concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart

10/25/2001

Review written by: Jake (commie_050@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 01:45:01 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Sorry, I can't remember the exact setlist, I'm sure someone else will post it. Anyway, it was an incredible show. 
Maynard's vocals were absolutely breathtaking, and the trilogy of Disposition, Reflection, and Triad might be 
the most beautiful 20+ minutes of music I have ever heard in my life. The show was only marred by the 
drunken masses who came for the sole purpose of drinking and moshing. You know the type: the guys who 
feel the need to whistle at the top of their lungs during the interludes, the people who leave during osseus 
labryinth to go get beer, etc. Regardless, Tool always seems to rise above the constraints of their 
surroundings. Unbelievable show, thank you Tool for this night.











Review written by: Kevin Bogle (rupertbo@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 01:47:54 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  I have changed my perspective on life after tonight.  i was 
compleatly blown away by the entire show.  Manyard bitched 
out those who were recording: "This moment is all that 
exists.  Everything else is just a memory.  This is reality.  If 
you are busy fiddiling with buttons on a tape player or video 
recorder, how will you have memories.  You will have tape, 
but you will not have anything." -or something very similar 
to this.  A very lucky and talented lady gave me her copy of 
the set list, and it reads as follows:


SAN ANTONIO, TX. OCTOBER 25, 2001
VERIZON WIRELSS AMPHITHEATRE


GRUDGE
STINKFIST
46 & 2
SHORT PARABOLA SHORT
LONG PUSHIT LONG
SCHISM
SHORT JAM
DISPOSITION
REFLECTION
-------INTERLUDE-------
TRIAD
THE PATIENT
ÆNIMA
LATERALUS


Two amazing drummers, (brandon and ben?) played with 
danny on Triad.  Mark, Anna's male counterpart, graced the 
set for Schism and Triad.  The last five notes of reflection 
were repeated for over 5 minutes.  Tool knows something 
that no one else knows, and they are trying to teach us.









Review written by: Eric (Ericcore17@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 02:13:41 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  waited a long time


- It was beautiful








Review written by: Steve (Steve462@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 02:25:39 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  It is impossible to put into words what I saw tonight.  I can 
only say it was the greatest performance I've ever 
witnessed.  When the band began to 
play "Disposition" , "Reflection" , and "Triad", my entire 
seating section luckily took their seats, allowing me to sit as 
well and take in the performance of the trilogy, which lasted 
close to 50 minutes.  It was extremely entertaining and 
relaxing, and was my favorite part of the show.  I also 
enjoyed hearing the Salival version of "Pushit", as well as 
my favorite Tool song "Lateralus".  No songs from Opiate or 
Undertow were performed, and I had expected to be 
dissappointed if they didn't pull out any old favorites, but 
afterwards I realized the show was perfect the way it was.  
Just wish it could've lasted a little longer...








Review written by: Rene (Trenthalo02@cs.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 02:33:18 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Tool played very well. I am confused as to why Maynard 
gave his back to the audience through out the entire 
concert. I enjoyed myself, and I think that TOOL DIDN'T 
SUCK!








Review written by: hbog (hbog666@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 02:43:06 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  The show was absolutely phenomenal.   The band was on 
top of their game tonight.  They played the Salival version 
of Pushit which I was looking forward to. 


Random comments:
Maynard bitched about the "fucking dumbasses" who 
brought their cameras and how they would lose their 
memories if they lost their pictures (it was amusing)


Maybe it was because of where I was sitting, but I didn't see 
both members of Osseus Labyrinth (sp?).  It looked like 
only Mark (isn't that his name?) was there.  Either way, it 
was absolutely amazing how he could contort himself.


Danny's drum solo on Triad with the members of Tricky was 
truly one of the greatest solos I have ever heard.  But just 
hearing it doesn't do it justice - you have to watch to see 
how amazing it is.


If you can catch a show on this tour, you should definitely do 
it.











Review written by: Mason Peatross (ironman1231@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 02:43:35 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Came from Austin to see the show with my buddy Tom, my 
chance at redemption for blowing my first TOOL show. When 
they toured on Aenema, I took a new girlfriend to the show, 
and she decided in the middle of the opening act that she 
didn't want to be in the crowd anymore, and we spent the 
whole night kissing on the side of the club. Little did I know 
how long I would have to wait to see them again. 



Anyway, getting to San Antonio was a hassle, traffic in 
Austin, accident in New Braunfels. Once we got there, the 
parking situation was awful, and then there were HUGE lines 
to actually get in. They were checking every person with 
metal detectors and patting you down. We missed all of 
Tricky just waiting in line. Tom and I both got shirts, then 
headed to the pit area, expecting to get stuck in the back. 
Well, I wouldn't have any of that, so I pushed us to about 4 
or 5 people deep and waited for like 6 minutes before Tool 
began their intro music. They took the stage to "The 
Grudge" and it was simply awesome. The music level was 
solid, but not overly loud, and it was easy to move around in 
the pit. There was a fairly even mix of girls and guys, and 
that meant less male aggression ruining things. Tom and I 
had said that we really wanted to hear 46&2, so when they 
played it, we both danced our asses off and sang at the top 
of our lungs - still not even putting a dent in Maynard's 
vocals. After the intermission and the beginning of 
Disposition-Reflection-Triad, I got squashed up against this 
really cute girl (blue jeans, tight black shirt with split black 
sleeves) and she was grooving her ass off (literally) right in 
front of me. During the moshing in Triad, my hand almost 
went down the front of her pants. I apologized, as it was 
purely unintentional. We were all just totally getting pressed 
together at this point, I could barely control where my hands 
were ending up - just using them to keep myself from falling 
over. During the next song, I discovered one of the culprits 
of the pushing and I pushed him as hard as I could away 
from me and Tom and the cutie and told him to chill the 
fuck out. He looked kind of scared. Heh. I guess I am scary 
looking.
After they finished, Tom and I rushed back to find the car, 
but my rememberance of where it was had been somewhat 
faulty, so we ended up in the mass exodus, and we didnt' 
go home til 1ish. All in all, it was worth every dollar I paid.








Review written by: frank (frank@satx.rr.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 04:32:04 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  The Tool show was awesome! DC is the best drummer in 
music today. Justin was rock solid. Adam was great as 
always - cool shirt, man. Now Maynard sang wonderfully but I 
just don't understand why he couldn't stand to face the 
crowd. I think it was because people were taking photos. It 
wasn't until the very end of the show that I even saw that his 
face was painted! But on to the show itself...


Tricky was great, too. He always puts on a good show. The 
bass was way to loud, unfortunately, but that's not Tricky's 
fault. It just made my stomach hurt after awhile; I was right 
up front in the general admission pit area. Tool had way too 
much bass when they began the set with The Grudge, too.


The sound did clear up after a couple of songs and the rest 
of the show just took off from there. Every song was better 
then the last. I am glad they did the slow songs. The setlist 
selections were excellent and the Salival version of Pushit 

was simply amazing. I think the last three songs were the 
high point of the evening and I assume this arrangement 
will be the centerpiece of this tour. Lateralus.... thank you 
for playing this song!!! It was so powerful it almost made me 
cry. Few concerts have the last song being the best but 
Lateralus was the best song of the night. BRAVO








Review written by: Callison (casualcal2000@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 05:24:28 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  another dead hero


This performance tore my heart out, it taunted me with visions of
reality only to demonstrate how fleeting it is.  My seats are in the
back.  It's hard to get involved at this distance, but it shouldn't
matter, the music is good enough to draw me in regardless.  And the
video projections are amazing.


Then Maynard sings "I must crucify the ego" as the Verizon
ampitheatre employee breaks apart the dancing crowd forcing us to our
seats.  Now, no experience can be shared, we are isolated entities
confined to our chairs, only watching.  Being confined to your seat
may sound insignificant, but it's not.  Each numbered chair isn't
just a symbol of division and alienation.  It is division and
alienation.  It is a forced identity.  It is a forced autonomy, when
all I want is to lose myself in this moment.  In the chair, I am no
longer a part of the group, I am P43, and I can't participate.  There
is no room to dance, every time I shift 6 inches into the aisle to
see the stage, the attendant reminds me that I am P43, not 6 inches
to the left of P43.  The divisions are clear.


I can see all the levels of the consumer categorized before me.  The
group on the lawn separated from those with seats, those with seats
separated from the pit (and from one another), all looking on
enviously at those in the pit, at the real life, at those involved in
the show, or in Maynard's words, those "sharing a moment".  The
message is clear.  If only you have a few more dollars to spend, then
you can really live.  Just put in a few more hours overtime and you
can come experience life, not just watch it. I learned alot at this show.


A particularly painful moment occurred during my 2nd favorite song on
the album, Lateralus.  "Feed my will to feel this moment urging me to
cross the line."  What a slap in the face.  Through such a noble
message, we are all taught one thing.  All that was once directly
lived has become mere representation.  In these conditions,
conditions that are a result of Maynards message, crossing the line
is impossible.


So, Maynard's just a hooker?  No whore expresses true love then rubs

your face in its antithesis; there is no lie.  This music and this
performance are all lies, but lies that recognize the truth making it
all the worse.  Somehow in all that, Aenema felt good.


I was not mad at the attendant.  I did not hate him.  He had to do
the job to pay the bills he had to pay.
I was sad.
I hate this country: incredible potential, inherently denied.


So what's my problem?  I don't begrudge the inevitable.  I will
merely be sad.  My problem is this.  The agreement has changed.  I
attend to be entertained.


I was not entertained.  It takes more now.  No encore of Ticks and
Leeches?  Reciprocal truth?  Grand irony?  I paid $45 for this
bullshit three-ringed circus, you tear your fucking throat out for me.


I have already purchased a ticket for Sunday at the Woodlands.  I
will attend with my parents.  I want  my mother to see a rock show in
all it's spectacular glory (Backstreet Boys, sit down).  And that's
the crux of it all.  She will only see a rock show.  She cannot
participate in one.  She cannot share the moment.


It doesn't matter to me.  I will be numb anyways.











Review written by: AJ (ckdolly@texas.net)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 08:47:02 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  It was a beautiful night.  Lots of different people coming 
together to celebrate, to release, to experience the music of 
Tool.  Sat on the lawn and experienced a wonderful show.  I 
wasn't looking for, or expecting perfection.  I wasn't 
expecting anything but what they were willing to offer.  I 
trust Tool as serious artists, who aren't willing to compromise 
their vision, or progression.  I just flowed with it--the best 
way to see a Tool show.  I came with an open mind and 
listened, and let the music take me over.  I was absorbed in 
the moment.  They really pulled off a great show, despite 
the enormity of the venue.  Actually felt very intimate and 
sensual.  The visuals were wonderful, and the sound was 
good.  Any real Tool fan knows how talented each band 
member is, so there's no need to elaborate on how well they 
played.  Played a lot of songs off Aenima and Lateralus, but 
nothing off of Undertow--no big deal.  "Push It," the Salival 
version, was so deep, I felt like melting.  Maynard was not 
as withdrawn as imagined.  He actually talked a bit, and 
seemed in positive spirits.  Thank you Tool for another great 
moment shared together.  As Maynard said towards the 
beginning of the show, "All we have is this moment, 
everything else is a memory."  I learned a lot tonight, 
through this positive, sweet release.  I was taken on an 
emotional journey that turned me inside out.  I remembered 
that we are vulnerable creatures in a sea of chaos.  I didn't 
fight it--I continued on the spiral, wherever it took me, up or 
down.  I embraced the moment as I was taken to a higher 
plateau of conciousness.  Thank you Tool--until we meet 
again...









Review written by: cancerraging (cancerraging@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 09:05:05 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  That was definately an excellent show. I missed Tricky, not 
that my timing for driving was off.. it's just that, first off 
Texans can't drive, so you can imagine what it was like 
trying to drive behind their 15 year old kids. And you .. yeah 
you fat piece of shit in the red jacket with the black pin 
stripes. SIT THE FUCK DOWN! Even the people on the floor 
are NOT moshing to 'the patient'. I was disappointed by the 
people around me. Lucky for everyone they didn't play 
anything off of undertow or opiate, I doubt they would know 
what to do. ok enough ranting about idiots. Tool kicked ass. 
Maynards volcals were muffled a little for the first few songs, 
but quickley fixed. Danny Carrey makes it look too easy and 
is now officailly my hero. (as if he wasn't before) All in all it 
was a great show and maybe next time they'l play some 
older stuff.








Review written by: Chris (cfgonz108@lycos.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 09:12:18 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  The concert was great.  I've been to dozens of other shows 
and nothing compares to Tool's performance.  The 
highlights were the contortionist  dangling above the band 
during Triad and when they played Aenema.  The visuals 
were awesome.  The only thing I can remember Maynard 
saying was in reference to the people taking pictures of the 
band.  He said that they should put down their cameras and 
enjoy the moment with them.  It was an experience that I'll 
never forget.  Oh, yeah, and to put it bluntly, Tool shits on 
every other band out there right now.









Review written by: Scott (grizzy86@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 09:29:20 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Well its the morning after the show at Vorizon, and I still 
can't put into words how spectacular the show was. I saw Tool 
at the Soma in San Diego in 95, so its been a long time for  
me to experience Tool again.  My girlfriend and I had seats 
that were a little too far away, but my friend Josh who was in 
one of the V.I.P. sections totally hooked us up and we 
moved to the area right behind the pit. We found our new 
seats right at the climax of Salival version of Pushit.
I noticed that they played more songs off of Aneima than 
they normally do which was fine with me. Over the past few 
weeks I've been reading the reviews and even though it may 
have taken away from the overall suprise of the show, it still 
fucking kicked serious ass. Maynard spoke a little more than 
expected, first commenting on the fucks who snuck in 
cameras. He made a good point though. I don't need a 
picture to remind me of how I felt last night. 
I know I will see them again one day and I doubt that this 
show could be topped.I called my dad during Stinkfist and 
let him hear it a little, I wish he could have see Tool with 
me, he loves em too. The crowd had a good vibe all night, 
and Maynard didn't give his little positive feeling speech 
which I believe was a first. The sound was perfect. How can 4 
musicians be so talented and continue to make the most 
meaningful music and still have no competition? Their 
pedestool remains head and shoulders above all else.
I'd like to thank Tool for giving me an ultimate experience.
Josh, man you fuckin hooked us up, I owe you bro.
Lisa, for being my girl. (Peaking an hour after the show was 
perfect!) And last but not least, Kabir for having this site. We 
all owe you!  TOOL FOREVER.
See you guys soon....
-Scott









Review written by: Master Reviewer (clubgurll@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 09:35:13 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Okay show if you like looking at naked women all night. 
Being a woman I would have rather not. Maynard seemed to 
show no enthusiasm and really didn't seem like he cared if 
he was there at all. Would have been nice if he would have 
SPOKE to his fans other than bitch session we all got about 
recording devices. Yeah Maynard, I am glad I paid $100 to 
come see your porn fest with your back to us all night. As 
my friend said..."The Sade concert was better than this...and 
Sade sucks."








Review written by: Darrell (tomperstomp@excite.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 10:26:03 ET


This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

  WOW!  It's nice to finally be able to see the best live show 
in the world again.  I've seen some good ones and they just 
never cease to amaze.  Opened with The Grudge, closed 
with Lateralus, and in no particular order played 46&2, 
Stinkfist, Prison Sex, Schism, Parabola, Eulogy, Pushit, 
Aenema, Eon Blue Apocalypse, Patient, Reflection, Triad.  
Highlights were definitely an amazing chilled version of 
Pushit which I'd actually heard them perform @ a show in 
San Diego back in 98 but I was kind of lost at that show and 
had a hard time taking it all in (if you know what I mean).  
So glad I was privy to hearing it again.  The climax was 
orgasmic.  Aenema was awesome as well.  It had an 
incredible vibe and the entire audience was singing along 
with Maynard.  They played several songs off the new album 
that I truly didn't expect them to play, and to perfection I 
might add.  I love TOOL and am so glad they are back on 
the road.  To be a true critic though, I must say that a few 
more older songs thrown in would have been nice and at 
times some of the tangents they went on seemed to go on 
a bit too long.  All said and done, one of the best Tool 
shows I've seen.  They've cemented the fact that they are 
the best performing band in the world.  Don't stop baby!!! 








Review written by: jimi (ben_albert@mail.utexas.edu)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 11:45:46 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Tool was really good tonight.  However, I have a few 
complaints about the show.  First off though, let me say that 
I am a huge Tool fan, have been since Undertow came out 
and respect whatever Tool wants to do up on stage.  With 
that said, I didn't think it was cool how Maynard sang the 
whole show in the back of the stage with his back turned to 
the audience.  Why didn't he just sing from backstage and 
have a roadie hold up a picture of him up on stage?  
Second, they did not play a single song off of undertow or 
opiate.  Which is all right, they can play whatever they want, 
but they are there supposedly to entertain fans, and I would 
think most fans would like to hear old stuff.  I also noticed 
at the 5 previous shows they usually played one song of 
undertow and one of opiate, how come we got the shaft?  
This kind of stuff was amusing when a Tool show only cost 
20 or 30 bucks, but some people paid $45 for just lawn 
seats, and that is before scalping (unless you count 
ticketmaster as an official scalper).  I just get this vibe, like 
Tool, and especially Maynard, don't really want to be there, 
and they are just dicking us around.  If they don't like 
touring so much then why don't they just stop.  They 
probably make enough money off record sales alone.  I 
guess it is a good thing that they are such a good band and 
put on such a good show, because they sure are dicks to 
there fans.  I mean, does Maynard want us to one day wake 
up and say, "hey, you guys are assholes" and then boycott 
his band?  Would that make him happy if every fan just quit 
listening?  Would he feel like he achieved something?  I 
guess Maynard just gets off on the power trip that he can be 
a total asshole to a fan and the fan will take it and still buy 
his album because he really likes the music.  I am not sure 
if that is what is desired.  With that said, I will probably not 
see Tool again.  The first show I saw was far better.  They 
actually covered all their material, and played an encore.  I 
am just tired of the gamble that goes with buying a Tool 
ticket; is Maynard going to be in a good mood tonight?  will 
we see a good show?  I would rather see a shitty band give 
it their all on stage, like PROFESSIONALS, and not complain 
the whole night about disliking Texas, or people 
not "getting" the music, or other "cleverly sarcastic" remarks 
Maynard includes.  Just remember, we pay your bills guys.  I 
suppose I have ranted enough here and probably pissed off 
enough people.  








Review written by: OGT 92 (Gullible_OGT92@mail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 11:47:33 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Ok we all know that TOOL rules and the show was awesome, but for those 
lame, MTV kids (with their parents, I might add), and for all those 
chicks dressed up like it was 6th street, and all the frat boys just 
wanting to get drunk, and 40 year old sex pistols fans, and all the 
other people (as what one guy called them "unbelievers")... I really 
wish you people would have stayed at home. I'd say about 30% (probably 
more) of the people there shouldnt have been there. Most just wanted 
to hear Schism the song they heard on the 'radio.' Others just wanted 
to go because it's the 'cool' thing to do. For you people and 
especially for the DAD that sat next to me...next time, stay at home. 


And for the chick that was 'offended' by the naked images, you should 
have stayed home too. 


And if any of this review pisses you off or 'offends' you..even 
slightly...then you too my friend, should have stayed home...


As far as the show, Maynard wasn't really into it, nor did he have 
many witty things to comment on as he usually does. He did make a 
point about everthing being just a moment and everthing after that is 
just a memory, or something like that before he played parabola.


The correct setlist is the one posted by Kevin Bogle. Thanks man.


OGT OUT









Review written by: Master Reviewer (mark@icebats.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 12:18:00 ET


This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show

  I can only say it one way...Total Fucking Godhead









Review written by: CashedAld (cashedald@msn.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 13:03:08 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Hello, I had my Tool cherry popped yesterday.  It was 
awesome.  I fell in love with Tool and their music even 
more.  I was naive coming into it.  The Tool concert was one 
of the best experiences of my life.  If you have a chance to 
go don't miss out.   They started off strong with the Grudge 
to help all of us release some much needed tension.  There 
were a couple of fights in the pit during this time, which I 
had to help break up.  Maynard, I think saw and said 
something about, "don't ruin it the experience" or 
something to those poor souls.  When the song started the 
pit got started around me so some of my beer fell out.  It 
was ok though because it was for all the people who could'nt 
make it that night.  I had to fuck shit up for them.  I could 
not let them down.  I could'nt believe they played 46 & 2, it 
was unbelievable.  I wanted to cry and shit.  I think Tool 
really liked playing for us.  Maynard said, "It was an honor" 
and "We'll come back soon."   My brother, Erik, and I were 
lucky we had front row pit general admission.  My brother is 
young and he had fun clinging on the front rail.  He saw 
everything that was going on onstage.  I am proud of him.  
Myself I need to roam.  Some homies I never met before 
were passing J's and it helped me relax.  This was during 
the "Seasons Change" song.  This is when the really put on 
a show.  The bassist kept playing the same chords for a 
lifetime and it felt and sounded great.  I was mesmerized.  
Pardon my spelling.  Thats when I decided to get a bottled 
water to cool of.  I even had my shirt off, but down in the 
huge pit it felt as hot as hell.  I walked around the Verizon 
Amphitheater relaxing listening to Tool's slow jams and 
mellow moods.  Oh, there visuals are unbelievable and 
everything ties into each other.   Ahh!  I t was a great night 
and it was not even almost done.  I walked up to the lawn to 
get a different perspective.  It was beautiful from the top as 
well.  I met some friends up there and told them how it was 
at the front.  After I chilled I went back into the pit for 
Patient.  My God Bless me.  I mean it was unbelievable.  I 
took off my glasses so I wouldn't brak them.  So I couldn't 
see anything but the huge visual screens.  But, it was ok.  I 
went for the music and the experience and the closeness 
and my friends.  Most especially for love and hate and 
sadness.  All this time Maynard was turned around facing 
one of the screens making weird movements and shit.  But 
what was really impressive is when he turned around.  He did 
it during Aenema.  When he started singiing, " I am praying 
for rain....." he turned around and the crowd got crazy.  We 
love Tool in South Central Texas.  They finished off strong 
with Lateralus.  I even saw the whole group huddle like if 
they were in a football game.  Then they circled the 
drummer and started wailing.  It was awesome.  I think it 
was for lateralus.  Oh, and I forgot when they played Pushit 
everyone stopped and started swaying and shit.  I even had 
my lighter going in the air for a  second.  I can't wait to see 
them again.  But, life must go on.









Review written by: David (idont@know.you)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 13:20:57 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Tool's use of music, video, and dance, by Osseus Labrynt, 
created a concert experience that cannot be found anywhere 
else. 


Some high points in my mind:
Mark from Osseus Labrynt, 46&2, Triad with guest 
drummers, Adam's 5min. extension of Reflection, the group 
hug at the show's end, and wandering around the parking lot 
looking for my car. 


Playing solely from Lateralus and Aenema no doubt left 
some fans a little dissapointed. Why not play older songs? 
Well, if this wasn't your first Tool show you've probably heard 
older material played live. You wouldn't want to see the 
same concert twice? No! So why would Tool want to play the 
same concert twice? I would much rather hear a song I've 
never heard them play live before. You can only play so 
much in a show, and with the addition of Lateralus to their 
catalog, I'm sure the guys think at length when making a 
setlist. 


One final note. Try and have an attention span when you 
see Tool. Pay attention and concentrate. Don't complain 
about something they're doing without thinking about what 
they're trying to accomplish by doing it. 


Tool's members are human. Humans are not perfect. So, 
don't expect Tool to be perfect. Maynard is not God. He's 
just a bald, short guy with pipes of gold. Later...













Review written by: imasheep (imasheep@ureach.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 13:24:44 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Words can not give the experience justice, so I will leave it 
to the individual to try and go for themselves. 


Those who have negative things to say about Maynard's 
backside, or no old songs being played, etc... tend to 
beleive they know what or who Tool is -- fact is none of us 
do -- but, if you go to a show, they definitely open 
themselves up and give you a part of their gift.  They are in 
tune with each other and allow for anyone to join them for a 
breif moment while they play for you.  Don't waste mental 
ammuntion on trying to understand them -- understand 
yourself and why you are there -- you chose to be there -- 
take from the experience all it REALLY has to offer.  


Seeing people get so upset over such miniscule things, 
however, is quite amusing -- so, keep it up Tool -- play with 
a screen that covers the whole band next time -- that'll get 
some tempers flaring.  


Tool is nothing short of a seed for the mind - so pure - and 
many should take note to the precision and connection you 
guys appear to have when performing.  Thank you for 
another experience for my mind to endure.








Review written by: Master Reviewer (prth@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 13:49:15 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  The show was awesome. Beautiful voice. Beautiful sound. 
Beautiful experience. If anyone has the chance to make it, 
they should definitley go. The only slight semi-complaint 
was the band was never put on the screen, only graphics and 
such. Nonetheless, it was a freakin bad ass show and i would 
so go again! 








Review written by: Master Reviewer (sole@showm.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:05:19 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  Show last night was great. But i have something to say to 
my little people. Tool is a great band. EVERYONE and 
ANYONE should be able to go appreciate them without some 
dumbasses saying they "shouldn't go to a Tool concert" or 
they were wearing "sixth street clothes." Anyone can wear 
whatever the hell they want to wear, listen to what they want 
to listen to and who cares if they only know the songs on the 
radio, that song is still by TOOL. right?!?!?! I hate stupid 
people who say that shit. The concert was great with the 
exception of a faceless singer. If someone was not happy 
with the show or the "naked women" then they could have 
fuckin left. No one was holding a gun to their head. Show 
was a good one. Maynard could have been just a little more 
interested and it was almost as if i went to see the 
contortionist instead of maynard.








Review written by: Drake Hollow (maynard1undertow)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:14:27 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Before I talk about the show i want to say that i really hope 
that people can fucking learn to enjoy the show and stop 
bitching about things that went a rye.


        i dont exactly remember the set list for sure because 
of all my chaotic attempts to absorb my experience.


The Grudge (ofcourse)
Stinkfist
46 and 2
Parabola


by now i was far enough into my trance that all the music ran 
toghether into one big long lasting dream, and the only 
words to describe that are, BEYOND BEAUTIFUL.


When i heard the opening picks to push it, i nearly wanted 
to cry. Out of all the things that bring tears in this world, that 
song has to be the biggest lacrymator i can imagine.


what topped it all off i would have to say was at the end of 
the show, maynard, justin, adam, and danney met in the 
middle of the stage in a circle and hugged. that was a 
lesson for all of us to take home and learn by.
 


all i can say is that i will never forget to remember my 
experience that seemingly lasted forever.


Thank you TOOL, forever.











Review written by: BTM (fugazi_tool@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:33:59 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  As usual, the musical and visual experience was amazing. 
Others have already posted about most of the great 
moments last night.


We drove over three hours from Houston, arriving about the 
time Tricky started. Because of the security lines to get in, 
we missed the entire set. I can understand the need for 
security with such a large crowd, but the organization was 
absolutely pathetic. There were no signs telling people what 
the hell was going on, and many parties were separated 
after waiting in line 45 minutes to an hour, only to get to the 
front and be told that the women had to go to a different 
line. 


Finally, we made our way down to the pit and the show soon 
started. The sound folks had a few problems in the 
beginning, but the soon got it all sorted out and everything 
sounded great for the rest of the night, besides not being 
very loud. Since I was right in front of the speaker bank and 
I didn't think it was loud enough, I can't imagine many 
people in the back being happy with the volume. Anyway, 
the band sounded great despite Maynard being in a bitchy 
mood and never turning around. It would have been nice to 
get just ONE old song, but the music that was played made 
for a great show, and I got to hear 'Pushit' live, which I 

missed the last time I saw the band.


There were quite a few people even down in the pit who 
seemed lukewarm to the show, and way too many IMO who 
thought that 'Schism' was the greatest thing that happened 
all night. But to each his own. I've been in about 100 pits, 
and this was without a doubt the pansiest crowd ever. But 
that's OK for some of the smaller women who would like to 
get close to the band and breathe at the same time. It was 
just a little disappointing for me. 


After the show, we sat in the same spot in the parking lot for 
over an hour. Nothing was moving in our section (far NW) 
because they had blocked off all exits from our parking 
section except for one hole small enough for one car at a 
time to trickle through. By the time they finally opened 
some of the other exits, all the other parking areas were 
completely cleared out and even some of the guys directing 
traffic were leaving. So, an hour and fifteen minutes after 
getting to the car, we were finally able to begin the 3+ hour 
drive home.


Throughout the night, this and other experiences left me 
with the felling that the event coordinators and staff really 
didn't care much about their customers. Barring any extreme 
circumstances, I will NEVER go back to this venue.


While nothing like my first Tool experience, the show was 
worth every penny I spent on it. I can't wait for the New 
Orleans and Houston shows.








Review written by: Legolas (toolkel@home.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:39:12 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. 
Okay, the setlist is already posted.  I hesitate to call this a 
concert review because I have never experienced anything 
like this.  It was more a assault on the senses than a 
concert.   A mesmerizing experience delivered with honesty 
and sincerity.  I found myself totally lost in the brilliance of 
this band.  Tool is truly an artistic entity which is a rarity in 
the days of Backstreet Boys and Britney Speers.  The total 
precision with which the performance was delivered was 
amazing.  The only band I've ever seen to rival it was Rush.  
Just incredible.  If you've never seen this band then you are 
truly missing out.  Go see them!








Review written by: Tommy Lucas (lateralusis@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:43:48 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Welp, if you read a lot of reviews you can usually figure out 
what the setlist is going to be at your concert, it has a 
pettern from what i noticed. I loved what i got, thats for 
sure.  
Me and my friend from Beaumont, TX arrived just in time to 
get in a newly opened line and be the second ones to the pit 
and claim our perfect spots on the rail.  
Tricky dissapointed us both, especially how all he did was 
smoke a cigarette and scream something every once in 
awhile then tell everyone "Thank you" as if he really did 
anything other than wiggle and shake around the stage a lot.
It didnt seem like there were really many real Tool fans in 
the pit, just people that took Pushit the wrong way and 
started pushing and shoving even harder.  We were amazed 
the whole time, keeping our eyes on the band and 
absorbing the music, trying to concentrate on it and not the 
horrible pain of our ribs being grinded against the rail.  The 
visuals were amazing, The schism man (Mark) was 
unbelievable of course.  
Maynard's face was painted black and Danny was playing the 
drumset that was custom made from cymbals, it was 
beautiful, and had a major attacking sound.  
It was for sure the best feeling i have ever expereienced in 
my whole life, it was perfect, everything fit together 

perfectly.  
I had a moment where i was part of Tool, its an 
unexplainable religious experience.  








Review written by: robert (itsmeagain842)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 15:02:40 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

   Well i was amazed by the show i saw last night. In words 
breath taking, been to a cupple of good shows this year. But 
this took the cake never again at any concert i will feel like i 
did that night.This concert was the greatest concert i have 
ever been too. It seems alot of people were diapointed by 
last nights show. Said "there was to many instumental 
songs", well fuck them!!!! They don't know shit a real TOOL 
find would have loved it. I now i did, just can't get over the 
feeling that i finally saw my favoite band last night. It's 
some thing i'm going to remember all my life. My seats were 
good after all i thought i had fuck up seats but i was wrong. 
Had a great view of Maynard that crazy fuck, his movements 
are just outrages.The only thing i wanted more was Maynard 
to come to the front. But what can i do that's Maynard he 
likes the mistery. I now even if i was i the lawn i would have 
loved it. Right be for i went the show on the car ride. I told 
my dad the one song that i would love to hear live in person 
was "pushit". And my dream came true that night i just went 
crazy when i heard "pushit" it was so lovely.Seeing TOOL 
preform kinda remined my of being a kid again at the " Pink 
Floyd" concert. Just a experence you can't describe only your 
mind nows the whole story. And thats great to know only you 
know the truth. Lybrith??? that guy kicked ass the boy got 
some talent. it was amazing TOOL really nows how to pick 
em. The show was great i feel sorry for who ever couldn't 
make the show. But i went !!! The night was great i'm glad i 
waited three hours in line at north star mall.thank 
you....TOOL you made me life complete......       









Review written by: dancing in quicksand (oontah@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 15:40:39 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Tool is incredible.   Last night was easily the best live show I 
have ever seen.  Hooray for Maynard for facing away from 
the crowd for most of the show -- it had the desired effect -- 
I focused on the music and not exclusively on him.  For me, 
it was intriguing to watch his silhouette against the video 
screen backdrop as he sang, contorting with what was 
obvious passion for the music and the art.  Danny's 
drumming was completely mindblowing.   Everything was 
incredible, the music, the vocals, the visuals on the screen... 
I was completely entranced and almost moved to tears at 
some points.  Thank you Tool... this will not soon be 
forgotten.  








Review written by: Tool fan (bbb@ccc.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 16:20:04 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  TOOL SUCKS

The Tool I saw last night was different than any incarnation 
of the band previoulsy.  Good or Bad, this hurt their 
perfomance which was TECHNICALLY brilliant the visuals and 
music were technically TOP - NOTCH however i got the 
feeling that they had no emotion.  There were some truly 
awesome solos and riffs and beats and all that however it 
was bland, reheased, and downright boring.  I found myslef 
thinking about the drive home or what i was going to do 
next week rather than Tool and the music,.  Every other time 
I've seen tool they have been simply mezmerizing, you cant 
take your eyes off them, holy shit kida feeling.  Last night 
was boring it seemes more like some kind of polished art 
show rather than Tool show.  NOT ONE SONG OFF THE FIRST 
2 ALBUMS...WHAT THE FUCK????  Well I'm going to see 
them in Housont sunday and I'll have the final verdict then 
but I hope I dont find myself yawning again.











Review written by: Roller (bryan.roller@EPSIIA.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 16:41:48 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  the show was almost exactly as i expected-- not up to par as 
far as tool is concerned.  their show 4 or 5 years ago at the 
international ballroom in houston was something that i will 
remember forever.  but last night is already fleeting.  what 
happened to heavey metal?  the guys need to get some 
speed in they're set.  maynard's pussy ass wouldn't even 
turn around--THE ENTIRE FUCKING SHOW!!!  don't forget who 
put you where you are!!  well enough!  tool are excellent 
musicians.  danny is unbelievable.  that's basically why i 
decided, after reading setlists and realizing i wasn't going to 
hear old stuff, just their new heroin induced music, that i 
would go anyway.  they should not have even let those clown 
drummers with their little toms up on stage with him.  they 
were doing everything to just keep up with him -- to no 
avail.  the soundman sucked ass.  i was up in the pit and 
love loud music, but dammit not distortion!!!  even though 
the music was very interesting, i don't like their new stuff.  it 
blows!!! i'm an old tool fan, and think maynard sacrificed 
much putting many good sounds to apc.  i still would not tell 
anyone not to go.  just don't expect what they used to be.  
they've exhausted they're creativity with the new album.  
maybe their next will change my mind.  god i hope so!!!  i 
am glad they played close to two hours.  nothing pisses me 
off more than paying $70 for a ticket and a band barely 
makes it an hour.  this was a good show but not satisfying 
for an old metal head!!!
peace,
roller








Review written by: Drake Hollow (maynard1undertow@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 16:44:01 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  I already wrote half of the review that i didnt have time to 
finish, so here's the rest....

After the (if you want to call it) Intermission, Danney started 
going off, as his usual badass self, on some melodic, 
jungle, arabian beat drum solo that seemingly lasted forever.

At the same time a contortionist was suspended from the 
ceiling. While he was  trancing around hanging in between 
two massive screens flashing twisted visualtic mind blowing 
video affected images, two guys started in on two diffirent 
sets of drums.

so picture this.... 
your staring at the stage implanting memories that will last 
eons longer that you will live, all you can hear is countless 
jungle drum beats while staring at three diffirent drum 
dieties playing at their best. all the while trying to focus on 
mr. contortionist, (what amazed me the most about him was 
that he reinacted the cover of AeNIMA while hanging 50 ft. in 
the air.) and take in all that these video screens have to 
offer

It was almost too much for me to accept.
This lasted, shit i dont know, 15 minutes before Triaad 
actually started, i can say that it was the most amazing thing 
that i have ever seen. Unequaled by anything else present 
on this planet.

As i was standing there absorbing it all, all i could think 
about was how comfortable that moment was. 

One moment of that feeling is worth a thousand life times of 
perfect happiness.

I have to comment on Maynard's chamelion like presence 
on stage. It was almost not human in some sort of way, if 
you know tool you can understand what i mean by that.

The entire band was so in tune with themselves, it was as if 
they were a machine. Playing perfectly in a way that makes 
no conceptual sense.

close your eyes and realize the way that tool affects your 
precious reality, thats what it's all about.

More appreciated than said, Thankyou TooL.








Review written by: imasheep (imasheep@ureach.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 17:48:43 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  All of you pissy about TOOL's direction and progression of 
music, please read some of the articles from the 1995 
section -- here are some excerpts from one article about the 
making of the 3rd album, aenima:

"You can only scream your head off for so long before you 
get
kind of tired of screaming," Tool vocalist Maynard James 
Jeenan
shrugs."Anger is definitley a very cleansing emotions, but 
there comes a
time when it stops being all that useful." .....

"As far as how I look at things, certainly the frustrations
will never go away," he continues. "but, I'll be dealing with 
them
differently. The more I deal with them through singing the 
older songs,
the less there is a need for to continue writing angry 
songs.".....

"All of these
people have made us great big rock stars, " he cackels. "We 
knew if we
could get in front of people they'd see where we were coming 
from and what
we were about. But a lot more people caught on that we 
thought would, so I
think we owe it to them to keep playing.".....

"We really love the music, but we're into the music to
feel better about the world around us, about our places in it" 
he says.
"And, if it becomes more of a burden than a the one we 
were suffering
without the music, then I'd rather go back to "being" without 
the music.
It's not worth it to me to beat my head into the ground over 
this."



If you can't appreciate, don't support it -- they'll be fine 
without you.  Thanks again TOOL.















Review written by: Russell (r.stoneb@mail.utexas.edu)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 18:49:39 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Thank you.








Review written by: maynards serpent (serpent@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 20:10:14 ET


This was this reviewer's 24th Tool show

  Hey you!  Read reviews already posted for your show to see 
if somebody already posted the setlist. 









Review written by: David Aitken (dude@mrair.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 20:46:19 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Well I drove all the way to San Antonio to see Tool. I got 
VIP seats for free fortunately, so that gave me some solace 
in having to drive there. But I must say, definately worth the 
6 hours of road time from Houston. Fortunately, a friend of 
mind goes to Trinity Univ. in San Antonio, and fortunately I 
had 2 tickets instead of one. But the show was, for lack of a 
better word... hmm I'd have to sayyy... Entrancing. I don't 
know if the other show's featured the dude who hung upside-
down, swaying in the middle of the stage butt ass nekkid in 
50 degree weather, but he sure did it here. They had 
projected a blue light on one side of him and a red on the 
latter, whilst he wriggled and made other quirky laerval 
movements. Maynard had mentioned his name, but I 
couldn't hear very well (The Verizon Amphitheater is 
outdoors and has myeh acoustics) But the visuals went really 
well with the music, everyone was right on the number, and 
it was most interesting to watch each of them contribute 
different odd sounds to each of the songs. Maynard had 
some strange digital Roland guitar dealy or something I 
believe it was (I'm really near sighted) he was playing. And 
watching Adam and Justin manipulate the different aspects 
and qualities of the effects on their guitars was really cool. 
As for Danny, well he's hands down the best drummer I've 
watched live, especially the forty-six & 2 break down. =) Well 
I'm pretty lazy and I don't feel like writing any more, but 
what's coolest is that I get to see them sunday at the 
Woodlands Pavilion, here in Houston. Booya.








Review written by: Jake (Jrivera@ktc.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 20:59:30 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  The show was awesome.  Tricky played for about 1 hour to a 
more than half empty arena,  but everyone seemed like 
they were into thier music, they got a big applause.  Another 
30 minutes or so went by before Tool came on.  The lights 
dimmed and everyone ran and  stood up from their seats.  
Adam played the intro to the grudge and the crowd 
exploded.  The video screens were very cool,  naked human 
forms dancing and swimming and that grey looking corpse 
from the Aenima video was dancing and headbanging during 
stinfist.  You couldnt see much of Maynard.  He was singing 
in front of one of the video screens.  Between a song He was 
telling people to stop taking pictures or something. I cant 
remember much do the fact that their was so many joints 
being passed around.  .  The security wasnt all that tight.  i 
got in with a ankle monitor.  My friend was smoking a joint 
in front of a security guy,  and he just told him to keep it 
down.  The security kicked ass.  At the end of the show 
Maynard said I hope we see you again and that was it.









Review written by: Lisa L (paranoidlilgirl@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 23:05:27 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Just wanted to say this was an incredible show.  I was 
impressed with the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre the way it 
was laid out (except the lawn looked puny and I couldn't 
even see it from the floor).  I was a little upset because I 
got there at 7:30 and Tricky had already started and the 
million lines to get in never moved.  Almost an hour later, 
after being checked by 3 people and pocket-searched and 
metal-detectored and patted all over, I finally got in, but 
Tricky had finished and I doubt more than 1/4 of the concert-
goers even saw them.  They sounded good from afar, but 
that wasn't enough for me to judge them.  I loved the blue 
wristbands that said "ENTERING MOSHING AREA IS AT OWN 
RISK" - how cute!  I stayed in the back of the pit, but I was 
surprised at how calm everyone was.  It was an incredible 
show - I loved every minute of the music and the 
performance...Osseus Labyrint was great too :)  That dude 
is strong!  I was so happy that they played Stinkfist and 
46&2.  But everyone was amazing.  In my fave part of 
Lateralus, a mini fight broke out in the middle of the pit 
where I had made my way to, and pushed everyone to all 
edges, leaving a circle with only like 10 guys just walking 
around kind of strangely.  I lost track of the song and could 
hardly see at that point, which was totally an upsetting way 
to end the show, but I managed to stand on my tip-toes 
(I'm a shortie!)  Thank you TOOL for an exceptional 
performance.  Y'all are always welcome back in Texas!  Much 
Luv!








Review written by: felicia (prettyfishy33@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 23:19:10 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  This was my second Tool show so I definitely had high 
expectations, and they did not let me down. The last time I 
saw Tool was back in August 98 and last night's concert was 
a little bit of a change, only because Maynard was fully 
dressed this time. I'll admit, the crowd I had the pleasure of 
being mashed up against down front on the floor was not 
the best audience I've ever been a part of, but who gives a 
shit? Tool was amazing. From the beginning of The Grudge 
til the end of Lateralus, I was in a whole other world. Every 
song was played to perfection just like I had known they 
would be. For me, the best 20+ minutes of music I will ever 
hear in my entire life was definitely the Salival version of 
Pushit. I hate to sound like such a girl, (even though I am 
one) but Pushit produced a lump in my throat and brought a 
tear to my eye. It was so totally awesome. I loved the 
contortionist guy hanging upside down, doing his thing 
during Triad, and the artwork on the screens was very 
interesting to watch. When the beginning of Aenima started, 
the crowd just fucking exploded and I almost lost one of my 
shoes, but it was so worth it. All I can say is that this was 
such an amazing show. Adam's playing was intense and 
perfect as usual, Danny is the Master of all Drummers ever, 
Maynard's voice sounded so beautiful, and who can possibly 
out-do Justin? Tool is my favorite band for a reason. If 
you've never seen Tool live, you are missing out on 
something really special. All the pushing and shoving I had 
to deal with was all worth it.








Review written by: Eileen (groovytx@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:16:28 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  THE AEON

Last night was an overwhelmingly intense and spiritual 
experience. 
The only other time that I have felt those emotions was 
through the birth of my child. 
Like looking through the eyes of my newborn, seeing her 
beauty, I was 
opening up to the beauty that these four talented 
and creative men 
have put forth. The show was astounding. They never cease 
to amaze me 
with their power and love for art as it fills the air, as it is 
captured 
through my eyes transmitting colors and images to the 
receptors in my brain – 
an enjoyable overload of the senses. Truly this was a night 
to remember…

Before that breathtaking evening with TOOL, I had been 
struggling through 
some difficult times, doubting my abilities, knowledge, and 
future. 
I did a tarot reading before the concert asking my inner 
guide to 
show me the events that would unfold during this event. 
All the cards I drew symbolized knowledge, preserverence, 
and inspiration. One card I drew, my favorite, was The Aeon 
representing 
the ending of the past and beginning of the future. All the 
songs 
they played helped me come to terms with my fears and 
doubts – 
closing the door to the troubles of my past and opening up 
to 
a future full of promise and acceptance. I learned a valuable 
lesson 
that night that I will always hold in my heart and remember 
in my mind.

My family, a group of 9 (all friends but I consider them my 
family), 
arrived at the amphitheater with great anticipation. It was 
the usual 
security check split into two lines, one for males and the 
other for females. 
For a brief moment we were separated, but as we walked 
through the gates, 
we met at the merchandise booth. Last night was a “TOOL 
holiday” 
for all of us, so we went crazy buying shirts (some great 
artwork on 
those shirts, by the way). There was a guy being helped by 
his 
friends on the side of the booth. My guess was that he was 
tripping really hard, 
it was good his friends were there to help him out. I’m sure 
he had a REALLY good time :)

Originally we all had seat tickets separated from each other, 
but we 
couldn’t go through this experience apart from one another, 
so we 
decided to go on the lawn. That was the best move because 
we were 
there underneath the stars, the moon reflecting its light 
upon us, 
the soft grass below us, and we were all together as a family 
should be.

Tricky’s performance was great. I’ve never seen him live. I 
think 
it’s always good to check out someone new in concert 
because you get 
a better feel for the music. The drummers for Tricky are 
excellent. 
They came on stage during Triad. I think that was the 
highlight of the night. 
Some people behind me were complaining about the song, 
but I thought 
it was awesome!!! Some people just have short attention 
spans I guess.

Well, during Tricky’s last song, we all decided to take 
our “alphabet vitamins.” 
During intermission we felt the effects rush through our 
bodies as we 
talked and shared our feelings about TOOL, music, art, and 
life. We huddled 
close together because of the coldness felt in the night air, 
and it was great just being there together embracing the 
moment. 
We held each other tight throughout the whole show. We 
sang loudly, cheered, 
moved to the music – we were definitely a group you could 
not miss. 
I’m sure many people around us thought we were a bit 
strange. 
I heard many comments about the way we were presenting 
ourselves. 
To them I just have to say, “You don’t know, and you will 
probably never know!” 
Besides this was a night for me, my family, and TOOL. 
Nothing else in 
the world mattered. And I just have to add that I have never 
been 
part of a family that loves and cares for each other so 
much… 
I LOVE YOU GUYS. TOOL’s creativity, music, and presence 
just 
brought us even closer together that night.

Our mentors were on the stage, putting their all into a really 
well-performed 
and well-composed show. In the beginning, Maynard 
(dressed in all black leather) 
commented on people flashing cameras in the crowd. This is 
not a 
word for word quote but it went a little like this, “While your 
fumbling trying tot take pictures, your missing the moment 
that 
we all came here to share… if you lose your photos, you will 
have 
nothing to remember…” Back in February when APC was 
here, he also 
said the same thing but with more aggression, “Stop 
flashing that 
fucking camera in my face, I want to see you…” I think 
Maynard has a 
really soothing voice. And even though he said those wise 
words, 
people still didn’t get it (and from the reviews I read, they 
still don’t). 
They were too worried about missing the moment when all 
along, 
the photo album and memories are within the mind to 
cherish till the day you die. 
They went into Parabola right after that, and we were in awe. 

I couldn’t really see TOOL that much being in the back, but 
from 
what I could see was Maynard in front of the screen. He 
looked like 
a shadow moving and jerking to the music. His movements 
are 
really tribal-like. I had read somewhere that commented on 
dancing in a certain way to release the negative energy that 
surrounds us. 
Well, Maynard sure was releasing that energy J Adam was 
amazing. 
Justin was incredible. And Danny, of course, was 
phenomenal. 
They did some extended versions of every song. I can’t 
remember the 
setlist exactly, but I do know they played The Patient 
(Maynard played guitar) 
and Triad (sounded like Third Eye in the beginning), which 
was what I wanted to hear. 
During Schism, they added a little bit of extra sounds, which 
was fantastic. 
They really know how to play their shows with ease and 
tremendous power. 
5 months from when they first started touring… they really 
got their show perfected!!! 

Seeing them on stage didn’t really matter to me that much 
because 
I was there with my family to just enjoy the music and 
visuals. 
The visuals were nothing I have ever seen before. They had 
one big 
screen and a smaller screen behind Maynard. On the sides 
of the 
stage were also screens projecting the wonderful 3D images 
and 
different color flashes of light emanating from them as well 
as 
the lighting from the stage. They put a lot of work into their 
production. 
It’s pretty much the same visuals they have been using for 
the past few years, 
with a few new ones, but they really know how to synchronize 
it 
with the music to create exciting and stimulating “eye 
candy.” When Osseus Labrynt 
dangled in front of the screen, I could see him flowing with 
the music. 
The background visuals made it seem he was sinking into 
the screen. 
There was one part where he extended his body to where he 
was facing the crowd. 
I have to admit, that really freaked me out, not because he 
might 
appear to look “weird” but because he really knows how to 
use his body. 
I’m sure it is tough to be hanging from rope wrapped around 
your ankles moving about, 
it takes a lot of strength for such a feat. 
Now I would just 
like to comment on the whiny people who thought the 
visuals were just pornography. 
Wake up and realize that every aspect in our life is art, from 
the day 
we were born to the day we die. Our bodies are art. What 
they show is art. 
Oh, I’m sorry, that’s too much for your brain to handle. Grow 
up a 
little and you might understand. Or maybe you won’t grow 
up… like 
I said before, you don’t know and you probably will never 
know. 
Go listen to Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, Staind or any of those 
other 
bands that might compromise with your intelligence. And to 
those of 
you who have “Maynard complexes” why else would they 
have that screen behind him?! 
It’s not to watch his every move, it’s to pay attention to the 
music, 
pay attention to the visuals. They put a lot of effort into 
producing 
this massive show for us, and all you can do is complain that 
Maynard wasn’t moving around that much. Did you pay $40 
to just watch 
Maynard all night long? Besides, Maynard doesn’t do the 
whole show now does he? 
And another thing, did you pay $40 to get so drunk that you 
would not 
remember what happened the night before, losing a 
memory of a masterpiece 
in the making? That is what TOOL is all about, it’s the 
joining of men, 
of friends, of brothers, that work well together and are cool 
enough to 
share their art with us. Now is not a time to bitch and 
complain, 
but to take something positive from it and grow. It’s the 
ending of 
the past and beginning of the future.

I would like to close with a BIG THANK YOU to TOOL for 
sharing their music and art with us. 
It was truly a beautiful experience. WE LOVE YOU!!! Hope to 
see you again soon.

“With my feet upon the ground I lose myself between the 
sounds 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 be bewilder me. 
And following our will and wind, it may just go where no one’s 
been. 
Ride the spiral to the end, it may just go where no one’s 
been… 
SPIRAL OUT!! KEEP GOING!!”

That pretty much summed up The Aeon…









Review written by: Eileen (groovytx@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:21:12 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  I just wanted to say sorry for the uneven spaces in my 
review... I copied it from my website and posted it here. 
Come visit it if you would like
http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/groovytx










Review written by: Eileen (groovytx@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:32:07 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  Sorry for the spacing in my review earlier... I copied it from 
my website and pasted it here. Check it out if you have 
time :)

http://www.angelfire.com/tx5/groovytx

PS
If I made a duplicate of this message, sorry about that as 
well...








Review written by: Eric (JNewmil430@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:35:52 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  It took me a long time to get there. I didn't know where I 
was going so I was listening for any tool music and got very 
freaked out when I did. Fortunately it was only people who 
were listening to tool in their cars (assholes). When I got 
there tricky was on, but I couldn't hear him really well 
because I still had to get into the show. When I heard Tricky 
say "goodnight!" I got freaked out again because I thought 
tool was only seconds away. I was in a huge rush to get into 
the concert. I missed tricky, but a friend of mine has one of 
his CDs and from what I've heard, I didn't miss much. I had 
no idea I could walk as fast as I did to get to the seats. I 
abandoned my friends when they had to go to the bathroom 
to find my seat, because I didn't want to miss anything. It 
turned out they had time to go to the bathroom and buy a 
shirt and still waited about 10 minutes before the lights 
dimmed and the intro music came on. People had their 
arms to their seats ready to spring up for when tool actually 
took the stage. I was sitting too far back to see them come 
on and for a few minutes I couldn't tell between Justin and 
Adam. Maynard was obviously the guy standing in front of 
the smallest screen  Guess where Danny was. I could tell 
that Adam was the guy in the red shirt because I saw the 6 
tuning strings on his guitar. The visuals started with a ring of 
eyes. Then one of the eyes that is on the first layer on the 
Lateralus liner notes came on in the center as the grudge 
started. The little measuring thing from Mantra on the 
Schism video appeared just moving up and down. And then 
the third eye came on the screen.  The AEnema video alien 
was shown just standing there and it started to twitch. Then 
a grey man with glowing eyes appeared.  When Maynard 
said "choose to let this go" it showed the alien on the 
ground bleeding. 
The immagry was just great. I didn't like when they played 
Schism or Stinkfist because the videos on that were just the 
music videos only certain parts were repeated. I don't mean 
I didn't like the Stinkfist version, I thought that one was 
great. Just how -Ions and Stinkfist went together like they 
did were great. The video for 46 & 2 was pretty good. I 
couldn't recognize it first though. It had a face with 
somethign resembling the third eye only not, and then it 
showed a worm evolving into two people (a man and a 
woman) that eventually started attacking eachother. The 
video for Pushit was two people holding the hand of 
something in the center and just walking around it. It was 
really really good. It eventally turned into several spirals 
that were syncronized with the music quite superbly. The 
Parabola video was pretty much what I'd expected. Swriling 
yellow and light orangish colors, and then theres some blue. 
The Disposition video was at first a metalic thing swriling 
open and then closing. Then it had people in water just 
spinning. That part probably offended the girl who didn't like 
seeing the naked people. What a stupid thing to compalin 
about. Yes there were a lot of naked people in the videos, 
especially in The Patient, but none of that was pornographic 
by any means. They had so many colors and fit with the 
music so well that it was just art. 

I was truely amazed by the audience. After reading several 
reviews I thoguht that there would be a ton of drunken frat 
guys there screaming "PLAY SOBER!" (there actually was one 
at the concert.) And to anyone who does scream that: THEY 
HAVE THE SETLIST ALREADY PREDETERMINED. THEY 
COULDN'T ADD ANOTHER SONG TO IT AND HAVE THE 
VISUALS ALL SET UP IN A COUPLE OF SECONDS JUST SO 
YOU CAN ENJOY A MEDIOCER SONG (well it is compared to 
The Grudge, Pushit, Parabola, Dispo/flec/ad, etc). I loved 
the contortionist from Osseus Labrynt dancing when they 
played Triad, one of the best songs they played all night. I 
looked around at one point and saw nobody moshing to it! 
That just prooved what kind of an audience this was. 
Perhaps the greatest part was when they played AEnema. I 
didn't relaly think that would be as good as it was. Everyone 
was singing along to it. It showed the unity between 
everyone there. In front of me there was some gothic girl 
next to a normal looking girl and they both singing along to 
the song and enjoying it just as much as anyone. The 
Lateralus video was just awesome. It had a regular black 
and white spiral, then it went to this monkey looking thing 
and it's brain, and moved on back to the spiral. Now there 
were two that were red. Go back to the brain, now it's red 
and green. Now there are 4 spirals, and it ends with spirals 
all spinning towards a red third eye. 
That's when I heard someone say it "PLAY SOBER!" 
(dumbfounded dipshit)
There was someone booing because he didn't get to mosh 
or anything, or that he had a seat where he couldn't see the 
band as well as he wanted. I was in 301 and there was a tall 
blonde chick in front of me but I really did't care. I got to 
see the band, hear them perform, and see the stunning 
visuals. That still hasn't hit me entirely.
I GOT TO SEE:
MAYNARD JAMES KEENAN PERFORM FOR ME
ADAM JONES PERFORM FOR ME
JUSTIN CHANCELLOR PERFORM FOR ME
DANNY CARREY PERFORM FOR ME
(and you didn't!) 








Review written by: Vinnie (vinnie@cox-internet.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:42:36 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  3 words OH MY GOD that concert was the best fucking 
concert ive ever been to...i mean even if tool wasnt my fav 
band in the world it still would have kicked ass..i still could 
have gone without seeing a contotionists penis but the 
concert still kicked ass...i had front row seats but by the time 
stinkfist was over i was about 3 yards away from Adam 
Jones....it kicked SO much ass...i wouldnt have missed that 
show for anything!!!








Review written by: Vinnie (vinnie@cox-internet.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:43:14 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  3 words OH MY GOD that concert was the best fucking 
concert ive ever been to...i mean even if tool wasnt my fav 
band in the world it still would have kicked ass..i still could 
have gone without seeing a contotionists penis but the 
concert still kicked ass...i had front row seats but by the time 
stinkfist was over i was about 3 yards away from Adam 
Jones....it kicked SO much ass...i wouldnt have missed that 
show for anything!!!








Review written by: texas (blue_eon_apocalypse@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 00:54:51 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  I drove 6 hours from Nacogdoches to see my second Tool 
show and probably the 2nd best concert I have ever seen. 
My first would be when I saw Tool on their 1996 ænema tour 
in San Antonio.  This show I thought was not as personal as 
the 1st one I saw since it was in more of an arena setting 
than the my first Tool show.  However, the show kicked ass 
and I loved every single moment of it with some 
exceptions.  I thought the band performed very well and 
were at the top of their performance the whole night.  My 
favorite part would have to be when they played Disposition, 
Reflection, and Triad with the drum trio going on throughout 
Triad.  I thought that the band played a nice set list because 
it was more of a musical journey they were taking the 
audience on instead of being a juke box just playing their 
hits or what the audience wanted to hear.  All the true Tool 
fans realized this and all the people screaming for them to 
play Sober, Prison Sex, Hooker, Ticks, or whatever they were 
yelling are not the true fans.  If you want to hear those 
songs then go home and listen to them.  I loved the 
extended bridge they added to Stinkfist and the slower 
version of PuSHit.  I loved hearing forty-six and 2 live for 
the first time live because hearing danny go off on his drum 
solo is just amazing. The Patient was probably the highlight 
of list for me just because I really like the song a lot.  Rest 
of the set was amazing like I said earlier and I am not 
disappointed in the band at all.  The only thing that I'm 
going to really bitch about are the people that are posting 
the reviews saying how pissed off they are that maynard had 
his back to the audience the whole time.  Well you know 
what if you read the articles and actually checked the tool 
website and toolshed you will find that maynard wants to 
give the band more credit by putting the band up front.  He 
doesn't want to be just the front man of the band he wants 
the band to get the credit they deserve.  I respect him for 
that so pay more attention to the music and the experience 
you get when you go see them and worry less about what 
maynard is doing in the back.  Maynard is not the only 
member of Tool and don't forget that.  THere was my little 
tid bit and if you don't like it oh well.  Tricky was a great 
opening band I thought even though the bass was too high, 
the vocals were too low, and the lighting really sucked.  
Tricky really got me ready for the night even though the 
people around me were making fun of him.  Oh well some 
people just suck.  However, if you really did like Tricky you 
should check out his old band Massive Attack and Tricky's 
albums.  Well that is all for now.

TX








Review written by: nothingness (angrydoctor@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 01:21:46 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  tool was great. maynard didn't face the front in the show. 
danny did an awesome drum solo during stinkfist. justin was 
awesome on bass. adam was upset when he popped the A 
string on AEnima. 
overall, tool played an excelent show and should have had 
more of osseus labryinth.








Review written by: Matt (orthancstone@netscape.net)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 05:50:21 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  triad alone made this concert worth it.  the song, dragged on 
to nearly 15 minutes.  for the rest of the songs, the visuals, 
the band members, and everything held me; yet during 
triad, i couldn't even focus.  the drums, the jamming...i was 
floored at how incredible it was.

hearing pushit live was great, since the song is probably one 
of Tool's best in my opinion.  reflection, with the visuals, was 
damn nice too.

on the way out, i heard a guy talking about how maynard 
said "thanks for coming"...this wise man merely 
concluded "thanks for having us".  i don't think it could be 
said better than that.

i've waited a long time to see Tool live and i must say i was 
not disappointed!








Review written by: Gary (slayer1501@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 07:31:36 ET


This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

  The band is not important, what each individual does or how 
they act is not important.  THE MUSIC IS.  It possesses the 
ability to transcend the conventional; to rise above the 
pettiness; to free YOUR mind.  You cannot leave an 
experience like this without a fascination and overwhelming 
understanding that they are doing what no other group of 
musicans can do:  exposing you to new perspectives, 
however subtle they may be.  I  say only this: I feel that if 
every god-fearing person could see a spectacle like this, 
then they wouldn't have anything to  fear.  You are a god, 
you are a light.  Check your baggage at the front door, you 
can't take it with you.  Once you get lost in the moment, you 
become truly free to choose your own way.  We are all in this 
together, so why fight each other?  Enjoy the moment, feel 
it, and rise above what you've been conditioned to fear.  
There is No death, No god, Only life.  Break the mold, 
embrace each other. This body holding me, reminds me of 
my own mortality.  Embrace this moment. remember we are 
eternal, all this pain is an illusion.  I am not alone...neither 
are you.  By the way, the show was...(see it for yourself, 
form your own opinion, then share it...I did).









Review written by: Bushmaster (lachesis@austin.rr.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 07:39:01 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  I'm still amazed at Thursday night's show.  This band is far 
beyond anything that anyone else is doing today, both in 
terms of performance and songwriting.  After the frustration 
of standing in line for almost an hour and a half to get in 
(the Verizon staff kept bringing to mind the term 
"dumbfounded dipshits"....didn't anyone there stop to 
realize what a clusterfuck their security would cause?) we 
finally got in and made it to the orchestra floor.  From what I 
saw, the Verizon looks to be a great place, and I can't 
complain about the sound, but until they get their security 
worked out, I'll pass on amy more shows there. 

The concert was breathtaking.  They amazed me the first 
time I saw them at Austin Music Hall and I thought this show 
far surpassed that one, if for no other reason than the 
astonishing songs they brought us on Lateralus.  They just 
get better and better.....Danny Carey has to be one of, if 
not the best drummer in rock today.  There were a couple of 
songs I'd like to have seen, but they can't play everything, 
and I definitely enjoyed what they did play, and the show 
had a great flow.

I got a huge kick out of seeing King Crimson drummer Pat 
Mastellatto jam with them (didn't catch the name of the 
other guy....Pat lives in Austin).  The fact that Maynard kept 
his back to the audience didn't really bother me, as long as 
the music was as good as it was.....and it was.  Possibly he 
didn't want to take attention away from the great visuals 
onscreen.  At any rate, he's not the first to "hide" from the 
audience....Miles Davis, for one, was known for it as well.
I've been seeing concerts for 30+ years (my first was Jimi 
Hendrix in '69) and this was one of the best.  I sure as hell 
hope it's not another four or five years before we get 
another chance to see them.








Review written by: 8TamaZ (8tamaz@operamail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 11:51:56 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  I have been playing drums on and off for 15 years, and 
mainly went to see Danny Carey.  I love TOOL's music, but I 
wanted to see what he was actually doing, and what was 
dubbed in.  All I can say is what I said at a drum BB I go 
to.....there are some drummers you go and see, that you 
walk away and say "Wow, that guy really has his shit 
together", and then there's drummer like Danny Carey (his 
caliper, not his style), that you walk away feeling different 
about drums and music in general just from what you saw 
them do.  I was speechlessly impressed by Danny's ability.  
He is truly a gifted drummer, and expanded my horizons as 
a drummer seeing him play. It was just an endless barrage 
of perfectly executed chops, and most everything heard 
percussive, is him playing (w/exception of percussionist 
brought towards middle of show).  The band's tightness is 
excellent, and Maynard really has an awesome voice. Really 
an excellent band. I REALLY would have liked to hear Ticks 
and Leeches, but no dice, maybe next time.  All the audio 
visuals were excellent and added another dynamic of 
enjoyment to the show. Kind of reminded me a more current 
version of what a Pink Floyd concert might be like in respects 
to the visuals.  An excellent show, go see it if you can, it's 
worth every penny.









Review written by: Kathy (spongekitty@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 12:03:54 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Totally awesome show.  Maynard is an amazing singer and 
the band preformed an outstanding show.  Many  cool things 
going on, eg: naked man spinning from ceiling... Maynard 
was so fucking polite and serious,  would definently go to 
another show.  Just to say,  people went so nuts at the 
Amplitheater... many body gaurds were knocked down so 
people could jump into the pit.  I had VIP tickets so I was in 
the third row and let me tell you... i have never been to a 
better concert.  they played all the good songs.  no wonder 
they are my favorite band.








Review written by: Steve (stevielara@netscape.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 12:05:41 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Awsome show, The props and different things, like the guy 
from the skism video coming out, was cool.One of the 
longest shows ive been to it was 2 and a half hours of solid 
tool. Manor never faced the audience though but it was 
cool.They played videos with every song and even though it 
was tool there was some serious pit goin on








Review written by: Mike Hartmann (prYingOpenUr3rdi@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 17:32:05 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Simply amazing.


Thank You Tool








Review written by: Danielle (cinderblock7@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 20:43:09 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  The Tool show Thursday was  indiscribable. I stood 
dumbfounded. I couldnt move when Tool came on. I noticed 
that during aenema  Maynard changed  some lyrics. During 
either the whole fret for your...or fuck... Maynard said cocain, 
choroform, and condom. I think it was the fret part( freit for 
your cocain...) Anyway when the whole experience ended as 
Maynard, Adam, Justin, and Danny left the stage it seemed 
like it lasted only a mere hour instead of the 2 hours + that 
it was. During the trilogy for som unfathomable reason the 
whole seated section directly in front of me sat down as if 
the band went off stage to take a break or something. I 
read a lot of the reviews and most said how unattentive 
Maynard was during the show but ,f you actually saw him 
cavorting intensly about during each song he was clearly  in 
a placce at which only the music could take him. Who cares 
if he didnt face us in the very front of the stage! Are Justin, 
Adam, and Danny just totally obsolete.  During Stinkfist and 
Lateralis my body went completely numb. Only Tool has ever 
made me feel that way. I was transfixed in a state of 
dadatement adn sheer induplicatable and inexplicable 
pleasure and desire. I only wish i could go to the show on 
Sunday to experience a completely new feeling.








Review written by: Mr. Cory (herarety@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/27/01 23:41:53 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  This show is best described as: beautiful art. It was more 
than music, the visuals, maynard, the experience. 
Throughout the long, but by no means bad (fuckin awesome 
actually), Dispostion, Reflection, Triad and then some, I was 
completely relaxed and into it. Focused and my mind 
exploring the whole time, contrary to the idiots around me 
who seemingly heard "Schism" on the radio and decided 
they'd go to the show. You know, rock music and beer. Like 
I said, idiots. Missing out on what Tool is all about, "Be 
patient" best sums up something they could learn to do.
Aside from that though, I LOVED this show. The way Maynard 
noved with the flow of music when he was suspended, the 
lighting upon him, Truly art, and it was beautiful. It was 
more than just music. It was more than just a concert, it was 
a performance. Perfomance art.








Review written by: mike benavides (meb95905@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/28/01 17:21:54 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  set list looks good.  show was pretty amazing.  intermission 
a bit too long Adam, but its understood.  it was awesome to 
hear the salival pushit and great to hear the patient.  they 
used some very good digital imagery, but a bit too much 
reptition, despite its apparent intent for effect.  it also 
comes to light that justin does a lot more of the guitar 
sounding music than it sounds on the album. it seems like 
he wrote almost all of schism.  maynard didnt talk much at 
all and didnt face the crowd too much either, but he wasnt 
pleased with the camera shooting and people with lighters 
as they "were missing out on the momemnt the rest of us 
are sharing".  they used the ribcage image from undertow 
on the screens and played a merkaba like sober intro 
without sober. that was a bit odd.  the show was overall 
great, but not as awesome as in 98'.  tricky was good and 
played a short set.  we're off to houston. laters.
mike









Review written by: Acidstud (hhansenii@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/28/01 18:52:05 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  Well this was My home town show the big one in my eyes.  
Comin off a high from the Dallas show the night before and 
ready to get into the TOOL show with my sister and girlfriend 
and my friend  steve.  Man they venue was so great the 
orchastra seats and the pit area had a nice group of people 
and the sound quality was great.  The show started and i 
seen 4 giant screens?? wow i was totaly energed in the 
sights and sounds
.
The version of pushit was breath taking I take that back the 
entire show was with out a doubt the best thing happing at 
thgat moment Maynard taught us all a lesson with his 
speach about cameras and memerioes
.
But any ways off to new orleans for vood fest  thats where 
this sage gets really good
.
over al all the folks i took to the concert from ocasional tool 
fans to hard core live for tool fans said "best thing they had 
ever exsperienced in there live"
.
ohh and one more note The guy that looked like maynard in 
the crowd you rock as do all the fans in san antnio
.
harold









Review written by: euchrid (insertname@swt.edu)
Review posted on: 10/28/01 19:21:21 ET


This was this reviewer's 2th? Tool show

  visuals:  

first off, osseus labrynth was amazing.  only one though of 
them were there but it was still amazing!  i plan to see their 
show very soon...

well, the show was very very visual and a bit different from 
the aenima tour.  one change i noticed was the placement of 
a smaller visuals screen onstage--towards the back of a 
platform where maynard stood.  this was a relief for me 
because last time i saw them (Aug 1998) i couldn't decide 
what to keep my eyes on: the band and maynard's 
entranced, hypnotic dancing, or the awesome and intense 
visuals!  even more so on this tour (maybe cause i failed to 
fully see it last time), the visuals, music, and the ideas (i.e. 
lyrics) worked together to create the "world."  very 
psychedelic and human!!!   i just want to say congrats to all 
of the artists and technicians who worked to make this show 
as visual and powerful as it was! thank you!   

dancing: 

maynard didn't seem to dance as much this time around. he 
did accompany adam on some of the newer songs but on 
the others he didn't dance like before.  i was by no means 
dissapointed in this though because Lateralus is a different 
experience.  i really really do like his dancing though.  it is a 
style all his own and is very sexual and representative of the 
music.  

sound:

maynard's vocals were amazing.  danny's drumming just 
astonished me!  WOW!  this show and the last show (and 
APC's show) are with me everyday.  thank you










Review written by: Lilith (misleadpunkgrrrl@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/28/01 19:46:35 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Maynard is a genius! This was the greatest show i have ever 
been to. I had lawn tickets so I couldn't see the stage to 
well. Just being there was good enough for me. I think as 
trippy as tool may be, You should definitely stay sober for 
their concerts. I wish I could have enjoyed it in all it's 
entirety.....I hope they come back sometime in the next few 
years. 









Review written by: William (hldncafld@earthlink.net)
Review posted on: 10/29/01 12:07:50 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Being five days removed from the Tool show at Selma's 
Verizon Amphitheater, I can admit that I was actually bored 
during some parts of their set. While having read reviews of 
previous shows might have contributed to this feeling, I read 
reviews prior to Tool's show at SGT in August of '98, and 
didn't come away with disappointment.

For one thing, Maynard was not as interactive with the crowd 
as he's been on previous tours, or even previous shows on 
*this* tour. From what I've read on TDN, and in various 
other places, Maynard's a clever guy. You wouldn't have 
guessed that if you were seeing Tool for the first time last 
Thursday night. The only things I can remember him saying 
were an admonishment for taking pictures, and the trite rock-
star send off of "Thanks for being here, we'll see you soon." 
Personally, to have an artist break that "fourth wall" between 
the stage and the audience lends a more personal touch to 
their show. Seen holistically, Tool appeared to be going 
through the motions for much of the evening: "Play unusual 
video," "play a song,"...repeat.

I *was* very excited to hear them open with The Grudge, 
and both Stinkfist and 46&2 were nice follow-ups, but the 
concert seemed to spiral downward rapidly from that point 
onward. I can understand that the members of Tool want to 
create a moody atmosphere onstage, but if the lighting is so 
minimal as to almost totally obscure a performer ( one of 
the Osseus Labyrinth duo), then either the lighting needs to 
improve, or that portion of the show needs to be scrapped.

Speaking of Osseus Labyrinth, it was during the portion of 
the evening when Mark (?) was suspended from a cable that 
I not only sat down, but began checking my watch for the 
time. If he'd done something more; perhaps had someone 
else to interact with, that part of the show would've been a 
bit better. To their credit, Tool does produce some rather 
trippy visuals which I've not seen any modern rock band 
replicate, but if all I wanted was trippy visuals and moody 
atmosphere, I would've watched Salival in the dark while 
playing Aphex Twin.

Was this their best show? Probably not. At previous shows, 
for example most of the mini-tour of '98, Tool either played 
covers and had guest musicians, or added segments to old 
songs like Jerk-off and Stinkfist. Why not now? At both the 
Glasgow and Paris shows on this tour, Maynard actually 
conversed with the crowd. Why not now? Frankly, I was more 
impressed with Tricky even though I could barely hear him 
for most of his set.

I'm sure Tool's on-stage presence will improve as the tour 
drags onward, and I'm sure I'll buy their next CD, should 
they ever choose to release another record. But Thursday's 
show left me a bit let down. It was not what it could have 
been for the money I paid, but the show was an above 
average way to spend a Thursday evening.









Review written by: ER1C (thestepking@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/29/01 13:08:40 ET


This was this reviewer's  Tool show

  I must say I am REALLY glad I didn't pay 30-40 dollars to 
see Maynard's back all night, according to 101.5 in 
Austin.Maynard blew it for me when he was a total jerk-off 
after the APC show last Sept. in Austin.There is no need to 
put anymore money into their pockets.Learn to burn, learn 
to burn,learn to burn!!!These guys are total tools in the 
worst possible way.I do love TOOL but i just don't feel the 
need to support band's who are ungrateful of their fans and 
bands who diss record labels because bottom line, Tool 
would not be ANYWHERE with their record label!With that 
being said, let the name calling,trash talking commence 
towards me!








Review written by: ER1C (thestepking@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/29/01 13:55:21 ET


This was this reviewer's  Tool show

  I must say I am REALLY glad I didn't pay 30-40 dollars to 
see Maynard's back all night, according to 101.5 in 
Austin.Maynard blew it for me when he was a total jerk-off 
after the APC show last Sept. in Austin.There is no need to 
put anymore money into their pockets.Learn to burn, learn 
to burn,learn to burn!!!These guys are total tools in the 
worst possible way.I do love TOOL but i just don't feel the 
need to support band's who are ungrateful of their fans and 
bands who diss record labels because bottom line, Tool 
would not be ANYWHERE with their record label!With that 
being said, let the name calling,trash talking commence 
towards me!








Review written by: Steve-O (rushlvr12@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/29/01 15:39:04 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  First of all I want to thank Danny,Justin, Adam, and Maynard 
for the eye popping spectacle that is their band. TOOL. I was 
barely containing myself as I pulled up to the amphitheater 
I was in utter shock that I was actually going to view this 
marvel of a band. Me and my cousin were like Beavis and 
Butthead just back and forth, "dude were gonna see TOOL" 
huh huh huh, heh heh heh. Well as the show started I was 
anticipating what would follow the opening song since I knew 
it would be the grudge. To my surprise it was 46&2. Oh man 
so great. As the show continued into musical realms I was 
transformed from fan to attic, needing more to satisfy my 
craving. The music was overtaking me in every way. I was 
mesmorized by the video and the hypnotic ways of the 
music. The one thing I could not get over was the 
musicianship of the guys. This band was meant to be, and 
they show it with every note and every beat. As far as 
Maynard having his back to croud, some peope took that as 
an insult. Well if you are real TOOL fans you would expect 
that from Maynard, it's not like it was a surprise to 
me.Overall the show was fantastic in every way. Days have 
past since the show but I am still very much in the "zone". 
Thanks once again to TOOL for making this a memorable 
experience. 
                 "We barely remember who or what came before 
this precious moment, We are Choosing to be here right 
now. Hold on, stay inside...This holy reality, this holy 
experience. Choosing to be here in....." TOOL - Parabloa








Review written by: Sam (sambarrows@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/29/01 17:41:25 ET


This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

  This is a little late, but I don't have a computer at home.  
Saw the show last thursday and it was ok.  I love Tool and 
their music, but I guess they are a little to big for me now.  I 
shall revert back to the albums when I want to feel close to 
them now.  Maynard, as you well know, turned his back on 
the crowd.  However, I would have never known seeing as 
how I was too far away to distinguish any of the bandmates.  
Gone is the intimacy of the smaller shows.  I am not a fame 
warrior, Tool wears that cloak well, but energy has shifted 
into something plastic and forced.  I don't know if its the 
band, the venue, or the new crowd of listeners, but 
something is missing.  All in all, it was a good rock show; 
which is why it was disappointing.  I never wanted to equate 
Tool to just "a rock show", but there it is.  I must say this, I 
have a newfound respect for the music on Lateralus.  They 
sounded great.  So in some way, they did their jobs.









Review written by: Anthony (adidas46_2@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/30/01 01:46:33 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

   Four days later, I'm still amazed.  To call it a concert would 
just be degrading.  It was an experiance that won't be 
forgotten.  Probably one of th best nights of my life. Such an 
emotional experiance, especially during pushit, one of my 
all time favorite songs..i even had to shed a few tears..hey 
even big guys cry..Only thing that really sucked was getting 
my camera jacked by the security guard, what a dickhead..i 
just wanted memories of this wonderful experiance.  Also 
when security kept throwing water during the quiet slow parts 
of pushit and disposition, It's hard to feel the music and 
stay focused when water keeps falling on you unexpectedly.  
Really glad to hear the Patient, thought they weren't gonna 
play it but they snuck it in there..Danny is the most 
innovative and talented drummer i have ever seen or heard 
by far..He makes it look so easy.  For everyone who says 
that their mad cuz maynard didn't face the crowd, yall need 
to realize tool is a band, not a singer, and without adam, 
justin and danny maynard would just  be a guy with pointy 
noise and an awesome voice.  For those wanting sober and 
the hits..im glad they didnt play them to piss you off..It's an 
experiance, not a greatest hits show..A two hour emotional 
roller coaster.. Im glad I went with my friend felicia, she is 
the only one that could understand tool like me and other 
real tool fans...All in all it was an awesome show. 
Unforgettable..Thank you tool..come back soon








Review written by: melodic delusion (hellservices666@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/30/01 18:15:11 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  the tears still  fall from all three eyes as i remember such an 
evening.  I have had the pleasure and privilage to 
experience maynard's presence  and vocals before with A 
Perfect Cricle.  that night  A Perfect Circle took into a 
dream.  This night was different, this night of October 25 of 
2001 I was in bliss.  I am so glad to be alive  for that day i 
was in link with life and reason, and i had found nirvana.  I 
went in there a virgin to the all seeing eye, but these angels 
spoke to me and brought me in tune with all of life and 
helped percieve the different angles aswell as its beauty.  
these angels used music and instruments to unleash what 
they communicated. after a while it wasnt music anymore, 
these "notes" and "songs" became a language,  it became 
the language of the soul.  at that time i had found beauty in 
my puny incoherant life.  
These angels never kept eye contact, it didnt matter, who 
ever was looking at these angels for eye contact were seeing 
through the wrong eye.  I was looking through the eye of the 
mind.  With this eye not only did i see but felt and heard the 
emotion, the sermon and the truth.  every emotion and 
experience i have ever endured meshed and came together 
as i felt the over embracing love and astronomical divine 
power these angels made.  i grew wings and flew with their 
word, with their teachings.  I had come to them after 
experiencing a close death.  I had understood life before 
but after this night i becace part of it.  they told me i was 
eternal and my pain was an illusion.  nothing else mattered 
but this moment.  the past was gone for i had died and 
became reborn under their wings.  Now i know what they 
know.  for whoever  has the chance to experience these 
angels take hold of that moment and cherish it, but 
remember that you must  see, hear, and feel them with the 
right eye, through the eye of the mind and soul.
May nature be with you all and may the earth bless these 
angels of the all seeing eye.  Melodic Delusion








Review written by: melodic delusion (hellservices666@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/30/01 18:30:14 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  the tears still  fall from all three eyes as i remember such an 
evening.  I have had the pleasure and privilage to 
experience maynard's presence  and vocals before with A 
Perfect Cricle.  that night  A Perfect Circle took into a 
dream.  This night was different, this night of October 25 of 
2001 I was in bliss.  I am so glad to be alive  for that day i 
was in link with life and reason, and i had found nirvana.  I 
went in there a virgin to the all seeing eye, but these angels 
spoke to me and brought me in tune with all of life and 
helped percieve the different angles aswell as its beauty.  
these angels used music and instruments to unleash what 
they communicated. after a while it wasnt music anymore, 
these "notes" and "songs" became a language,  it became 
the language of the soul.  at that time i had found beauty in 
my puny incoherant life.  
These angels never kept eye contact, it didnt matter, who 
ever was looking at these angels for eye contact were seeing 
through the wrong eye.  I was looking through the eye of the 
mind.  With this eye not only did i see but felt and heard the 
emotion, the sermon and the truth.  every emotion and 
experience i have ever endured meshed and came together 
as i felt the over embracing love and astronomical divine 
power these angels made.  i grew wings and flew with their 
word, with their teachings.  I had come to them after 
experiencing a close death.  I had understood life before 
but after this night i becace part of it.  they told me i was 
eternal and my pain was an illusion.  nothing else mattered 
but this moment.  the past was gone for i had died and 
became reborn under their wings.  Now i know what they 
know.  for whoever  has the chance to experience these 
angels take hold of that moment and cherish it, but 
remember that you must  see, hear, and feel them with the 
right eye, through the eye of the mind and soul.
May nature be with you all and may the earth bless these 
angels of the all seeing eye.  Melodic Delusion








Review written by: Adriana (Insayshbl74@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/30/01 21:58:51 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  This was my first TOOL show.......I don't even think I walked 
out the same person.  What an experience.  The night 
might have taken a slow start....with all the extra pat downs 
and such......but it was all well worth it.  Tricky should have 
gotten way more recognition.  Some people have no 
patience. When TOOL hit the stage.......I jumped about 10 
feet in the air.....every song was a testament of our 
devotion!  Maynard was beautiful.  The band has a 
musicality that is beyond compare.  The long jams and the 
exceptional TRIAD performance will be imprinted in my 
subconscious forever.  I do regret NOT hearing any Opiate or 
Undertow material, but the band knows what they're doing.  
No one should complain.  At least be glad you got to 
experience such a masterpiece....there are some TOOL fans 
in NY that will never get to be a part of such a concert.  As 
Maynard put it..."All we have are memories......"  
Omnia Vincit Amor......

Adriana









Review written by: Adriana (Insayshbl74@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/30/01 21:59:13 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  This was my first TOOL show.......I don't even think I walked 
out the same person.  What an experience.  The night 
might have taken a slow start....with all the extra pat downs 
and such......but it was all well worth it.  Tricky should have 
gotten way more recognition.  Some people have no 
patience. When TOOL hit the stage.......I jumped about 10 
feet in the air.....every song was a testament of our 
devotion!  Maynard was beautiful.  The band has a 
musicality that is beyond compare.  The long jams and the 
exceptional TRIAD performance will be imprinted in my 
subconscious forever.  I do regret NOT hearing any Opiate or 
Undertow material, but the band knows what they're doing.  
No one should complain.  At least be glad you got to 
experience such a masterpiece....there are some TOOL fans 
in NY that will never get to be a part of such a concert.  As 
Maynard put it..."All we have are memories......"  
Omnia Vincit Amor......

Adriana