| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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08/31/2002
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Review written by: Jesse Mays (jessemays@mail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 00:13:07 ETThis was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
WOW. I will say now I didn't like Tomahawk, just to get it out of the way. (Though I did love the things Patton did with Dillinger Escape Plan.) Anyhow, WOW. I must say this show ranks right up there with the big ones for me, easy. The lighting and backdrops are so wonderful and beautiful I can't even explain. I really wish I could get a copy of the show to watch again, just because of the lighting. The band was TIGHT. Danny really is the best drummer I've ever seen. Maynard was dancing per usual. Just before Lateralus he said something to the effect of "We hope we rocked your asses off... And we also hope that you find them soon and they make the safe journey home with you tonight." Here was the set. I wrote it down as the show went. Sober The Grudge (-) Ions Stinkfist (Extended version) H. Schism (Extended intro) Parabol Parabola Opiate (Intermission) Disposition Reflection Triad Lateralus
Review written by: Rob (wicked383@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 00:22:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
It's seems a little pointless to post this review knowing that alot of people are going to say the same damn things that i am (and vice versa), but i cant help but do it anyway and hope somehow that mine will be special....which it wont. Anyway, fucking amazing. This was my first Tool concert and first concert period, and i wasnt at all disappointed with it. I sat in a floor seat no more than 40 feet (i'm guessing) from the stage. From about the time the lights went out and "Sober" started playing, my chair was rendered useless for the entire night. That was a great performance to start off with. My favorite performances were probably "Stinkfist", "Parable/Parabola", and the absolutely amazing "Triad". As if that song isnt good enough, hearing it live and being caught up in the whole atmosphere just made it all the more...amazing. Damn, i need a new verb. The only bad things about the show were that they didnt perform "46 & 2". I really, really wanted "46 & 2"....but eh, the rest was great so i'm not complaining too much. Also, these fucking potheads about three rows in front of me lit up some weed, and i dont exactly enjoy the smell of that. The show was enjoyable as is, why do they need weed? Fucking potheads. Tomahawk was decent. I liked the third song they did, but the rest of them werent anything worth mentioning. They are okay, but i dont see myself buying their album. Well, thats my ramblin'. Sucks that i have to work tomorrow. Tool is great. Believe.
Review written by: Matt (mvice@mattvice.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 01:11:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Just got home from my first Tool show. Simply amazing is all I can say about tonights show. I only caught the last five minutes of Tomahawk, because of terrible traffic in the area, but from what I heard, I really liked their style. Very original stuff from them from what I got to hear. After about 30 minutes or so, Tool then arived with the intro tunes, then opened up with Sober, which was great. The light show was also top notch, and the clips shown on the left/right screens above the stage were very Tool-ish, which is always a pleasure to view. My only gripe is that they didn't play Aenima. Aenima was the song I wanted to hear the most, but oh well. Maybe next time. Overall, this show ranks very high in live shows that I've seen. I wish I could view it all over again, hopefully at a next tour. Thank you Tool for the amazing show and memories that I'll have from this day. Much respect from my end to all of you. Spiral out. Keep going.
Review written by: Ross M. (Loudballs@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 01:18:00 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
The show was easily the best I'f seen in my life. What can i say i'm still speechless. it went perfect, the set list was the same as the cleveland show except for they played opiate rather then aenema. They play like its their last show. I would pay any amount of money to see them. Its an out of your body show the stage setup was unbelievable. I say go to their dayton show i know i am. and if any one was there did anybody see that tape fly 8^) tool
Review written by: TOOL HICKS (BrazilianChicken@cs.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 01:18:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
Setlist has been posted. Great like every time. In rememberance of Mr. Hicks Pot is mandatory. Going to a TOOL concert sober is like fishing sober. So expand your mind before taking in such a masterpiece of a performance. In my opinion the visual aspect of the show is to be enjoyed heavily medicated, so in conclusion "shut up and smoke that!!!"
Review written by: Erica (ericayton@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 01:32:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
We all know that Tool is one of the greatest bands (recording and stage), so I won't say what everyone else will. What I would like to say is that Alex Grey's artwork made the show truly wonderful and unique. The man is talented! A special thanks goes out to Tool for introducing his work to me... It was definitely worth driving to Cincinnati to see the show (even thought I felt like crap and had a hell of a time finding someplace close to park). I can't wait to see what the shows will be like after the short break. See you in Toledo!
Review written by: Terry (tacmartins@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 02:05:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. Set List- Sober The Grudge Mantra/Schism H. Opiate (Intermission) Disposition Reflection Triad Lateralus Thank you to TOOL for being the most amazing live band I've ever seen. Very spiritual show. The band seemed to enjoy playing in Cinci. The crowd was super cool & very receptive. Tomahawk was well received.Many, many cheers from the crowd for them. Everything about this show was great. I love the video & the Alex Grey artwork. I needed this. THANKS FOR A MEMORABLE EVENING GUYS. Maynard was very talkative at this show.
Review written by: Positive Infinity (positiveinfinity@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 03:02:12 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Tool Rocked out tonight! First off security comming in was not very tight i easily snuck my recorder in in my back pocket they where just brief pat downs. Second Tomahawk started strong but then took a leap of the deap end into shitvill. Mike Patton expressed his homo tendencys when he asked the bald man 4 rows in front of us, who was the only one standing at this point, on the floor to whip out his unit then asked the securaty guard directly in front of him to whip it out also. Tomahawks preformance was not all at loss we did get to enjoy seeing danny carey come out and play with what looked like a drum machine in the middle of there set...... and then there was Tool! I will not explain the orgasmic effects that's something you have to feel for yourself but i will list maynard's quotes of the night. he greeted the crowd and asked if we where going to be better than Cleveland then he asked the audience what is round on the inside and high in the middle no one knew, he told us we failed miserably, it wasnt till after the concert that i realized that OHIO is round on the out side and hi on the inside. Then he gave us a speach about 9/11. Overall TOOL fucking rocked. It was the best show I have ever seen... both visually stimulating and musically beautiful as TOOL is. The dude that puked all over himself wasn't as beautiful though. After the concert my cohorts and I proceeded to the back entrance of the Firstar Center waiting for Maynard, Danny, Adam, and Justin. Waiting for two hours I finally got to see Danny, Justin, and Adam get on the bus and leave. Still hoping, I talked to many of the TOOL crew... but they seemed unhelpful except one guy named Chris who was a laid back guy who knew the band and talked very short about what he knew about TOOL over a cigerette. I finally got a signature from MOOSE...??? The sound guy I'm told... he was pissed too... don't knock on the windows of tour buses! What an experience...!!! -Jae Ho Lee, Eli, Zach
Review written by: Jeff (jeff@porous.net) Review posted on: 09/01/02 03:23:57 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Ok. The first time i saw tool i was mesmerized and blown away by the whole thing. that show was outside and free to flow. there were a few things missing this time around. first and formost the indoor venue was certainly a problem sound wise, things were drowned out. Also the first show i saw was the beginning of the last tour, but this one was at the end of this leg of the tour so maynards voice was a little rough, he couldnt hit some of the high notes in reflection which would be tough for anyone. Also the fact that this shows set was almost identicle, with a few notable exceptions such as opiate and h., to the last one i saw, bring out some different stuff for each tour guys. the staging for this show was far superior however, to the last time, much better visual effects and what not. overall still a fantastic show, but not the best ive seen from tool, but still 1,000,000 times better than any other band. P.S. Tomahawk was BADASS!!! im sick of people always badmouthing patton. he is jesus to maynard's god. there are 3 types of people when talking about mike patton, those who LOVE him, of which i am one, those who dont know who he is, and those, to which most of you others belong, who dont understand what he does. patton is about 30 years ahead of his time. he will be studied in schools of music years from now. The people who say they dont like Tomahawk, and mike patton, are the same people who show up to tool shows with godsmack, disturbed, and papa roach t shirts on...THOSE BANDS SUCK ASS BY THE WAY. All you mindless automatons need to take good advice and OPEN YOUR HEART AND MIND. open yourself to something new, you might get to know the world, and yourself a whole lot better. GOOD JOB EVERYONE TONIGHT. AND THANKS TO TOOL FOR MAKING MUSIC WORTH LISTENING TO.
Review written by: Hick from the sticks (bearsfan58@msn.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 03:49:29 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Hello fellow sheep. This was once again, another fascinating experience. The crowd seemed extremely enthused, although Maynard seemed a little unimpressed with the comparison of the Cinncinatti and Cleveland crowds. Oh well, playing H. live was the highlight for me........other than the two chicks I experienced it all with (Melena and Brooke) Goddamn, they were hot. Hey, a word to the wise, don't go to the show alone........but if you have to, I'm sure there will be someone else there to help further the experience. As for Melena and Brooke...................can't wait till next time!
Review written by: Jason X (jason@tolkiengames.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 04:18:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Holy Shit, The setlist has already be posted, so I won't worry about that. But let me say, opening with Sober was fucking awsome. I came in there not expecting to hear any of undertow or opiate, and them opening with The Grudge. Well, I was wrong. And damn i'm glad I was wrong : ) I've seen many bands, but I would have to say that TOOL takes them all down, easily. I didn't even have floor tickets to this concert, but I still enjoyed myself than any mosh i've ever been in. Graphically and techinically, I think the show was done very well. There where two large screens to the left and right of the stage. Next to them where the speaker setups, eventually having screens coming down over them too. THere was a backdrop that featured moving faces, and several more small screens that dropped for one or two songs. I can't wait to see them again. Also, I did not enjoy Tomahawk. I used to listen to Faith No More a lot, but I just don't see how his new band is even allowed to open for a band like tool. To me, it wasn't even music. - end -
Review written by: swank419 (swank419@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 04:23:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 11th Tool show
November 18th, 1996! that was my first TOOL experience. WOW what a long strange trip it has been between now and then. Almost six years, and eleven shows later I am still hooked. SH!T i cant get enough. I'm still as mesmerized and as awe struck now as I was the first time. cant wait for the next round of touring. last night's third row seats were a real treat for braking the double digit barrier (thank you Jackie and Wes). maynard wished to thank everyone for coming and for sharing this moment of healing with them I want to thank TOOL for having me (so many times) and I hope that they will continue to allow me spend an evening with them thank you for the love; the passion; the cathartic cleansing of mind, body, and spirit thank YOU for all which is TOOL THANK YOU for being such gracious hosts MATT SWANK ps the guy with the cowboy hat and the SPREEWELL jersy how do u score such great seats show after show share your secret with me
Review written by: Drew (drewdaniel@bellsouth.net) Review posted on: 09/01/02 08:41:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Waking up this morning, i am still speechless. it was by far the best show i have ever seen. they way they were so together, not missing a note, it was just unbelieveable. i will agre with everyone tomahawk sucked and they didnt win anything back by asking men to whip it out. All together the night was great, you have seen the setlist and it was great too. Lataralus was the perfect song to end on, everyone that left that us bank was still screaming and honking their horns til i left the area. TOOL really has something undescribeable that no other banc has. thanks tool for a great concert. (NOTE)-- biggest highlight of the nighjt, before the show friend and i were just walking around us bank arena and we realize we are next to all the busses, we look up and like, 4 feet from us is adam, tools lead guitarist, tghe only othyer person there was a rodie and he yelled at us and made us leave, but we were standing right next to him, and then we stood across the street as he got ready than sped away oln his silver moped, obviously for some fresh cincinnati air before the show. what a night......
Review written by: breathless (mhoramdm@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 09:39:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
The show was set to start at 7:30, hoping to miss most of Tomahawk I got there around 8:00, catching the last 15 minutes of Tomahawk. Tomahawk: amatuer, waste of time, sux. Tool took the stage between 8:45 and 9:00. From then till 10:00 we had a great lineup of songs and the crowd was obviously into it, everybody standing up even though everybody had a seat. Sadly the crowd was never able to get together singing really well. There were attempts, enough that you could hear that we were trying, but just not enough people knew the words, very unlike Metallica. I gotta say the biggest thrill to me is looking around and everybody in sight is singing along with you a certain song, singing it back to the band as clear and loud as the PA. At 10:00 the band took a 15 minute break, which in my opinion really sucked. Metallica plays three hour sets without break, Tool can't play a 2 hour set without one? eh. But I would be ok with a break except that it really killed the momentium, after the break I never recovered and the crowd didn't either, never got that excitment back. Wasn't helped by the fact that this 15 minutes was filled with an unended rolling bass thing that really fucked with your stomach after a while. After the break at some point there was about a 15 minute drum solo with drummer Danny Carey and an unknown person on an extra set of toms. That was really really cool. I don't listen for drums in any music so I didn't realize how good this guy was. I gotta say I can't imagine anyone possibly playing drums better than he did, it was really great. Maynard's singing was on line, no dissapoint there. Adam and Justin were also right in line on their parts. Overall the band sounded great, the levels were mixed perfectly. I'm only gonna give the show 3 out of 4 stars. Now, let me say, I love tool, listen to the music all the time, one of my top 5 favorite bands. They are a very popular live band, mostly for the visual show you get. This is where I kinda have my problem. I personally don't get off so much on visual stuff, I enjoyed it, but I much more prefer a performance rather than a show. I like to see and interact with the band, sadly I didn't get that last night. The stage was lit only in a dim blue light and at no point did we ever really get to see the guys clearly, more like silouets. We could see them the whole time, but I couldn't make out any faces, a key part to interaction with the band during a show. Maynard sang from a platform the entire show that was about 12 feet back from the edge of the stage, and oddly always, always faced the drummer, to our right. The visuals, lots and lots of footage of things that you would typically see in a tool video, mainly, anatomy. The band is obviously obsessed with the human body and you see plenty of it during a show. I gotta say, the anatomy stuff is kinda intersting, but really it's too much in my opinion. No pyrotechniques. One really neat thing they had were these real electrified wires hanging in odd shapes from the ceiling. These were lit in a bright blue and would go off and on in different patterns, generally cool looking. Sometime towards the end of the show Maynard said something to the effect of: "Coming up shortly is going to be the anniversery of a very important date, september 11th. I have a suggestion for you, lets honor the memories of the people lost in this tragedy by not giving up our civil rights...lets honor them by keeping their memory in our hearts.." That's a paraphrase of what he said. Tool's such a great band. Maynard is one of if not the very best vocalist out there today. I just related how good I think Danny is. With Adam and Justin, I think of them as one instrument. This I think is the most important, progressive, and hopefully influentual aspect of tool, the way the gutiar and bass parts are written. I've never tryed to learn the guitar part for any tool songs because I felt without the bass it wouldn't be anything close to the song, this is because they write the music so that the two mesh together bring about somethign neither could do alone. So many bands use the bass all wrong, just have it backing the guitar parts instead of taking on a life of it's on and actually contributing something unique, profound, and indispensable. If other musicians follow this lead and learn to write music making full use of the guitar/bass combination like tool does, it would move rock music into a whole new era.
Review written by: Slightly Dissapointed (christopherh@cinci.rr.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 10:38:40 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
My first show was last year in Chicago so maybe i'm a bit spoiled but I thought this show paled in comparison. 1. Crowd - Absolutely no energy whatsoever...there were seats on the floor, so no roaring, moving sea of people like Chicago - a definite negative. I was surrounded by people who were either sitting or just standing there. 2. Sound - Awful. Distorted. It's difficult to describe, the overall volume seemed to be perfect, so loud it almost hurts, but this seemed to be too much for the system, all the nuances were lost. Granted I don't know much about sound, but I do know there's a problem when I can't even make out the solo in triad. Compared to the Chicago show, the sound there was loud and crystal clear, the sound in Cincinnati was loud and distorted. As far as I can tell the band played great in a bad venue. I was a little dissapointed Maynard kept his cop uniform on the whole night - no thong, and no bent over dancing till the very end of lateralus. I don't think I'll see tool in my shitty little town again.
Review written by: lucky witness (freechild82@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 12:33:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show
maynard: "cinci." crowd: (ROARS) precious seconds elapse... maynard: "bubbles." crowd: (unresponsive) guy behind me.. "what did he say?" FUCKING hysterical. an exercise in determining the crowd's willingness to cheer pointlessly at any word which comes out of that man's mouth. to my surprise, they passed that test. the tragedy, however, may be that the majority of the crowd was unaware of this little experiment. god damned hysterical. it took mike patton being nice to me and liking my dog, but I must admit; though at first I did not like seeing/HEARING tomahawk's performance.. they ONLY grew on me. I think they're just up there having a blast. I like the music, and I can put up with the screaming. so thanks mike patton and company, and you guys tell some shitty jokes. don't let inspiration fall to emulation. thank you beyond words TOOL . you have given more than most ever dream of. keep going
Review written by: Der Zuhalter (WeinkamerS@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 12:35:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
Yet another stellar performance from the boys again last night in the "Nasty" as we Clevelanders llike to call it. A nickname which reimpressed itself on me as I was driving into town, and about ten miles out started to smell the distinct stench which emanates from the city. I digress...Same setlist as in Cleveland, with Opiate replacing Ænema, and no extra lyrics in the extended Stinkfist. Anyone else notice Danny fuck up during Stinkfist a couple times? Not that it mattered, he more than made up for it during Opiate and Triad. Speaking of which Triad seemed a lot more intense last night than it did in Cleveland, maybe it was just the venue. The past two shows have convinced me that Danny Carey is THE BEST drummer alive today, hands down, and I would go so far as to say perhaps even the greatest of all time. I challenge anyone to show me a drummer who can produce such complex beats with the blinding speed at which Carey can. Thank you to Tool for another uplifting concert experience. I can't wait to see them again in October when they come back our way. PS: Round on the outside and hi in the middle (which Maynard said both in Cincinnati and Cleveland)=OHIO...DUH
Review written by: Bob (rjpurcell@earthlink.net) Review posted on: 09/01/02 13:19:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
This was my second TOOL show, here's the review: The sound wasn't really clear compared to the first show I saw last year in Louisville. Maynard's voice sounded really muffled, and the overall mix just wasn't as pristine and seperated like the first show. Overall, the crowd seemed to be more of a rowdy party bunch that were there to show everyone how obnoxious they could be. I'd like to take this time to thank the bitch behind us who kept screaming that shrill pitch into my ear, spilling beer and dumping her hot cigarette ashes on me and punching my friend in the arm during her "dancing". You kept screaming that we were a bunch of fuckers because we weren't dancing. Some of us were there for an enlightening experience, not to flop around like a goddamn fish. All in all, TOOL played their dicks off and they still made it a great show despite the inadequecies of the facility and the breathren that call themselves TOOL fans. Not all, just the 10% that fuck it up for everybody else. Maynard wore a police uniform, and never took it off. He had a black stripe painted on his head, covering his identity. It's cool to see the different ways he hides himself from the crowd. I sometimes wonder what he thinks of the people fighting over his water bottles.....I kinda think they're missing the point. Like the previous poster said about the bubbles comment - think before you respond. It could be another Gammond. The first time I saw TOOL, it was under optimum conditions and I was totally blown away. This time, there were distractions keeping me from connecting. I was able to get into Opiate, Disposition/Reflection and Lateralus so all was not lost. My 3 friends that went with me had their first TOOL experience, so it was really cool to see them being blown away by it.
Review written by: Donald (yoshomon@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 13:22:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Tool rocked Cincinnati last night. Tomahawk were great opening, but Tool were unreal. Brilliant. I really liked Tomahawk, so everyone who wanted to yell shit at them should just not show up until Tool starts. Maynard did the 'think for yourself, question authority' thing, and I was thinking THIRD EYE but they played Opiate, which was really cool. Maynard also told everyone to go home and have sex after the show... ha. The greatest band in the world put on a show that I will not forget, despite the assholes behind me who wouldn't shut up.
Review written by: J (itscallingme@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 13:31:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show
Same show as Cleveland besides they played Opiate instead of AEnima, but thought they were going to play 3rd Eye when it started because Maynard was saying- think for yourself, question athority. A little disapointed they fooled me like that, it would have been nice to see 3rd Eye since it's been so long, but what can you do. Loved the show as usual. Seats on the floor again like Cleveland, what the fuck is up with that bullshit. -Spiral Out
Review written by: nate (nmowery@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 13:36:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
great show...great setlist...in addition to what i've seen mentioned, patton played on triad and was goin nuts...danny played some kind of synth shit w/ tomahawk, adding effects to patton's vocals...maynard dressed like a cop. i guess that's bout all that hasn't been said.
Review written by: Brad (bwakagr8ness@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 14:04:36 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Nothing short of amazing...... It was defiantly the best show I have been to (even though we drove for 3 and 1/2 to get there - It was well worth it) This show was much better than my home state's show in Huntington, WV on the 8th of August. It seemed to me that Maynard was feeling it last night, he had a lot of energy - and the music being played was flawless. Maynard playing and dancing on the Visual that was on the tile of the concert floor was outstanding.... i wasnt sure what it was at first, but shortly after I started to realize what it was. I cant wait to see them in Toledo. Spiral Out, Keep Going.
Review written by: Venal Anatmoica (anatomica_venal@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 14:09:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
First off i'll say that this was the best concert i've ever been to, and ever will be.... atleast till the next tool concert i go to. every thing that tool did was perfect, ever the intermission was incredible. a total, all out mind fuck to say the least. only down note to the show was tomahawk, which sucked, the only good thing about them was the deer they had on stage, i'd rather be slow jacked by a rabid wolverine than have 2 sit through them again, unless they would be followed by tool ofcoarse. flawless performance by tool, certainly won't be my last tool concert.
Review written by: crowbywan jeromy (jeremycroweis@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 14:30:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
before i start, i think i'm going to have to bitch about a few things. 1.) why do drunk mullet wearing rednecks to come to show that they will never understand, and 2.)why do drunk mullet wearing rednecks post on this sight comparing TOOL to Metallica in concert. LOL what a fucking idiot. enough of that. what the fuck was that last night. there is no way to really explain tomahawk other than it was mike patton and his weird weird ways. they really werent as bad as everyone always says. keep it up patton. tool were abso-fucking-lutely amazing. never in my life have i seen so much beauty in one place. the lighting was amazing, the visuals (vid screen) were completely relevent to the entire experience. the rev. maynard played guitar (sweet) in triad. patton really did come out and play on triad. the sybolism of all the vids was a bit creepy for the number of parents bringing there kids to see the show, not knowing the true goal of the band (and beyond popular beleif it's not to spread the love of satan). i must thank those who were coherent for joing me in my first Tool experience. mostly i must thank the band for putting for th the effort, even in a town of drunken rednecks.
Review written by: CatTurdsandMustardonRyewithapickle (mrpicklebob@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 14:40:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Tool, thank you. My socks were rocked straight off my feet. The show went great. I had goosebumbs the entire time. I have waited six years, LONG years to see Tool. I've had opportunities robbed, by nazi religious mothers (my own) and idiots killing people (9/11). But it was worth it. Last night, all those years culminated and blew my mind. I used drugs at the Cleveland show and went sober at Cinci., and being sober made me enjoy everything a lot more. It was hard to hear what Maynard was saying though. He said something about renting a movie called "Calligula" that's probably not how it is spelled, but phenetically is sound. If anyone can tell me more about this email me please. I left feeling inspired and utterly happy. During Sober, they threw in a breakdown where they slowed the tempo down for a couple seconds and Danny played an awesome drum beat. They all played extremely well. As far as musicians go, these guys are all on a level I wish to reach some day. Tomahawk - I went in there with no expectations, hoping they would be good. I was wrong ;) Mike Patton was funny, HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT, but the music just wasn't for me. The visuals during the Tool show were amazing. They brought the performance to new heights. It really made the music that much better. All of my senses were firing constantly, and for that I feel great. I want to say so much more but I am having trouble finding the words right now. I waited to long to post I guess. So it seems I must end, thanks for taking the time to read my review I hope it makes you smile. Again thank you Tool for making me smile. Matt - Keep on Rocking.
Review written by: Seth (Lateral_Us51@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 14:56:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Wow, the show was amazing. Blew me away. Alas, I left with a sour taste in my mouth. My luck was amazing as I was leaving that I got ahold of some backstage passes, twenty bucks apiece. Some "skanky" girls were taken back fifteen minutes before everyone, and they were IMMEDIATELY taken to the band. The rest of us were put in the catering room. After an hour and fifty minutes, and with only myself and my friend left in the room (originally there wre about 20 people), we were asked to leave. Tool had already left the building and were well upon their way. Every show before this, they had met with fans. A dream of mine could've been fulfilled, alas, it wasn't. It disgusts me to think they'd rather have their whores than to go to the REAL fans. I still love Tool, but I'm quite pissed as of right now. If five minutes of their time is too much to give to a few fans, well, then that is pretty damn sad. Maybe we didn't get our asses rocked, perhaps it was the whores who got their asses rocked, and I mean this in as derogatory manner as possible. Sorry, quite a sour taste, from a band I expected more of....
Review written by: Younctibility (schismgrudge2002@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 15:16:57 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
ok, this was my fourth tool show, my third of this tour. needless to say, this was the best of the four shows. maynard was a lot more talkative, the band seemed to enjoy the crowd a lot more than the other three shows i saw. maynard cracked a few of the same jokes he's cracked at previous shows but he did make a nice little speech before they broke into opiate: "we're coming up on the anniversary of a significant date. september 11th. but, instead of honoring those who died by giving up our civil rights we should remeber and honor them by opening our minds. Think for yourself. Question authority. Question authority. Question authority." then they played opiate. My friends and i had seats all around the arena, but as usual, we opted to move to the very top of the arena to view the whole show. And as usual, it was spectacular. The visuals we're modified quite a bit from the other two shows i've seen on this tour. The setlist was the same as usual, exchanging Opiate for Aenima. No "Patient" much to my girlfriends disappointment. Not that I didnt want to hear the patient, but i mean, i could hear three songs and be satisfied to have paid $40 (in this case $80 cuz of my girlfriend). Anyhow, keep rocking tool. And for all the new fans, and somewhat less intelligent fans. When you think about lyrics written by Maynard, dont buy into the bullshit. When a man sounds like he's gonna cry when he's singing a song, it has to be a little emotional. As far my hearing things last night like "46 & 2 is about being retarded, cuz you need 48 chromosomes to be retarded" well, you must have 48 then my friend. There are 46 chromosomes in the human body. When we step through each turn that life brings us we change as people, we turn into something else, it's almost as if we evolve developing two more chromosomes. Personally, i believe the song is about maynards days at west point, with the military. "I choose to live and to lie, kill and give and to die, learn, and love and to do, what it takes to step through." It's much more emotional than defining mental retardation. Think a little deeper, and think for yourself. Until the next show....Question Authority.
Review written by: Nucleos (rembert80@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 15:31:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 666 Tool show
Just wanna say fuck you to those losers who keep saying: "I was dissapointed they didn't play 46&2 or Ænema" or whatever song, just stay home or die or something... TOOL will play whatever they wanna play, just be glad you have the chance to experience a tool show.... In My Shadow...
Review written by: benjammin (benjammin@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 15:49:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. I would have to say it was definately worth the 6 hour drive to see my favorite band! I think theyget better every time I see them. I cant say enough about Danny Carey! Simply incredible! I love the new drum setup. You can see more of him and can really see how unbelievably fast he is! I loved the jam with the guy on the synth drums, even though I dont know who it was, it was great anyway. The artwork on the backdrop was stunningly beautiful and very apropriate with the stage setup and theme. Adams playing is mesmorising and his guitar tone is unmatched! The way he and Justin blend together is genuine. And thank you Maynard for your strength and guidance to bring it all together to form what we know is TOOL! Thanks again for another wonderful experience.
Review written by: morgan* (jamesdouglasgirl@mailcity.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 16:10:48 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
im obviously not going to post the setlist...but it was amazing~~maynard kicked some major ass tongiht...god, the opening number was so intense...i coudlnt wait for them to start sober!! i was just dyyyying sitting there...but then they started the show and from the first note on i was hooked...i didnt stop..some o fyou might have seen me, i was in section 239 and i was that girl who never stoped moving? yeah...it was so fucking amazing...the grudge was a big highlight for me, because they really just rocked it out...maynards 9-11 speech before opiate was pretty cool..i agree with most of what he said...and when he started chanting "think for yourself question authority" i thought i was goign to die...jesus, this show was like the most amazing sex i think i will ever have, with triad being the orgasm...triad was the highlight for me...im from a drum corps background, and to hear danny lay down beats like that was amazing..i could really hear some Phantom coming out! when the guy from tomahawk started laying it down on the timbales i thought i was gogni to go crazy..that was so beautiful and amazing...it was so steady yet so intense...it was just, orgasmic! thank you tool for giving me this opportunity...i cannot wait to see you in indy! oh, and for any art people--the graphics and the art work were so incredibly amazing, it's like goign to a contemporary art show...god, it was amazing..i dont think i can control myself....please please keep rockin' our asses off maynard, justin, adam and danny...because some of us consider this close to a religious experience, and the intensity you pull out in us can't be copied into any other form..thank you... -morgan
Review written by: Matt Todd (todd_nati@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 16:14:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Last night was unbelievable. Tool has gotten better each time I have saw them. Tomahawk was very interesting to say the least when the master of side projects Mike Patton said this was an ass-fucking contest. Tool came out and played Sober first which was really cool because I saw them twice last year and they didnt play it. They played H fourth which is my favorite Tool song ever and the crowd went crazy. They also rarely play H so that made this show better than the last two. Towards the end of the set you could pick the real Tool fans from the posers when they played Opiate and people had know clue what song it was. I hate when I go to a Tool concert and I see all the preppy assholes who only like Tool for the songs that are played on the radio. Those are the people who Maynard should systemically eliminate like he would any termite or cockroach. Overall Tool rocked our ass's off like Maynard hoped he would.
Review written by: DangerRoth (DangerRoth@hotmial.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 16:17:57 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Well this being my first Tool show im sure you all understand that it was the best show i have ever seen but reviews are to be objective so i will just list some facts that i did not read in other posts. First Tomahawk the beginning of there set fucking rocked but i just wasn’t feeling there last few songs. They did a lot of experimenting with feedback and white noise, towards the end my ears where raw. I feel that they defiantly went a little over board, but it was very original none the less (Tool would not tour with them if they sucked.) Dude on the floor with the silver head, very cool! Dude on floor who was passed out drunk in own vomit, not very cool. I had seats right up front and center, I was so excited to have them because my seats for the Dayton show that was canceled due to that god damned mother fucking ass clown Osama B. where very far from the stage. now I wish that I would have been a little further back. The video screens where on both sides of me and not in front so I missed out on a lot of visual stimulation I feel that the people directly in front of the stage in the stands, not on floor, had the best seats because the live shows arent really about seeing the band, they don’t really care to be seen but that’s why they are so fucking awesome they sell the music not themselves. There are some benefits to being close of course you do get to see Danny Carey rock out [I being a drummer myself watched him the whole time and tried to pick up some tips (I got nothing of course, he is far to talented for any other drummer to comprehend the skill he possesses)] Tool played perfect but unfortunately there where some sound issues, im not sure if it was the arena or the sound guy “Moose” but the sound was off at times, the levels where all over the place and It detracted from the show. Ether way not tools fault and not a big deal. The confetti that fell during reflection was bad ass and I think every one there left with 2 pocketfuls (my friends and I thought it would have been cool if the confetti where hits of acid J) Maynard mentioned something not posted about a Vietnamese whore house in Revina (or how ever you spell his home town) I think he always trys to rock out a little harder in his home state. Maynard got out his Guitar in this show, I don’t think he really played it though because he did the same thing at an APC show I went to and at that show he said he doesn’t play guitar he just likes the way he looks when he is holding one. Although I did look like he was playing that Amazon sounding part in triad. There was an ass hole on floor that thought it would be cool to jump over the seats on the last song lateralus, lucky for him I was not one of the people he jumped on because I would have loved to punch him in the face (actually I probably wouldn’t have out of respect for tools nonviolent beliefs) Another thing I noticed was how the extended version of stinkfist sounded like the skinny puppy remix. Not only did Mike Patton play the Rotor Toms but he ran over and played that little box next to Adam. After the show I went to try to get an autograph I didn’t get one but I picked up some tips from some of the cooler security guards. First they usually chill in the arena for a couple hours after the show so you can go back to your car and chill for a while instead of waiting on the street. They are usually drunk when the walk out to the bus so if you can do something interesting to draw a drunks attention like juggling flaming chainsaws then do that and they might come out and talk to you. He also said that Danny Carey and Maynard like to get with there women after the show and they don’t usually come out and sign autographs but Justin and Adam do come out from time to time. Lastly under the windshield wiper of ever bus is a piece of paper (like I cop would ticket your car) but it isn’t a ticket at all its directions to the next show and if you are at a show that the band has a night off the following day then they will be directions to the hotel they will be staying at. I hope this info is useful. -Danger- PS security guards arent police so dont take any shit and I agree anyone who compairs tool to matallica is a drunken mullet wearing redneck
Review written by: Drew (adkinsandrew@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 16:56:51 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This is was the best concert i've ever been too! after falling in love with tool about 5 years i'm extremely happy that i finally got to see them! it was a thousand times better than i ever imagined it would be. everything about the concert was amazing! such as the videos and the backdrops! i loved the lightning! it was great looking around from time to time and seeing everyone w/in sight going nuts! if you've never seen TOOL live.. it's a def. MUST!
Review written by: ToolFan (toolfan@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 17:39:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I have a suggestion.....think for yourself..question authority..... Part of what Maynard said before he broke out with Opiate, fucking amazing. Didnt see that coming, and I almost had an orgasm when they started. Sober opening was the greatest. Great selections, all done the best. In short, it was the greatest show ever. As for Tomahawk, they sucked more ass than anyone ever could have. I have never seen such a horrible band in my life. All he did was scream over and over, he didnt even sing. Then that fucker, on top of being booed by the crowd, went on to insult us. Then talked about someone showing him their dick. I guess he wanted to be assfucked because hes a faggot. In either way, I doubt I have hated a band more than them. Oh yeah, and their t-shirts looked like a 5 year old created them. Everything about them sucked, I hope they rot in hell and their families all die very slowly. Fucking faggots.
Review written by: 46&2 (Rj45lip@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 17:42:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
In response to the post above......You are so right, Tomahawk was horrible, I hated them as well. Tool was the greatest ever, amazing. I also wish great harm upon Tomahawk.
Review written by: M. Howard (mahowa2@uky.edu) Review posted on: 09/01/02 18:11:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Tool's focus on the individual makes me feel like an individual. And it's one of the best feelings anyone could have.
Review written by: ... (dotcom@dotcom.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 19:01:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
a few remarks... - Tool played their asses off (like always) - Cincinnati should not be allowed to hold Tool concerts - can't wait to see them for a 3rd time (outside of Cincy) - anyone bitching about the setlists being somewhat the same need to realize that the show itself is based around a theme... not your favorite songs - anyone else cry during H... damn that was great eh? - i wasn't suprised by the crowd, typical fratboy jocks and rednecks - i hope all the nu-metal kids who are inspired by the likes of Slipknots drummer and other such so-called "best drummers" who went, got to see a good shot of Danny playing... thats drumming kids... shove that double bass pedal up your ass hahaha
Review written by: Matt (dattmavis@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 19:05:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
My life is forever changed after this show. I drove 8 hours both ways (from northern michigan) to see this show, and every second of the drive was worth it. Tomahawk wasn't too bad, but I couldn't understand any of the lyrics Mike Patton was singing. Now on to TOOL, before the show I completely embarrased myself in hopes of getting front row seats from some radio station down there, but nonetheless I was screwed over in the end. But that doesnt matter, TOOL is the most amazing band on earth, and the entire show gave me chills. I was a little puzzles as to why they didnt play the patient. H. was so awesome, and the visual with the snake eating itself was really powerful. The setlist posted before is correct, and it was really nice to hear Opiate. Anyways, no matter how far you have to go, if you havent seen TOOL yet on this concert, GO SEE THEM!!! It is well worth it.
Review written by: Master Baiter (randypan@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 20:40:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I wasn't at this show, but I just want to thank Tool very much. Y'all are touring like there's no tomorrow (and if that asteroid collision that Blair keeps going on about on the official site is a serious possibility there may not be). I just saw the new dates. Man, you guys just don't quit. Thanks again and I'll see you for the 5th time as soon as time and funds allow.
Review written by: Kyle Beef (pryopen3rdeye@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 20:41:51 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Awesome show. I wasn't as travel weary as I was when I went to the Radio City show, so I was able to appreciate this one a bit more. Naturally, the Cinci show wasn't as good as Radio City, but I had a great view of the band, particularly Maynard and Danny Carey. Didn't get there in time for Tomahawk--which doesn't break my heart, given the reviews I've read--but Mike Patton (apparently it was Mike Patton) absolutely kicked ass helping out during Triad. One interesting note: Since Eon Blue/The Patient didn't make it on the setlist, the glitter/confetti was dropped during Disposition instead. I think that this is more fitting, as it resembles rain, which works well with the whole "Watch the weather change" theme of the song. And for some reason, teal and purple are just the perfect colors for the lights during Disposition/Reflection. Naturally, the 3 biggest high points of the show for me were: 1) H, 2) Opiate, 3) The Grudge (with full scream--fucking badass). Some little (probably 16 years old) hottie sitting in front of my friend got invited to an after-party during Lateralus. Perhaps she will post a special review of her own at some point. I am sure she has much to tell. Thank you TOOL. See you in Moline.
Review written by: Sean Cannon (sean@zfx.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 21:06:56 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Yippy Skippy Dippy Doo. That was rather amazing. 1st concert ever..period. I drove the 6.5 hours to Cincinatti alone and it was so worth it. To the guy who posted: "would not tour with them if they sucked.) Dude on the floor with the silver head, very cool! Dude on floor who was passed" :) I saw him too. cool. Anyway...I was sitting right in front of the stage...not on the floor, and not in the upper level. It was....perfect. Perfect view to take it all in. The highlight for me was The Grudge. In-fuckalishiously- credible. When the huge alex gray backdrop was uncovered I think a mental orgasm shockwave expanded into the arena. Too cool. Sober was great...but I was so jazzed up just realizing I was there that I couldn't concentrate too well. H. was a great surprise. 46&2 would have been great, but you know what....who cares. Tool has NEVER made a bad song. H. is NO exception. Plus the crowd(only) singing "I don't mind. I dont mind. I dont MIIIIIIIIIIND!!" was amazing. Kind of disappointed not to have heard The Patient....but... Parabol(a) made up for it. I've never been totally into the song...but live it just blew me away. As far as the Opiate - Aenema switch. I liked it. Aenema is played on the radio ALL the time so Opiate was a great twist to the norm. Schism was ok...Honestly I might rate it one of their worst songs(BUT its still way better than...papa roach...) Either way I loved it all and let it soak in. Stinkfist........:)..........the crowd was so into that. just great. made me happy. The intermission was ok the first 3 minutes or so....but.....honestly could have been cut short. 15 minutes of droning bass isn't much to get into. Reflection.....good Triad............very good/great Disposition....Amazing. Lateralus.........Well, since there isn't a word in the english language to describe it....I'll make one up. It was very "lateralusish". VERY! I left very quickly in order to avoid the traffic. With my brain still deaf to the world I got in my car and drove back to my hotel room and the "real world". The whole concert seemed far too short. Oh yeah.....I suppose I should mention somthing about tomahawk(sp??). On a scale of 1 to 10....2. I understand that mike patton is a musical leonardo da vinci, and I find his sense of humor great, but I can't lie and say I enjoyed tomahawk. They just deafened my ears before tool started.....thats not good. Oh yeah again.......THE...THE! THE!!!!!!!!! best part of the show was in the VERY begining when the flaming razor circle thing appeared on the screens. My knees were litterally shaking. Wow..... I could have stayed in that state forever. Btw....to the people around me...thanks for being such a great crowd. There were two guys(about 20 or so) in front of me that were like two 6 year olds seeing their favorite sesame street character live. Cool to watch. When I got back to my hotel I turned on the tv and on MTv was the show "Live at the Rock Hall of Fame" or whatever. POD was playing. it was comical to watch. After just seeing the greatest band ever play it was hard to turn on the radio or mtv and take anything on it seriously. Cant wait for the next show.... -Sean Cannon sean@zfx.com (email me DAMMIT!)
Review written by: lucy christopher (lucys-hotbox@webtv.net) Review posted on: 09/01/02 21:37:15 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
TOOL virgin no more!!!!!! My first TOOL show but certainly not my last. I have no favorite moments because it was all too f*cking awesome to pinpoint one thing. From opening with MY song SOBER to the lights and visuals - Ahhhh....I'm ready for the next show. I even followed Maynard's advice: found my ass after it had been rocked off, drove safely, and went home and had sex!!! -Lu C.
Review written by: Sean Gilroy (bombardier_yossarian@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 21:40:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
I'm so pissed off. I can't believe they didn't play Sweat or Hush or Part Of Me or Cold And Ugly or Jerk-Off or The Gaping Lotus Experience or Intolerance or Prison Sex or Bottom or Crawl Away or Swamp Song or Undertow or 4 Degrees or Flood or Disgustipated or Eulogy or Forty-Six & 2 or Hooker With A Penis or jIMMY or Die Eier Von Satan or Pushit or Ænema or Third Eye or The Patient or Ticks & Leeches or You Lied or Spasm or Demon Cleaner or Stranglehold or No Quarter or Commando or Maynard's Dick. Those fucking shitbags. I can't believe they didn't base their setlist around my own personal concept of the perfect Tool show. They've obviosly sold out. Sorry to be such a smartass, but I get really tired of people complaining about the setlists. I mean come on, people--this isn't Phish. There's no reason for them to cater to the people who go to ten shows in a row because such people constitute a very tiny (if vocal) minority. The overwhelming majority of the people who see them (or any other band whose tickets are in the $40-$50 range) probably aren't going to see them again until after they put out another album. Anywho, it was a great show. I just about creamed my shorts when Justin played the opening to "H." I desperately wanted them to play it, yet I had been certain that they wouldn't. Adam and Justin played this haunting little piece between "H." and "Schism." Not sure if it was an extended ending for one or an extended intro for the other, but it was really pretty. I was glad to hear "Parabol" before "Parabola." When I saw them in Louisville last October, they played "Parabola" by itself, and it just didn't feel quite right. I was kind of hoping for "Ænema" instead of "Opiate," but whaddayagonnado? I'm certainly not going to bitch about it. I'll wrap this up quickly: "Disposition" was beautiful; "Reflection" was mesmerizing; "Triad" was gorgeously brutal; and lastly, "Lateralus" was a ten-minute orgasm. Those guys are obscenely tight, like they can read each other's minds or something. And of course, Danny is a fucking god. The new backdrops and whatnot added a lot, I thought. Much better than what they had on last years tour. I was also pleasantly surprised by the amount of new video material on the projection screens. I was under the impression that they were just using a little new stuff. ----- B U T ----- The sound quality at US Bank Arena was absolutely fucking god-awful, at least where I was (16th row, lower level, just left of the stage). Danny and Justin sounded great, but Adam needed to be a little louder, and Maynard needed to be A LOT louder. He also needed a treble boost or something. We could hear him, but he was really muffled and indistinct. Even when he was talking between songs, we couldn't really make out a lot of what he said (he did a lot more talking than he did at the 2 shows I saw last year. He also seems to have lightened up a good deal). It's a shame they didn't play across the Ohio at Riverbend instead. But anyway, it was a killer show, well worth the time and money. Adam, Danny, Justin, Maynard, if you're reading this, thanks for "H.," it really made my night. And please consider coming to Lexington, KY on your next tour. Keep it real, y'all.
Review written by: Eric Brumfield (dirtman@charter.net) Review posted on: 09/01/02 22:07:52 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Outstanding show! It was well worth the 3 1/2 hour drive from Huntington WV. Like I said "See you in Cincinatti". The band definitely had more energy in Cincinatti compared to when they played Huntington. Opiate definitely made my night as I'm sure it did for a lot of others. Maynard was dead on with everything and sang very loud, very powerful, gave me chills. As with the music it was very energetic. You guys played your asses off while you rocked ours, I'm very appreciative of this guys. Nobody mentioned Maynard talking about a daycare or preschool center somewhere in Ohio ran by a bunch of Vietnamese women, I recall him saying he had never taken his own there. Funny stuff with "Round on the outside Hi in the middle" Maynard "Lets see how you compare to Cleveland" "Round on the outside High in the middle" Crowd *Blank stare* Maynard "Try to keep up" "Round on the outside Hi in the middle" Crowd "Round on the outside Hi in the middle" Maynard "You have failed miserably" Great stuff, see you guys in Toledo, hopefully I can get closer to the stage next time. You are a part of me
Review written by: Mr. Robert A. Schobert (paper_head@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 22:23:18 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was not only my first Tool concert, but my first concert period. And I'v got to say that the price that the tickets cost was well worth the money! They played almost all of my favorite Tool songs and the lighting and visuals were nothing short of amazing. Absolutly mind blowing! My only two complants were all the people smoking pot and that they didn't play "Third Eye". I hoping that they were gonna play "Third Eye" but what are ya gonna do? Over all, it was an absolute amazing experience that I'm hoping to experience again when Tool comes to Toledo!!!
Review written by: ~Zaumvier (Tool99@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 22:57:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
"Cincy," (Applause follows)...following Sober, The Grudge, and Stinkfist. Yes Maynard is from Ohio but not as far south as Cincinnati. I just offer one big thanks to the band who played an amazing show...and for "rocking our asses off." Thank you for waking up this shitty place that has been in a conservative slumber since the 19th Century. Porkopolis was rocked!
Review written by: corey (ceb@insightbb.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 23:29:53 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
if there were no seats on the floor everyone from lower arena would have been down there i thought i might have just been in a "dead spot" but from reading everyones posts i guess the sound was overall shitty the tool crowd has changed alot since last time i saw them at the hara arena in on aenima tour i like the way tool doesent draw attention to themselves as individuals and focuses more on the music tomahawk exceded my expectations, interesting stuff patton to the band:please consider coming to lexington ky next time around
Review written by: Chris (elsmitty11@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/01/02 23:59:01 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Awesome show. The band sounded great despite the absolutely horrid acoustic in U.S. Bank Arena/Firstar Center/Riverfront Coliseum. Maynard's "round on the outside, hi in the middle" bit was quite amusing as were the ushers busting balls about people smoking. I thought the crowd reaction to the encore/second set was lame, but everyone got up for "Lateralus" at the end. Tomahawk was cool as anything. Mike Patton is the man. I loved the gas mask.
Review written by: jesus fucking christ (lordofthedreadfort@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/02/02 09:57:59 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
This was probably the best show i have ever seen, and i've seen many. No words can really describe the feeling of seeing Tool live. It's a very uplifting and spiritual experience. Hopefully everyone really understood what Maynard was talking about when he mentioned Sept. 11. Keep your eyes open. Think for yourself. Question Authority.
Review written by: jay (korni4@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/02/02 12:10:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
well, i`m sorry this is late....i stayed to watch the webn fireworks......not much i can say that hasnt already been said 20 times over......OUT- FUCKING- STANDING...... i saw tool in huntington, w.va. on the 8th, and was totally blown away....it is definitely a spiritual experience....anyway, last nights show was far better...maynard spoke to the crowd alot more and seemed to be really enjoying the vibe....also, i was able to "herbalize" during the show, and it just made it like an out-of-body experience.... anyway, tool is the ultimate band....if you havent seen them, get up and go get tickets......NOW !!!!!!!! i know, if they`re ever close to ky again, i`ll be there !!!!! nelle, i missed you....... all this pain is an illusion............. jay
Review written by: Nathan Millay (millay02@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/02/02 19:05:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was my first concert ever and I sure am glad it was becuase I believe no one could live up to Tool's awesome show. This won't be my last . Hopefully they will stop somewhere close to me again. AWESOME......man I can't wait until the next one.
Review written by: MInx (Minx187@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/02/02 22:30:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Well holy shit. I haven been looking Forward to this show for almost a year, ever since i couldnt go to the one last year in louisville. well firt off i had to drive nearly 3 hours to cincinnati. tomahawk sucked ass, if you herd some guy yellin "fuck you" that was me. When the lightw went out and I herd the sound of Justin turning on all his pedals and making whicked noises with his bass, my heart stopped. the shoe was ultimatly the best experience of my life. i love the alex grey display, and how tool intergrated it into to prefprmance i liked hering H. but i would have like to of herd Aenima and the patient. but anyways I love tool. I just got a tattoo of the flming eye on the back of my neck. Maynard didnt face the crowd much, mostly his side, he's great. that only makes him more mysterious. they played some great songs, traid was very nice. and lateralus put on a nice touch to the end, with maynard spinnind around it was great. God wat a great show. remember "think for yourselves"
Review written by: Chaos Spawn (chaos_spawn666@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/02/02 22:46:39 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I treated my buddy to 3rd row seats for his first Tool experience. He wasn't dissappointed. I enjoyed seeing the band up close and personal even though I was too close to see the video screens. I can't say enough about Justin's playing. I figured I'd be on Danny all show, but Justin really kept my attention. The highlight of the show for me was when they broke into 'Opiate' which was my number one hopeful for the setlist that night. What can I say about Tool that hasn't already been posted thousands of times by rabid fans like me. I just want to thank the guys in the band for sharing another fantastic moment with me. I look forward to seeing them again in Toledo, Indy, or Dayton (if they schedule a date there). Oh yeah - Yes Maynard, you guys did rock my ass off. I am still sore today.
Review written by: DegenerateSodomiteBastard (DSB@hotmeals.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 10:43:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show
The journey started from Indianapolis, we left, leaving the west behind and heading straight into the east, to CInci, to receive another dose of that strange sonic elixer that only Tool can administer. The winding road eventually led us to our destination, there next to the Ohio River stood the US Bank Arena, corporate america staring us down from above. We were supposed to have met a few others there for the show, but seeing as how we were later than expected, and they were on the opposite bank of the river indulging at some restaurant, we decided to go in and check out Tomahawk, hoping for a better experience than Chicago had given us. Mike Patton was especially humorous, making fun of a security guard's ass, and asking to see some cocks in the audience. Tomahawk was better, and more interesting than ever, to think they are finally growing on me. We sat, eating our oversized/overpriced polish sausages, and enjoying a cold livation (also marked up in typical arena fashion). The lights came up and we waited, until finally the arena fell dark again, and the eerie, foretelling music before the show started. You know it is almost time when you hear the pipes of pan playing their breathy tune. Then Sober started, from a very melodic, and familiar beginning. We were lucky enough to be sitting next to some very nice ohio- ans who decided they would share the smokeables with a couple of Indiana boys who were eager to partake. The show rolled on, and so did the emotion and energy coming from the stage. I was getting more sauced and silly as the show progressed, almost coming to tears during an especially gripping version of "H". Intermission. Half done, but still so much to take in. The second side of the show was staggering and surreal. A man behind us who had spilled some beer on my friend earlier offered up a glass pipe for us to hit, I don't think it was only cheeba in there, something else, maybe sherm. Whatever it was put the show into hyperdrive, my body feeling a sense of flipping while standing still, running marathons while sitting down. Triad almost melted what was left of my poor poor brain. It was so powerful and striking that I could barely move, but I found the strength to keep going. Then lateralus, lifting me up from my mental collapse, and setting me right, both mentally and physically. We exited and sat next to the river, in awe, feet in the water, talking to some french girl (I think). Then some freak stuck her finger in my ass crack at a near by gas station. What a night, what an experience, what a band. Shit. Moline ist in der nahe....DSB
Review written by: bub (cpthowdy213@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 10:59:54 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Things I noticed...I think -The bass line in the Grudge was a little different than the CD. -There was a short jam/breakdown in the middle of Stinkfist, just before Maynard screams, "I'll...keep...digging!" -The inner part of Maynard's platform was rotating in a circle during Lateralus, to go along with riding the spiral. Very cool. The opening riff to Sober hit like a sledgehammer. Great opener. Maynard's scream during The Grudge is one of the most amazing things I've ever heard from Tool, so to see him duplicate it live gave me chills. The man is an incredible vocalists. It was great to hear Opiate. I didn't expect that one. I love the way they play the trilogy (Disposition, Reflection and Triad) all in order. I think it separates the true Tool fans from the Nu Metal fans. The drums before/during Triad were tight. The glitter was cool, and the blue lights on top (if you were there) that looked like electricity. And, of course, as I previously mentioned Maynard riding the spiral. I hadn't seen it mentioned in any previous reviews. Just wondering if anyone else noticed that. I'm sure they did. I didn't know the round in the outside joke until I read some reviews. Maybe I'm a little slow, or maybe since I'm not from Ohio I don't get it. And I still think its cool that they don't play encores. Play the show and be done. And at least the don't tease the crowd, the lights come on almost before the band is off the stage. Peace "I'm reaching for the random or whatever will bewilder me"
Review written by: BloodRoses (bloodroses@collegeclub.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 11:09:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
A phenominal show as expected...too bad the set list has basically stayed the same for a while now. I was very impressed with the visual show, as well as the music. I don't know if the show was sold out, but it was damn close! So good to see sucha positive impact on the Cinci area...so many different people love Tool: metal heads. hippies, frat boys, goth kids, rave kids, emo kids, punk kids, and whoever else...any tool fan is a friend in my book....
Review written by: Tate Burns (maynardisgod@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 11:38:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Tool was definetly full of energy in Cinci. Me and the crew i was with decided to do the show sober, what a coincidence. MAYNARD'S PARENTS WERE AT THE SHOW!!! One of my friends I was with scored a floor ticket on the way in and was near the soundboard. He was talking to the soundboard dude and he informed my friend that, in fact, maynards parents were standing "right over there". Tool was a deeply intense cleansing experience for my soul and will remain in my thoughts until the next time I see them.
Review written by: Jeremy (face2411@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 14:23:30 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
Great time as always...
Review written by: Shawn S. (y2jediiknight@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 16:21:02 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Didn't realize how big of a Tool fan I was untill the show was halfway thru, when I noticed I knew EVERY song they played. That's just a tribute to my big-time Tool-fan buddies. The highlight of the evening for me was screaming "Free Ronnie Dobbs!" and "Ronnie Dobbs. Ronnie Dobbs!" to the top of our lungs from our 3rd row seats and finally having Maynard acknowledge us with a "Thank you for your support" Can't wait untill Indy! By the way, we're the ones who sold the passes to the young guys. Sorry dudes, we wwre fighting over the passes cuz we only had 2 passes and 4 of us went together. All for one, one for all, we decided to sell 'em. Again! Can't wait till Indy!
Review written by: Shawn S. (y2jediiknight@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 16:24:48 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Didn't realize how big of a Tool fan I was untill the show was halfway thru, when I noticed I knew EVERY song they played. That's just a tribute to my big-time Tool-fan buddies. The highlight of the evening for me was screaming "Free Ronnie Dobbs!" and "Ronnie Dobbs. Ronnie Dobbs!" to the top of our lungs from our 3rd row seats and finally having Maynard acknowledge us with a "Thank you for your support" Can't wait untill Indy! By the way, we're the ones who sold the passes to the young guys. Sorry dudes, we wwre fighting over the passes cuz we only had 2 passes and 4 of us went together. All for one, one for all, we decided to sell 'em. Again! Can't wait till Indy!
Review written by: Master Reviewer (lynn.johnson@jpfinancial.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 17:15:18 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. Hey kids rock 'n roll, rock on! First of all my friend Tony and I drove from Greensboro, NC and Gate City, VA respectively. He plays drums and is very good, he also is a DJ and loves rock. He had never seen TOOL and I wanted him to see these "whom I deem legends in my own mind". I though the guys were great as usual I had myself yet another toolorgasim. I was expecting Tony to be very impressed with Danny, but all he kept talking about was Justin was the best bass player he had seen and heard (I agree and think Victor Wooten of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones is close). He thought Maynard was the coolest, he said how cool is it that "the man" would not be the front man and just let the entire band and music do the talking. When I pressed him on Danny; I thought he was great but had been more impressed with him more of the other times I had saw him, "Tony said he was very good but to me came across as mechanical". Well, he is the best I have seen but again I have seen him five times. I was glad to drive the 8 hours, and glad to turn Tony onto Tool as he is kind of out of the loop when it comes to newer bands as one of the only band of near recent times he is impressed with is Alice In Chains (Tony is 43). He had a great time and was thankful I brought him along. Rock On and thanks TOOL.
Review written by: Will Stewart (wrkstew@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 18:06:04 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
This was the 2nd Tool show for me in less than three weeks, as I made it to the August 9th show in Richmond, but didnt post a review for that show. So I'm going to compare and contrast these two shows now. Both were amazing, but I enjoyed the Cincinnatti show better than Richmond because of the setlist, and it seemed to be a little longer. I love the fact that they opened with Sober on this tour. Alot of people were disapointed at last falls tour because they didnt play it. Me, being OGT, loved seeing them start the shows with the song that initially made me fall in love with their music nearly a decade ago. I was also happy that they played H and Opiate in Cincy, which they didnt in Richmond. I think the Cincy crowd seemed to understand what the band is about more than those from Richmond, where some Slipknot loving jerk-offs tried to give people concussions by moshing. Tools music is meant to stimulate peoples minds, not break their necks. I also like the way Tool always closes their shows with the standout song from the current album, recently with Lateralus, and in '96 with Aenema. In 20 years people will think of Tool as they do Pink Floyd now. A band who is about the music, not TRL and Carson Daly and Video Music Awards and all the other things that really dont matter at all. They dont get the respect that they deserve from publications like Rolling Stone. But I dont think they care, and truly neither do I or any of the other true fans. Theyre the best band in the history of the world, period, and they are, in my opinion, incapable of writing or playing a bad song. The shows have always been entertaining and inspiring, and I hope they keep it going for another ten years. Thanks Tool, for being cool.
Review written by: Dave (unrealgod@guitarsrule.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 22:56:31 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Thanks for Opiate, my favorite song. Ill see you guys in Indy. Remember, If you think for yourself, you make the decision to question authority.
Review written by: kory (koryking@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/03/02 23:13:57 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I can now die happy. TOOL played to a huge audience at the US Bank Arena. I had a perfect view of the stage, and Maynard, as is normal of him, stayed in the background for most of the show. There was an awesome jam session in the middle of the show where TOOL played with a member of Tomahawk. I could've swore i saw a guitar in Maynards' hands... i was not aware the he knew how to play! It was awesome... with a Sept. 11th version of Opiate. I was in awe the whole time. -Kory
Review written by: c.d.a. (bunkmail777@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/04/02 12:46:10 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
So my Tool experience goes as follows: 98 Ozzfest Polaris Amp. =- Columbus, OH 98 Toledo Sports Arena ( MELVINS!!! ) Self inflicted scars from the worthless floor tickets I had from the Sept. 12, 2001 show in Dayton. Needless to say, after a 4 year mindbending wait, the excruciating pain was released as Tool sucked the tired skin off my body. 2 video screens left/right of the stage, 3 drops to receive morphing Alex Grey designs, a HUGE backdrop of Grey- infused acid-melt-mind-trip - I could hardly keep my eyes on the band with all these distractions (lovely as they were). The only truly memorable band antics I can regurgitate for you is Danny's constant rhythmic motions, Adam & Justin's Iron Butterfly-ish stances, and Maynard's 'spiralling' during Lateralus (being an ex-stage hand and lighting designer, I'm ultra curious as to the platform mechanics they used). I also truly appreciate the Kabbalism incorporated into video - bravo guys. All in all - I'm riding the crest of a wave I pray will never break. Tool has risen to a level of musical excellence and technical design/technology wonder I will enjoy forever. See you in Toledo, brothers. Enjoy the break. c.d.a
Review written by: Master Reviewer (nincoil@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/04/02 14:58:23 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Tomahawk sucked. Patton tried everything to get the crowd "hot hot hot" (if you saw them perform you know what im talking about....unfortunately). this was my second time seeing T00L. last time it was at the verizon wireless ampitheater in indianapolis, IN outdoors. This time it was at the US Bank Arena indoors in Cincinnati, OH. I think that most people that have seen T00L indoors and outdoors would agree with me when i say that the indoor show kicks so much more ass. the lighting and stage show is much better, plus outdoor last year, you could not see maynard at all. Sober The Grudge (-) Ions Stinkfist (Extended version) H. Schism (Extended intro) Parabol Parabola Opiate (Intermission) Disposition Reflection Triad Lateralus Great setlist. Everything about this show was great i want to go to every show now....They started off with sober and it only got better from there, maynard tried to get the crowd excited "Round on the outside high in the middle" but they seemed like they werent into it too much. I however was going crazy with too much excitement. The stage was extremely visible (first section 22 rows back). Maynard was dressed like a cop with a black stripe painted down the middle of his face and im pretty sure he had a black mohawk. The backdrops were beautiful. very vibrant with many different images and colors. almost pink floyd esque in a way. the art on the screens were great again. Maynard gave a speech near the end of the show about the memory of those who died on 9/11. "to honor them we should think for ourselves, question authority. think for yourself, question authority. think for yourself question authority." at the very end of the show he said "i hope we rocked your asses off. we also hope you find your ass now and travel home safely with it." he then suggested having sex when everyone got home. BOTTOM LINE: IN THE BEGINNING OF THE SHOW NO ONE WAS INTO IT, AT THE END, THE CROWD GAVE THE BAND A STANDING OVATION, STANDING ON TOP OF THE FOLD OUT CHAIRS. T00L KICKS EVERYONES ASS. MJK = MY IDOL.
Review written by: A Tool fan (nicetry@dontwantspam.com) Review posted on: 09/04/02 17:11:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This was my first show, and I must say it rocked! Maynard has a great voice and the music when played live just takes you over. If you haven't seen the guys yet, go do it! Just one thing of note for the Cincy show that I wanted to bring up because I haven't seen or heard it discussed elsewhere: Did you all notice that all the Tomahawk guys and Maynard were wearing police uniforms? Did they do this at other shows on the tour or was this a statement regarding the recent Police/community relationship issues in Cincinnati? Just a thought.
Review written by: WB (mcohen101@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/04/02 17:26:32 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Much thanks to Tool for another consciousness-raising experience, and seriously, is there anything more fun than a Tool show? And by the way, if anyone is looking for that daycare center for 16-year old Vietnamese girls in Ravenna, I think it's on Brady Lake Road, not far from the Happy Days School. Just follow the short bus...
Review written by: Hi on the inside (mantra44@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/04/02 22:46:40 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Wow. I will never be able to express exactly how this show made me feel. I was so excited beforehand, and it still exceeded my wildest expectations. The only complaint there could possibly be is that I wouldve liked a couple more songs mixed in the set, but I understand its the end of the tour and they are all worn out. Maynard was in a cop uniform tonight. I dont know if he has done this at any other shows. It was similar to the leather outfit he normally wears, but it had a police badge on the breast. He said some things differently tonight too. "Cincy... sure this isnt cleveland? Pay attention. Round on the outside, High in the middle." The crowd was dumbfounded. Thanks to whoever posted on here what he meant, which was "Ohio". He also said some things about the 9-11 anniversary, and at the end, "We hope we've rocked your asses off". Like I said before, I am only beginning to understand how this concert changed me. I feel at peace within myself for the first time in years. This is really the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and thanks go to tool for pushing me in the right direction.
Review written by: Vinnie (vinnie@wxdx.com) Review posted on: 09/05/02 18:22:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
Again, I don't intend to further dissect a show that's already been well enough reviewed, but I only saw these things because of my advantageous vantage point. Adam played in his socks. Both Danny & Justin laughed themselves stupid at the un- planned entrance of Mike Patton during the start of "Triad." Like Cleveland, it was supposed to be Tomahawk drummer (and former Helmet drummer) John Stanier. Maynard's comments afterwards indicated Mike's jaunt into the care of 16 year old Vietnamese boys and Maynard's lack of knowledge at Patton's reputation as he'd never employeed his service. Prior to "Lateralus," the comments made by Maynard were identical to Cleveland; indicating we all need go home horny, rent "Caligula" and have sex. I emoted.
Review written by: casey (coslettc@erau.edu) Review posted on: 09/06/02 01:53:14 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
I drove over 15 hours to Florida for school immediately after this show, and no i wasn't on acid or mushrooms. At the last second i received a free ticket that thankfully delayed my journey. It was worth every second. Alex Grey is a genius. Tool is a genius. What more do you really need to know? To all the supposed "true" Tool fans out there wearing black and fucked up piercings and tattoos - for all you know it could have been a member of the band working the concession stand that made your stoned ass pay 4 bucks for a hot dog. You people act like your rebelling or something when actually you're creating the opposite effect. Do you see Adam or Justin jumping up and down like they're in Korn? Here's two ideas - watch and listen. Also, why is everyone obsessed with maynard? Granted he's very obscure and artistic, but i'd like to know things like how did Justin make his bass sound like water flowing down a drain. Furthermore, I think it needs to be mentioned that Adam and Justin are two of the most complimentary guitarists in the world. (This is in my humble opinion of course) Thank you Tool. Your music inspires thought and creativity, two things uncommon in music these days. -casey coslett p.s. - please come to Florida soon!