Summer 1998 Tour Reviews

Date: 0813


Review written by: Mori (Morianna13@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/25/98 00:58:49 Tool played here at Red Rocks which is by far the most kick-ass place to see a concert!! The view of Denver and and Red Rocks is awesome and Tool rocks! Definitly go see them and definitly check out Red Rocks!!!!

Review written by: Johnny R. (n/a) Review posted on: 08/20/98 16:11:03 -surley young fans boo melvins incessantly- annoying,shamless self promotion from local radio station-impeccable sound quality;bowel movement inducing lows-great performance from tool-long psychedelic portion midway thru show,climaxing w/cover of zeppelin's "no quarter"- feeling fortunate to have caught a band I knew little about at the right place(red rocks)& right time(big buzz). THE ESSENCE OF R&R .

Review written by: terry (Basterry1@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/19/98 17:51:38 Red Rocks, the best in the world to see a concert. If you have neglected to see a concert there I suggest you do so. Melvins opened up around 8:00 or so. They played until about 9:15 I believe. Maynard intorduced them and then gave a speech to th e crowd about being open-minded and all sorts of ant-hick stuff. They open with Part of Me which ws pretty good. I am terrible with terrible at remembering songs so I'll just give a samll digest about the other songs. Eulogy came next and that was pret ty good, " Don't you fucking Lie" was beautiful. Maynard gave a short speech about how "we almost never do this live except for certain occasions". Adam stsrteerd out with an organlike sound. I couldn't beleive that they were playing No Quarter. Adam I believe was the highlight of this tune as D anny and Maynard are usually the focal points. I remeber a mediocre version of 46 + 2 with a short intro by Justin. Maynard proceeded to dicuss the ability to find a comfortable place but with the ability to change or something of thr sort and he asked that people in the crowd help them find that place. They played a really incredible version of Pushit which I li ked better than the real version on the album. There was an excellent version of Aenima which lasted a really long time and I myself enjoy their musical interludes. God my memory, They did an encore seemingly against their will because Danny, Justin, Adam and Reverend Maynard just hung out onstage for a few minutes and continued their banter with eachother and finally said you want an encore? ok, I guess so. N onetheless Opiate came after a short version of Flood. Bothe were great but the funniest thing was the way that they played Hooker with the cartoon backdrop. You really have to see on e of their shows to know what I mean. Well Have a good Show!!

Review written by: Master Reviewer (lotusa71) Review posted on: 08/19/98 01:46:35 Hey fellow tool Fans... yes tool was awesome, as expected and then some. Pretty much everything I wanted to say has been said. I would like to point out however to the person that claimed that nothing was thrown at the melvins, that in fact quite a few bottles were thrown at them. I was 10 rows back center and saw it quite clearly. They also might not have gotten booed off, but the bassist left the stage before the song was even over, and there was quite alot of booing going on as he did so. When adam and buzz played friday night, buzz even asked if any of the people in the crowd were the rednecks that booed and throwed shit at them, so obviously if I hallucinated those things, then so did he. Anyhow just wanted to point those things out and Adam, Justin, Danny and Maynard.... WOW!

Review written by: Cawbird (cawbird@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/19/98 00:08:20 This was my first Tool show, and I've only actually been a fan for about a year. I have 2 words to describe this show "SENSORY OVERLOAD". I mean, god damn, this show was great. I felt a little out of place, only being 13, but it was completely immersive. The Melvins were almost good...ALMOST. And they weren't booed off the stage, there just wasn't much reaction, at least where I was sitting...(about 35 rows up- damn my luck) There were, however waterbottles being thrown at them, which I though was kinda funny. I didn't have the gall to boo, cause there were about 6 big-ass Melivn fans behind me... I was kinda idle, then Maynard stepped on the stage, everyone exploded. He came out with a small introduction in a wig and dress. They played "Part of Me" which I wasn't too familiar with, but it rocked, and made me buy Opiate... Then they plaayed "Eulogy"...I almost collapsed. It was the best song there, I saw others near me doing the same thing. It was my favorite Tool song before, but now it's my favorite song of all time, I mean, it was so great. Maynard offered a lot of audience interaction, he was talking to us a lot throughout. I was sitting in tha aisle, and by mid-show, I had ended up with about 20 people to the left of me and I was in the middle of the row, I didn't even notice, all I knew was I'm not going anywhere. I am a Zeppelin fan, and their version of "No Quarter" was the best, they payed homage to the rock and roll greats. Danny is absolutely the best drummer I've ever heard. He's Bonham-caliber at this point...absolutely awesome. The thing that wasn't music that I remember the most from this show was the encore. Maynard and the guys just left and sat down on the platform that Danny's drums were sitting on and just sat there and talked for a while. Maynard kept mocking us with an occasional cupping of the ear when we got quiet. I was screaming the whole way through. After about 5 minutes of cheering, Maynard got up and said, "Okaaaay, we'll play some more." Everyone exploded and they tore into Opiate. At the end of the show, they put on a freaky jazz-version of Hooker With A Penis. That was extremely cool, especially the display on the screen, very funny. Well, I ran out of shit to ramble about, so anyone with a bootleg of this show E-MAIL ME FOR THE LOVE OF TOOL! For those of you that don't, Live well, stay metal and TOOL IS GOD! -Cawbird

Review written by: Master Reviewer (diabloson@mindspring.com) Review posted on: 08/18/98 17:48:37 This was the best concert I have ever seen unlike other reveiws i have seen the melvins where getting alot of empty water bottles thrown at them. after they left the stage the night just kept getting better.

Review written by: Opus503 (Opus503@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/98 12:13:21 Well, well, well. I arrived at Red Rocks Ampitheatre about three hours later than i had wanted to thanks to the good people of the Justice Court of Platte County Wyoming. However I still managed about thirteenth row. Maynard came out and introduced the Melvins stating, " if there are any closed-minded redneck assholes out there, while you're jumping off the cliffs behind you we'll be enjoying the Melvins." And I'm sure that there a few people there that did enjoy the Melvins. Good luck finding them. Contrary to popular belief, they were not booed off the stage and nothing was thrown at them. So to the people that say there was, get your facts straight before mouthing off. Then came Tool. Maynard was dressed in a long black dress and a black Cher- esque wig. Upon taking the stage Maynard greeted the crowd with, " Coloradoooooo, it's so fabulous to be here." Speaking with a sort Cher lisp. They kicked off the show with Part of Me. Maynards stage presence could topple churches and schools. His u nique and mesmerizing movements on stage could pry open anyones third eye. Dannys drums were incredible and the rest of the band sounded so perfect and tightly woven. Just like it does on the ablum except a whole hell of a lot louder. They played Eulog y, and Stinkfist w/ Buzz from the Melvins and then during 46+2 Maynards oufit came off to reveal tight biker shorts and a black bra with fake tits. This allowed everyone a good luck at the tattoo on his back. He spoke more to the audience than he usuall y does i.e. - before stinkfist," this is a song about deep penetrating love, I suggest you all try it, right now." And before Aenema," some people think this is a song about poor real estate choices, others think it is about rectal water sports. it is a ll of those things. but most of all its about getting back to what really matters, and learning to swim." Before Pushit he asked the crowd for their permission and their help to play the song in a way thats its never been played before. He asked everbo dy to find a place that is both vunerable and comfortable and "maybe we can all meet there." Then they started Pushit which was very mellow and very beautiful. It stayed that way about three quarters of the way through it then it gradually regained its original tempo and volume. After Aenema they just sat in front of the drums and taunted the crowd by cuffing his hand around his ear when it got too quiet. Perhaps he spoke the most before Opiate, the first song of their encore. First there was a speec h on the video screen which stated to "question authority" and "think for yourself." And Maynards speech followed along those lines as well. Giving universal advice that everyone can relate to and learn from. Flood followed Opiate and then "one last li ttle tid bit" as he called it. A lounge rendention of Hooker w/ a Penis sung from a cartoon pornstars vagina with cartoon moose in the background singing back-up. All in all I would've paid any amount of money to see these guys and I'll pay any amount to see them again. Because it is more than a concert, it is a mind expanding eye opening experience that if you don't understand or appreciate, then learn to swim.

Review written by: Mr. Skibone (skibone@ripco.com) Review posted on: 08/17/98 02:01:57 The gods smiled on this Tool fan. I've seen them twice in Chicago last year and thought I would have to wait until 99 or later for show #3. But I found out on Tuesday afternoon that I had to go to Denver Thursday afternoon on business. I shit in my pants when I found out that Tool was playing that evening. Chicago has some decent places to see a band, but if Red Rocks isn't the most awesome concert venue on the planet, someone please let me know of a better one. Great scenery, great sound, awesome light effects off the back rocks, and nice bench setup so the 42+2's can't mosh. :) Random thoughts: I give the Melvins an E for effort but that was some slow, boring shit. Tool knocked me on my ass immediately with Part of Me - one of my favorite tracks. The show was awesome as usual - I was damn near in tears from musical bliss during the end of Aenima. I love how the brain-dead element in the crowd starting yelling and screaming after that "Question Authority" loop was played a few times. Hey geniuses - Question Authority does not mean "get drunk and raise hell" - I couldn't even hear part of the speech because of the goofballs around me yelling and whooping. Oh well. Tool once again throws a musical cliche out the window by sitting on stage and chatting amongst themselves instead of leaving while we waiting for the 'encore'. "Ooookaaaaaay - we'll play some more" - too fucking cool. After hearing so much about 'No Quarter' (I've never heard the original Zep tune) - I would have rather heard 'Third Eye'. But now it sounds like I'm whining - hell no, Tool can never disappoint - they are always an 11 or 12 on a 1-10 scale. Everyone go see a show at Red Rocks at least once in your life. P.S. to Denver/Colorado Springs peoples - could you possibly have MORE fucking country and religious radio stations?!?! :)

Review written by: Nilufar (eytam1284@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/98 22:39:34 Last year I heard Tool at Fiddler's Green, I though that was an amazing show until I saw them at Red Rocks. Their music along with the wonderful scenery was breath-taking. The lighting was wonderful on the red rock behind the stage. The music phenominal, you could feel every note in your body. And everybody including the band seemed to be having a better time this year. ***If anybody has a chance to see Tool especially at Red Rock, please do that it is really worth it!!***

Review written by: . (.) Review posted on: 08/15/98 18:37:02 "Some people think this song is about poor real-estate choices. They're right." --MJK telling the crowd the meaning of nema

Review written by: . (FourDegrez@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/98 17:09:53 About 1 year and 3 days later, I found myself at the TooL show once again. This time, in ten-times better company and this time, completely unprepared for what would happen. I forced myself to go in blind, not to read any reviews. It was well worth it. What has been written, has been written and I'll try not to repreat what has been said. The show was extraordinary. For those of you that didn't make it to the show and have never been to red rocks, I'd like to tell you how wonderful it is, having a venue literally in the middle of rocks that are red, in the "wilderness", sitting on "benches", with the stars and black night above you. The breeze has an erie way of starting up at every climax of every song that sends chills through your body. At lolla, I stared at Maynard the entire concert. This time, I approached the concert in a different way. About 4 rows back (7 rows of people, 4 rows of benches) in the center, I had the best view I could have every wanted. The entire stage, the screen, the side walls, and the sky all were my eye candy and were all equally mind "altering". The concert was a drug. The movies on the screen were indescribable and images, such as the smoke box and other designs, were projected onto the huge rock behind the stage and the rock walls surrounding the side of the stage. It was absolute "tool submersion". Wherever you looked and whatever you heard was tool. Even the crowd's tool tee-shirts devirginized the surroundings. The "OG-ness" seemed to drift away. It didn't matter if you had fans from '92 or from '98... they were all equally absorbed. You could tell everyone let themselves go (including myself), dancing in their own ways, staring in their own ways, reaching out to maynard, crying, laughing, being completely silent and stunned, slammin into each other in the pit. Every human aspect came out in the crowd and that is the beauty of TooL. Eulogy broke me down. It was almost too much to handle and I fell into the arms of my friend. Every memory and emotion pulsed through me. And I know I was not unique, I know everyone else was feeling something. So that is what is worth mentioning of the TooL show. If you don't read any other parts of my review, just know that: At the TooL show, every human aspect possible, emotion and action, came through because of the music, because of the location, and because of the amazing stage set up. We were all vulnerable humans. And now, for some not-so-exciting things to be read: 1. If anyone has a bootleg of that show, *please* let me know. I have a decent collection of bootlegs that I would be more than willing to trade for that show. And for anyone that did not go to the show, I recommend trying to get a hold of that bootleg as well. 2. Thanks to John and his Robert-Smith-gothic friend for making my concert experience even more amazing. I'll probably never see you again, but you have most definately left an imprint on my memory. 3. Let's not forget Kabir... If it wasn't for him, we'd be forced to go to the "official tool page" and never experience the ability to have so much knowledge about our beloved band and our fellow fans. ~free yourself from yourself~ ~Sam~

Review written by: Dexter (davidbrucebritt@worldnet.att.net) Review posted on: 08/15/98 13:49:31 Okay, just a few words to add to what has already been said about the Red Rocks show. Several reviewers have mentioned the sound effects being played on the PA system before Tool took the stage. Those are soundscapes by Robert Fripp. I've been a Fripp fan for years and I was in bliss back in '96 when Tool put a full 20 minute Fripp soundscape on before their set. This time was even better in a setting like Red Rocks. I was at the Lion's Lare for Friday night's Noiseland Arcade show as well. After listening to a local punk band play their set of 30 second songs interspersed between amplified belches and jokes about defacating, Buzz and Adam appeared with a couple of amps, a small keyboard and board of effects pedals. As Adam finished setting up Buzz asked if any of us were the Redneck assholes who booed at him at Red Rocks. He then placed a curse on the city of Denver so it would be swallowed up by the earth and b urn in hell. The lucky one hundred people in this dive of a bar cheered, since none of us would have been there if we hadn't have gotten off on the Melvin's set as well as Tool's. Buzz then produced a kitchen egg timer and reassured the crowd that he wa s setting the timer for 30 minutes and if we didn't like the music we shouldn't worry because once the timer went off they would be done. Buzz then knealt down in the corner (out of my view) and Adam stood bent over the keyboard and effects pedals which were sitting on a small table. What followed was 30 minutes of ear blistering sonic swirls and drones. As the shocked crowd covered their ears and stared in disbelief many yelled ignorantly and disrespectfullyl "You Suck!" Even as it felt like my ears were bleeding I was in bliss. As people began to leave and back away from the small area Adam was standing I was able to walk up within 5 feet of him to watch him manipulate the sound. He never looked up from the pedals the entire time. To describe the sound I would have to say it was a cross between a Robert Fripp soundscape, Godzilla, and the Apocalypse. And entirely too soon it was over. Most of the people present were happy it was over and I respect their opinion, but I would have enjoyed another hour, even if it would have meant permanent hearing loss. Thank you Adam and Buzz for two unforgettable nights of creative and challenging music.

Review written by: Damius Killian (jared@rustyhoot.com) Review posted on: 08/15/98 03:47:48 I have only 1 word to say about this show. TOOL! My God, Maynard in my opinion is the best lead singer of any band touring right now. His voice and the passion that flows from it is totally riveting. As for the Melvins, I kinda felt sorry for them after they were booed. But when the lead singer of the Melvins was invited to play a song with Tool, his extra guitar added even more to the sensory overload that consisted of the music, the ambience of the night at Red Rocks, the video projections that freaked me out, and the beautifullighting that reflected off the red cliff face behind the band. There was so much to look at on stage, and my eyes were constantly trying to focus on Maynard or the video, only to have them ripped away to something else concocted from Tool's bag of visual effects. Add the music and it was a show that I will never forget. I am so glad I scored tickets, and if they ever come back to Denver again, I'll be first in line. Red Rocks is one of the best places in the country to see a concert, and after seeing Tool play there, I pity those who had to see them in some shitty stadium or run down theater. The combination of Red Rocks and the music that filled it that night must have woken some of the Mountain Gods. TOOL!

Review written by: stacy (toolchyk@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/98 02:22:01 first i need to say that i am not to familiar with the melvins, and by reading others reviews, i thought they had to be horrible in concert, but i saw them at knoxville and i enjoyed them, and hre i thought they played even a better set, i wasnt bored or annoyed with them one bit...they were not bood off the stage, i was 3rd row back, and most in my area enjoyed them also, and those who didnt had enough respect to just sit down and let everyone else listen to them. now for tool.....wow..... this was my third show this summer, and i pretty much knew what to expect, but still, i wasnt even prepared for what was happening to me. this was definitly the most intense experience i have ever had...during part of me, it seemed that they were having troubles with maynards mike, but that is the only negative thing i can say..once everything was right, it was on. it never ceases to amaze me how technically perfect these guys are. as one reviewer said before me, they have this link between them that makes the music so numbing. bringing those who actually listen..into a mental state. most of the people around me were there to see tool, but i was glad that there were some that were there to experience tool,and to let tool inside of them, there were to many muscle heads at the knoxville show, and the pittsburgh show was part of the ozz fest, and i was in a seating area where i could enjoy them without having my face smashed, but the actual # of tool fans around me was close to nothing, of course till sober played...but as far as moshing goes at this show..being as close to the stage as i was, im sure we had a bit more trouble than the higher ups..there was group that tried, with a good deal of success, moshing in the rows behind me, which was a bit annoying cuz they couldnt go anywhere but down, which most did (on us)..but, i digress..i was glad to see that this crowd actually listened when mjk suggested we find that place inside ourselves...but for the tool fans, that place was found during the first chord, and it was explored for the next two hours, and it was wonderful and it was painful. i was drained, and i feel sorry for those who dont understand. to the people reading this who didnt make it to this show, im sorry for you to..red rocks was the best place for tool..i lokked behind me and there were hundreds of people,and huge rocks on either side and the clear night sky at the back and above.i am not from here, i got my ticket on monday,after a friend on the hookup list told me thy released more tickets. otherwise i wouldve paid dearly for a ticket, or sat in the parking lot and listened..i went on my own, and i met a lot of very friendly people and a good nimber of tool fans... i was glad i didnt miss this show, thank you for listening to me. and to jeff and matt !hi! and thank you for completeing my experience. stacy

Review written by: Dan (DGoooch@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/15/98 01:30:02 This was an excellent show. The acoustics at Red Rocks are fantastic. This is my 8th time seeing Tool and it was a tie for best performance with a Pontiac MI show in '93 I don't believe the Melvins were booed off like other reviewers have said. They started at 7:49pm and played until 8:35pm that's 46 minutes, sounds like a normal length for an opening band. They weren't too bad. I've heard worse (remembering the cows) The Timothy Leary outakes from the Art Bell show were a nice touch. Along with the trippy left to right sound affects before Tool came on. Tool came on at 9:05 with Maynard wearing a full length yet strapless dress with arm coverings to match. The Cher wig was nice too. He removed the dress and the wig and the arm thingies before Sober. He left his bra on for the whole show. They invited "Pig" from "Pigmy Love Circus" to play along with Opiate. He came out during the song and left before the song ended. A little shy I guess. The Hooker with a Penis video at the end was hilarious. They left the stage at 10:45. Overall a fantastic show. Although I wish they would have played more from Undertow, my favorite album. I guess they cut out those songs to play No Quarter, which was superb.

Review written by: blah (intolerance@iname.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 23:58:51 To that "girl" Jade who earlier wrote that she so much enjoyed the more mellow version of pushit because shes a "girl" well, im not a girl (ill leave it up to your imagination to figure out what i really am) but i experienced the more vulnerable version of pushit at the palladium in march, which i think (correct me if im wrong)were the first shows they played this rendition of pushit, and i must say, it was one of the most beautiful things ive ever experienced, mentally and physically, so anyway, i guess my point is that to enjoy something as beautiful almost to an orgasmic state (i threw that one in for Nard) as pushit played this way, there are no requirements that you must be a girl, just an open minded fan of something as ingenius as the band themselves.

Review written by: Lim Lau Kung Pao Nick Dick McNasty (toedown@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 23:47:49 We drove in the day before the concert because we were unable to get tickets for less than $85 a piece. Even though we eventually paid $60 a ticket just hours before the show, the occasion was excellent. Red Rocks is definitely one of the best stages for a good band in the land and the best band awesome. Tool and it's fans proved that they are phat once again. NO QUARTER and the OPIATE/FLOOD songs were worth the effort alone.

Review written by: shelli (shellib@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 23:06:39 Well, I really wasn't going to post a review, but I decided to anyway. I am older than most of the kids that were there. Before the Melvin's came on I went to stage right just before the restrooms. I did not know things were thrown at the Melvins or that they were boo-ed off the stage. That is so ridiculous! You see, I learned from someone who knows them, that tool likes the Melvins and respects them. I only hope that they do not decide the treat ment was so bad that they won't come back here. Anyway, I never even saw MJK on stage. I stood and looked at the Denver view and enjoyed the breeze while listening to the songs and watching all the people who were too wasted to enjoy it. Also I did not want to get into that chaos. With age comes wisdom, (and responsibilites.) Anyway, I met someone with the Melvins, (who I learned alot from.) We talked awhile after the show and I got to meet MJK. I gave him a stuffed pig, and he sincerely liked it. That meant a lot to me. So you that just go because its a concert where you fight and get wasted, it is your loss. The concert was great. Red Rocks was beautiful. And I love tool.

Review written by: Fenrir (fenrir@henge.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 22:32:35 I've been a Tool fan for a fairly long time, but this is the first show I've been to, and I was completely and totally blown away. I was a little dissapointed by the Melvins, especially since I've heard a song by them that I thought was pretty cool. Tool came on with a punishing "Part of Me," and the energy level stayed off the scale for the entire show. Maynard looked pretty sexy in that dress, too... The video's in the background were pretty nifty, if a little twisted sometimes (as if I expected anything less). The new version of Pushit absolutely rocked, a No Quarter kicked ass as well, even though I didn't know that that's what they were playing at the time. Danny Carey tore it up, as usual. I'm a drummer, and Danny's a big idol of mine. Listening to him on the records is an experience in itself, but seeing those chops live is just indescribable. If Tool ever comes back to Denver, I'll be one of the first in line to get tickets.

Review written by: John (sisyphus@vcn.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 21:49:08 This is the first Tool show I have been able to see. I drove six hours to see it and I must say that I was not disappointed, Tool rocked! They didn't really do a bad song. I would have liked to have heard more, but hey, I'll take what I can get. The s low version of "Pushit" was incredible, it really showcased Maynard's voice, and the more subtle aspects of Adam's guitar work. "No Quarter" was extremely powerful and my favorite Tool song "Flood" definitely rocked. I really could go on and on. As far as the Melvin's go, all I have to say is open your minds. I personally like the Melvins, which makes me kinda odd by the sounds of things. Even, if you don't care for an opening band, it is definitely not cool to throw shit at them. This band's not my cup of tea, I think I'll try to maim them with my garbage; so much for compassion. Maynard introduced them and asked the crowd to be open minded and open to experimentation or something to that effect, (common Tool themes for those intelligent enough to pay attention), apparently his words were lost on the crowd. It's too bad the rednecks in the audience didn't hurl themselves off the cliff in the rear of the venue as Maynard suggested.

Review written by: Jade (jademoon@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 20:01:44 After a pathetic and torturous interrupted performance by The Melvins (they had plastic bottles being thrown at them and finally were booed off stage), the show kicked ass. I was so damn happy that they played No Quarter, I have heard that they do a cover of that song, but never had heard it first hand. Led zep being one of my favorite bands for so long, and Tool being my very very favorite, the combination was out of this world. Danny I felt really outdid himself, its always amazing to watch the best do even better than is comprehensible. He clenched his status in my eyes as something damn close to a god... Maynard was as sexy as ever (is it just me or did he look damn good in that outfit), Justin(hey no body painting this time though) and Adam were awesome, spilling out some pretty cool riffs. I personally (probably cause I'm a girl) completely and totally loved the new version of Pushit, it was incredible... Maynard really does have a beautiful voice. On a not so positive side though I kinda felt the band was mad we booed the Melvins offstage. They probably all pretty good friends, and as much as I hated the band, I think it takes from the main bands enthusiasm to want to give the audience an exceptional show. They werent on very long, and as awesome as the concert was, I have a gut feeling it would have been ten times better if we had just let the Melvins play their painfully redundant and bland music. Finally I hope that most of us out there REALLY heard Maynard's messages. Lets not just have it be wasted breath. Tool rocks in every way, but its much more than just songs about sodomy and anger combined with incredible talents.... Metaphors, how boring life would be without them.... :)

Review written by: Chris Freeman (downcaste@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 19:07:39 This was such an awesome show, so much so that I am at a loss for words. This is my second time seeing Tool, and they totally exceeded all expectations I had, and those expectations were set after they blew my mind at Phoenix Civic Plaza in March. I jus t have one question....Has Maynard always looked so damn good in a dress? I knew he looked good in a preacher's suit (he said so himself). The set was so incredible, made up heavily of Aenima songs (Aenima, Stinkfist, 46&2, Eulogy, and an amazing version of Pushit) No kidding, that version of Pushit brought tears to my eyes for the second time hearing it, it was just so moving. Also in the set was two songs from Undertow (Flood and Sober) and two Opiate songs (Opiate and Part of Me). I've noticed in the reviews that there is some confusion in regards to the two "unknown" songs. The first was cover of a song called "You Lied" by Peach, Justin the bassist's former band. THe second was an awesome cover of "No Quarter" by Led Zeppelin, off of House of the Holy (which, by the way, Maynard wasn't kidding, it must have been a special occasion, they don't play this song very much, we should all feel very lucky). Maynard was his usual chatty self in between songs, greeting the audience, explaing songs to us ( Stinkfist was about deep, penetrating love, which he suggested we all try right then and there) and giving us great advice like thinking for ourselves (or not), turning off the TV, jerking off into a high powered fan, and resisting the urge to kiss other people's grandmothers. Maynard and the gang, you blew my mind again, thank so much for playing a great set and proving to me, again, your amazing musical abilities.

Review written by: Biligerent fucker (Mike_bellamy@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 15:28:16 Tool sounded awsome in the red rocks show! The song that seemed to get the crowd "wild" was nema. I'm saying "wild" cos there was no mosh pit... This was my first time to red rocks comeing up from Houston, I expected to see a pit but thats kewl, the band rocked and played some diferent songs... But the worst part ofthe show had nothing to do with Tool instead a friendless fuck that noone wanted to sit by. He told me to get the fuck off his section of the seats so all I want to see to him if hes reading this is fuck you and suck a big fat dick MF. I would have kicked his ass in the pit.. hehe =) Anyway the band sounded GREAT and thats all that matters.... "I hope it sucks you fucker"

Review written by: James Gorham (jgor@veldt.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 15:02:44 Amazing...I've seen Tool twice before here in Colorado, once at the Mammoth, and once at Lollapalooza. I didn't think the Mammoth show would've ever been topped, Lollapalooza was a disapointment, but this show, far outreached both of those shows. I've waited two years to hear them play No Quarter live, ever since I got a copy of the Bootleg. And they played it, amazingly last night. I couldn't have asked for better seats, front row of GA, 5 rows back. I can't hear for crap, but I'm used to that by now. They played the beautitful slow version of Pushit, all the good songs, one I didn't recognize with Buzz, and of course, the wonderful rendition of No Quarter. Well worth the 25 dollar ticket price.

Review written by: jen (anima3rd_i@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 13:58:36 Man oh man!!! This is my third time seeing TOOL, and each time thy are just getting better and better. For about an hour after the show, I was walking around in haze, trying to remember who I was. I'm still in haze! Maynard wore a black long dress with long gloves and a dark wig. The gloves came off first, then the wig, then the dress. He was left in underwear and boots and a bra. This was the set: Part of me eulogy stinkfist no quarter 46 & 2 sober pushit (new version, beautiful) ??? dedicated to Dan and Lily, newborns (not old enough to jack off) aenima opiate flood hooker with a penis (disco video, vagina singing, pretty cool)

Review written by: Jonnie Lahontan (jonernst@microcomputerworld.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 10:34:39 No Quarter. The song is called No Quarter by Led Zep. That in itself was worth the ticket price. How many of us old people were truly moved by Tool's rendition? I really must be getting old because it really did seem not many people knew this tune. Kinda sad. A reviewer from a previous show made the statement "Step aside Neil Peart - Danny Carey is your daddy". I wouldn't call him Neil's daddy - but I will call him Neil's boy. In the tradition of family - a son should pick up where the father left off - often times exceeding dad's accomplishments. Our Danny is well on his way. Amazing drummer he is. I think Maynard and the boys liked Red Rocks. I really tried to give the Melvins a fair listen. I really really did. I'd seen them twice before, once with RUSH and once with Primus - and you know what? They sucked both times. Last night - there were moments - but then - they would suck some more. Tool on the other hand - I've never heard guitar live that sounded so sweet. So hard and loud but perfect. Ya gotta love the sound at Red Rocks and the way Adam works the Les Paul. I'd love a copy of the show if anyone made a decent quality tape. E-mail me if you can help.

Review written by: Christopher (Topher5150@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/14/98 10:03:56 Incredible show.....Pushit(new version), Part of Me,and NO QUARTER!!!!!!!!

Review written by: Shade (Myst8k@aol.com (amongst many)) Review posted on: 08/14/98 05:38:53 Unbelievable!!! This show completely blew me away. I may be a fan, but I'm also a fan of discriminating taste. So believe me when I say , this show was incredible. The vibe at Red Rocks made it all the more intense. The scenery and spirits were alive tonight. I've read a few of the reviews from other venues and I think we got a treat here in Colorado. First of all, Tool played for over two hours. Second, the new thing with Pushit was pulled off. Everyone chilled out and found that "comfortable place", Maynard didn't even have to tell everyone to be quiet. Third, there was next to no moshing or fights. Now don't get me wrong, I love to get in the pit as much as the next guy (OK, maybe I like to get in there a whole hell of a lot more the next guy), but the show was just so damn enthralling it would have been like talking through a movie. You know - kinda fun, but ultimately extraneous. You just had to put all your attention on stage 'cause that's where it was all happening. The way Maynard writhed with every note and astral nuance was truly a sight to behold. I never knew someone could be so connected to their music and message. On a side note, does anyone know the name of the song they played that "they don't usually do"; the one "dedicated to Dan and Lilly, newborns". Some bands can really suck live. Thankfully, Tool is not one of them. In fact, their live performance blew the albums away. For many of their songs, you really need the ten minute version to get a true feel for what is being related. Tool is a band that must be seen to be known, and I can hardly wait to see them again.

Review written by: Alan Schmidt (eagle@amigo.net) Review posted on: 08/14/98 05:14:21 This concert kicked some serious ass.. Maynard came on and introduced the melvins, afterwhich he went backstage.. because of the slant of the seating at red rocks, i could see him in the back sitting on a speaker listening to the music. He left after a song.. Why do the melvins suck so much? people were throwing stuff like bottles of water at them.. Tool came on and maynard was wearing a black dress and a dark wig. They played the following songs: Part of me Eulogy Stinkfist 46 + 2 sober pushit Aenima Opiate Flood Hooker with a Penis disco video To me, it seemed that maynard talked more than usual before p.o.m he greeted colorado.. before stinkfist, he todl us that we should be having penetration love.. before the first unknown, he told us that we should find a vulnerable comfortable place... I dont know what song this was.. but it was cool. He asked our permission and for our help on the new version of pushit. He dedicated the 2nd unknown song to 2 newborns who, and i qoute "they cant even jack off yet" he said they didnt play it often, but i didnt recognise it. before aenema, he said that there was a lot of different things people thought the song stodd for.. and he said they were true. after aenima... a lot of people left because they were all just standing around on stage. they sat on the drums for a wihle.. then they listened to our yells and started to play opiate... they went into flood and ended the show there after. While they exited, the hooker with a penis video was on.. it had a disco version being sung by a vagina. ti was wierd.. after the show, some friends and I decided to go see the toour bus.. as we got there, we stood a few min, and all of a sudden one of the other kids (there were about 7 of us total) said "whoa, its maynard" he called over "hi maynard" and another yelled "nice tits" <- in reference to his outfit of the concert... maynard looked at each response and gave a thumbsup pointing with a little smile.. but now words for some reason. a few min later, he came back out and was walking to where hw was before. I said "hey, you guys did a good job" and he gave me one of the thumbs up, point and smiles..I dont know why he didnt talk to us.. I suppose he is mobed a lot ort something.. But being 5 feet from him and having him know i exist (for a min :-)) is cool enough for me :-) welps.. thats all i have to say about that.. Also.. if anyyone has a recording of thsi show PLEASE let me know.

Review written by: burns (burns37@HOTMAIL.COM) Review posted on: 08/14/98 04:02:08 Tool plays music that reaches inside me and squeezes between my bones. If Reverend Maynard wanted to be a prophet he could. When he sings Im hypnotized and he takes over my brain with his ruthless stare. Im genuinely glad he hasn't abused this superpower. This tecnically flawless band has perfected music. Note for note they were so tight that there must be some mystical force that they share. The reverend came out dressed like cher and they played "part of me" then "Eulogy" and I completely lost controll. And from then on it was pretty much a blurry fantastic ride. I dont know the order but then they played a led zepplin song, (somewhere in here he ripped his dress nd wig off and had on spandex and a perfect set of tits) then a new song I think, 46&2, stinkfist, a fucking awsome new version of pushit(started real slow and and groovy and somehow came back to real time for the "if when I say i may fade like a sigh if I stay" part and all that followed and I lost my mind), sober, and aenima (he said it was about bad real estate options, or anal water spurts) then the encore was opiate and it went into flood. A fantazmic, mind opening, sensory overload. * burns *

Review written by: Master Reviewer (garystevenson@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/12/98 19:49:41 WOW! What at show! Im 34 so I guess that makes me "old" school,but "TOOL" brings me right up to the current moment! It was really nice to see the guys chugging water and talking sensibly than promoting violence and inciting a riot. Maynard is such a cool freaky little man(in a cool way of course). That drag outfit was mucho bizarro and they all just stood there and jammed without taking off on a "posing" trip! What was that occult symbolic mural thing? I thought that was quite "interesting" myself. Anyway, the sound was EXTREMELY INTENSE AND BASSY!,but kicked major booty! Maynard vocals were very strong and that dude can hold a note "forever". I really enjoyed this show and will definitely see them again! How about those platform shoes Maynard was wearing? definitely chic~, anyway, go see Tool, its definitely worth it! oldschool.