concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart
11/01/2001



Review written by: Stu Horn (StuartHorn@aol.com)
Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:01:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Well this was my 3rd TOOL show and all I can say is they keep getting better and better. The first time I saw TOOL was at the Lalapalooza tour here in L.A. I went primarily to see RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE. It took me a fucking 2 hours to park in the lot, so I completely missed the opening band: RATM. I was so pissed off. The next band was TOOL. I had no knowledge or familiarity with their songs then. I remember reading about the lead singer, how he would glare at the audience like a shark. That sure seemed to be true as, I looked at lead singer through my binoculars, he stared back at me for a long time. I’ll never forget that moment. He looked as though he was going to beat the shit out someone (me). It was electrifying and terrifying. I remember seeing over 15 great bands that day, yet TOOL had the greatest sound mix and cleanest and clearest bass beat. I thought they were a very good band. Several years later, TOOL had become my favorite band by far. I saw they play in LA once again on their Anemia tour. That was the best concert I had ever been to. The music was so very good. I know knew every note and every word of each song. I felt as though I was cast into a spell. I wished the concert would never end. And now, my third time seeing TOOL at the Verizon Amphitheatre in Irvine. I was quite upset about not being able to see TOOL at the sold out Wiltern shows. I was happy that this opportunity came up and happy see a couple of older guys there in their 50s and 60s. Most of the audience is of course very young, in their 20’s I would guess. I am 48, so I guess I’m getting up there. My only complaint is that I think the group really does not like L.A. and feel it is a shallow city. One of their songs is about how bad LA is anyway. They made a comment during the show, something about does everyone from Hollywood have a pillow to sit on, or how spoiled everyone is. Very Uncool man! I did like the fact that Maynard thanked everyone for coming a couple times and stated it was good to see everyone…Now that IS cool. Finally, in regard to their Lateralis show. Well, it is unreal. All of the older songs felt fresh and new, just as great as the newer songs from Lateralis. Very, very good. Worth every penny. A hypnotic experience. I think TOOL has transcended what most every other group is doing. I love them. Saturn comes back around to show you everything Let's you choose what you will not see and then Drags you down like a stone or lifts you up again Spits you out like a child, light and innocent. Saturn comes back around. Lifts you up like a child or Drags you down like a stone To consume you till you choose to let this go. Give away the stone. Let the oceans take and transmutate this cold and fated anchor. Give away the stone. Let the waters kiss and transmutate these leaden grudges into gold. Let go.

Review written by: Ami Sandler (myhappypants@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:14:49 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Hearing "Ticks and Leeches" made the show. Maynard dedicated the song to all of the "Hollywood fans" in the audience. It was amazing... He literally had to sit down the entire time to scream the notes of the song. Opiate was incredible and still sounds fantastic, long after 1992... Tricky was fantastic as well. Tricky also came out and provided background vocals during Reflection, which is amazing enough to hear live anyway.

Review written by: Erik (edadej@usa.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:15:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

WOW!!! I'm still in a sense of pure bliss after this show. I saw Tool at the mini-tour in San Diego and I thought that was great. The Irvine show was eons better. Excellent sound, superb visual images, masterfully designed set list, etc. They even had Mark and Hannah of "Osseus Labrint" peform during Schism and through the first song after the break but I can't remember which one cuz I was so aw struck. I didn't bring a pen to write down the set list but here's what I remember (in no particular order)... The Grudge The Patient Stinkfist Schism Parabola Ticks & Leeches Opiate (not kidding, it was great) Disposition Lateralus Eon Blue Apocalype (just the beginning seconds) Pushit (slower redition with Tricky, pure genius) Triad (with Mark of Tricky helping) I'm not gonna say much about Tricky because I didn't really care for him/them. They were okay, just not as an opener for Tool in my opinion. Plus I didn't care for his additions to a couple tool songs. Overall, it was well worth the money and 3 hour drive for me. See you at the next show. LLT

Review written by: Timmy (sftimc@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:23:46 ET

This was this reviewer's 15th Tool show

First the setlist.... Grudge Stinkfist (Extended w/ extra verse and jam) Ticks & Leeches (Yeah that's right, second time ever) Parabola Pushit (Unbelieveable Salival Version) Schism Disposition Reflection Triad The Patient Opiate Lateralus Now the review, Let me start by saying that I am about as devout of a Tool fan as there is and I have been seeing them since '92 and I can honestly say that this show was the best I have seen. Every song was played to such perfection, every song was jammed out longer than the studio tracks, and the visuals (MY GOD THE VISUALS!!) Talk about psychedelic!! Props to Verizon Amp. as well because the sound from the Loge section I was sitting in was as clear as can be!! Here's a few notes about some of the songs, before Ticks Maynard said "since some of our Hollywood friends are here we are going to play a song we don't play very often... And let me tell you Ticks fucking ripped live!! Maynard was using some crazy effects on his voice throughout the song and he was gyrating all over throughout the song!! A couple other notes: Pushit just continues to get better and better, The Paitient had some fucked up visuals!!, and the trilogy of Dispo, Reflection, and Triad made my night!! My only gripe was the had this guy from Tricky's band mumbling over some of Reflection but I was ablt to tune that out and focus on my boy Maynard!! And thrn Triad, HOLY SHIT IS THIS A JAM OR WHAT!! This song sums up why Tool has taken thier craft to the next level, this jam was as good as any jam I have ever heard by any band!! Then to end the show with the title track from the album that they basically played in it's entirety tonight was perfect!! Spiral Out!! Keep Going!! Sometimes living in LA, Tool plays on a different level because it's thier hometown, example: '93 Church of Scientology shows, '98 Palladium shows and now this show on Nov. 1st, 2001!! Trust me, get the bootleg it will be soooo worth it!! Peace, TC

Review written by: Josh (pr4mojo@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:29:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 15th Tool show

Unbelievable show. Possibely the best Tool show I have ever seen. Even heard Ticks And Leeches. Words can't describe how excited and special I felt for getting to see that performed. My only gripe about Tool now is they need to mix up the setlists more often.

Review written by: moz (plasticmoz@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 13:33:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Pretty amazing show, however being the third time I've seen them on this 2001 tour I wasn't as excited heading in. That all changed when the show started though. Probably the most energetic Maynard has looked in a while, he seemed to be really on his game last night. Ticks & Leeches was incredible (perhaps a little bit better than the only other rendition in FL which I heard on a recording). He was really hitting those highs, as evidenced by Opiate which was probably one of the better live renditions I've heard. Very unique setlist with Ticks & Leeches, The Patient, Opiate & Triad. Overall, I'd have to say it was one of the more special Tool concerts Ive been to/heard - the group hug at the end was a nice touch. Last couple of times Maynard didn't partake in it, but he did last night. Awesome show - thanks guys.

Review written by: Orgbd (Orgbd@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:02:27 ET

This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

I trembled during the show. It's just amazing what they can do on stage... Long live TOOL.

Review written by: jason kuhlman (jasontk@mac.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:08:03 ET

This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show

no set list. the second one posted was accurate. the show was SO WONDERFUL. obviously, as everybody is probably mentioning here, we were treated to Ticks and Leeches last night. it was pretty incredible. the FX on maynard's voice were a little too much, they got a little bit in the way of the rest of the band but it really wasn't a big deal. it was a powerful performance. the sound was pretty darn fantastic. i was extremely amazed at the quality of the sound the night before at cox arena in san diego and the sound in irvine was, most of the time, on par with that. maynard dedicated Opiate to "paul of love." it took me a few moments, (which is sad because i do speak french), but "D'Amour" is french for "of love." Paul D'Amour! i'm guessing he was in the audience, very nice. that got me thinking...it's been 6 and a half years since i last saw them play with Paul and has been just short of 6 years since the first time i saw them play with Justin...just reflecting...anyway, the performance last night was extraordinarily beautiful. in the 8 years/10 shows that i have been watching this band perform they have progressed, evolved, matured, grown, developed...this show became a bit of chance for me to think about that, and reflect upon it in light of my own personal growth/evolution over the same course of time. it was a nice thing to do. i began to realize that for all of the intense changes i've gone through in the past 8 or 9 years, there has been this one single constant, the one thing that has seemed to move with me, to be some sort of parallel, an entity that is outside of me yet always seemed reflective of my own being...that is TOOL. last night in irvine ranks up there with the night before in san diego, and the two times i saw them in 1995, (one with Paul, one with Justin. the one with Justin was a mix of current material and songs from the then unreleased Ænima). out of all the times i've seen them, those 4 shows were the most significant for me. ok, i've rambled enough. the performance was inspirational and life affirming. oh, and i really enjoyed tricky's peformance on Opiate. his sick, deadpan voice sounded textural and seductive there. it was very nice. TOOL, thanks again. i really appreciate it.

Review written by: Rose (MJKtoolfreak@msn.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:18:17 ET

This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show

I won't go into the setlist, I'm sure it'll be given a million times. So, just gonna say, what an AWESOME show. They are.....TRUE ARTISTS. They've definitely come FULL CIRCLE. The visuals were amazing, the folks dangling upside down, the way they were moving & for as long as they were up there, kicked ass!!!! The sound wasn't too good though (an indoor show would've been better for the ears), such as the Wiltern. Maynard DEFINITELY SURPASSES them (the "NEW" gen. of supposed vocalists) all. All in all, 2 thumbs up............ And two middle fingers up for the old, clueless fucker up on the lawn that yelled "Maynard's a freak"........... FUCK YOU & your mother, Beaaach......... Peace be w/all TRUE fellow freakers!!!

Review written by: Charles (celindsey@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:34:46 ET

This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

Notice how every single fucking review here is positive. That is because this show was the one. Man the boys were ON. Tom Morello from Rage was sitting the row in front of me. The fucker had to sit down the entire time. I would too if I were him and I was watching TOOL. Dan your rythems capture every part of my being....I know you are aware of what you can do. Thanks. Thanks TOOL. I almost feel like I need another 5 year break after that one. I'm SO glad I was able to see that show last night. Time to be positive, Charles

Review written by: marina (redfive.bender@verizon.net) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:40:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

the tool show as already reported was amazing. Having attended the short club tour previous to this one, I found the songs this time around played in expanded form. the band left out the songs most would find memorable...46&2, aenima, prison sex, intolerance, sober were all left out of the set...whooray! the band really showcased the lateralus cd in all it's splendor. the visuals as usuall, were top notch. I enjoyed tricky...not too sure why so many bashed him in previous reviews. He played (for those that care) most of the new album blowback and played a reworked verison of black steel in the hour of chaos. The crowd from the lower lodge section was quite aprreciative of tricky and his incredible backing band. he joined tool for an amazing verison of opiate, closing with big bear hugs for the various members of the band. for those interested in merchandise, there was several new shirts available that ranged in price between 35-40 dollars.

Review written by: Master Reviewer (Greschpants@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 14:47:49 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Dude, could you put any more people in the worst venue in CA, YES you can and thay did. I'm shure the show was the shit if you wern't being smashed and bernt to death. I guess I was spoiled by seeing Tool in a more personal venue but this show definitly lacked drive and energy. I loved the set list and thought thay were on the whole time, but fuck the fans that felt thay had to grab TP and shit that could bern and put it on a fire started by some kid who hates his or her mom or dad. FUCK all the people on the house left side of the grass (Longtin). you couldn't just stand and watch the best band in the world, instead you took your little dicks and tryed to make them big., all you did was piss off the staff, Me, everyone who's attention was focused on the fire and not on the band. the last two song where the shit, but I couldn't see do to the fucking fire five feet from me. Never the less I had a good time, I just had to vent. I found enjoyment in small things like the guy behind me passing out could or all the kind bud being passed around (thanks, you Know who you are), and even watching drunkin people jump over the bar to try and get closer. All in all this was an ok show, I had fun and so did every one I came with.TOOL thank you for giving me the oprotunity to see and be moved in a positive way.

Review written by: grimlokk (grimlokk@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:02:06 ET

This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show

this was my 10th TOOL show... if TOOL keeps creating and evolving such as they have been, i'm frightened of where they will take us... two consecutive nights of TOOL (SD,irvine)... it's never enough, i'll always need more, i will never feel satisfied... i want it, and i need it, to remind me i'm breathing, feeling, and to make me feel more alive than anything this world provides... you've read the setlist, you've heard the reviews... i think the only missing piece of info so far is that STATIC played on TRIAD... first time this tour i think?? adam, danny, maynard, justin: THANK YOU. PLEASE DON'T EVER STOP CREATING... write me: grimlokk@aol.com

Review written by: Kevin Weis (kweis@math.ucla.edu) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:05:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Here is the complete set list: 1. Grudge 2. Ions (+-) 3. Stinkfist (extended version) 4. Ticks And Leeches (dedicated to the celebrities in the crowd) 5. Parabola (No parabol intro.) 6. Pushit (Salival version) 7. Schism (with contortionists) -- soundscape intermission 8. Disposition 9. Reflection (with guy from Tricky and extended ending) -- soundscape intermission 10. Triad (with guy from Tricky and contortionists) 11. Patient 12. Opiate (with Tricky; dedicated to Paul) 13. Lateralus So just by looking at the set list you can see it was a fucking awesome show. The guy singing on Reflection still got on my nerves a bit, but I liked it better than the previous night (I gave a pretty poor review of this for the San Diego show). With the possible exception of the show I saw in New Jersey back in 1997, this was the best Tool concert (in fact concert in general) I have ever seen. Once again, Tool (if you read this) I'm available as a mathematics/science advisor for any and all future endeavors. I'm a math nerd. Kevin

Review written by: James (jimi_d_is@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:06:10 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Amazing, intense show. The setlist has already appeared and is accurate. One treat after another; first, Stinkfist with it's extended jam is amazing. Then Tick and Leeches dedicated to Hollywood. Maynard actually said a lot before the song and the entire concert in general, much more than he has at other concerts. And then came the most incredible version of Pushit yet, the Salival version but with Danny Carey going insane at the end. The climax of the song was a good extra minute longer than the one on Salival. Memebers of Tricky performed, and at least gave up new versions of Reflection and Opiate. That's right, Opiate. I sang/screamed the opening of this song at the top of my lungs. The Triad jam session was, insert superlative here, with Static helping out, an extra drummer, Maynard on guitar, and Ouesues(sp?) Labyrinth suspended from the ceiling. Lateralus was a perfect capper to the evening's events. Spiral out, keep going...

Review written by: Deon (lateralnema@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:31:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Man, this concert was aboslutely mind bogling. Got there kinda early, roughly five thirty or so, some lady trying to sell me stickers told me i was driving under the influence of tool (ya, what a jerk). We were almost in the lawn, just a couple rows in front of it, but they were still pretty good seats, right in the middle. The people there were somewhat interesting, there was such a wide variety of people. There were a couple people wearing korn shirts and, ICP face paintings, that kinda pissed me off. Oh well, enough of the people, on to the show itself. Tricky openned the show, i felt they did a pretty good job. I loved their music, even though I couldn't unerstand what the jamaican guy was saying. Great music though, had a real unique sound to it. Lights flashing like crazy, lots of purple lights coming back every once in a while. Tricky did a really good job. After that one of the singers said good night, lights came back on, about a twenty minute interval or so waitin for tool. Just as everyone was starting to get real quite and somewhat bored, the lights dimmed, and thus started the grudge. Great song, it just sounded so awesome live. Tricky is great, but Tricky just can't compete with Tool, they're not even in the same league. I dont remember which came next, ticks 'n leeches (HELL YA) or stinkfist. But i remember Manyrd talkin on stage saying "We usually dont play this song, but we have some Hollywood people in the crowd. So how ya doin? Everything ok? Want a beer or something? How about a fuckin pillow for your seat?" Everyone seemed to be gettting a kick out of that. I don't think the crowd was as appreciative as they should have been that tool played ticks 'n leeches. Its one of my favorite songs on Lateralus, and was not expecting them to play it at all. I was stoked. When they played stinkfist the crowd boomed with excitement. That songs just so great, but then again so is every song on Aenema. Parabola was nice, pushit was pretty good. Schism came later, everyone sung along in unisen. I just love the way the bass sounds on that song. Its killer. Disposition-Reflection-Triad was awesome. During reflection the jamaican guy came out and started singin some jamaican stuff, i thought the song would have been better without him. Then Adam played the end of reflection over and over and over. People who complain about how long he went should be placed in a stock and/or pillary, like in the mideival days (however you spell it). While Adam was doin his thing the catortionist were getting ready, pulling themselves to the top of the stage by the rope attached to them. They wiggled squirmed, and did some awesome shit during triad. At one point towards the end Manyrd said the next song is dedicated to Paul, then broke out into opiate. This song made my day. I feel out of all the songs, this one seemed to get the crowd into things the most. At the end of the show Manyrd gave his "make something positive out of this experience" speech, then played lateralus. After playing this the original bassist Paul came out and waved to the crowd. Everyone gave him a good hearty cheer. Thus it was over The only bad experience I had was trying to get out of the parking lot (at least I got a shirt for ten bucks instead of 30 or 40). It took an hour and a half to get out of the parking lot, but once out, all was well. I can guarantee you I will defnitley see them again in the future.

Review written by: Rumpleforeskin (rumplesancho@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:43:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Seeing as most of these reviews are about personal thoughts on the show, I'll just go over what happened chronologically with a little bit of my personal feelings. First off, Tricky played. The 1st and 3rd songs were pretty good, but the rest just blended together into one big "blah." So then Tool came on. 1. The Grudge - Well, part of this song was ruined by some assholes who had those laser light things and thought it would be cool to shine them on the screens. Anyway, it seemed as though they were playing this song a bit faster than on the album. I was on the lawn, unfortunately, but I realized that that's where you get the best sound quality. I was blown away by how perfectly mixed everything was. As far as the song goes, for an opener it doesn't compare to Third Eye. I think they probably should have opened with Triad instead. No changes in this song except for some vocal variations. 2. Stinkfist - Everyone in the crowd loved this one, of course. What was funny was that the band added an extra part to the song, which they've been playing for a while now (I know because the glory of bootleg mp3s). The part came before the "I'll keep digging" line, which threw the whole crowd off. I, being the man, knew that it was coming, though. 3. Ticks and Leeches - Maynard said they were playing this one for all the Hollywood types. The song, as you know, ruled, BUT Maynard used this flanging vocal effect that made his voice way too distorted. I think he was using it so that he didn't really have to scream as much, but that's a major part of the song, so I was kind of disappointed. I got to the venue early enough to hear the soundcheck from the parking lot, and I heard them practicing Ticks, so I already knew they would be playing it. Don't get me wrong, though. This song was fanfuckingtastic. 4. Parabola - Well, at first I thought they would play all of Parabol, but Adam only played about 2 bars of the intro, and then they went into Parabola. That was kind of disappointing, but, you can't really complain when you're seeing Tool. No variations on this song, accept for a couple drum fills and Maynard hitting some slightly different notes. 5. Pushit - Adam started this one out with the creepy guitar stuff similar to what's heard on Saliva, although I originally thought he was playing Eon Blue Apocalypse. They played this song almost exactly the same, with the exception of a little different structuring of vocals in the biggining, and no Aloke Dutta. 6. Schism - Another crowd pleaser, because I guess people love to see songs that they play on the radio. Maynard opted for the higher harmony most of the time. In the middle of the song they put a portion of long ambient sound out before going into the second section. During this period, the people from the video came out and did the "walking on all fours while bobbing their heads and freaking people out" thing. It was pretty crazy. Also, I think they're extremely tall, cause while they were on all fours one of them walked behind Justin, and it seemed as though he/she was as tall as him. Interesting... 7. Disposition & Reflection - Well, this would have been absolutely perfect, except for the fact that the Rastafarian guy from Tricky came out to "rap" on it and proceeded to act like a total assclown. This guy was totally out of line. Given the chance, I'd probably give him a swift kick to the nuts. Anyway, at the end Adam played that guitar riff for about two minutes. A lot of people knew that an intermission was coming, so they started to leave. This was actually one of my favorite parts of the show, just because of how unbelievably soothing the guitar sounded. Plus, the feedback his guitar got was incredible, which proved that Adam Jones is the master of melodic feedback. 8. Intermission (not the track) - Those people from the Schism video came out and suspended from the ceiling. It was cool, but I don't see how they could do it, because they were hanging up-side-down for about 10 minutes. I'd have a giant headache if I tryed to pull that off. 9. Triad - The people were still hanging at this time. Danny started it off with some drum doodling and then the drummer from Tricky came out. No complaints about that, cause that guy is a badass. That Statik guy that plays on the album came out also, although I don't think I saw him move once. Maynard was playing guitar on this track. This was one of the highlights of the evening, because this song kicks ass live. 10. The Patient - Maynard dedicates this one to "all the bloodsuckers in the industry." No variations on this one, but nonetheless, it was incredible. Another definite crowd pleaser. 11. Opiate - Tricky joined in on this one. He wasn't as bad as the Rasta man, but he still shouldn't have been there. The thing that was so cool about this song is that they extended the middle to the point where it almost sounded like something that would appear on Lateralus. 12. Lateralus - No changes on this one, but there's no need for any. The polyrhythm in the middle of the song came out perfectly. This was there closer, and a fitting one at that. Final Thoughts: Well, the visuals and the music complemented each other perfectly. I saw Tool back in 98 when I was 16, and up until now it had been the best show I'd ever seen. I'm not saying this show was better, but they were pretty much equal for me. At the 98 show I was a little kid in the pit in total awe of this band's visual presence and power. At this show I was a big kid comfortably in the back in total awe of the band's visual presence and power. This show, however, was much more visually incredible, whereas the 98 show was a lot more driving. The thing that I enjoyed the most was the presence of Maynard. From my viewpoint, he was nothing but a creepy shadow appearing on the screen which he stood before. One word to describe this: Captivating. And the last thing I'd like to talk about is Danny Carey's drum set. I realized that this thing was only fit for a god, and then I thought "Duh, Danny Carey is a god." Hehehe, how could I have been so foolish. Mr. Carey, by the way, proved his godliness numerous times throughout the night. If you've read this far, I commend you. If this review has changed your life, send me money.

Review written by: Christopher (flippant@nirvanaweb.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:49:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

best time of my life. Whoever was talking about people in the lawn section was right on they started a fire at some point but luckily it was quickly put out. Did anyone else see this? I remember thinking "Oh no here it goes again." I saw the same thing happen with Pearl Jam in a similar venue. I can't even begin to understand what goes on in these people's minds. I hope they get what's coming to them.

Review written by: Adrian Smith (noloveinfear@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:00:06 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

I have two reviews to make, one for TOOL, and one for the crowd. Tool: The band, as always, was incredible. The more years go by, the more experimental they get, and I love it. The so- called "noise shit" that some of my friends complain about is something I am enjoying from this band. I'm still not sure if I liked Tricky's contributions or not, but it was something different. I would have liked to hear more Undertow and Opiate material, but I won't complain about the song selection. Tool is a mandatory performance for anyone with any sense of musical decency. Hearing Ticks & Leeches and the full version of Disposition/Reflection/Triad was well worth the price of admission. The crowd (at least the majority of those around me): I will never understand why someone will purchase a ticket and waste money on service charges to sit down with their $50 beers and yap to their friend next to them for an entire concert. Save yourself the cost of the ticket, the $300 for beer, and stay at home with a store bought six pack in front of your stereo playing the CD you already own. The amount of people that used a live Tool performance for background music for their inane conversations astounded me. Some of us go to concerts to *gasp* LISTEN TO THE MUSIC!!! Fuck arena rock.

Review written by: Toology (circulardrummer@socal.rr.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:05:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Setlist: (Weird mantra/tribal noises) The Grudge (-) Ions Stinkfist (New Version) TICKS & LEECHES!! (Dedicated to all the Hollywood scum) Parabola Eon Blue Jam Pushit (Salival Version with extended Danny trigger solo) Static Jam Disposition Reflection (W/ Tricky) Noises and What not Percussion Jam Triad (W/ Static and drummer from Tricky) The Patient (One of the best of the nite) Opiate (W/ Tricky and extended middle jam) Lateralus (Yet another one of the best) Tool is amazing, that's all i can say. As a drummer, of course Danny Carey was a big big experience for me. Danny is god...The visuals were definately fitting of the songs and they were so interesting that a few times i found myself caught up in the odd colors and images i lost track of where i was...only to later remember i was experiencing one of the most beautiful and touching things i have ever experienced...Danny, Justin, Maynard & Adam..thank you for sharing your wisdom - J

Review written by: Gringo (Gringoburrito@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:05:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Grudge Stinkfist (Bridge jam) Ticks & Leeches (voice synthesizer) Parabola Pushit (salival version) Schism Merkaba Jam Disposition/Reflection/Triad (w/ tricky) The Patient Opiate (w/ short tricky part) Lateralus Seems to me this one was a little more intense than the San Diego show. Maynard was more talkative in front of the LA ppl. (or Hollywood ppl as he called us). He ended up shedding the leather threads by the third song. Justin, and Adam seemed more formal, and focused. And Danny was of course Danny. As far as highlights go. Pushit was real emotional. Maynard dedicated The Patient to "the bloodsuckers in the industry." And that shed a lot of new light on the song for me. The Stinkfist jam in the bridge fooled everybody. Right when everyone was yelling "I'll keep" tool busted an amazing jam, while the crowd got caught singing without maynard. Ticks & Leeches was an unexpected surprise. I have yet to figure out what kind of spell tool are trying to cast on ppl with the Disp/Ref/Triad Tricky routine. But something moved me. I can't even call it a show, it was an experien

Review written by: benny (bvargas@sricrm.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:06:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 5 Tool show

Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. I have to echo what everybody else has said....F'ing amazing like usual! The first tool show I saw was in '92 or something at Fairfax highschool where they opened for (and completely blew him off the stage) Rollins. Since then I have become an addict. Everytime I see them its better, and last night was no exception. I was lucky to have a cousin that won tickets to the Wiltern and took me. That show was by far the best sounding, although not the most energetic maynard performance. I was a little aprehensive about seeing them again so soon on the the tour, but like usual, they brought something fresh! Although the sound was nothing like the Wiltern, Maynard seemed to have much more energy, and the whole mood of the show was different from the Wiltern, where the set list seemed a little harder. I loved the visuals, and the positive vibe! I have also been lucky enough to win tickets to the Hawaii show, and look forward to the general admission venue! It just seems that Maynard and the boys feed off of the crowd so much better in a face-to-face atmosphere. The best thing I can say about this show is that I think it was near two hours, and I didn't want it to stop. (And my wife had tears in her eyes much of the time) See you in Hawaii......

Review written by: Shawn (skiser99@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:16:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Great fucking show! Don't remember the exact setlist, but I'm pretty sure they played every "song" off of lateralus, including an awesome rendition of ticks and leaches. Crazy fucking effects that Maynard was using on the vocals. I don't remember hearing anything from undertow, but I do remember hearing opiate, pushit, and stinkfist, all of them pretty much rocked the place. Always like to hear the older stuff, but I thought it was pretty cool that they played all off their new album, which fucking rocks. Haven't been to irvine meadows in a long time, but it looked pretty packed and the crowd seemed like they were liking what they were seeing and hearing. This is the second time I've seen them this year, I was also at the wiltern for the second show, which kicked ass. I'm just glad I've been able to experience this band live a few times, definitely the best band out there that is still making good music these days. Just the musicianship and power of Danny, Justin, and Adam is enough to blow you away, but when you add Maynard it just takes them to a whole different level. Amazing is the best word to describe the show. Can't wait till they come back around, will definitely get another ticket. You should check them out if you get a chance. Thanks Tool, you guys f

Review written by: Maynard (Maynal2d@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:22:31 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

The concert was great. I had a 2nd row orchestra seat. It was unbelievable. Ticks and Leeches is a good song but was a joke when performed live. Actually, only the vocals were bad. Best song of the night has to be Lateralus. Justin threw a couple of bottles at the end but I lucked out. It was a great experience but the concert at Wiltern was a whole lot better.

Review written by: loafstone (derek@loneorchard.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:37:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

It was a great show.. The sound was incredible, and all instruments, including Maynard's voice, came out loud and clear. Near the end of the set, Maynard stepped on to the drum riser and said something like: "Everybody drive home safe tonight. Make it back in one piece. On your way home when you are reminiscing about what you experienced here tonight, remember these feelings and use it for inspiration. Over the next few weeks, see if you can create something positive with it." Remember, I am paraphrasing. He didn't even need to say it. The positive energy projected by the music was already changing me. The experience of the show was unique and inspirational. The band was on, and enthusiastic. I am not into the guest singers, but overall, I decided it worked. It was just different. At the end, the band hugged and acted like they had just shared something special amongst themselves and with us. It felt good. OK, unfortunately, I have to throw out some negative energy here. Not to offend anyone or imply that there is a specific "ideal" Tool fan, but certain people always seem to ruin the show for me. They get too drunk, they stand all the time, even when no one is standing in front of them. They yell, "You Suck!" at the guitar riff at the end of Disposition. Don't people realize that Tool is not mosh pit, get-fucked-up-and-party-like-idiots music? Tool's music and live experience are very cerebral. If you don't get that out of it, then you are missing out on something special. And I feel sorry for you. Use the energy for something positive. Damn straight. loafstone

Review written by: loafstone (derek@loneorchard.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:39:46 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Oh yeah, I neglected to mention the full moon, tugging my brain skyward while arcing upward from behind the stage to settle above us. It made a difference. loafstone

Review written by: Becca (TidalCoil@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:45:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

WOW!!! I've seen Tool 6 times since the August shows with King Crimson. Not saying this to boast, but to say that this was the best show since that small venue tour. Every single song on Lateralus was played. The Setlist was too good: The Grudge (-) ions Stinkfist (really dope extended bridge) TICKS AND LEACHES!! Parabola (no intro) Pushit (Salival version) electronic jam thing (very, very cool) Schism Disposition Reflection (with Hawk from Tricky) Osseus Labrinth Triad (With adam's nephew(?)on drums and some Trickyguy) The Patient Opiate (with Tricky) Lateralus The show starts with what I believe is chanting monks (I retract what I said in my San Diego review about it being a Digeridoo) and then the screens light up with a ring of colored eyes. There were also two rings of eyes on the floor were adam and justin stand. Danny clicks his sticks together 6 or 7 times and the Grudge. Crowd goes ape shit, of course! The new version they do of Stinkfist is beautiful. I love how their songs are constantly evolving. The extended section start where Maynard usually says, "I'll keep digging". About 10 people all around me screamed it anyways! Same aspects of the original Stinkfist video, but new editing. More quick flashing images. I swear there are subliminal messages. After Stinkist Maynard said sarcastically, "Do we have lots of Hollywood guests here?" Quite a few people cheered and he said, "Oh well, can I get you anything? Cold beer, hot chocolate, fucking coals on your seat?" It was humour. Then he said, "We don't normally do this song but seeing that we have hollywood guests...."(something like that). "This one goes out to all the blood suckers in the industry" Then TICKS AND LEACHES!!!!! I feel privliaged to hear this song live. The visuals were naked women, and some of the visuals they will usually use during Eulogy or Sober. The two scared girls fight away that probing type machine. They effect Maynard used on his voice really enhanced the feeling of the song. I think at this point he had taken off most of his clothes. The Drum part to this song is really powerful. Cool patterens. I wish i knew more about drums so I could describe it better. Parabola is amazing. Like I posted in yestersday's Sandiego review, really cool images utilizing sacred geometry. Mostly derived from the album art. BTW, Alex Grey is to art what Tool is to music (in my humble opinion). Check out his website at WWW.SacredMirrors.com The Salival version of Pushit was so gorgeous it made me cry. They all seemed very emotional up on stage. Danny played the drum part Aloke Dutta played on tablas on his set. It really sounded like hand drums. Maynard practically pulled off his underwear during this one. Sometimes he said "Pushing YOU" where he will usually say "pushing me". I love the video. Saw them on acid back in August and they were INSANE! Saw them sober tonight and it was still great. I'll post the rest later must be going becca

Review written by: NothingMan (halfstep@home.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 16:51:05 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Tricky can suck my Dicky...he was lame throughout, talk about repetitive bass lines and garbled lyrics. I sat in the lawn and saw at least 8 fires, not all at once but as soon as one was put out another started. this is bullshit people, what the fuck are you doing at a tool concert acting like its woodstock with limp bizshit. i sat in the lawn at it was one lame crowd. a bunch of jock/prep so-cal types who think they are at metallica concert. its was you get for so-cal though, bunck of lost fuckers too caught up with themselves. it was actually quiet sometimes after a song, i felt self concious when i was applauding and yelling loud when i liked a song. i dont know what these people were doing there, no energy what so ever. next time im going to spend $150 on ebay and get a pit ticket so im with some deserving fans, i did that for the crimson san diego show and it was worth the extra $100. we should go to these concerts to give tool our support in what they are doing, the entertainment comes second for me. if you sat in the lawn and have an opinion on what was expressed here, tell me so in an email or another review peace throughout and beyond

Review written by: Master Reviewer Gray (grizay@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 17:01:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

My GOD, what an awesome show. I have truly lived now that I know the myth is real. I was pretty impressed with Tricky, a lot less electronica than I expected. A bit unimaginative at times, but I found my toes-a-tappin' and the blood starting to flow. After they finished, and after I recovered from the shock of paying $7.50 for a Miller fucking Lite, I returned to my "seat" at the railing separating the lawn from the upper mezzanine of seats and began the countdown. Unknowing to me, our other group of friends were seated just below. There was no security around so I could've made my way down I suppose. Oh well. Just about then, the house lights dimmed and Tool took the stage. They started with some effects, harmonics and dissonant chords then hit the crowd upside the head with "The Grudge." As I and a couple others around me were going beserk, the majority of people, age ranges 16-22, were just chillin', obviously without a clue of the pure excellence they were witnessing. That disappointed me as it was my first Tool show, but I guess it's to be expected. In this shitty, shoddy pop scene we live in, everyone wants to hear the packaged, 3 minute, 30 second catchy number, something so mindless you can easily interpret. Well that's not Tool. After "Stinkfist," which got casual fans rockin' of course, Maynard poked fun at the bevy of stars in attendance, sitting down close to stage of course. From my vantage point of course I couldn't see what stars were there (and fucking intelligent me, left my binoculars at home after looking at them earlier and telling myself, "oh i'll need those!.") Maynard asked "Alice?" if she needed a pillow for her chair or maybe some hot cocoa. Everyone laughed. At least for diehard Tool fans, Thursday night lived up to all the lofty expectations. The boys sprang several pleasant surprises, including rare performances of "Ticks & Leeches" and "Opiate." A naked female contortionist and her male counterpart from the Tool videos climbed ropes or cables to the top of the stage did a worm dance suspended in mid-air, flopping about and occasionally coming together in an embrace. Opening act Tricky, the lead singer whatever his name is, supplied additional reggae vocals on "Reflection" and the drummer joined Danny Carey on "Triad." While concentrating on songs from Lateralus, they hit an early stride with "Stinkfist," "46 & 2" and a super-charged "Pushit" long jam version. I was right next to the first "firestarter" pit on the lawn, left of the stage, that erupted during "Schism." I was surprised that during that song the crowd seemed a bit restless instead of surrending themselves to the music. Security came down an put out the fires a couple times but they kept rekindling. Finally they were like "fuck it" and let the crowd do what they wanted. I thought things might eventually get ugly, but the preemies in the audience couldn't keep up with the band, as they weaved in and out of "Disposition" and "The Patient." Maynard was very energetic, in contradiction to what others have written about the other concerts in Louisiana and Texas. For the first part of the show, he danced and sang in front of a smaller screen onstage that showed the videos to each song. Two larger screens hung above the stage. By the second part of the show, he strapped on a guitar and played rhythm, much to my pleasure! Before the band launched into its closing number, "Lateralus," Maynard asked the audience to drive home safely and while they were doing so to "reflect on the time we’ve spent together" and strive to accomplish something constructive in the weeks ahead. "Hopefully you found a source of inspiration, and if you needed it, some healing." Amen! The night was beautiful, with a picture-perfect full moon illuminating the clear blue sky directly above the stage. Danny Carey was truly amazing ... I'm lucky enough to play in a band with a really great drummer who idolizes him and knows several songs, so I've seen it a bit up close. But to hear it and see it straight from the master was truly a gift. Adam and Justin were stellar on the rhythm and there's just nothing you can say about Maynard. I've been to some hella concerts in my lifetime, but this is the best one ever!!!! I walked out of Verizon sweat soaked and in euphoria. Now I just gotta find tickets to Mountain View. Road trip anyone?

Review written by: Marc R. (toolrage@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 17:23:46 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Well what can I say after three nights in a row of seeing Tool? We got to the Verizon around 6:30. We kicked it in the car for about two hours drinking and eating shrooms. There were cops busting people for drinking in the parking lot. We met a couple parked next to us. They smoked us out and we shot the shit for a while. We walked into the arena once grudge started. Then Stinkfist, Ticks and Leeches(highlight of all shows I've been to, I was so emotional that I started crying while singing the lyrics.), Parabola, pushit(salival), Schism, Merkaba-like jam, Reflection, Disposition, break(contortionist), patient, opiate, Lateralus. We were at the bottom of the hill when ticks and leeches started playing and we ran up the hill. I spilled my $8.00 beer in the process. We had seats again, so we headed to them afterwards. Some guy next to us told us to keep our volumes down. We just started laughing. Throughout the night, I heard two different people say that Tom Morello and Billy Howerdale were sitting towards the bottom. Damn I wish I'd run into them. I'm trying to think of a better trip that I went to, but I can't. This takes the cake. If anyone out there has the chance to see Tool for two, three or more nights in a row, do it. Life is short, don't think twice about it. They usally play different songs for each night. Is this a test? It has to be, otherwise I can't go on....be patient.

Review written by: Rebecca (Beccarara@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 18:09:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I'm still in shock. I really don't know where to begin but I'd like to avoid repeating the words that have already been shared in every review on this page. I lucked out in the most insane way last night. My friend got us Orchestra row A tickets. Yes first row...A nice treat after my last row Wiltern show. Well, just like every other true fan there, I was trying hard to get into my "tool zone" the second the band walked out. I had some trouble with the mix of the Grudge...it almost sounded "too live", if that makes any sense. But sure enough, Stinkfist came along and I was sucked in to the zone without any attempt at all. I'd like to talk about a personal moment during the show. Pushit, my favorite TOOL song aside from Undertow, came along about half way through the set. I was praying that they would play it because they didn't at the Wiltern show. The salival version started out and I thought about how no matter what happened during the beginning, the song was going to end with my favorite piece of music in the world...where Maynard wails that there is "no love in fear...there will be no other way". I was going to get to that familiar place no matter what and I put my trust in Tool. With eyes closed I let the music take hold of my body and I swayed with it until the more familiar part of Pushit came along (after atleast 10 minutes). Then I allowed myself to open my eyes and experience the visual and the emotional at the same time which was so overwhelming it brought me to tears. This is my trust for Tool. I trust this band with all my heart to create thought-provoking, inspiring, positive, constructive, mind-blowing pieces of art. They deliver, every time without a doubt. Besides my Pushit experience, the highlight of the night was shaking Maynard's hand backstage after the show. It was cold waiting there but as I turned around and saw Daney smiling and sipping a brew I knew I only had to wait a moment longer to see Maynard. I was dumbfounded and could only say "it's an honor" as our hands met. I didn't want to wash my hand, that is for sure. Last night will never leave me. Thank you Tool.

Review written by: Crazy Cpt Joe (jwalcek@ucla.edu) Review posted on: 11/02/01 18:11:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Overall it was a great show. It wasnt as good as the 8/14/01 at the Wiltern, even though I think the 11/1 Opiate was better. I felt as though Tricky rapping during Reflection was a HUGE letdown: there's a reason as to why there is a 3.5 minute intro w/no lyrics; he totally disrupted the flow of the song and contributed nothing to it. I really got angry at this being that Reflection is my favorite Tool song. Other than that, the songs were absolutely fantastic. Yet for the first few songs, Maynard's voice didnt seem up to par, as if he had a cold or was not really into it. That all went away with Pushit, which is when he really sang like he meant it. There was at least 3 fires in the grass behind me, and the crowd was pretty good. Awesome performance by the two artists during Schism and Triad (I forgot their name); they added much as opposed to that asshole from Tricky. Question: what did Maynard sing during Stinkfist? The tune sounds familiar, but I cant put my finger on it. If someone knows what this is, please email me.

Review written by: JERRY (1dazedguy@eboarding.net) Review posted on: 11/02/01 19:25:26 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

TRICKY. TOOL. OSSEUS LABYRINT. AWESOME SHOW.COOL VISUALS, GOOD SOUND, GREAT PERFORMANCE. TICKS AND LEECHES!!!!!!! THE PATIENT!!!!!!! wHAT ELSE CAN I SAY. KICK ASS SHOW, BEST I'VE EVER SEEN.

Review written by: Adrienne (aunni10@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 20:29:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

There aren't even words. Last night was the most unbelievable night of my life. The band performed just beautifully...Maynard was at his best, no doubt. The arena was awesome, as well. I loved the fresh night air and being able to look up at the full moon on frequent occasions. (especially during Reflection...and this line "The moon tells me a secret. My confidant.") Setlist: Grudge Stinkfist Ticks & Leeches Parabola Pushit (comfortable, vulnerable version) Schism Disposition Reflection (with Tricky) Triad The Patient Opiate Lateralus I was so, so pleased with the songs that they played. I almost had a heart attack when the began "The Patient". Maynard kind of played with our minds a little bit...he said something about how LA disgusts him, and he was dedicating the next song to it. With those words, I thought they were going to do "Aenima". But that actually led into "Ticks and Leeches" which is even better live. He did that same sort of line again for "The Patient"...but wow...that song was just so amazing. The crowd about blew up when they started playing "Opiate"...and it was just so good. My only complaint is that the freaky Tricky guy had to go and lend his voice for this song, and it really didn't flow that well. The Grudge is a perfect opening song...it just all worked so well. Tool played just about every song from "Lateralus" (with the exception of "Parabol"). This show has changed me. I will never think of music the same way again. There is nothing quite like being in the presence of Tool and seeing their creative vision live. It was beautiful...amazing...life altering. Thank you so much, Tool, for sharing your beauty with us.

Review written by: Rory Woods (existnot@home.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 20:54:59 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

i thought i might post my thoughts because this was my first tool concert and such was not the case for many. also, this was my second legitimate concert, after having seen rage against the machine in 1999. certainly, tool is my band of preference and going into the show, i had high expectations. needless to say they were fufilled. i was quite impressed with the quality of the sound and the accuracy with which the songs were played. being a drummer, i am quite biased to danny and this experience fortified that bias. another highlight for me was maynard's ability to make such bold, smartass remarks and yet seem so insecure on stage. and to the fellow sitting behind me in loge 8, who commented "the lead singer is in underwear...what a homo": you're gonna die outta cancer, i promise. thank you to the best band in the world. shalom, rory

Review written by: kubrick (sinkwithme@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 22:42:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Tricky was terrific!!! to clear up any confusion, Hawk of Tricky did vocals on Reflection, Tricky's drummer contributed on Triad (badass!!!), and TRICKY did backing vocals on Opiate. coolest version of Opiate i've seen.

Review written by: Chris (chris@eyenovation.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 23:29:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

The set was GREAT, and it was nice to hear Stinkfist after they did not play it the previous night. The sound at the Verizon was not as good as the Cox arena, (either that or MJK just did not accentuate the highs as much.) Perhaps his voicee is worn out after rigorous touring. I was unlucky enough to sit near lame fucking fans who attempted to ruin the show by screaming and spilling beer when they found out that Def Leppard wasnt playing. The crowd, in my opinion, was not really into it as much as the night before. I would even venture to say that 1 out of 5 had no real fucking clue what the hell Tool was even REALLY about lyrically. Its sad when you think about how many good seats they occupy. I really wish Tool would have played Aenima. I was praying these fucking fans would be washed away to the Arizona Bay. But cant complain too much.. The show was still great.

Review written by: MikeG (miketg@mediaone.net) Review posted on: 11/02/01 23:31:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

great show.

Review written by: enrique guerrero (sic_a_phant@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 23:53:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

I just have to say that was the most religious righteous overwhelmingly powerfull TOOL set i've seen this year. The slow Pushit was all time. I'm always amazed at live TOOL, but to hear them sound this good in such a lame venue was once again just your standard TOOL amazement. What can i say, i just skake my head. The way they've been ending with Lateralis just sends me into a world that's seven layers deep. one has no choice but to twist and turn and shake your body driven by the sounds on TOOL. One word of advice. See TOOL live as much as you can because in the three shows i've seen this tour(wiltern,cox arena,irvine) the set has been different every time. i'll see you all at shoreline.

Review written by: jack (ding0@home.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 03:51:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

First off, this being my first tool show, all i can say to sum up everything, is tool is the is the best at what they do, and they were the main force in the greatest night of my life. Being an intense tool fan, the show, and the experiance dwarfed my expectations, i had no clue what i was in for. Follow this story if your in for a ride..... When we got to the show, which was some where around an hour and a half before tricky went on, my friend had two lawn tickets he needed to sell, ticketmaster made an internet error and gave him extra tickets and charged him. And we wanted to find some good drugs, all other plans fell through. Well it turned out they were still selling lawn tickets at the window which left us in a predicament. As my friend said "I wish we could trade these for some drugs" he was interrupted with a previous inquisitor who hade lost his tickets asking if he would like to trade both tickets for a half ounce of shrooms. We of course took the trade immidiately. The cops were combing the parking lot busting everyone smoking weed and drinking in thier cars, arresting a few.... what a necessary thing to do at a show that can change peoples lives. We went in the porta-pottys by my car one by one, and ate our share, there were 5 of us. After eating them we proceeded on into the concert, already on a great edge when getting into our seats. We got split up by seat assignment so we were on different levels, so it left my friend and i in the middle section. We found our seats, but at the time, the whole section had at the most 15 people sitting, so we decided to sit in the same row, just dead center, with perfect stage symmetry in bettween the two projectors. We knew these werent our seats, but with the shrooms and the empty theater our impulsive rational thought said it wasnt to bad of a crime. We were tripping hard by this point, and really couldnt do anything but stay in our spots once people started showing up around us. The crowd was was overwhelming to our fragile minds. All through out tricky, the interlude before tool, and all through the grudge, we had all the seats taken around us, but no one ever checked in on the seats we essentially stole, even though we had seats.... way over there. During the beginning of stinkfist, the owner of the seats showed up, but by that time everyone was standing, he didnt really approch us at first, he just hung out. The songs lyrics never ment more to me than at that time. The shows visuals the, artwork, all the band members, especially danny being a drummer, it all blew me away. My friend and i were definately dancing crazyer than i could concieve at that time, but looking back and talking to my friend, we were both acting much crazyer than anyone around us. The people around us were lauging, some looking at us like we were crazy, but it didnt mater, we were. Tools energy was driving through my body and bones like i have never felt anything before. Ticks and Leeches blew me away. A huge rush of irony came into my mind, when i heard the vocal effect he was using. The song being about a blood sucking parasite, that effect was the volume sucking parasite of the song, a screeching noise that would at times completely overwhelm the audio waves, to where you couldnt hear dannys drums in the least. I looked down, to see my friend, sitting in his chair... spilling everything he had in him on to the ground, so i checked on him to confirm he was cool. When i got up, the owner of the seats approched and said "Hey man, these are my fucking seats anyways man, why dont you get your friend, and get the fuck outta here." I picked my friend up, and moved him aside, showing him he could have his seats, and we could stand here.... we were in no condition to go anywhere, we couldnt even see a way out of the madness. He looked at us with more intent and saw we were doing more than a primitive drunk mind could be, so he said "I guess some one is having fun tonight." And so I told him, we had no where else to go, and i told him we ate some mushrooms, and i was really sorry, my friend was just obliterated standing aside. I apologized repeatedly to him, he said that it was cool and he understood what was going on. We communicated and made it better, i guess he payed attention to schism. We made friends with the man who we had essentially robbed, his girlfriend/wife, and the rest of his group, and they ended up being cool people to share space with, they told us to enjoy our high and not worry, even though my friend purged on his rightful space. We took the space we had next to some girl and the guy smoking huge bowl after huge bowl to his head. The rest of the show blew us away, the most spiritual experience i have ever had. Tool, playing all of lateralus, stinkfist, opiate, pushit, the stage art, the lighting, the visual screens, and the mushrooms were the perfect equation to the best and most spiritual experiance i have ever had. I have never spent my money on a better thing, or had a better time, or heard better music. I am fucking amazed, if tool is following the path its past has lead, our ears are in for a fucking ride, and no one will stay in their seats.

Review written by: jack (ding0@home.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 03:51:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

First off, this being my first tool show, all i can say to sum up everything, is tool is the is the best at what they do, and they were the main force in the greatest night of my life. Being an intense tool fan, the show, and the experiance dwarfed my expectations, i had no clue what i was in for. Follow this story if your in for a ride..... When we got to the show, which was some where around an hour and a half before tricky went on, my friend had two lawn tickets he needed to sell, ticketmaster made an internet error and gave him extra tickets and charged him. And we wanted to find some good drugs, all other plans fell through. Well it turned out they were still selling lawn tickets at the window which left us in a predicament. As my friend said "I wish we could trade these for some drugs" he was interrupted with a previous inquisitor who hade lost his tickets asking if he would like to trade both tickets for a half ounce of shrooms. We of course took the trade immidiately. The cops were combing the parking lot busting everyone smoking weed and drinking in thier cars, arresting a few.... what a necessary thing to do at a show that can change peoples lives. We went in the porta-pottys by my car one by one, and ate our share, there were 5 of us. After eating them we proceeded on into the concert, already on a great edge when getting into our seats. We got split up by seat assignment so we were on different levels, so it left my friend and i in the middle section. We found our seats, but at the time, the whole section had at the most 15 people sitting, so we decided to sit in the same row, just dead center, with perfect stage symmetry in bettween the two projectors. We knew these werent our seats, but with the shrooms and the empty theater our impulsive rational thought said it wasnt to bad of a crime. We were tripping hard by this point, and really couldnt do anything but stay in our spots once people started showing up around us. The crowd was was overwhelming to our fragile minds. All through out tricky, the interlude before tool, and all through the grudge, we had all the seats taken around us, but no one ever checked in on the seats we essentially stole, even though we had seats.... way over there. During the beginning of stinkfist, the owner of the seats showed up, but by that time everyone was standing, he didnt really approch us at first, he just hung out. The songs lyrics never ment more to me than at that time. The shows visuals the, artwork, all the band members, especially danny being a drummer, it all blew me away. My friend and i were definately dancing crazyer than i could concieve at that time, but looking back and talking to my friend, we were both acting much crazyer than anyone around us. The people around us were lauging, some looking at us like we were crazy, but it didnt mater, we were. Tools energy was driving through my body and bones like i have never felt anything before. Ticks and Leeches blew me away. A huge rush of irony came into my mind, when i heard the vocal effect he was using. The song being about a blood sucking parasite, that effect was the volume sucking parasite of the song, a screeching noise that would at times completely overwhelm the audio waves, to where you couldnt hear dannys drums in the least. I looked down, to see my friend, sitting in his chair... spilling everything he had in him on to the ground, so i checked on him to confirm he was cool. When i got up, the owner of the seats approched and said "Hey man, these are my fucking seats anyways man, why dont you get your friend, and get the fuck outta here." I picked my friend up, and moved him aside, showing him he could have his seats, and we could stand here.... we were in no condition to go anywhere, we couldnt even see a way out of the madness. He looked at us with more intent and saw we were doing more than a primitive drunk mind could be, so he said "I guess some one is having fun tonight." And so I told him, we had no where else to go, and i told him we ate some mushrooms, and i was really sorry, my friend was just obliterated standing aside. I apologized repeatedly to him, he said that it was cool and he understood what was going on. We communicated and made it better, i guess he payed attention to schism. We made friends with the man who we had essentially robbed, his girlfriend/wife, and the rest of his group, and they ended up being cool people to share space with, they told us to enjoy our high and not worry, even though my friend purged on his rightful space. We took the space we had next to some girl and the guy smoking huge bowl after huge bowl to his head. The rest of the show blew us away, the most spiritual experience i have ever had. Tool, playing all of lateralus, stinkfist, opiate, pushit, the stage art, the lighting, the visual screens, and the mushrooms were the perfect equation to the best and most spiritual experiance i have ever had. I have never spent my money on a better thing, or had a better time, or heard better music. I am fucking amazed, if tool is following the path its past has lead, our ears are in for a fucking ride, and no one will stay in their seats.

Review written by: Darrell Droguett (figureshitout@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 04:30:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Last night I saw Tool at Irvine Meadows (Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre) in Irvine Nov.!st. I had seen this tour a couple of months ago or so, in Los Angeles at the Wiltern. That show was amazing certainly...but it did not prepare me for what I saw last night. The audience were freaking out . I was still in the parking lot of this out door veniew when they started, and it sounded like I was outside a really scary roller coaster. As Tool played, the audience continually screammed in unison as though they were on an intense ride together. What I saw last night, is THE MOST AMAZING THING I HAVE EVER SEEN IN MY LIFE. The six people I went with all agreed with that staatement as well. I am 43 years old. I have seen more live music than anybody I have ever met. Including 7 of the 8 Led Zeplin tours. I have seen fucking...EVERYBODY. And that show last night cannot evan be compared to ANYTHING else done on a rock stage, because it is so far beyond a rock concert, that you cannot possibly compare it to anything else. I feel like my being was blasted open....and I want more...Thinking about flying to Hawaii??????

Review written by: akasha (akashatool@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 04:32:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Alright, what can I say other then FUCKING AWESOME!!! The night was perfect. When they opened up with the grudge, if you looked up in the sky you could see Saturn in the constellation of Taurus, Danny's sun sign. Talk about Saturn ascending. They played every song off of Laterlus, except the little interludes, as well as salival's version of pushit, stinkfist and opiate. The set went...... 1. the grudge 2. Stinkfist 3. ticks and leeches 4. parabola 5. pushit 6. schism 7. disposition 8. reflection 9. triad 10. the patient 11. opiate 12. laterlus they had the contortunists from the schism video there and they were doing things I can't descibe in words. It was amazing. The show was mystical in a way and you could feel the energy and magnetism that was present. Forming a triangle in the sky, with saturn, was jupiter and a red giant star that I believe was in the constellation of gemini. Im sure they knew and I'm sure that helped make the show as powerful as it was. If you missed this show then that's a bummer but hey they'll be back in this area very soon just remeber to get tickets early this time

Review written by: strait6898 (snot2@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 10:57:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 12 Tool show

Well this was my 12 show and by far the biggest tool show i have ever been to. my first show was in 94 at the san bernadino arena with a few hundred people now we are at verizon with 15,000 people and tool still made you feel as if you were at the paladium. very few bands are able to play large venues with such clean sound and such energy but who would doubt tool ability to do so. The visuals were amazing complimenting each note and the movements of maynard. and why has noody commented on maynard playing guuitar? what that about crazy things cant wait till the next tool tour. hope fully maynard will realize that tool is what he needs not apc, who are so bitter about him being in tool still........

Review written by: timmy (BesetRider@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 14:57:59 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Review written by: pitts (besetrider@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/03/01 15:45:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

i dont know how you could possibly see tool with drugs, dude. Its an experience upon itself. I felt high enough when they were playing triad. Besides the whole seen of drunks and junkies pissed me off al night long. There was this dude the row in front of me. He was old and white and drunk and trying to dance and it sucked because he knew the lyrics but obviously had no reason to believe in them. Oh well, he sure makes me feel like a good singer. ooh. hows that for an ignorant view of people. anyways, now for the music of the evening. opening with the grudge was a given, but it still surprised me with how perfect it sounded. the intro blew me away with the melodic rampage of half steps and minors. If you're not musical, that means its groove is way to fuckin heavy. Maynards scream surprised me, and he pulled it off all te way to the end, missing just about a few seconds of it. But who can blame him, can you scream for a half a minute? The outro was killer, danny's drum drivin the wind of my gut. Then cam along ticks and leeches in there some where. I cant remember, it all melted into one giant song. Ticks and leeches was perfect as far as guitar and drums went, but I couldn't really tell if maynard was hitting his screams. his distortion was prett trippy though. It gave a heavier sound to the song. He almost sounder angrier. I know the patient was in there, and that meant so much to me. He introduced it as dedicated to all the bloodsuckers in the industry (paralyzed paradoid vampires) and it was well worth it. I think I waited long enough for the high guitars and low as hell basses of that song, but it was just what I waited for. I almost missed the guitars because I was focusing on Maynard for that song. His voice almost seemed higher and more perfect than the album version, but thats on of the reasons why tool is the best isn't it. I was surprised that the schism people came out during the song (but it makes sense doesn't it) they did their crazy ass little walk on all their tooes and fingers. I was almost disturbing to watch, but fun nonethelss. Maynard had a guitar but I couldn't tell what he was playing. He didn't move much during schism, but it voice was just as powerful. It just sucks when the crowd almost drowns him out at the last chant while out of pitch, but focusing on the right vocals made it worth it. the "triad" of disposition and reflection and triad were mindblowing. even though ive never seen tool before let alone heard these songs live, the visuals and feel of disposition were just what I saw when I first listened to Lateralus all the way through. The blues and the watery feel made me feel right at home in my own head. The bass playing like a guitar with its harmonics and chrod strummingwere pefrect. Justin's sound was so calming. But then it just turned into a groove for Reflection. The drums put me to ease and the bass came in, making the groove just plain ole deadly. The drunk old man was trying to dance in front of me again, but thats when Tricky came out. Personally, I though he was a good addition to the song. His reggae rapping didn't take anything from the song, at least. But the feel for me was just the same. tHE visuals blew my mind, but it was still all about the music. I could still hear maynard over tricky, but the harmonies of their voices were interesting to say the least. By the end of the song, it was full on mind headbanginf for me. I'm glad I wasn't high so I could enjoy the moment perfectly. Just to hear this song live has partly changed my life, it's that emigmatic. After an interlude of Adam playing the infamous five chord outro to reflection (and the assholes yelling at him to hurry up during the five ten minutes of patience) (Personally it was beautiful, yet uncalming. ) the sschism people did their thang. It was like a circus acted (or a tool video) beautiful but disturbingly so. Then they pumped the drums into triad. the drummer for tricky came out and blew me away with danny. I felt high during this song with the visuals, the schism peopl, and the music. The pounding e chord and distorted solos were funckin mideblowing. The ending was the best . On the album the guitar overloads by itself the finish up, but live the drum pound it away until the end. The sudden end left me wordles. Finally (well their was more here and there but this is just the stuff i ended up writing about) the combination of opiate and lateralus made the night what it was for me. It was good to see everyone know the lyrics to opiate. The guitar sounded different from the almbum, but maybe thats just because i focus on the bass for that song everytime I listen to it. The octave jumps remind me of old school metallica( so what if im a metallica fan, what you gonna do about it) Maynards scream at the end caught me off gaurd it was so strong(rape you!) Danny's drunning and the baddassness of the guitars were way to fucking heavy to be real. Lateralus is my new favorite song after the almbum came out, and the one song i wanted to hear most live. The main riff's complexity is not fair how well it is written and the soft section was way to emotional for me. Adam's guitar solo before the heavy part was better than the album, more emotional. The heavy part was too much because all the instrumentswere just too combined. Everything went together great and Maynards confined yelling destroyed my mind and built it back up. The thoughts of stepping to the next level were in the music let alone the lyrics during this. He kept repreating going after spiral out keep GOING... and the whole band was just way too fuckin heavy. I dont know how adam remained in his trance for the last section. His calmness seemed to emotional to be true. The end was the heaviest part of the night it was scary. And that was the end sadly. Everyone waited for and encore, but they never give oe and I don't know why everyone waited. Just shows the kind of sheep we are herre in LA. If our shepherd is before us, we aint going any where. Think for yourself. And that was no where near what it was like to see tool. Just go see it for yourself. But know your stuff when you go. I hated see more people who listen to tool that fans who understand whats really going on. But it is about the music and i hope this review was about the music enough for all of yall out there. Good farming, long days, and pleasnat nights for all of you out there.

Review written by: Bahman (no9webmaster@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 00:08:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Ok, this show was amazing. Pure and simple. Ticks and Leeches and Opiate and the sound was awesome. I'm looking for a bootleg of this show in video if anyone has a full bootleg please e-mail me and we can work something out, audio too. Thank you in advance!

Review written by: jack (oiimagoi@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 00:18:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

best ever......nuff said

Review written by: LB (Aenima 4 U and U@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 02:45:35 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

The show was of course just awsome! First of all... let me say that seeing Tricky open, was one hell of an experience. The guitarr riffs and bass playing blew me away. And the words... just seemed to flow like water. TOOL... what the hell can I say... they blew me away the first time and they blew me away at Irvine. The music and the lights and visuals were insane. It made me wish I was doing drugs again. I wish they played more of the old stuff, Aenima, Eulogy or 46 and 2 or more stuff from the undertow album. Hearing Opiate was just great (I wish they played "Sweat" though) Hey we all can dream right? Second of all... I did not enjoy the whole concert however, due to the fact that IDIOTS behind me were TALKING when TOOL was playing. Please... when your in a concert such as this... DONT TALK ABOUT THE DAMN LAKERS GAME OR YOUR TRIP TO DALLAS. NO ONE GIVES A SHIT... I dont know if it was the booze or what... But thanx to the wicked side show circus on stage, I was able to get back into the vibe... Tool was wicked but I did feel that the "reflection gaps" were just a tad bit long. No one comes even remotely close to the performances of TOOL.

Review written by: burgiburg (lintbobkey@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 02:59:46 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

TOOL JUST FUCKING ROCKS. IT'S A SHAME THAT MAYNARDS GAY. THE BALD HEAD, THE YOGA SHORTS, THE GAY PRIDE PARADES, OOOOYAH I SAID PARADES. I AM SUPRIZED HE DID NOT HAVE MORE OF HIS BUTT BUDDIES UP ON STAGE WITH HIM. OK, I'M PLAYING, HALF OF ME SAYS THE CIRCUS SHOW IS FUCKING KILLER, AND THE OTHER HALF SAYS, DROP THE FREAK SHOW, PULL MAYNARD FROM HIS HIDE- OUT, AND JUST FUCKING PLAY.

Review written by: Jimmy (Jimilap@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 14:24:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Finally...I got to see Tool. So what do I get to say about them. Holy Freaking Moly.. Outstanding, fantastic , energizing, motivating, etc...etc...etc... I liked the fact that the light show wasn't to fancy. It allows you to focus on the music. Just absorbing it deep inside your soul. I'm still feeling it three day's later. I met a guy named Matt who was at his eighteenth Tool show. I got alot of good reviews from him. I was telling him how I would like to hear ticks & leeches and poof!! there it was. Not sure if Maynard was even singing though. The "Suck Me Dry" verus would probably tear his throat out. Just to hear the music live was enough to blow my mind. I am honored to be one of the few that got to hear it. I was very pleased with the entire set that they played. But I do have to say that it would of been nice for me to see and hear Eulogy performed live. I was a bit surprised with the rap thing during Reflection. It caught me off gaurd, But hey...change is good. I still enjoyed it immensely. Overall it was completely awesome. I am looking forward to my 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and so on show's.

Review written by: Luke (xaosknight@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 16:05:58 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Despite being in the nosebleed lawn, I was very happy with the performance. Seeing the tripped out version of Ticks & Leeches and all the extended stuff in songs like Sitnkfist, I was very happy. Opiate with Tricky was quite a treat. Aside from the idiots starting bonfires on the lawn and the moron who kept screaming "Make me SOber!" and the guy who kept yelling "Maynard's Dick", the show was well worth the three and a half hour drive.

Review written by: Morgan C. (backstabber@minorthreat.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 16:58:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I have been thinking, even dreaming, of this concert ever since I got the tickets last month, and it wasnt till a few days before that I started thinking "maybe I'm expecting too much from them" so I started trying to forget about it until the time came... We drove about 5 hours to get to the Verizon Amphitheatre, and arrived a few hours early... we sat down, watched tricky perform, they played a good set, I really enjoyed it... but TOOL fuckin blew my mind. When they opened with the Grudge, I immediately felt the energy pounding at my chest, I didnt know what position to take, or what to do in order to absorb it entirely, so I simply just stood there staring at the amazing videos being projected on the giant screens... When they played the Salival version of Pushit, I didnt know what was happening, either I was laughing because i was so happy they were playing it, or crying because it is such an intense song, either way I shed tears.... It was amazing how much energy was being distributed by the band, and how much I was able to take in. After the concert, (when we thought things couldnt get better) we were given backstage passes by 2 people who were leaving and we had the chance to meet maynard himself, he was very polite and considerate, it really topped off the night... All in all this is most definately a highlight of my life...

Review written by: Jess (jessiejean@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 18:15:39 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

If I lost my virginity with my first Tool show (8/15 with King Crimson), then with my third, I welcomed them back into my arms like a long-lost lover. Having no need of any drugs to reach a psychedelic, altered state, I stood under the full moon, arms up and legs open, my spirit ready and willing to receive all that Tool had to give me--I did not leave unsatisfied. The sublime energy created and released when these 4 amazingly talented and unique men come together never ceases to astonish and captivate me. Experiencing their live show is like having tantric sex without touching, where the mind is seduced by lyrics, the spirit is mesmerized by the haunting visuals, and the body is possessed by the powerful mastery of visceral rhythms and hypnotic melodies. All I could do was surrender to the beauty and sweet release in that sacred space. I was not the only one in the audience that was similarly affected, especially among the women. Every man that witnesses Tool live should take note of their artistry and technique so that they may later use it as an example. Here are a few reasons why women love Tool: 1. Maynard, Danny, Justin & Adam 2. Worship and humble appreciation of the absolute beauty of the human form and experience 3. Holy sonic intercourse that starts out with soft licks that slowly build in intensity and duration, teasing by alternating in rhythm and scope until culminating in an extended overwhelming, shuddering climax of aural ecstasy that is, at last, complete in the gentle, muted afterglow, in a voracious cycle that repeats itself endlessly... My favorite moments of evening were felt during Parabola and the Disposition/Reflection/Triad trance trio. During Parabola, I noticed, for the first time, the beautiful significance of the song's meaning and the symbolic, flashing imagery of a old anatomy textbook's illustration of the altar of the female genitalia superimposed with sacred geometry over its "heart." Clearly the men of Tool are seperate from "the boys" in their respect for and appreciation of women and their goddess power--adolescent boys everywhere, take note. Maynard and I shared a holy moment during the song as, nearly skyclad, we undulated our hips in unison,wholly making love to the music that surrounded us. The trance trio, including Reflection(my favorite track off of Lateralus), bewitched me, as always, as Maynard's ethereal voice and the rest of the bands primal soundscape enthralled me(undistracted by Tricky's rapping, that was executed with more respect as compared to the San Diego show--he complemented, but did not attempt to overpower, Maynard's vocals). To complete the wondrous evening, with "Lateralus," each member of the band let loose and gave it to us just the way we wanted it, hard and thorough, looking us right in the eye, seeming to get off on the magic of the moment as much as rest of the audience. Once again, with absolute trust in the band and their artistry, I let them take me to that place where all is lost in the rapture of the moment and ugly reality is far away... After the show, apparently inspired by the sensitive sensuality of what they had just witnessed, a couple of guys attempted what I call "the Parabola Proposition" on my friend and I as we waited what seemed like forever to get out of the parking lot: "Look, you are two beautiful women and we are two good- looking guys. Why don't we all just make love and 'celebrate this chance to be alive and breathing' tonight?" To which I replied, "Why don't we not." Only a member of Tool could get away with that pick-up approach(not that they would really have to say anything at all). Nice try guys... Another indescribable show from Tool, despite a horrible venue that was like some kind of bad, outdated campground gone wrong. I hope to get a chance to see you all at least one more time on this tour. Thank you, Maynard, Danny, Justin and Adam, for another beautiful, transcendent experience in the midst of the horror of recent events.

Review written by: colin ayling (ron_mooshagin@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/04/01 18:23:50 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

hey im writing a review of a review made by this guy who i went to the concert with...he's pretty dumb and id like to make fun of his review. This is him: Review written by: Deon (lateralnema@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/01 15:31:32 ET Yeah thats Deon. He wrote a crummy review using adjectives like 'pretty good' 'unique' and my favorite 'nice.' He really doesnt go into any detail about the songs; mainly saying how good they are. Deon tells us his opinion, letting us know his favorite songs...as if we care. I certainly dont give a fuck about deons two fucking cents. Well i guess his review isnt all That bad..its just his shitty diction that fucks everything up. God fucking damnit...its these bullshit words he uses like 'stoked' and fuckin 'killer.' Haha, writing a review of a review is funny. thanks for your time. o and the show was sexcelent.

Review written by: chris (undertow45@msn.com) Review posted on: 11/05/01 00:56:38 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

This was my favorite Tool show yet. Again, I wish they would have played a few more older songs but, getting to see and hear Ticks and Leeches live was incredible. I strongly believe that Tool is the Pink Floyd of our generation.

Review written by: Thavy Nhem (RICEOUS1@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/05/01 02:37:56 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. hi......this is my first TOOL concert. I"m no longer a TOOL virgin!!!!!! This show is like the best show ever....everything about it rocks. You can so tell that they have put a lot of thought and effort into their shows so we as an audience can get the whole package from the music to the visual. I don't remember much but.....let's see what i can remember. :) First they start out with the grudge and everybody went wild everyone stood on their seats. The best treat was Maynard nailing the scream in "the grudge". The funny part is it took me i think 4 "yea" to keep up with Maynard's "ahh!!!!", then again I"m not Maynard. I think "ticks and leeches" was after that and of course when they play that song i was totally suprised...usually they don't play that until like recently. Maynard did that whole voice effects thing, it was a different version but i'm not complaining. I was hoping that they would play "parabol" into "parabola" but instead they went straight to "parabola" i'm not used to hearing "parabola" without parabol. Which is fine because they played the extended version of "pushit" I was like this is more than a treat....i can actually say i love it....yea i said love so what ....with a band like tool how can you not say the word love. I LOVE TOOL!!!!!! O yea of course they played "stinkfist" which is a meaningful song for me. And maynard went off during the part where he was suppose to babble something almost to the end of the song but instead he started singing "white line.....running through my mind". I am a new TOOL fan you can say, i didn't really like these kind of music until i heard stinkfist and i fell in love with the style and the complexity of their music and their lyrics. So when i heard "stinkfist" I was like skipping down memory lane. For me, personally, stinkfist is where i started, eversince then I went on a tool adventure buying and getting my hands on everything that is tool. The thing that caught me by suprised is that they actually played "disposition", "reflection", and "triad". Usually from reading other shows they only play two of the three song, i was suprised when Tricky came out and did a little thing with tool with them i think it was during "reflection". I think "schism" was right after that (but i'm not sure people were walking and i have to make way for them.....dumb people) I was bouncing up and down when i discovered that them creatures came on stage .....it was like watching a live version of the music video. I was kinda scared when those guys were hanging from a rope doing what seem to be a form of dancing i think. It was perfect, they were hanging there for like i think about 15 or so minutes. Which is impressive considering that they are hanging with only a rope wrapped around their ankles. Sorry, about this but i'm not sure about the order of the song from this point on. I know that they played "opiate" which was great. All the clouds of weed were like unbearable for me so i didn't really remember much i think i got a buzzed from the people who were blazing and it have gotten to me during the show hahahahaha. I'm stumped....i think they played a song from undertow but i'm not sure.....all i know is that just when they were about to end the show Maynard started to stay something about us having a good night and a safe way back home and take care of each other. From that point i can almost sense a black cloud hovering over the audience....i noticed people were starting to leave. And then, bam just when you thought tool is going to end the show without a bang they gaved the crowd a left hook and played "lateralis". I feel sorry for those who thought the show was going to end becasue when they did lateralis i was like a you can't ask for a better way to end a great show. There is this part where the song goes "sprial out keep going" and you can see on the screen a spiral spiraling out with an eyeball in the middle of it I find that to be the perfect thing to add to a song. I like how the visual effects is like goes hand in hand with the music. I guess you have to give it up to Adam's wife with that part. Or in the word of my friend Steve she's the infamous 5th member of the band, so to speak. The visual effects is like overwhelming I have never in my life see anything so vibrant and spectacular...it is like i'm on acid without really taking the drug itself. you can see everything from naked chicks to naked dudes and in some parts they were in the water. In addition to it you can see heads which a little wooden man popped out from. The thing that is edged to my brain is i think it is a plumb squishy thingy on the floor with a face wiggling i find that disturbing but yet interesting. they have lots of other werid things but i was like moving my eyes around from looking at the screens to looking at the guys preforming (especially maynard) moving around on stage (well in most parts anyways). All in all the show is going to stick to me for a long time. I hope my review can be of some service to help you better understand this great event in Irvine. Sorry if i'm not that accurate, but hey there are others who can remember better than me. It is not the show that i can't remember it is just i can recall the feeling and the emotion druing the show than anything else. I will definately see them again .........make sure you look out for me i'll be the werid spotted asian dude tripping out and doing my version of the

Review written by: Thavy Nhem (RICEOUS1@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/05/01 03:05:52 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. what i meant to say before i got cut off is......... i will definately go to another tool show and make sure you spot me out. i'm the little asian dude with the spots tripping out and doing my version of the maynard dance in the audicence. Thav

Review written by: Jon (mauerhan@pacbell.net) Review posted on: 11/05/01 05:07:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Good feelings: The performance, sound and setlist was amazing. The visuals, lighting and and on-stage actors/contortionists were very enhancing and stimulating. Seeing and hearing Danny play his bronze kit was overwhelming. The full moon gave the experience an even stronger spiritual element. Bad feelings: I hate having these negative thoughts, but I have to say: I love tool, but I hate their fans. The guy to the right of me kept yelling in a stale beer-bubbling tone, "Fuck you Maynard....play Sober you fucking asshole!!!". as he stumbled around like some sort of weeble-wooble toy I had as a kid. The guy to the left of me was so intoxicated he could not stand up, and smoked cigarettes continuously (he seriously chained em' through the whole show) as he periodically fell to the ground. I would help him up out of pity as he'd look up in total confusion and disarray after each sudden descent to the concrete. Yes Maynard...please play Sober. The girl in front of me puked during Stinkfist, which engulfed all within a 30 ft. radius in a thick, moist, and most horrid stench that did not lift until enough shoes had tracked through it, slowly dispersing her southern californian bile throughout row Y of orchestra 2 (good thing genes don't replicate in this fashion). The person behind me...........oh wait.....there was no one behind me. I was in row X. I was disappointed in the"Trickyied" up version of reflection, as the singer went," ba be ba be ba beguhhhhh...........buba...buba........begahhhhhh. ba be ba be ba beguhhhhh...........buba...buba........begahhhhhh. ba be bugahhhhhh..............................ba be bugahhhhh...................................................................... .......ba be bugahhhhh...........infinitum. He did this over and over until Adam began his guitar lead, at which point the guy glanced over at Adam and dissolvingly ceased in an uncordinated fashion... AND THATS NOT THE END OF IT!!! Right as Danny is about to break into the most rhythmically amazing portion of the song (you know.......after the main chorus where Danny does those broken yet fluid rolls on the turned off snare), the guy starts this distracting and annoying nonsense over again. I mean....come on. This is the most trancy, spiritual song on Lateralus. Hearing this was like embarking on a trip to the center of our galaxy, just about to leave Earth's vicinity as a giant wordly arm punches through the atmosphere below, grabbing you by your neck, yanking you back to down to the ground, shuving you onto a couch, sticking a warm 40 oz. of Magnum in your hand and making you watch "Yo! MTV raps" all day instead. Am I being overly hostile? Maybe so . But I just wanted to rant a little. I know I'm just a infintesimal opinion (and we all what opinions are like), but I think I make a decent point. The sad thing is that at times, my mind actually records things like these in place of the beautiful spectacle of sound and sight that was unfolding in front of my being. I guess I need to work on my ability to shut out negative surroundings and focus on more important elements........see the inherent goodness in things. You know.............learn to like the smell of puke. Over and Out

Review written by: Jenn (jthm631@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/05/01 13:16:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

This was my second TooL show and it was amazing... my seats were kinda crappy so we moved to the front of our section ~lodge~ and i couldn't have asked for better. tricky was ok on his own, but his addition to the two tool songs was sad. don't get me wrong- he is good, but tool is tool. you cannot mess with perfection.... i just want to complain for a second about the undercover police searching cars before the show- i'm glad the are there if needed, but i wish they would find something more important to worry about than whether or not i am drinking or smoking or whatever in the parking lot. i mean, at least we were responsible enough to wait until we got there and not drive!

Review written by: GOD (a.k.a. Fat Leroy) (fat_leroy@excite.com) Review posted on: 11/05/01 17:38:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 666 Tool show

LOL..... that dude from Tricky was singing in EBONICS. That's why none of you white people could understand him.... See, they _should_ teach ebonics in our schools. Aside from sitting in traffic one mile from the exit for an hour and a half and the two idiots in front of me with their cell phone and a discussion of the ball game all night, the concert was great! I too didn't like the Tricky Ebonics voice over at first, but actually it lent quite a nice twist to the song after I let it soak in. Tricky sucks..... but hey, ebonics are GOOD, especially when you've eatten a half an ounce of mushrooms :) Now, my question..... is that dude the devil?