit* 7.Schism *Osseus Labyrinth Appears* 8.Disposition 9.Reflection *Intermission, Osseus Labyrinth hanging from ankles, yadda yadda* 10.Parabol 11.Parabola 12.Eon Blue Apocolypse 13.The Patient *Maynard announces "we'd love stay but I gotta pee"* 14.Ænema *Maynard says "OK One more song" and the "positive energy" speech 15.Lateralus Show ruled though!
Review written by: Biggy (anon@spamsucksass.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 00:47:12 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
One word...Amazing...Tonight was just awesome, although they didn't play pushit as i was hoping, they did play the patient and parabol/parabola. The people from the schism video were pretty cool, its a wonder they didnt pass out from hanging upside down for so long.
Review written by: Jeremy Freeman (jeremy.freeman@trincoll.edu) Review posted on: 09/23/01 00:49:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
The show was INCREDIBLE. This was my first tool show and it was a million times better than I ever could have imagined. Fantomas was really interesting. Very heady and intellectual, I can see how they were not pleasing to many Tool fans. I was still annoyed to hear boos and cries of "You Suck," in my fantasy world, Tool fans are more mature than that. Damn. They have a pretty indescribable sound, definitely worth hearing at least once. Tool opened with a powerful, driving rendition of The Grudge. The sound levels were just perfect; the high notes drilled into my ears and the low notes made my chest vibrate. The visuals in the background were indescribable. They were pretty much exactly what they should have been. I could go on and on describing what was in them, but to try and convey the concept in words would be like trying to describe sex. You may be able to grasp the basic idea, but until you've been there, you really have no fucking clue. I was amazed at the power of Stinkfist, Eulogy, and Aenema. Great job in capturing the driving power of Aenima. Intense...INTENSE. The most memorable rendition of the night was probably Reflection. When they played it, the lights came on and shined on the crowd...the whole house went silent. It was pretty incredible. The music and the lighting combined to give a simultaneous aquatic and redeeming feel to the arena. Almost like a baptism, I imagine. Fucking incredible. The songs off of Lateralus were intense and moving. Unfortunately, some of The Patient experience was detracted from for me as the drunken waste of life next to me puked on my feet. Lucky for him, I was entranced by the musical beauty of the moment, else I'd've made him lick it up or something. Maynard was quiet, thanking us for coming. He didn't speak again until near the end, when he said that they had to go, they would've stayed longer but he really needed to pee. If it's in your power at all, get your filthy ass to one of the shows on this tour. There is nothing in the world like it.
Review written by: Jared (djfrenze@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 01:16:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I could try and describe the experience...and the creations that are the product of Tool, but mere words would just be hopelessly inadequate and fail misserably. Spelling since im too tired to spell correctly. Think for yourself, experience tool first hand from your perspective with an open mind, and take in the experience. Untill next time, Jared. P.S. The boxing fight before the show was pretty entertaining.
Review written by: PaulC (PaulC880@mediaone.net) Review posted on: 09/23/01 01:34:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Great show again. Three nights and three different sets. After seeing these three last shows I'll tell you this, see Tool at a smaller venue. It's much more personal.
Review written by: THANKFUL HUMBLE FAN (USTUPIDBASSTID@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 09/23/01 01:52:30 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. OK FRIENDS HERE WE ARE AT THE END OF YET ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY . TODAY WAS MY SECOND TOOL SHOW , I SAW THE PREVIOUS SHOW IN MANSFIELD, MASS LAST NIGHT. I DONT KNOW WHAT TO SAY IM COMPLELY IN AWE AT THIS POINT IN TIME THEY BLEW ME AWAY THE SHOW YESTERDAY WAS TERRIFIC BUT THIS EVENINGS PERFORMANCE WAS UNDENIABLY THE BETTER OF THE TWO NIGHTS THEY SOUNDED AS TIGHT AS ANY BAND CAN SOUND. IVE SEEN MANY SHOWS BY MANY DIFFERENT BANDS OVER THE YEARS BUT THIS SHOW TAKES THE CAKE HANDS DOWN. I AM NEVER AT A LOSS FOR WORDS BUT YET HERE I SIT AT THE MONITOR AND CANT PUT THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE IN A WAY THAT WOULD TRULY GIVE IT JUSTICE. ANYWAY THIS WHAT THE BAND PLAYED FOR US LUCKY PEOPLE TONITE AND THATS WHAT WE WERE AND ARE IS LUCKY, I FELT SO FULL OF ENERGY AND RAW POWER FROM THIS NIGHT OF NIGHTS ANYWAY IM BABBLING THIS IS THE SET LIST; THE GRUDGE IONS STINKFIST WITH CAUGHT IN A TRAP LYRIC LINE 46 & 2 UNDERTOW EULOGY SCHISM DISPOSITION REFLECTION INTERMISSION PARABOL PARABOLA EON BLUE APOCALYPSE THE PATIENT AENEMA LATERALUS NOTE THAT MAYNARD EITHER HELD A GUITAR OR PLAYED A GUITAR FOR THE SONGS SCHISM, DI8POSITION AND REFLECTION.... TAKE CARE AND CHECK THESE GUYS OUT IF YOU HAVE A CHANCE AND BEWARE OF FAKE TICKETS, PEACE GUYS N GALS, JASE
Review written by: brian (kk@kk.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 02:08:11 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
I have come to a conclusion that fantomas is the worst live band i have ever seen out of 40 plus concerts. This was the best tool show i have seen. Undertow and eulogy were the best songs. Aenima was incredible. This was the best concert i have ever seen. Its really sad when fantomas comes out and doesnt even say their name. Doesnt matter you dont need to hear their name. It isnt worth mentioning to anyone.
Review written by: wubble2 (wubble2@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 02:34:33 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
people who mosh at tool shows, need to get a fucken clue
Review written by: Ted (shockwavespirit@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 03:09:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
After getting shafted on tickets for the 5/20 Hammerstein and the 9/21 Mansfield shows, I had a bit of good fortune this time around and landed floor seats to their first show in CT since Ozzfest '98. I caught the tail end of Fantomas, but I liked what I heard. I'll leave it at that. It's been years since I last saw Tool, but they seemed a lot more subdued this time around. No face or body paint, and it was definitely a change to see Maynard wearing blue jeans as opposed to the prosthetic breasts. Either way, this was definitely a great show. I had a general idea of what to expect from reading the setlists of the past few nights, but there were still some songs that came out of nowhere. I don't think anyone in the building expected to hear Undertow, and Eulogy was awesome. I would've liked Pushit, but I went nuts when they did Aenema, as did everyone else. The Osseus Labyrint stuff was amazing and they absolutely added something to the atmosphere with their performance. One thing that weirded me out a bit was the way Maynard was moving, notsomuch because of what he was physically doing, but because I find myself moving around the same way when I'm listening to the same music. I know it's been said, but I still can't get over the fact that there were people moshing during the mellower songs. I wonder if that's why they have no interest in acknowledging the crowd? Tool is driven by emotion, and all of the visuals were on point. The video they put together for Reflection was cool beyond words, and the image of the headless, one-handed man waving is sticking with me. Adam stayed on stage alone playing the last few chords of that song for a few minutes; Reflection... I wonder if anyone else took that the same way I did? Of course there were some people that decided to mosh around at that point, so it's doubtful. Overall, an awesome performance. We got a fair trade on the songs they've been playing this tour: no Pushit, but we got Aenima - no Opiate, but we got Undertow. Trust me, there is a reason why everyone says you need to see Tool live. If you have the chance to go, you'd be a fool not to.
Review written by: Numb Encephalon (jesuswasadonut@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 03:41:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Anyways, not saying pretty much what everyone else has said.. viewing fantomas and tool post boards and concert reviews. i really do not understand why fans of two very talented bands do not like each others shows. sure they are different.. but isn't that why you like either of them? because they are different and they actually strike your ears differently. sure you may not personally enjoy the bands music, respect the talent, the actual things that go on behind the music, before yelling "you suck" or "that was the most horrible band i have ever seen". anyways, the show was terrific. fantomas was a great opener, even though most fans did not really know what to make of them, it was a really great way to open up the show. then tool put on a fantastic visual show. up their with the nine inch nails visual show. anyways, terrific overall show, if you have a chance to catch it, get there early and see both bands play. you wont be dissappointed as long as you go with an open mind towards it.
Review written by: monkeyjuice (nope@no.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 04:51:27 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
yep, this was my first tool show and let me tell you something - i was changed. i personally thought that fantomas was great, i loved them, and i am fully aware how much everyone else seems to hate them. they were original and had a sound which i have never heard before, sure they were a little weird, but i was really digging it, alot. tool played great tonight, but i am not going to get into the music, mainly because i had a hard time paying any attention to the music due to the unbelievable visual feast that was this show. i started this show off right at the guard rail at the front considering i had floor tickets.. after getting smashed around a little too much for my tastes and getting what felt like my ribs broken it was seriously hindering the experience so i took a few steps back and separated from my friends to enjoy the show without the fear of being decapitated. the video they put together for reflection was amazing, as was the strange creature during the grudge which kept inflating every few seconds. none could compare to the nude contortionists during the schism and parabol/parabola performances however. i am surprised no one else seemed to go as in depth into how groundbreaking and amazing this addition was. how many other rock bands have something like this on stage? ok, maybe its just my raging teenage hormones thinking for me, but i was left in awe. i had heard about this, but wasnt sure if it was true or not. i wasnt expecting it to be so explicit either. i dont know how the view was from anywhere else other than where i was standing, but from right up front, i could see the females butthole and pussy crack and everything, especially during the schism performance, walking around doggy style, bobbing her head, and when she was spinning around in the canon ball position during parabola i got a similar gentalia view - very interesting. i dont know about anyone else, but when i arrived at the civic center that night, i wasnt expecting to be looking up a girls asshole during the show, as in a stripclub - but i am certainly not complaining. i certainly wasn't too entertained by the male contortionists balls flapping around, but i guess there were some females in the house who had to be pleased. i was extremely happy with the fact that they played stinkfist (which was expected). and the patient and eulogy which is extemely rare to play both on one night. the show the night before at the tweeter center didnt have either of these songs on the setlist. well thats all folks, hope you enjoyed my amazing review.
Review written by: Thom (faaip@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 10:04:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Sec 204 row L Ok here I go.....first of all we walked in for the last couple songs from Fantomas and they really didnt strike me either way, was kinda non-descript to me. As far as Tool goes, that was not a concert to me , it was Theatre. I was unsure going in how the new material would "fit" with the older stuff but it all meshed together perfectly. Maynard seemed unusually outgoing removing his shirt and groovin in the way only Maynard can (odd intensity), and the "pee" comment was hilarious....unexpected. The entire show was a roller coaster ride of emotions for me which to me is what Tool is supposed to do. For every song they didnt play there was a song i didn't expect to hear but did. The only band that can bring me to tears (3 times i think). AND.....Danny is fuckin NUTS!!! The man is by far the best drummer in the business. The best Theatre one can experience. Thanks guys!! Overall
Review written by: Sherry (shartzer69@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 10:26:27 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
It was an honor to experience my first TOOL show with someone close to me who is so passionate about TOOL's music. Although I was aware of TOOL (and owned their first album) when they first arrived on the scene, I somewhat lost touch with them over the years. I was sucked into TOOL fandom when I first heard AEnima (the album) less than a year ago. After spending the last several months listening to both AEnima and Lateralus religiously, (unfortunately they are the only TOOL records I own at this time) I was quite anxious to finally see and hear TOOL come to life. I wasn't prepared for how beautifully they brought the music to life. There are so few bands out there who are capable of sounding even more incredible live than they do in the studio. I really can't say too much about the show visually, because I found myself so lost in the music alot of the time, that I couldn't help but cloe my eyes...listen and feel, rather that watch. Highlights of the show for me were most definitely 46 & 2 (my favorite TOOL song) and Parabol/Parabola. Kudos to Maynard and the boys for creating such an emotionally intense, almost spiritual experience for TOOL fans, old and new.
Review written by: Oysterhead (Oysterhead00@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 11:25:23 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
The show was simply amazing and the setlist was quite varied from many of the other shows. They played Aenima wich is my personal favorite, but I was suprised that they didn't play Sober or Opiate as those are usually crowd favorites. The sound quality at the arena was awsome and the visuals were simply amazing. The contortionists from the Schism video came out, climbed ropes, and wents nutso haning upside down from the celing. I had brought my recording stuff, but in wake of the terrorist attacks last week they were really checking you over at the door and frisking you good so I left it in the car. I also had first row seats on the side of the Auditorium and a cop (real Hartford Police Officer with a sidearm, not a rent-a-cop security guy) sat on the railing right in front of me. I'm going to the Albany show Oct 4th and will definately record that show. As for the Fantomas....they were quite interesting to see. It was like seeing Slipknot. Slipknot is visually entertaining for 15min and then it gets old. The Fantomas sounded interesting for a while, but then after it sounded like they played the same "song" 5 times in a row it was getting silly. They only play for like 40min and I'd recommend checking them out once, though I can't imagine listing to their CD or anything. They have a pretty good drummer, a good quitarist and basist, and then someone else just uses his voice as an instrument. There might have been a song or two had had a couple lyrics, but it was mostly "Ga, ga, ga, ga, ga, gaaaaaaaaaa!" Obviously, if you are reading this you don't need me to tell you to go see Tool any chance you get, but this tour is MUCH better than the mini-tour, Aenima, or Undertow ones which I've also seen.
Review written by: ANDY (iooandyooi@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 11:31:45 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
alright, alot has already been said, i want to start by saying i never thought tool would make a bad decedion, fantomas was it. no words were used at all, just "YA YA YA" in a screching voice and what sounded like a dead cat. it was my first show but thanks to a scalper i got floor, i ran in and was lucky enough to get right up against the metal railing seperating the band from the croud, the only bad thing was the speakers that were 10 feet taller then me while fantomas played, i didnt mind when tool was on, i was close enought to hear them say "1,2,3,4" before songs. no one has talked about the visuals enough, half way through the show the people (or people who look like) the people from schism came out, the climbed a rope to probubly 25 feet above the stage, they hung upsidown from there feet with there arms out to the side, the huged, and seperated, spining, then on 2 monitors behind them came the cover of salival, with the guy with his arms out spining, so while they were, he was, it was amazing. they stayed up for a hole song dancing in perfect step woth eachother, doing body jolts and making there spine look like jelly i really hope someone got a video of it.
Review written by: strates (strates@rocketmail.) Review posted on: 09/23/01 12:17:31 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Somethings better than portland, something not as good. All in all it was a great experience, an experience which can only be expressed in the creation of comething positive. By the way, going to these two shows has been very eye opening, Its interesting to hear what parts of Schism, and Disp/Refl maynard plays, he's got a few riffs which are a few steps above beginner, but I don't believe he considers himself a guitarist by anymeans. Thank you guys for giving me another prime experience. strates (by the way, the staffers carted a taper off the floor in between the fantomas set and the tool set. It was quite interesting to watch.)
Review written by: Ev (drkdglr13@mediaone.net) Review posted on: 09/23/01 12:53:49 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
Well my live journey came to an end last night in Hartford and was the perfect close to a 3 day live jaunt. Straight to the set list: 1. The Grudge 2. Stinkfist (with Elvis' 'Suspicious Minds' lyrics) 3. 46 & 2 4. Undertow 5. Eulogy 6. Schism 7. Dispostion 8. Reflection -=contortionist intermission=- 9. Parabol 10. Parabola 11. Eon Blue Apocalyse 12. The Patient 13. AEnema 14. Lateralus Undertow was a nice surprise. Maynard nailing the "I'm back down, I'm in the Undertow." Eulogy was executed flawlessly with a great "Goodbye!" by Maynard. Danny Carey ripped it up (as usual) while Adam's tone was thick as mud. The Patient was fantastic again and AEnema got an amazing crowd response. Give yourselves a round of applause. You deserve it. Well, that's it for me. I'm off with my memories (and hopefully to hunt down some live recordings of the shows I attended). Take care all. Be well. *][* (()) (()) |l_
Review written by: Alison (46andtool@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 13:02:15 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
The show was great! The setlist was awesome! They played Eulogy and Undertow!! I was hoping for Eulogy for a long time, and I was really surprised that they did it. Maynard's voice was awesome! I saw them at the Hammerstein show, and although i prefer the smaller venue, I think this show was better performance wise. They sounded tighter, the visuals were better, and the addition of Osseus Labryint just stepped the whole thing up another level. I liked the extra music and segues, it helped create the mood. The extra words in Stinkfist, the extended 46 & 2, even the extended outro of Disposition. Seats were pretty good, sec 102, row r...and the people sitting next to us were so nice...sorry about the mix up with the seats guys! This show was so worth the 6 hour round trip drive from Jersey. Hartford was a better crowd then any Jersey or New York crowd, much more subdued, not even the slightest bit rude. The whole arena felt like it was going to shake during 46 & 2, and i think crowd-wise, it was the highlight of the evening... During Eulogy. a lot of people wipped out the lighters to show their appreciation...it was just incredible... Wilkes-Barre is next, and we have pit passes for that one, it'll be nice to be up closer. I couldn't see Maynard's face to see if he had the black stripe, but I did notice that he was wearing jeans. Jeans? That kind of surprised me. All in all, another awesome show...can't wait til monday Alison
Review written by: Dan (remtrey_dazz) Review posted on: 09/23/01 13:16:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Wow. That was fuckin awesome. I loved Aenema. Plus the giant screens playing their videos made the music very intense and brought some more meaning to the song. I especially liked in 46+2 when the people were in the water and at the end when they just played the part where they come together over and over again. Fantomas sucked and just annoyed me. He sounded like a fucking chicken. But he just made Tool sound that much better. They know how to play their instruments. Maynard didn't say too much. Aenama really got the audience involved. A lot of people stood up and were singing along. The best part was: "Some say that comets will fall from the sky, followed by meteor showers and tidal waves, followed by fault lines that cannot sit still, followed by millions of DUMFOUNDED DIPSHITS! I have never experienced anything like that. I hope they play here again soon. P.S. The contortionists were awesome. also - people moshing to any song that doesn't make sense to mosh to piss me off.
Review written by: Benny Hoare (Haloseye@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 13:52:00 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
Tool fans, I witnessed Tool's show in Hartford, Ct. last night. Excellent show, the artistry and stage show were phenominal. People have been saying that Phantomas was horrible. I disagree. I loved there set, it was extremely unique. I feel that Tool had a great opening band. If you were to combine the Mr. Bungle album "Disco Volante" and Mike Patton's solo album "Theme's for voice" you would get Phatomas. So if you're a fan of Mike Patton, be sure to check them out. If any of you have not gotten tickets for at least one of Tool shows, I highly suggest you find a way to get one. This show should not be missed. The amount of positive energy that is emitted from the crowd is incredible. Tool continues to go on as one of my favorite bands of all time. And I can't wait to see them on Oct 1st and 2nd at Madison Square Garden. -~-~Benny~-~-
Review written by: Aiddust39 (congoshow@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 14:10:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Aww Tool....i must say a remarkable expierence, and i would go to any of there shows again. But i am not here to talk about how cool Tool is but how awesome Maynards bodyguard 'Hawk' is. You see i was sitting right to the right of the stage....with a camera i snuck in through my underpants .....yes tidy whities, but fuck it made all the difference. So Too after the group hug exit the stage to the right...Maynard and Danny, coming directly towards and My friend and I scream Danny!! he looks up and gives us the patented male head nod....whats up! So Maynard looks up for half a second and i got him right in the flash..rabbit in the headlights.....then he knudges HAWK....and Hawk goes 'Hey you, Give me that camera film before i come up and get it from you".....I told him it was advantix, so he jumps up like four feet to where i was.....he introduces himself takes off his hat and goes the name is 'Hawk' and he has a mohawk. I ask him if the band is cool and he says not when you take there picture.....then some fuck face fat piece of shit guy out of nowhere goes, TOOL fans should know that....I really wanted to shit down his throat, but my bowels held steady.....needless to say hawk got all my film but i must salute him......see you next show NO FLASH
Review written by: Joe Franze (hydropull@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 14:57:23 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Wow, what a show. Fantamos really sucked. The "YA YA YA GEE GEE GAH" sucked. What was up with the guy wit hthe gray afro? Anyways, Tool rocked. I was as close to Maynard as I could get, up against the guard rail with 4 of my other friends. Surprisingly, Maynard didn't speak much, and most of the night he had his back to us. When I saw him at Hammerstein he was twisting and turning his body like no other. He was a little more calmer here. Oh well, Maynard is still GOD. Nice to hear Undertow, but I wish they played Pushit. It was a very surprisingly set list. I didn't expect to hear Eulogy but they played it! Awsome song. Just before the song, Maynard went backstage to get some kind of cover for his microphone for the verse part. I honestly thought the show was going to be over when Maynard said ,"We would stay longer tonight....but I have to pee." Then a few seconds later his famous "Hey Hey Hey Hey Hey" came through the PA. That song tore shit up!!! Good preformence. I was very surprised to hear the Patient. Stupid people were moshing to that song. They're just so dumb. Oh by the way, some 60 year old dude got caught I believe crowd surfing, cuz the guards too him by me about 4 times and he just kept coming back for me each time he got pulled out of the crowd. I was really pleased with the setlist, they really shook things up. i just wish Maynard spoke more, like he did when I wsa at Hammerstein. The only things he really said were, "Good Evening" and the positive feelings speec. oh well. I'll just have to wait for Maynard to come around again. I mean, what's next? I've done everything I've wanted to do at a Tool show. The only thing I can do next is go backstage and hang out with the band. Well see you all later. Spiral out, keep going. Keep going. P.S. Anyone know what maynard was singing during the Stinkfist interlude?
Review written by: voice of reason(s) (therealsolution@exctie.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 15:21:39 ET
This was this reviewer's -1 Tool show
hmm, what happened to the post from this show?????
Review written by: clark (clark_kasheta@uconn.edu) Review posted on: 09/23/01 15:37:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
A complete attack on the senses. Colors and visuals created an alternate extension of the music. A performance that reached in and massaged my heart. Emotional, technically brilliant, strait from the soul. This was an art show, not a concert. I was sucked in, as was the rest of the crowd as they created a bond between audience an stage. "Take these feelings home and create something positive," Maynard so eloquently and aproporiately stated. What was displayed last night is a new movement, a higher conciouseness, a place that this world needs to find its way into. I left feeling pure and optimistic. This show displayed the power of art and reminded me why i am a musician. Communicate, heal, coalesce, expand.
Review written by: Danimal Leavitt (unabonked@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 15:39:52 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Best show I have ever seen. The lighting focused on the crowds or the instraments, never the band. The video walls were amazing. They used some prior music video footage, but mostly new stuff, some more haunting then their prior stuff. Again, they never once showed the band on screen. Someone already posted the setlist, so I'll not repost. Good into to Eulogy, the drawn-out Reflection was down right hipnotic. One interesting note: in AEnema, they took out "fret for your pilot" no-doubt in refrance to last weeks WTC attacks (which were not mentioned other then Maynard saying somthing to the effect of "spread the feeling you are holding right now as we all need it"). Anyone know what he used in it's place?
Review written by: Jimi Covel (meg91099@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 15:45:30 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
The excitement was really great as i entered the Tweeter Center for the Performing Arts. Knowing that Tool was in the same area as me. I was praying that Danny was going to use his special drum set that was made entirely of mealted cymbals and 24 Karat gold. The excitement rose as I started to walk to the entrence only moments away from seeing Tool. I walked right to the lawn and waited. Suddenly the lights went out and the crowd started to get loud. I must have had about 13 beers in me so I was really REALLY pumped. Suddenly I heard the introduction to The Grudge. At that moment I though that i Was going to cry. My adrenilin was flowing like a high paced river. They ended up playing all the song that I wanted to hear except third eye. The stage show was great. They actually had the original actors from the Schism video on stage performing weird little rituals. The visuals on the monitors were very well. One suprising thing to me was the fact that Maynard actually played a guitar and sang. This was easily one of the best times of my entire life. I would not change it for the world. For those who are Tool fans as well as me and didnt get to see the show, I am so so sorry hopefully they will come around again so you can have an experiance like me!
Review written by: Master Reviewer (radiohed49@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 16:19:09 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
All i got to say is that once again Maynard blew me away with his dancing gerber baby impression....But i will say Maynard should change his attitude towards fans as for the price of shirts.......holy shit.
Review written by: Ken (mdmfk@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 17:06:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Wow.. this show was much better then the one the night before in Mansfield. The sound was better, the music was better, the setlist was better, the audience was better....everything just fell into place.. Eulogy was a nice suprise too, didnt expect that. It even seemed like the band themselves were having more fun that night then the night before... the only thing i was kinda let down by was the fact that all tour Ive been reading that they've been doing the salival version of pushit and they didnt do it at either show, however they did do the aenima version in mansfield. Once again Fantomas was great...great, experimental, random band... so my "weekand with tool" was a good experience, and I cant wait for them to come back.
Review written by: Rich Frauham (richardfrauham@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 17:48:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
What a beautiful wonderful night in the cold state of Connecticut. Tool hasnt been here since Lollapalooza 97 and guess what--they made up for it. I never ever thought I was going to be lucky enough to hear Undertow live in my entire life. Tool took care of that last night. This being my fourth show, I must say it gets better and better every time. The night before at the Tweeter center was so good cause it had been so long, but tonight being hometown just made it all the better. I do feel for the people who have never seen Tool until now. Tool always plays more material off the current album they are touring for--so a lot of people have been getting shut down on songs like Sober and whatever else you want to hear. Nothing you can do about it. Don't complain. Just take the experience love it learn from it and grow from it. Out RichieRichRiches
Review written by: anthony (anthony743@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 18:18:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I walked into the civic center not knowing what to expect. I knew that TOOL was my favorite band, but I wasnt sure how they would preform live. At 7:30 Fantomas took the stage. Interesting band to say the least. No words can out of Mike Patton's mouth. He made some kind of weird noise like YA YA YA, GAH GAH GAH! Hard to believe that he was once the singer in Faith No More. As for their set. it sounded like a bunch of noise put into one song. The drummer was good, and King Buzzo put some interesting cords together, but I dont think the crowd was buying. I wanted them off the set as soon as possible. I wanted to save my ears for TOOL. The members of TOOL didnt take the stage until 9. But as soon as the lights dimmed my heart starting racing. We had great seats, we were down as close as possibly on the side of the stage. TOOL opened with "Grudge" great song. From beginning to end it was done perfectly packed with many emotions. Drums were on point. TOOL then went right into Stinkfist, another great song, I was happy to heat the guitar solo in the middle, it added another twist to it. 46&2 was a nice surprise as well as undertow and eulogy making the setlist tonight. I dunno why but Maynard didnt say much tonight. Good evening managed to make it out of his mouth in the beginning set. Next TOOL prformed Schism with the osses labyrinth, woah their movements freak me out. TOOL then went into Disposition and Reflection they were done to prefection, Adam played the last riff for 15 min as the members of TOOL walked off stage, I know there had to be meaning behind that. A few moments after Adam walked off stage. Osses labyrinth climbed to the top of the stage then were hanging from their ankles. That was an amazing site to see. TOOL then came out and finished their set. Parabol/Parabola was great then they went into Eon Blue and The Patient. After that Maynard spoke once again, "We would love to stay longer but I have to pee." Maynard is great. They went into Aenima, that erupted the crowd, and was a great song. After the song Maynard spoke for the third and last time, Giving the speech to take this moment we have together and turn it into something positvie. Then Lateralis filled the civic center. After the last song the members of TOOL united in a group hug and threw some water bottles out to the crowd. I have to say being their watching your favorite band preform infront of thousands of TOOL fans is really special. GET OUT AND SEE THEM!! The set was flawless and thank you for you patience. just another tool fan p.s. Lateralus is a great cd and thank you TOOL for giving me such great music that gives me inspriation to keep going.
Review written by: Kevin (cojaro@home.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 19:08:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This show ruled even though they didn't play Pushit but, they played Eulegy and they never play that! MJK RULES!
Review written by: good evening hattfed (healeywill) Review posted on: 09/23/01 19:11:07 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
so, going back to what my colleague said earlier about HAWK...well, it was certainly a dick move on his part to be adolf with the camera thing, but riddle me this..hawk...if that is your real name...does a bully make small talk with you while he's stealing your lunch money, tenderizing your organs, holding you above a toilet, or while he's talking about what he's gonna do to your mother that night, or how he's your illegitiamte father..if you guys have no clue what im saying, read aiddust's prior write up to find out about the TERD FERGUSON that we affectionately call HAWK..all we wanted was some fuckin backstage turkey with the band!!
Review written by: Smoky yes the bandit (congoshow@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 19:43:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
OK, yes yes yes Tool is great Tool are gods in the music scene. Visuals.. stunning..but to more pressing manners. $50 Sweatshirt -- How good of an example that Money DOESN'T grow on trees. $35 T-shirts -- Cool Artwork...HOLD UP! Theres nothing on the back. How many sweatshop workers didn't get paid for that fuck up. $20 Baseball Hat -- One Tool patch, a plain black baseball cap, a needle and thread, and bammo! No $20 out of my sweaty pocket. $15 Lateralus Keychains -- Holy SHIT! How much does Coke cost these days??? $5 Nitrous Balloon -- What the fuck is this a PHISH concert? 5 Coolest Things Tool: 1. Danny Carey: This guy was polite enough to get off the surfboard and bless us with his phenomenal drum playing. 2.Adam Jones : No Guitar String = No Love...no your still cooler then Maynard 3. Justin Chancellor : Thanks for the thumbs up...im almost positive i wont do drugs! Thanks for the DARE message....it kinda conflicted with the naked chick in the pool tho. 4. Hawk -- Yes the man cooler the Maynard, because he risks his ass to protect that precious voice. No Flash 5. Maynard -- he only makes this list cuz he yelled at two punk un-tool fans trying to take hs picture.....no probs tho he sent HAWK! on there sorry white asses Thank You
Review written by: Tim (maulezeus@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 21:26:29 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Great show ! I thoroughly enjoyed The Grudge, 46+2, Parabola, and lateralus. Other songs were great, too. I wish Maynard could have said more than 15 words diring the entire show. Oh well, I guess he's a man of few words. A question for all who have been to one of the shows on the current tour - Before Tool went on (and after the opening band), they were playing some kick-ass music that I really enjoyed. However, I don't know what band it was. It seemed like a number of songs from one band. If anyone can helpme out, e-mail me at maulezeus@aol.com Thanks !
Review written by: Mithrandir (mithrandir888@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/23/01 22:53:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
first time i saw tool was back in may during the super special Lateralus release tour at Hammerstein Ballroom, NYC. At that show I had balcony seats but i was just happy to be there. This time i was in the thick of things with a pair of floor tickets for my friend joe and myself. Normally I like to stick to the back and just enjoy the show and avoid all the pushing and shoving, but since I somehow have three GA shows in the metro area to go to i felt a bit adventurous... Well first there was Fantomas. If you like lots of drum fills and noise then they are your band. I was surprised to see Buzz in the band, I didn't know he was part of it, or as someone near by called him, "Sideshow Bob." Joe saw them as an artistic mockery of heavy metal, i saw them as more time in between now and tool. but hey its up to your judgment. So by riding the chaos of crowd i found this relatively peaceful spot in front of Adam. I was shocked to see how close i was all of a sudden. It's kind of scary to see how blank Adam is when he plays. Must be channeling everything he's got to his hands. The show was great and seemed a little bit longer than the other ones I have been reading about. I really liked the dancers too. They were so muscular, it was impressive. There was this one guy where i was standing who was tripping out of his mind. I thought how weird it must have been for him when the dancers came out when they were playing Schism. Its like they jumped off the damn screen. But than again he seemed more interested in the ceiling than the stage. Soon after Schism he decided to give Tool a two-middle finger salute and then take off towards the back of the crowd. I wonder what happened to him and where i can get whatever he was on. He was kinda falling all over everyone around him and they were about to have the security guard pull him out but he took off before they could. Highlights of the show were definitely Disposition/ Reflection, Undertow, Ænema, and Lateralus. Tons of energy during Lateralus. I loved how the show had such peaks and valleys. you could draw a graph. the group hug at the end was nice. 1 down 2 to go. see you at MSG and Albany
Review written by: Bearskins- The Final Frontier (for now) (bushaintmyprez@obscurecompany.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 00:25:58 ET
This was this reviewer's tri Tool show
wasabi... ahhhh, the last of the 3. friends told me I was "hardcore" because I went to 3 shows. funny. I told them there was simply no other choice, and 3 was nothin. I encountered a girl in portland that flew from LA to follow them all over the country, alone. now that, is hardcore. if i had no life, attachments, and copius amounts of funds, I too would be following this band. 3 times doesnt even come close to how many times i would like to share this company. I am insatiable. its almost unfair that i cannot do this every waking night of my life, because if i had my druthers every day would be spent on this mental emotional euphoric enlightened sonic rollercoaster. <---see those stupid words? they dont even come close...shit. this night was my favorite of the few, for many reasons. I had an excellent view of the stage, and hot damn, I didnt hear one boo towards fantomas. as my friend pointed out last night, there is no band that wouldn't get booed while people knew they were waiting for tool. there is simply no band that can open for them and perfectly fit the bill, or please everyone. what's important is that fantomas is weird, obnoxious, unique. its most likely one reason they were there. to expose us to something different. not ordinary. what we arent used to or maybe even comfortable hearing. isnt that what this has always been about? its the same reason tool has long songs (by what many are accustomed to) and instrumental jams rather than your favorite tool song in the middle of a set, and the sometimes less than pleasant visuals. sorry, i'm spazzing. you all know what im saying anyway. back to the events. the floor actually seemed tame, a decent crowd by what I could tell. apparently tool was feeling better than previous nights also, just by the way they took the stage tonight i could tell there was a different energy in the air, and we were in for it. the vocals were tight as could be tonight, and the grudge scream...oh gentle jesus. I can only imagine what the people next to me were thinking at this point. I was visibly uncontrollable. how one can maintain composure at a juncture like this is beyond me. How one can SIT (well, for an amount of time) when this band is on stage, is beyond me. I must say that I will never look at the end of reflection the same way I used to. just adam there, not moving till he was good and ready, till he thought we got it. genius. I will never forget the drawn out harmonics or what not sounds he made for those simple notes. went right through me, so dark and fucking beautiful. felt like crying from the inside out. there wasnt a point in the night when i didnt wish i could handle a bass that way, love the aenema stomp, goddamn. and danny. Oh, danny. you do know mistakes are attributes of a human, right? maynard. maynard. nice jeans. ha. jk. no words to waste time with. now more than ever I see what a group this is. 4. not 1 or 2 or 3 by any means. I think the stage setup was perfect to drive this point home. The way they listen to eachother is unreal. but what about them isnt? I cannot say how much O labyrint added to the madness. parabola remains my favorite part of every night. just the images alone. wonder how many people even know what they are, besides some cool shapes and lines. To my surprise, I cried for the first and only time during lateralus, cause i knew it would be the last one for a while, and the end of the song is enough to do that anyway. highlights after the show was obviously the justin ass grab by maynard, along with everyone being so completely dumbfounded. I walked behind someone who looked as if he belonged at a dmx show or something like that (for all I'm guessing) and he just kept saying to his matching friends, "dude, that was, so...dude.." "I know bro, dude man I know..." like he had just seen and felt life and its potentials for the first time. My only qualms with the nights, and I'm not alone here, is that I fear I will never be able to feel that way again, or enjoy any concert as much, no show could ever be better or close, not until Tool comes back. THANK YOU.
Review written by: emeyesi (emeyesi@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 02:20:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
In what could be described as both beautiful and grotesque, Tool's live performance was so much more than that. Maynard, Adam, Justin and Danny served only as the mere orchestra for the main focus of the performance: the visuals. As Tool took the stage 2 very large movie screens descended from the sky, spanning the width of the stage. (another was also unveiled onstage serving as a backdrop and focal point for Maynard) Upon these screens appeared images I can only describe as "Tool-like", I guess if you are a fan of Tool then you'll get the picture. A variety of images from videos and album art were the basis for the majority of what was seen, and what was on the screens coincided with the songs performed (ex. the meteors and water shown during "AEnema") to some extent. Mind you this was all very overwhelming and is a bit hard to explain. A few minutes after 9pm Tool took to the stage and dove headfirst into "The Grudge", "Stinkfist" and "Forty Six and 2". Maynard acknowledged the crowd ( a simple "hello, thank you for coming") and it was onto "Undertow" (which proved to be the only offering off of the album of the same name) "Eulogy" and "Schism". During "Schism" 2 members (male and female) of the performance/contortionist group "osseus labyrint" appeared onstage walking on all fours (just as in the video) and scared all the children. (okay maybe they didn't but they were friggin' creepy as all hell because they were on the screen, then the screen sort of dissolved and there they were in the flesh! very very weird) The took it down a notch banging out "Dispostion", "Relection", and "Parabol/Parabola" which proved to be the highight of the night. Once again "osseus labyrint" appeared only this time they were suspended on some sort rigging apparatus upside down. All the while writhing to the music, oh and did I mention that they were both very, very naked? yeah i'm talking pussy crack, cock and sack nudity. (nudity was very prominent all night in the visuals and onstage with osseus labyrint) As the intesity of "Parabola" picked up they went berzerk, thrashing about only to compose themselves as the song ended and they descended from above the stage to a massive ovation. "The patient" was up next then things calmed down enough for Maynard to say the show was almost over, and that he would like to stay longer but he has to piss (ha!). The first chords of "Anema" were hit and a rumble came through the crowd. The band decided one more track would be okay so "Lateralus" became the closer...damn no encore : ( Maynard spoke some musings including "Take these feelings home and create something positive." and after a group hug were out. How touching! This for me was a very special experience, I've been trying to catch them live since like 93 when Undertow dropped, yet I always missed them whether it was Lollapalooza, Ozzfest whatever...I was determined to go this friggin tour and almost missed out again due to the mansfield show selling out in like 5 minutes and my slow ass modem! LOL I may have to go to the NYC show next month if I can secure some tix, they are just that amazing live. It's almost theater where you are there to take in the surreal experience of the visuals,lights and music. It was like nothing I've ever experienced....i'm still very much in awe about the whole thing. Do yourself a favor and go.
Review written by: Mike (Mikel6794@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 12:45:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I've got one word. Amazing. I saw them the previous night in MA and thought i had seen the show of my life until I saw the Hartford show. The band was so tight and sounded even better than i had expected. The visuals only added to the greatness of the show. Tool did a great job of mixing it up as far as a songlist. In MA they relied heavily on Lateralus material but they definately showcased more older songs in Hartford. Eulogy and 46&2 were both highlights of my night, as was Undertow. Overall this shwo was just amazing. Sounded and looked great. Any tool fan is doing themselves a great injustice by not hitting a show on this tour.
Review written by: Erik (friction20@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 13:24:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Finally I got to see Tool in concert and it was well worth the wait. THEY F*$@*&@ ROCK! I've seen a lot of bands perform over the years but none of them come close to the intensity and ora that tool exerts live. There are a lot of discriptive entries about the set on this page so instead of regergitating the same info I'll just give you my personal expierience. Over the years I have gotten my father into the band and I actually brought him to the show. He's were I aquired my love of music from and he's been to a ton of concerts in his hey day ( including Floyd, Doors, Led Zep, Jefferson Airplane, ect.). During most of the show I was in a state of Awe but when I did look over at my pops I was suprised to see his mouth hanging open staring at Danny go off, and then he turned to me and said " Jesus Christ, that has to be the hardest working man in show biz!" Now I know for a fact that Danny is the best drummer to touch a set and TOOL is the best band to ever create a song PERIOD I've been waiting a long ass time to see these guy's perfom and I was nervous that with all the anticipation I would be let down, but TOOL definitly did the exact opposite. I have tickets for the show's at the Garden and I can't wait. Who knows what will happen at those show's. I hope the play Hooker with a penis. E P.S. Fantomas has a very Unique and different style that I never want to hear again- THEY SUCK !
Review written by: Mike (MikeManff2000@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 16:26:10 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I found the first Tool show I have ever been to remarkable. I cannot say much for the openning band, and the band did start a little late, but it was all worth it in the end.
Review written by: Mhattma Kane Jeeves (phillyhamstring@mac.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 18:39:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
TOOL... Amazing!!!!!! I think that should sum it all up. That being said, I want to take this time to say how much I enjoyed FANTOMAS' set. These guys are a tribute to creativity in music, and TOOL knows it. That's why they are opening for one of the most creative bands around. I was floored when I realized that it was the MELVINS plus MIKE PATTON adding his own brand of unique musical attitude to the mix. Buzzo & the boys sure know how to bring out some quality, nut-draggin', dino-sludge rock, and Mike Patton just adds weirdness. Great stuff. It's a shame there were so many boos and other disapproving sounds coming from the crowd. You would think the average , real, TOOL fan might be a bit more open.... I personally laughed quite a bit and enjoyed the "Audience Is Confused" response. I saw the show from the General Admission floor, and the crowd was certainly energetic. Though I'm looking forward to a real harem-scarem time on the floor @ MSG (10/01 & 02). New York crowds definitely are a bit more edgier and fun. One more thing.... don't expect to hear SOBER or PRISON SEX... so please... for the love of all that is holy... don't be the asshole screaming at the band to play those songs. Go back to the frathouse and crank up yer Realitic Stereo, but don't bother us fans looking to enjoy a good show. OK for now. Rock on.
Review written by: CobraFire (svtCobra_Fire@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/24/01 23:41:18 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Well that was only the greatest 2 1/2 set I think Ive ever seen. Ive never seen Tool live until now. Rest assured, Ill never miss a show again. They were so tight. Everything was down packed like they knew thats what the fans wanted to hear. I lost my voice that night from singin along with maynard. I felt where the words came from for the first time.
Review written by: Erik (escinct@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/25/01 00:51:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
We got there relatively early, but decided to take our time getting into the Civic Center. We parked in that dirt-lot that is not too far away. There was no charge to park there... After finding out which gate to go in, we got in line which moved rather quickly. I'm not sure what happened, but about 3 spaces in front of me, some wacky looking guy started yelling obcenities at the pat-down guy. Guess they found something they didn't like on him. Anyway, he eventually walked out and left. The Civic Center is probably better without him. We got in and could hear Fantomas playing in the background. We went around the whole place and found our seats. They were excellent, just to the right of the stage in the lower section, but just high enough to see the floor of the stage. Fantomas was weird as hell. I didn't really get it. I didn't think they were total crap, but c'mon, the lyrics are like "dit dit dit dit dit dit dit dit, eh eh eh eh eh eh eh eh ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh" really fast and high- pitched. Heard 1 and a half of their songs. They said, "thanks for putting up with us". It took about 40 minutes after that for Tool to start (9:10pm), but it was cool to watch the stage being set up and the instruments being tested. The setlist was much better than that of the Tweeter Center, and so were my seats. They had 2 large screens and the one small one in this venue. Most people don't get to see it, but they also project the video twice more ONTO the stage, one where Adam is standing, and one where Justin is. The sound was also much louder than that of the Tweeter Center. My ears were still ringing the next day. Undertow was a huge surprise, it took me a second to realize what song it was because it was so unexpected. I loved it because I could hear the crowd singing in Stinkfist and Forty Six & 2, but not Undertow. Maybe they'll learn that Tool doesn't just put out radio hits. Then they broke into Eulogy, which was equally amazing. We didn't get this extra song in Mansfield. Maynard said, "we'd like to stay longer, but I have to pee" just before Aenima. Woo hoo, Hartford was blessed with a Maynardism. This was cool because I thought he was liking the crowd. Then, after Aenima, he says, "ok we'll do another one". I thought he meant they would do another one before Lateralus. They huddled around and talked for a second. I thought they might have been deciding on a song and signaling the soundboard guys to set it up, but then he went into the thing about "we have an assignment for you..." It was fine because Lateralus really pounded the place. I enjoyed every single moment of this show (except for the various 'fans'). Simply amazing.