| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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09/07/2001
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Review written by: Josh (nil8r666@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 00:54:57 ETThis was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was my first Tool show, and I was completely blown away. Not only was the music absoutely incredible, but the vibe in the audience was so positive. Everybody was much more easygoing (although excited) than I expected. Maynard really knows how to do it. Incredible. -NiL8R666
Review written by: JayO (zrsledneck@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 01:03:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
As always, a religious experience.... If Tool is your religion. The most amazing display of art and music, it will touch your soul. The highlight of my night was Opiate, which must have been a special treat because I didn't see it on last nights set list. Maynards little good/bad joke was great. I am sure many people will give a very specific account of the show. So I wont wast your time with a play by play. I only want to say go to the show, you will never forget it.
Review written by: ck (cmkoenig13@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 01:03:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I don't know where to begin except WOW!! Truly epic. These are the kind of shows that stay with you forever. This was my first Tool show after waiting a LONG couple of years to see them. And I can say without a shadow of doubt that they have no peers. They don't jump around and posture like a lot of the sh*t out there. They let the music speek for themselves. Both Adam and Justin were stoic and totally focused on the task at hand, although I think Adam makes it look effortless sometimes. Danny's drumming was totally powerful. And MJK, well, he was like a dark shadow presiding over the sounds being created in front of him. I didn't see to much of him. I can't remember the exact setlist, but I'm sure someone else can. Some of the highlights for me were Grudge, 46 & 2, Pushit (old version, way awesome), Aenima, Parabol/Parabola, among many others. Maynard gave his typical repeat after me speech (Think for youself, Question authority, etc.). Another thing he mentioned was, "I have good news and bad news. The bad news first. The bad news is that the bad guys are winning. You can't tell me that at least one of you hasn't bought a Backstreet Boys album. The good news is that it's not too late." Or something to that affect. He also gave the take this feeling and do something positive with it speech. This leads me to the most moving song they have right now, "Lateralus." Something about this song takes me to another place whenever I hear it. I was wating the whole evening just to hear this one song. I literally felt chills moving accross my body during the last part of the song. They almost lifted me from my feet and I could feel the sounds "moving across my skin" and I "opened wide to suck it in." I truly rid the spiral going no place I've ever been and for that matter to a place I'll probably never return to again. OK maybe that was a little exaggeration, but that was close nonetheless. I left the show with the most positive feeling I've had in sometime. All in all, a fantastic show and I can't wait until next time I can see them. Until then, "SPRIAL OUT. KEEP GOING."
Review written by: Eric (scatman237@cs.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 01:45:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Excellent to the highest musical extent. Could someone please give me the Meshuggah setlist? I didnt make it all and it would be ice to know it. I sure hope I didnt miss Neurotica......
Review written by: T (Bojbjones@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 02:20:39 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Meshuggah was good. I didn't know what to expect, so when i heard a metal band start playing i was pretty surprised. They had a couple good songs, i'd probably like em more if i still listened to metal. Tool, like everyone else said, blew me away! I couldn't believe how good the show was. I saw em at the riviera and i thought this show was way better. I think the set list was something like this: Grudge ions Stinkfist 46 & 2 prison sex schism parabol/a (pushit was in here somewhere) disposition reflection aenima opiate lateralus The contorsionists were frickin insane!!! They were so fun to watch, very limber people..hehe... Stinkfist was played differently than ive ever heard....maynard starting singing some verse in a very melodic voice...*drools* this show was sooo good. Very loud. And i loved all the experimentation...adam was going all sorts of different directions with the songs...well, not all the songs, but enough for me to notice... Anyways, whoever sees them on this leg of the tour will leave feeling absolutely fulfilled and inspired.
Review written by: MikeE (bungman001@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 02:28:45 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Holy shit. I'm still shaking. Probably the most intense experience of my life. Amazing all the way around; Justin, Adam, Maynard, and Danny were just too fucking amazing. The show went off pretty much without a hitch, aside from the few times that the stage crew guys had to take shirts off of the stage that the people in the crowd, for some reason, felt that it was neccesary to do that. Whatever floats your boat I guess. The stage setup seemed typical of this tour- a lower stage with Adam on the left and Justin on the right, raised stage behind them with Maynard's screen to the left of Danny's fucking amazing golden drumset. As always (so I've heard) they were perfectly in sinc with eachother, as well as the images on the two screens that were up above them. My favorite was probably during Aenima; it showed scenes of meteors and some other cool stuff. Maynard interactions were fairly limited. He only talked to the audience twice: once to say the "non-conformist oath" in which he had everyone repeating after him saying "Question authority, think for yourself, be an individual" and then ended it with "and don't repeat anything other people say." Classic Maynard. He also said that everyone should remember how we were feeling that night and turn that energy into something positive. Some fuck behind me yelled "Yeah, like nock some chick up man!" What a dumb shit. Poor interpretation of an awesome message. Another highlight was the dancers from the Schism video; they came out during Schism and it was cool. The images on the screens seemed to center around a few central things: a nude man, a nude woman, a little "worm child" (with braces), and spines. My little shitty review hardly does them justice though. You have to see it to believe it. Its definitely an experience.
Review written by: zaum (a@a.a) Review posted on: 09/08/01 02:44:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
So, Madison. Meshuggah felt out of place. They seemed to forget that music includes rhythym AND MELODY. Tool came out with the circle-eye thingy. Maynard had a painted vertical stripe on his face. he didn't say much, but he did do the non-comformist and "use this energy" bit. 1. the Grudge - killer opener, scream held for 3/4 2. 46n2 3. Stinkfist (extended) - it's all about breakdowns. breakdowns containing breakdowns. 4. Prison Sex (extended) - adam biffed on a couple of notes but pulled himself together 5. Schism - maynard had the headless guitar but i couldn't tell what he played 6. Pushit (album version) - my vote for song of the evening. even though i've heard it a million times, this one was a beautiful thing. in the breakdown, it felt like something was actually being created instead of redone. 7. Disposition - maynard plays the strummy-clean guitar in the intro 8. Reflection - up here, not down there 9. Parabol - contortionists came out. i recognized the contortionist/"this body holding me" connection 10. Parabola - the future of rock 11. Opiate 12. Aenema - they slowed down the angelic part to good effect 13. Lateralus - maybe the most finely arranged rock song ever (yes i said it). all in all, a top notch rock concert. i wish they would play some different songs but yadda, yadda, yadda.
Review written by: Andy (HWAP462@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 02:47:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I don't know if anyones included a setlist yet because im too lazy and tired to look but i will mention the songs as i go. My first Tool show! Man it was the most amazing thing i have ever seen. The show started at approx. 8:40. After the band Mushugga, i think it was. They were awful. Well maybe you'd like them if you like heavy fast guitars with dinosaur vocals. They didn't yank my crank. From the moment the 4 shadowy figures walked on stage as the lights went out they had the crowds attention. Kicking it off with grudge was awesome. Might i add Maynards scream near the end of the song was quite impressive live, he's got some massive lungs. Maynard didn't really open up to the audience until the last 20 minutes of the show. He made his usual comment of creating something positive of this experience in the weeks to come, but me being a "newbie" fell right into the "non-conformist oath" where he began "I have some good news, and some bad news. The bad news is the bad guys are winning, dont' tell me none of you have ever bought a backstreet boys album! The good news is that its not too late. So join me in the non-conformist oath. Repeat after me... Strive to be different! Strive to be Unique! think for yourself! question authority! never repeat what anyone else says!" The quote is not exact but pretty close and catches the essence and humor none the less. Maynard hung in the background rarely facing the audience, keeping a low profile. Adam looked really stoic. A face of iron staring off into the audience or at his guitar. Justin a bit more active, he got his hair going when the music got intense. Danny seemed to never move his head no matter how fast his hands and feet were moving it was incredible. Especially on the gold set! They played the extended versions of Stinkfist and Prison Sex and they played a mix of the Aenema Salival version of Pushit. Maynard played guitar on Schism and Disposition / Reflection. The coolest thing besides the music was the Schism contortionists came on stage and walked around as well as hanging from the ceiling and twisting through parabol/a. The visuals were so amazing. It was totally clear that Tool didn't want the focus on them but rather on the music. The precision of the band was incredible. I'd say the high points of the show were Danny's drum solo during 46 and 2, Maynard's vocal performance during Pushit, and Opiate. Opiate was totally unexpected for me because i haven't seen it on any setlist for the previous shows of this year. Overall an experience well worth the money. What PISSED ME OFF was the fact that there were like 500 scalpers outside the arena. If you get a chance to go to this tour further on down the line don't hesitate, you wont be disappointed. I am still in shock. Partly not believing that i actually just saw Tool and partly that it was so incredible and over so fast. Most amazing band in the world.
Review written by: Master Reviewer wannabe (gilby1@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 03:09:51 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
I could not begin to express the accollades that TOOL deserves for bringing this caliber of music/performance art to the little ol midwest. One could only hope that JOE SIXPACK who came to see a metal show learned something. Oh who am I kidding, It farking rocked!! For history sake Maynards vocals completely sucked for the first song and a half, good to know they are still human.(the sound guys at least) The coliseum acoustics? Its a doughnut ! All in all a top notch performance from an awe inspiring band in a subpar venue. just my thoughts , ÜÜÜ
Review written by: Curty Curtis (carrollj@tds.net) Review posted on: 09/08/01 03:14:56 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
After years of waiting and missed opportunities, I finally made it to a TOOL show. I had to pay double the price from a guy that I knew at work who has connections, but it was well worth every penny. I got to sit to the left of the stage a couple of rows from the very front, so I basically had a killer view. Messugah(spelling) pretty much sucked in my opinion and by judging by the rest of the crowd they agreed with me. The pit was dead with only a few people holding up the devil horn fingers. The people sitting around me (everyone was real friendly and super cool by the way) were surprised that TOOL picked Messuga's style of music as an opener. For those that haven't heard them they sound like a Slipknot/Pantera type of thrashy metal with a lead singer who is impossible to understand, every song sounded the same. Then TOOL took the stage and when I laid my eyes on them for the first time I got the chills, sort of a dream come true type of thing. I tried to remember the exact order of the songs but lost track about mid way through, so check another review for that info. To put it in it's simplest form TOOL totally rocked, perfection. They sound just like they do in a recording, unreal. Maynard was in the back part of the stage and mostly dark due to lighting and was mostly a black outline against his screen that was behind him. Adam looked awesome. He didn't show any emotion and just scanned the crowd in a calm way that was very eery. Justin acted about the same as Adam, just stood there and was on point. Danny's drums were complex and impressive to say the least. During Schism the two actors in the video came on the stage walking on all fours swinging their heads and they were naked. Very cool looking. In the middle of the set Maynard walked off, then Justin, then Adam and Danny. For a second I thought the show was over but after several minutes the actors from the Schism video wear climbing up a rope behind the stage, still naked. They hung themselves upside down from the ankles and then the band came back out and played several more songs. The actors didn't stay up there for the rest of the set only for a song or two. There were two huge screens behind the band that played some of the videos and some new stuff. A lot of naked men and women swimming under water. My favorite was during Prison Sex when on the screen there was one naked man and women standing still with a close up of there faces to each of their sides sorta reflecting what the lyrics were saying, totally killer. Maynard addressed the crowd a couple of times. The coolest being when he asked everyone to remember how they were feeling at that very moment, good or bad, and take it with them during the next few weeks and in that time to use that feeling to create something postive. I am going to stop this huge review by saying that TOOL is the best band on the planet and are the best I've ever seen live. I have tickets to the Chicago show too in two days so I get a double dose of TOOL this weekend, HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA we are eternal, all this pain is an illusion...
Review written by: John (notyou@nothere.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 03:27:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
when i got these tickets, i was definately looking forward to going. what suprised me was how much this show intrigued me. how often do you come accross a band that lets the music do all the work. this band does not empasize the "we are a rock band and you aren't" mentality. they have a very interesting predisposition for the human body. do they consider it a piece of art? seems like it. do they consider it a prison? if so, what are we looking for outside this prison? i will forever be looking. i have attended a lot of concerts and have to say this band is on a totally different plane. the music and visuals were outstanding. it leaves you wanting more and wondering what is inside us and what are we capable of. it was an experience to say the least. tool has distanced themselves from everyone else and yet their fans feel so close to them. i will not forget.
Review written by: Brad Lakomy (blakboo_3k@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 03:32:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Just made it home after my first Tool concert. I've been a big fan since Undertow came out, but the stars were never aligned right for me to actually see them live...I was not disapointed. The whole concert starts with a slowly building song. The song seems like your usual pre-concert filler. if you get a chance to see them live on this tour, you'll know what i mean Then the whole building go's black. Maynard and the boys take the stage and start right up with "the Grudge". The stage settup was pretty much the same as they've been using the past couple of months. The one thing that really caught my attention ( besides the whole show) was Osseus Labyrint. They make an initial appearance during Schism, doing their signiture move from the video. then they come back out during the "intermission" and climb up seperate ropes high above the stage. The band comes back out and rips into (excuse me if i mix up this song, i was paying a little bit too much attention to the eye candy) Parabol/a. they do a lot of very strange interpretive moves during the entire song. they do all this hanging from their feet. It was the most interesting thing i have ever seen. The visuals on the screens were incredible. There were lots of clips from all of Tools vids, but they were always spliced in with alot of cgi stuff that i've never seen before. Whenever a clip that wasn't from the vids was used it was usually a man and a woman (naked, on both accounts) interacting with eachother, without ever touching. There was also a bunch of trippy spirals and generally strange imagery used as well. It was trully the most original and awe-inspiring stage show i've ever seen (and i've seen nin in concert). Last but not least. Although i've never seen Tool live before, i did have the honor to see APC 3 times. I never knew Maynard could play guitar. He only played on a couple of songs, but he didn't seem to comfortable when he was. I lied. i have two more things. I was full of glee, when the boys played Opiate. I didn't think they would actually play it on this tour...and finally, I'm going on 9/9 to see it all again in Chicago. I can't wait. but first, a shower.
Review written by: Chad (pratial@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 04:55:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
The show as everybody else has said was amazing. The boys certainly know how to "push the envelop". (pun intended). When I walked into the arena I expected to be blown away and to see some insaine stuff but 2 people hanging upsidedown naked from their feet throughout parabol/a was far beyond my expectations. Another thing I wouild like to mention was the fact that they had short movies or videos if you will for each song they sang. They were setup perfectly. Tool always amazes me at the time and effort they put into each and every part of what they do. If you dont have tickets to the show nearest you get them now. You will be missing a great opportunity if you dont. for those of you that saw the show can you imagine a DVD with each of the videos we saw at the show??? Id buy it...
Review written by: Joe Haggard (overclocked@gallatinriver.net) Review posted on: 09/08/01 04:57:59 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Just got back from another Tool concert (09/07/01) (Went to their Chicago show back on 05/17/01 as well). Simply amazing. They never cease showing me how brilliant they can be performing live. Very few bands can replicate their style found on an actual album, on a stage in front of an audience, but they did it. And I had a great time. I'll definitely attend their next GA (General Admission) show in this area. Maynard was wearing this awesome outfit, his whole body was glowing blue, and his face had a blue glowing stripe down the front. Then about halfway through he was just down to his underwear, haha. And two naked guys were dangling from the ceiling by their feet, writhing to and fro (It was part of the show, odd..heh) Here's what I gathered from the setlist: 1. The Grudge 2. Ions- 3. Stinkfist 4. 46&2 5. Prison Sex 6. Schism 7. Pushit 8. Parabol 9. Parabola 10. Disposition 11. Reflection 12. Ænima 13. Opiate 14. Lateralus Wish they would have played Swamp Song, or The Patient (Yeah, right..), but I can't complain, it was truly an experience. These guys never let up I guess. Oh, and they all hugged each other at the end. Cute. The crowd was rather frightening, i fell on the ground during the grudge, VERY SCARY.. yeah that was me..kid with blue shirt. Later guys.
Review written by: Kevin C (corr0864@juno.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 11:01:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
WOW!!!....what a show. it was my first tool show,and it was everything i expected and more. after driving 9 hrs from memphis TN to get here, and getting a 177 dollar speeding ticket 1/2 mile from my exit, i was kinda in a bad mood. but that quickly changed once i was at the show. meshuga was a great opener, i thought they sounded alot like pantera, but alot of other people disagreed with me. one thing i found really unique about this show was that the visuals and music make the show, as opposed to alot of other bands where the members kinda take the spotlight. and the visuals were great, they really went along with the music and made a totally unique experience. they even had 2 naked people dancing and hanging from the ceiling at one point, i know it sounds strange to anyone whoi wasnt there, but it fit really well with all that was goin on. i was up front, right against the barrier for all of meshuga and most of TOOL, but i had to get out of there after a while. so i walked all the way to the other end of the arena and sat as high as i could, just in time for aenama and opiate...things actually sounded better a little further away. and i got to see alot more of what was goin on to...well, i could probably speak volumes about the show..but if you werent there, it would be lost, and if you were, then you know that trying to describe it wouldnt do it any justice.
Review written by: Nick (thehollow462@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 11:41:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I saw this show over 12 hours ago, and I am just now realizing that I ACTUALLY SAW TOOL! I am still in awe after hearing pushit, and parabol and parabola were amazing. Anyone who even mildly likes Tool will really enjoy this show.
Review written by: Andy Christ (wearedna@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 12:01:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Much to my suprise what I thought were going to be shitty nosebleed seats ened up being floor. Suprised and painfully sober I sat down amogst the anticipating crowd. Loud Apex- style beats crash on a sea of wasted youth. Waiting for a black mass for the tattooed masses. For a preacher, teacher, Reverend Maynard. The opening act goes on Meshuganah(sic);) All I can think whilst these angry sweds are playing is while the front man moves his head up and down(Yes this rocks!) and side to side(No no don't stop a rockin'). Though really I counldn't understand a damn word he said. I'd really like to see Tricky. Their set ends and even more waiting. Then uncovered is the GolDrums and they look even more impressive then all the cryptic descriptions I've read. And it begins Grudge Stinkfist 46+2 PrisonSex Schism Pushit Disposition Reflection Parabol Parabola Ænema Opiate Lateralus (Encore)* No Quarter Ticks+Leeches Whit Rabbit Mashed together to and fro thrashing to the songs we know. Now I know I've accused Tool of being an embodiment of "Homo-Rage" but could there be any more cock in this show? Seriously though it all was amazing the funniest part coming right before Opiate when Maynard gets nearly everyone to take and oath of non-conformity and a crowd of people who are obviously not getting it repeat every word he says including "Think for yourself" and "Don't do what others tell you" I just stared in stunned awe. Most people question authority by asking "What next?" Best Concert Ever...Till oct 9
Review written by: Satya (mauiwowiman@seductive.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 13:23:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
It was a good show and i wish i was still there. Everything was perfect except 2 guys got in a fist fight like right in front of me and it ended with one guy's eye getting split open , but it was great. Messugah was good they got the crowd going but i heard chants of You Suck while the singer was talking between songs, it was pretty funny. This show had some new and things that were different from the other show. Dannys new drum set was incredible , thought that it was the lie in the news letter but i almost shit my pants when i saw it. Maynard was his normal smart ass self by making the crowd take the anti-conformist oath which ended up making everyone look like an idiot. It was great.
Review written by: DAvid (metalliman669@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 13:39:09 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
lemme first begin by sayinjg after finding out there was an encore i was thuroughly{sic} pist that i didnt see it....has anyone else seen this encore??...o well...overall i had the night of my life there....in was surrounded by cool people, the music was incredible, the band are NOT.i repeat, NOT human....i went with my gf and she thought it was as incredible as i did...o...and to the guys wgho i told aout toolshed...if u happen to read this, email me will ya...kit..u guys were cool...the show in itself...awesome...awesturck i am still after that...tool will be the only baND i ever see live again....well..not really...but that was by far the most inspiring show and the coolest music...it was just art... all of it...and thanks to the people for being cool...thanks tool...thaaaaank you for all uve done...MAYNARD FOR PREZ...TOOL FOR GOD!...well as ive said...if u guys read this email me...we were sitting stage right in clear view of everytihng...adm was incredible...they dont have to move around much...ok this is kinda finished...anyone that says tool is boring live...can suck a nice big...lol...nah...but that one kid is gonna get his ass beat now...the one kid that says tool sucks live...is that not sacrilige??...well people...if u went or even if u didnt i think we all need to go again....and for those of u that werent able to because of a raffle or someth9ng..there will be other times and it will be just as good...pushit
Review written by: Jake Manske (jacob.manske@mu.edu) Review posted on: 09/08/01 14:07:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
(People have already posted the setlist, so i will not do the same.) That was a great concert. It's the day after, and i'm still very sore, but very glad that I went. I just have to say that it would have been a hundred per cent better if i could have seen the band, but i was way back by the sound guys, and everyone in front of me happened to be taller. But, during Lateralus, the last song, I sat up on top of the barricade that separated the soundguys from the rest of the crowd. I was there for about five minutes before the security kicked me off, but that five minutes was worth the money I paid for my ticket. My vote for song of the night is Reflection. It has such a Third Eye vibe, it's so trippy, so wild, so out of control, so utterly perfect. In a very close second is Pushit, for obvious reasons...this was the first time i heard the added section to Stinkfist, so I was completely blown away by that... What a gorgeous experience. Anyone and everyone should see TOOL at least once in their life.
Review written by: ross kleinmann (thebooparty@cs.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 14:36:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
MAYNARD WAS PLAYING GUITAR!!!!!............???? it was kind of weird see MJK play guitar. there was alot of moshing that pissed me off ALOT but even though they were i still had the greatest night of my life some songs they played were:pushit,the grudge, Ænima, an extended version of prison sex (there was like a verse i never heard before in it), stinkfist,opaite, and some other one i cant remeber and they ended with lateralus. durring intermission they had to naked people hanging upside down there was alot of nudity
Review written by: woof (jxixvxex69@aol) Review posted on: 09/08/01 15:44:02 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom. Easily said,The greatest concert being done,and possibly ever done I've seen all the great shows Floyd, The Dead and Without a doubt Tool is the greatest band out there. If you're reading this getting excited for the next show you'll see. Get ready nothing you'll read about it compares with the energy you're about to experience
Review written by: TIM TIELENS (TIELENS@VOYAGER.NET) Review posted on: 09/08/01 16:57:09 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
WOW!!! BETWEEN THE TWO GIANT PROJECTION SCREENS, THE MULTITUDE OF COLORED LIGHTS, THE NAKED PEOPLE HANGING FROM THE CIELING, AND THE AMAZING SETLIST IT WAS A COMPLETE SENSORY OVERLOAD. THE ANIMATED ARTWORK WAS PHENOMINAL. I TRAVELED 150 MILES, BRAVED A TORENTIAL DOWNPOUR WITH 30 MPH WINDS, AND ARRIVED AT THE SHOW THOROUGHLY SOAKED YET OBLIVIOUS. I WAS REWARDED WITH SIMPLY THE MOST SURREAL AND AWE INSPIRING TWO HOUR MOMENT I EVER HAD THE PLEASURE OF SEE/HEAR/FEELING. SO, YEAH, I SUPPOSE YOU COULD SAY IT WAS OK.
Review written by: snoochie (Ryan@z100radio.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 17:04:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This review is for the jackass that said there was an encore. I waited around in the seats for at least 10-15 minutes for my brother to make his way out of the pit. (which were a lot more intense than I thought would be for a tool concert) When I finally decided that he must have left with the rest of the heard I took one last look at the stage and then left. When I looked at the stage the drum kit was basically gone, the speakers were coming down and a couple of dudes in hard hats were starting to take down the video screens. So unless they put everything back together and played those "last three songs" for the security and andy christ (previous review) I don't think there was another encore. If I'm wrong I would like to see somebody else describe the "encore" in a little more detail. Other than that every thing I expected, and more from Tool.
Review written by: bloodsuckingparasiticlittletick (sk8tool4201981) Review posted on: 09/08/01 17:07:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom.
Review written by: tony the bloodsuckingparasiticlittletick (sk8tool4201981@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 17:24:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
i wasnt surprised by how extraordinary tool played. But i was surprised by how much meshuggah sounded like shit. they are much better studio than they are live. But i wasnt there to see the swedish metal maestros anyways. I really wanted to see tool play undertow or eulogy but hell ill take what i can get. i was reading through the reviews and 1 guy said tool played an encore. i stuck a round a while after lateralus ended and i didnt hear no fucking encore. supposedly they played no quarter, ticks and leeches, and whit rabbit which i think was supposed to be white rabbit. and if they did play an encore im fucking pissed. I think its a bunch of bullshit anyway so im not too worried about it. i really wanted to hear the patient which they played in st paul. we got opiate though instead which is fine by me. justin chancellor is the man he really digs into it on the grudge. damn i am still exhausted from the show. and i still smell like 10000 peoples body odor, damn was there some stinky mofos in the crowd. but all in all every 1 in the crowd was cool shit. thanx alot to the big guys who picked me up and tried to get me to the front. i got to the front alright a little too far to the front and the security guards made me go right to the back again. man is that a struggle trying to get to the front. us tool fans dont give up our ground so easily. and i know every 1 has said this but i just got to say it..... lateralus is the best song known to mankind. and yes i did feel the sounds move a cross my skin, i sucked it all in.... it made me feel ALIVE..... and this concert truly made me realize that i am not alone.... their are tool fans out there who are just as crazy about tool as i am. this concert made me feel eternal and realize all this pain is an illusion. especially when i bit my lip and i didnt feel a thing..... see u in chicago.
Review written by: Meeho (jmee62@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 18:17:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I saw the Madison show on Friday the 7th. Oh wow was it amazing. It was my first time seeing tool and I have to see them again now. The whole show had amazing visual effects including the people from their video schism. Here's the setlist (that i can still remember) : 1) Grudge 2) Stinkfist 3) 46 & 2 4) Prison Sex 5) i forgot ... intermission Disposition Parabol Parabola Reflection Opiate AEnima Lateralis im not 100% pos. about it but i know they didnt play Eulogy which kinda sucked and the show was about 2 + hours long. Maynard stays in the background the whole time except for a few quick comments. After reflection Adam played for about 10 min alone and the whole show was just amazing.
Review written by: Ellis D. Trails (onepill@makesyoularer.net) Review posted on: 09/08/01 18:26:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
The show...amazing.... The encore.... life-changing .... Hanging out with tool at there after party..... priceless See you guys again on Oct. 9th....
Review written by: Queeny (wantyurtool@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 18:34:45 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
It was awesome!!! Ive never seen anything like it!!! It was like coming out all over again. I've never felt so accepted. There ARE people out there that love tool as much as I do! The contortionists rocked. The pure emotions were amazing!! The best part of my night was the White Rabbit rendition that was AMAZING, it really was the clincher to the end of the most amazing concert ever.
Review written by: Dave (eel_666@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 20:37:22 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I got to the Colisieum early and got great seats in the pit. I was so stupid, I didn't think about how idiotic the crowd would be. Let me say something to all those Meshugga fans who didn't come for Tool but stayed anyway: Fuck you! With that out of the way, let me tell you that Meshugga sucked. I didn't expect much from a Swedish death-metal band, but I screamed along with the rest of the crowd anyway when they came out. After Meshugga was done, we had to wait an agonizing 30 minutes or so before Tool came out. The crow became so restless that I almost got squeezed to death. It got way worse when Tool came out. I was promptly separated from my two friends. And before the end of the first verse of The Grudge, I got knocked down in a mosh pit. Oh shit, I thought. I'm going to be trampled to death. Luckily, I wasn't. I wisely decided to move further away from the stage. After that smart move, I was free to enjoy the rest of the concert. In general, the band didn't move around too much and Adam's guitar sounded like crap. Maynard began in his industrial black leather suit which he took off later. He even played guitar on a few songs (I know he did on Disposition and Reflection). As for the set list, I won't reprint it because Andy Christ has it right. Stinkfist sounded great with a bunch of added stuff. 46+2 sounded horrible fo some odd reason, but after that they rocked with an extended version of Prison Sex. Then came Pushit, the Ænima version. I was disappointed that they didn't play the Salival version, but it sounded great anyway. Next was Disposition, which I had been looking forward to. Justin somehow sounded shitty on this one, but it didn't matter when they started Reflection. Reflection was amazing, definitely the highlight of the show in my opinion. For the intermission, the dancers from the Schism video hung from wires naked (I thought it was stupid). Parabol and Parabola were next, and they kicked major ass. Next was Ænema. It sounded cool, albeit very different from the album version. Opiate rocked and so did Lateralis after that. I left after that but heard they did an encore. Now I'm really pissed that I missed the encore!!! Although it sounds like I'm bitching a lot, I really liked the show. How can I really complain after seeing Tool live?
Review written by: the bike guy (latour9mm@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 20:53:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom. ive seen alot of concerts in my life, some good some bad,some mind blowing.the tool show was mesmerizing,hypnotic,and damn near mind altering!this was just about the best concert you will ever see!i am hard put to think of any show ive seen that ranks in their caliber.the visuals coupled with the sheer force of the music made me feel like a snake being charmed.i pity anyone who miss their opportunity to see this band live.the high point of their set for me was the perfomance of aenema( the lyrics of which i have an almost personal relationship with).i cant help nut wish to see them again.
Review written by: aaron (muchthinker@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 21:04:09 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom.
Review written by: aaron (muchthinker@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 21:27:15 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
when i bought aenima a couple years ago, it changed my life. I then bought undertow and opiate. I became a little obsessed with their music. It touches me on every emotional level. i waited paitiently for lateralus. it is like no other. i just don't understand why it is so intriguing; the music and the band. anyways, the concert came surprisingly quick and before i knew it, I was there. with mushrooms. i expected only the best and that is what i got. messhugah was better than anticipated. i like hardcore so it was welcome. tool came on. butterflies in my stomach. mushrooms taking affect. can't believe it yet. i've waited so long to see them. maynards voice is without peer. danny carey is perfect. adam and justin: at one point they looked as if they were on fire. mystical. when they opened with the grudge it reminded me of Yes, tales from topographic oceans. so different so prolific. song after song they touched that place in me where everything is okay and it's just me and the music. i hardly focused on the band, had my eyes closed alot. I waited for reflection. if there is one song to take you on a journey into your mind, it is this one. maynard is hypnotic. the end of opiate was so intense. i forget what song it was during, but the screens in the back had black and white geometric patterns, swirls, etc. and maynard was completely black against the screen, it seemed as if he was moving in and out of the screen, becoming part of the geometric pattern. the screen visuals were obviously weird. lots of sexual stuff???whatever, it's the music i get into. lateralus the song? could take over the world with it. I just dont get it, what is it about their music, its taken control of me. i dont stop listening to it. i wont stop. oh yeah, i hoped for third eye. the greatest song ever in my opinion,but, obviously no regrets.
Review written by: Kate (bubbles_kate@Hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/08/01 22:21:10 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I have never been so completely awestruck in my entire life. The show was simply orgasmic. I've been a fierce T00L fan since '99, and I have been waiting for that night since then. Meshuggah was just terrible, and everyone I was sitting by seemed to agree. I suppose you have to have a certain taste to like them, but I for one could have gone on stage and screamed incoherently for an hour. Every song sounded the same. But I'm not here to talk about them. First off, I just want it to be known that I am a known traitor to T00L. I have seen BSB. When Maynard went into his good news/bad news thing, I almost cried. I felt and still feel terrible. The deal was that if I saw BSB with my friend, she'd come to T00L with me (and she did). I am so sorry. I really feel unworthy to have seen what I did, although my friend is getting into T00L now. Anyways, the show. You already saw the setlist above somewhere, and as much as I love T00L on disc, their live performance blew me away. I didn't know it could get better. I'd like to reiterate how T00L is in it for the music. I lost myself in it and was on the verge of tears the entire show. While it was nice to see them, the music is what pulled me in, not the people on stage. In fact, I could hardly see Maynard. My respect for them has grown so much since yesterday. Would someone please confirm if there was an encore? It's eating at me, I have to know if I missed something. :( My only regret is that I won't be seeing them again till the next tour. Please, if they are coming to your area, GO. I don't care if you have to steal or kill to get tickets, just do it. You won't regret it, but you will regret missing them.
Review written by: SPiTZ (spitz1@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 02:05:57 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I think the dude talking about the encore setlist is a big fat liar. I was there for at least a half hour after the band hugged, and nothing happened--except for that they started taking the stage apart. Also, this sorry excuse for a human says that "ticks and leeches" was in the encore; Maynard says he will not do that song in concert because it kills his voice when he sings it. [Yeah, and I partied with the band too afterwards...whatever] I thought the show rocked, except for the asses that dropped too much acid to realize that you are laying on the the floor and that they are standing on you. I also thought it was funny to watch the old people flee the scene when meshuggah took the stage. There seemed to be alot of people at this show who were totally flabberghasted because this concert was nothing like the time they saw neil diamond in 1979. -SPiTZ-
Review written by: Erik (KiTTieSpiT_1@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 02:18:00 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This Tool show was an emotional treat for the senses. Tool plays with such passion and they make it look so easy. My concert expirience was awesome! When we got there all of the concert security made us sit on the ground. This was really strange. They said that they did not want anyone to get pushed up against the railing in the front of the stage. That is so stupid though because once the concert started everyone pushed and shoved their way forward. Once the lights went out I was so excited but Meshuggah really sucked. I am really surprised Tool would pick a band with such a different sound. I ussually like really heavy bands like Coal Chamber, Slipknot, Mudvayne, Kittie, or Drain STH but this band really sucked. I did not like their look. It seemed like they were trying to rip off Pantera. So you can imagine how happy I was when they were done. Tool was a billion times better though. Tool had two huge video screens above the band and one behind Maynard who was next to Danny. Maynard on the left and Danny on the right. In the front left was Adam and the front right was Justin. When the lights went out there was the huge ring of eyes on the screens. It was the eyes on the cd Lateralus. They then started The Grudge. On the screens was a claymation video that fit in quite nice with some of their older videos. Next they played Stinkfist. The video was shone on the screens. It was an extended version of the song so the video repeated in some places. 46 & 2 was played next. On the screen there were graphic images of two people swimming naked biting each other. They performed Prison Sex after that and just a few images from the video were on the screen. There was more naked people during this song. Schism was played after that and they showed the video on the screen. During the middle of the song the two contortionists who played the creatures went across the stage. They were painted grey and completely naked. They were on all fours and basically folded in half and they swung their head as if they were nodding. Next Tool played my all-time favorite song, Pushit. It was the studio version so it was great. On the screen there was two naked women walking in a circle holding the hands of a manican torso in between them. After the quiet part there was just a series of spirals on the screens. They played Disposition next. I dont remember what was on the screens because Maynard was holding what appeared to be a guitar but I didn't think he could play. Reflection was played next. On the screens there were slug- like worms in a dirty bathroom. The worms had faces. Then the screens showed a really old picture in an oval frame hanging in a very dark and distubing room. On the picture was a woman that lifted up her top to reveal a worm on her. (I think. It was kinda blurry). In the end where the guitar repeats a little phrase and fades out there was a man in a suit waving goodbye. He had no hands or head. The guitar ending of the song went on for about 3-4 minutes. The band then left the stage and the screens turned off. For the encore there was then the sound of something like an injured whale or dolphin which was the most disturbing sound throughout the whole show. During this noise the contortionists came back and climbed up to the top of the screens. They were completely naked once again and everyone could clearly see everything. I thought that was illegal. I guess I was wrong. When they got to the top they positioned themselves to hang upside down by thier ankles. They put their arms straight out to look like and upside down cross. They then started swing back and forth and spinning. The screens then came back on to show the Salival creature. It showed the creature spinning like it does on the video before the AEnema video. Tool then came out and started to play Parabol. The creatures continued to spin and sway. When Parabola started the energy was just amazing. The crowd was really into it and they weren't even moshing which was so cool. The screens showed rainbow colored spirals. The contortionists went wild. They started squirming violently. They then played AEnema. This is when the contortionist left. They showed clips of everything on the screens. Maynard then said something to the extent that the bad guys (pop music) were winning. He told us that it wasn't too late and he made us repeat after him where he said think for yourself and question authority. He said a couple other things and then said never to repeat after people. Next they played Opiate. The crowd really got into this song. Everyone was singing. Maynard then told everyone to take the feeling they had at that moment and create something positive with it. Last they played Lateralus which I thought was really good. I would of enjoyed it more but I was trapped between a lot of people and the side wall. They ended the show by shaking each others hands. For my first Tool show I was really impressed and disturbed. I felt that I got my money's worth especially because it was a 2 1/2 hour long set. Tool definitely made up for their horible opening band. I was surprised that they didn't perform Sober. They only played one song off of Undertow which I thought was kind of strange. I would have liked to have heard Eulogy, Hooker With a Penis, Third Eye, The Patient, Ticks and Leeches, and Triad. I'm still extremely happy with the whole expirience and I can't wait until I do it again.
Review written by: chodeboy (chodeboy42@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 02:25:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Let me start off by saying, "what happened to Tool?" I realize that they use their music to get their point across, but come on. Sure, they sounded great. But, seriously, they're Tool. They're supposed to sound great. You'd think since they've been touring for so long, they'd have found a way to sound great, but still devote some of their energy to actually entertaining the audience. I mean, Maynard was fucking stand-up comedian before he started Tool. You'd think He'd know how to work a crowd. First, that the black light responsive wheel thing they had on stage, I saw on stage with them at Ozzfest 3 years ago. It took Maynard 6 songs to strip down to his underwear and 2 songs till the end of the set to actually talk to the audience. Now don't get me wrong, they sounded awsome, as I've said, but when you go to see Tool, you expect that. If all I want is to hear them sound great, I could have invested the money I spent on the tickets in a 5 disc CD changer and put on their CD's on random. When I see them live, I guess I expect a little more. I expect Maynard to do more than just stand on a platform at the back of the stage doing a lot of "I'mMaynardJamesKennantheleadsingerofTool" posturing at a concert. At Ozzfest, he at least talked to the crowd. And the two times I saw A Perfect Circle, he was an hilarious motherfucker. When they were headlining (with Snake River Conspiracy opening), he and Josh were like Laurel and Hardy on stage. Maynard addressed the audience between each song. Even at Ozzfest (with only an hour of stage time) and the first time I saw A Perfect Circle (opening for NIN), Maynard at least talked to us. Last night, Maynard was just sort of there. I mean the coolest thing I SAW was the two naked people hanging from the ceiling (and that only lasted one song). If all you're interested in is hearing great music played well and real loud, buy a kick ass stereo system and some Tool CD's, and CRANK IT. If you want to hear some great music played really well, AND see Maynard in all his glory, save your money till A Perfect Circle tour to promote their next album.
Review written by: tOk-tOk (raziel@netexpress.net) Review posted on: 09/09/01 02:39:38 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was a great show for me. I had a blast. It seemed like there could have been more energy in the crowd at time though. I saw APC when they opened for NiN here in Madison, and that was a good show too. For me it was pretty much a relegious experience. Oh and whoever said that there was an encore, they need to remove their head from their ass, because as soon as Tool left the stage after playing Lateralus, the lights went on, and everyone went home. I was about the last person out of the arena, and there was no such encore. Hey buddy, spread your wet dreams elsewhere.
Review written by: Anne (come_full_circle@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 02:49:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Okay... just to clarify things, there was no encore. It would have been impossible for two reasons.... 1. I stayed 15 min after the show until I was literally kicked out of the arena by security. They were already tearing down the set. 2. After being booted out of the arena I promptly went to the back and waited by the busses where I saw Maynard enter his bus almost immediately. (it's kind of hard to do en encore without all of the band members...) Anyways...I'm not going to get into detail about the setlist because it has been done. I must state, however that reflections was by far the most intense moment for me. I just closed my eyes and swayed with the music. It was extremely climactic both physically and mentally. On a note as to what previous reviewer said... that he had heard Adam play off key, I too heard it but it was very brief...only a few notes...he was just off tempo but he gracefully jumped back into it. I thought no one noticed but me. :) The visuals....fantastic. Sort of a remix of certain video footage and various other filmwork/SGI. What got me most about the visuals was that they were actually in tempo with the music... that must have been really hard to pull off live, so kudos to the band on that. The contortionists....intreaguing. I must say, I didn't expect them to be naked but it didn't wierd me out so much as I thought it interesting. Quite a spectacle. Tidbits....The funny things about maynard's "preaching"... when he said "I have some good news and some bad news" everyone was hooting and hollering...then maynard said..."first the bad news" the entire arena went dead silent. I have never seen that happen before. It was litterally instant. I started laughing really loud because it was just so funny to me. Then I got slightly emberrased because it dawned on me that I was probably really loud in complete silence. Another thing that got me laughing is when he was doing the "think for yourself, question authority" bit and the whole arena was repeating every word. I knew what was comming when he said "think for yourself" and I looked at my hubby and sort of mockingly pointed my finger at him saying "question authority" allong with maynard. Then he of course said "never repeat what others tell you" in a mocking sort of way. Once again I was laughing. It was an excellent way of expressing humor when everyone had their guard down. It's like we were all the butt end to his own personal humor. Very nicely done. Other high points.... When the band joined together in a circle at the end of the show and did a joyus group hug. It really showed the crowd their unity. Also as they were comming off the stage... I was on the left hand side, third row up so they were facing us. Adam who through the show kept a stone glare of concentration, was now smiling and he waved at us. I jumped forward and started waving back and we made brief eye contact as then the others around me starded waving and hollaring. Also Danny threw some drum sticks and drum pads to the crowd... that was nice. After the show....we waited out back to see if the band would come out.... Maynard went into the bus as I said before... then the rest of the band took some time before leaving.... there was an aftershow party so they were living it up which was evident because justin came outside wearing an afro wig. humerous. It was raining buckets while we waited outside so I was absolutely soaked. But around 12:30 the Justin, Danny and Adam came outside to board the bus. Adam just sort of mocked us. He looked at the 15 or so of us that were left and shouted, "what the hell is wrong with you people?? It's raining! Go home! Get dry!" and boarded the bus. I was kind of sad that he didn't at least come over, but it's all good because Danny and Justin came over. Danny shook everyone's hand and thanked us for comming to the show and said that he looked forward to seeing us all again. Justin just jumped around danny and sort of clung to his back. Strange, but that's okay. The saddest bit was when we were leaving the show. A car full of tool fans in front of us hit a bicyclist. Very sad, everyone was in tears. I'm only adding this because I want to publicly note that I hope everyone came out of that incident okay. This is a lengthy review, but I hope it justifiably explains some of the events not yet desribed by the other madison reviewers. All in all - Incredible night. :)
Review written by: RJG (rjgoss@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 11:56:27 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
The TOOL show in Madison, WI was absolutely amazing!!! The music and the artistry were far greater than most concerts I have seen in the past. Even though the band focused heavily on material from Lateralus and AEnema, I was pleased when they play Opiate and Prison Sex. It would have been nicer to hear one or two more songs from Opiate and Undertow (like "Part Of Me," "Sober," and [choose any other song off of "Undertow"]) but it was a great show nevertheless. Being a drummer myself, it was awesome to see that Danny Carey playing his new drumset made out of old Paiste cymbals melted down and formed into drums. As I thought, Danny was superb. The drum parts always fit so well with the instrumentation. I especially liked that the band opened with "The Grudge" since it is my favorite song off "Lateralus." Closing with "Lateralus" was also a nice touch. One thing I didn't like is that noone in the band seemed to move around at all. Adam Jones seemed like he was glued to the floor in one spot. It was really hard to see Maynard at all either since he was always standing in front of the screen. Besides all that, what else can I say, but I hope TOOl comes back to Madison/Milwaukee area. No excuse to miss such an experience.
Review written by: toks (grayswim@usa.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 13:29:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I almost didn't make it to this show. Basically everything that could have happened did happen. It was kind of funny the whole way there, it seemed almost predetermined that it would be a long ride. It was, and I was laughing the whole way. The core conciousness/connectedness of people at a Tool show is kind of strange. People bring this huge amount of energy to the show and share it with everyone around them...but at the same time they are totally to themselves and closed off to everyone. I think the band was drunk. Adam seemed to mess up somehow on a Stinkfist bridge so the whole band (may have?) improvised a completely new verse. That was cool, no matter if it was a mistake or not...good job of covering it up. One thing I totally don't understand, HOW DOES MAYNARD YELL FOR SO LONG? I'm sure you all listened to Opiate. About half way through the song, Maynard extended the scream and it seemed to go on forever. I tried to just hum along to it and i couldn't even hum that long. MAYNARD IF YOU READ THIS, HOW DO YOU DO IT?!?! It split my brain in half and the two sides of my brain traded spots with my testicles. No that didn't happen, but if it did wouldn't you want to meet me? I loved what Mark and Hanna did on the ropes. Excellent job. Those two are so completely in shape its amazing just to look at them doing nothing, then they go and do something everyone else can't do with their bodies. They seem so primative like a couple of animals, especially during schism when they walk on their hands and feet. Just completely amazing. If there is ever an osseus labyrint show i am definetely going. Meshuggah was good. Danny's playing is always awesome to watch, and now he has that new drumset of his. The set is like heaven on earth. They lit it up a few times (with lights) and it just shimmers. That rich bastard. Man, and then Justin. He is one guy I can be jealous of...first he has that english accent I want....second he gets alot of women for no reason, I think it's his curly hair but is that a good reason?...third, he just stomped the fuck out of the stage during pushit(? i think), I never get to stomp on stages. Maybe someday I will, and Tool will come watch me and be jealous because they will be on wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Maybe I will make a speech in between songs about how Tool's bassist inspired me to stomp. Then I will get alot of pussy and grow out curly hair. Maybe not, I can wait until next show...just don't make it too long. -skot
Review written by: Iowan (iowan@gullible.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 21:29:12 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Just want to clear up some things. First off, there is no such thing as a TOOL encore. Second, Mr. Jones didn't mess up as someone said he did in Stinkfist, that's the extended version they have been playing live for the past 4 years. Last, I don't care who you are, how old you are, what music you like, what kind of person you are, everyone who lives on planet earth should experience the phenomenon we all saw Friday. Words can never do it justice. Here's a start though. Think of the most amazing, orgasmic sensory experience your imagination can fathom. Now make that infinitely better...
Review written by: Jay (Ringointhecorner@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/09/01 21:37:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Ticket to Madison show: $41 Gas for 3 hour trip up: $31.54 Parking: $5 Tour T-shirt: $35 Tour necklace: $15 Bottled water: $2.25 Witnessing the greatest band to ever set foot on this planet take you on the mind-blowing, life-changing musical and artistic experience of a lifetime: Priceless
Review written by: kennedyman (kennedyman@cs.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 09:25:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Wow! what a show at Madison, WI. This was their 2nd arena show of the tour, and they looked and sounded excellent! The visuals on the screens were mezmorizing to say the least. The Live "human embryos" were a trip! I don't want to give it away, but there were some special guest of TOOL on stage with them! Maynard continues to elude us with his true face. He first came out in a skeleton suit that glowed. The middle of his face painted white. Then he changed and came out it mesh briefs with his face painted black. They did 5 trackes of of lateralus! They played a little over two hours! At one point in the show Maynard spoke to the audience. He had the audience repeat some words "question authority" and so forth. then he said never repeat anything someone tells you. It was funny, the audience laughed. At the end of the show the all the guys from TOOL came together shook each other hands and hug. I got the sense that this was thier last tour. Lets hope not...
Review written by: Lloyd McFarlin (lloydmcf@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 11:09:11 ET
This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show
I still can't help but miss the old days when Maynard would perform more "in your face", going nuts right in front of the crowd. Maybe he's getting old. But in any case, the show was incredible if more subdued than Tool shows of old. Definitely great visuals and plenty of naked folks. I didn't care for Meshuggah. Musically proficient or not, every song sounded the same and they all had the same title of "ragga- ragga-aarrrggghhhh-rogrog" or something like that.
Review written by: The Mangina Maniac (Davidbtkd@home.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 12:10:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Hey Tool Fans-
Review written by: Brucie (Davidbtkd@home.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 13:02:06 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Hey Tool Fans- If you haven't seen Tool perform, you're missing the greatest experience of your life. Everytime Danny strikes a drum or a cymbal, or Maynard holds the A for three seconds in Pushit, or when Mr. Jones strums his guitar, or when the Chancelor picks his bass, its magical. Words cannot express the precision, the beauty and art, and the overall performance. Like a circus puppet, Maynard, dancing on his platform to each beat of the music, but the voice had no strings attached, singing each note with precision and beauty. Danny, flying around his drums like in the Grudge, but using the best technique and focus to apply the best sound and most creativity I have ever heard and now seen in songs like Disposition and Reflection. Adam Jones, in my opinion, the most creative guitarist ever, was absolutely incredible. He made it look easy as he whaled on guitar solos and effects to make the sound even that more amazing to watch and to also hear. The bass man, Justin Chancelor, also made it look easy on stage using the most precise movement of both hands i have ever seen and heard as well. Each man of this group is not of this world, and I am looking forward to hearing them agin live or another CD. But for now, out to all my ginas, keep it good and fine.
Review written by: Jorge (uneedborda@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 13:07:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
To be honest Tool was fair. The first time I saw Tool was at Lolapalooza III. The band has developed into something I'd label more as a show as opposed to being a band. There's nothing wrong with that but I think I enjoyed their performances back in their early days. One song took forever to end (probably about 4 to 5 mintues of one chord ringing through out the place). Talk about a waste of time. Maynard hiding in the back was ever so "artsy" and "mysterious".......Oooooooo. In my opinion Tool NEEDED the video screens to help support the show. Not only because of the visuals but because they are boring as hell to watch (except for Danny's drumming) without the extra stuff going on. Meshuggah's performance was spectacular. I've been listening to Meshuggah just as long as Tool (92') and this was my third time seeing them. Just as I thought, Meshuggah's music was way out there for Tool fans. Yes folks, there's music out there more original than Tool's. Meshuggah is actually a band who do it because they love it (they have been together since 87' or 88') and have actually developed into the chaotic masters of noise that they are today. And they are seriously admired by many musicians from around the world and praised by critics (a huge article was even written about them in the NY Times; a rare feat for a so-called "metal" band) from around the world. The only problem is that their music is fairly hard to listen to if you have never heard their music before. And like I predicted, not even the supposed "well-rounded" Tool fans would accept them. And looking up on stage Meshuggah could completely tell that from the audience. But you could see Justin Chancellor and Adam Jones getting into Meshuggah watching from the side of the stage bobbing their heads to the mighty sounds of a truly original band. And to the person who said that Meshuggah "forgot that music is supposed to have melody." Who said that music is SUPPOSED to have a certain formula. Thank God for bands like Meshuggah who actually accomplish something so abstract to the human ear. If you want a lot of melody go buy an NSYNC CD. Meshuggah is actually a band who truly breaks the rules of the supposed modern approach to creating a song. All hail the Swedish Gods....MESHUGGAH.
Review written by: dave (twelveothree@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 14:46:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
Being my fourth time experiencing Tool live, I was undoubtedly exhilerated to say the least. The usual trip to Madison’s Alliant Energy Center, for major label shows, has it’s inherent ups and downs. Minus the unfortunate start to the trip, including the lack of my long-time friend Pete, the show proved to me, the essence of my personal music beliefs and goals. Tool, unlike many rising bands in the industry, both new and old, have proven to the unsuspecting masses that emotional and art-driven music still prevails. The venue, known for large arena shows, filled dramatically quick, just short of being visually “sold-out”. The majority of fans were there in time to see the hi-tech Swedish speed- metal band, Meshuggah. Brutal and aggressive, Meshuggah bestowed an uncomfortable attack to the senses. By Tool’s norm, Meshuggah seemed out of place. A band that I have been a fan of for a few years, they could have found a seat on a different bill. Not with the seemingly uncategorized likes of Tool. From the dimming house lights, to the Lateralus flame rings, being projected on two huge overhead screens.....and another small screen to the left of the stage and directly behind Maynard.....the crowd seemed to feel the uncompromised presence of what was about to take place. I felt shivers run their course down my back as celtic/didgerido sounds came from all around us. Tool took the stage with high anticipation. Maynard, wearing a black leather suit, shaved head, and 3” black stripe painted vertically on his face.....began to crouch down, making himself emotionally balanced for their opening track “the Grudge”. Tool proceeded through their near 2-hour set, displaying the most graphically intense and psychologically riveting imagery, that I have witnessed to date. Created by Tool’s guitarist, Adam Jones has out-done himself, bringing Tool’s vision to reality. Tool’s passion for art and dedication to musical precision, was prevalent throughout the entire show. Bringing the beautiful and amazing performing artist duo, Mark and Hanna of osseous labyrint, to the stage made this my most inspirational experience seeing Tool live. During Schism, Mark and Hanna came to the stage naked, performing their graphic contortions......just the same as the recently release video. While Tool performed the two-part song, “Parabol/Parabola”, Mark and Hanna took the stage dramatically, hanging themselves upside down, 30 feet above the stage, for better than 20 minutes, moving to the music and visuals. Amazing and unspeakable! With my personal highlights being “Pushit”, and the middle-eastern influenced “Reflection”. Constant. Emotional. Spiritual. Physical. Tool continues to push the indescribable psychological envelope, always evolving into the most amazing and at times, unrecognized, band in the music industry. Aside from the performance itself, I feel that I should address another matter. If you feel that you want to see this band....above all, my favorite EVER......and come to mosh to a metal band, park you fucking ass at a Pantera or Slipknot show.....or hang out in the parking lot, soak yourself on goats blood, and beat your head against the concrete. Not here. Not with Tool. Tool is a band the needs to be taken in, and experienced personally with emotion and feeling. Not in a pissed-up drunken shit-bird haze. And oh yah, to the poor bastard that got popped in the face by some girl’s boyfriend as a result of his crackhead-influenced actions, I hope you enjoyed paying $40.00 for the show that you missed. Anyways..enough of my ranting. If you’ve never seen this band live, and have a future opportunity, make sure you make the effort to see them for yourselves. No words, written or spoken, will ever express what is in their hearts, as a band. Tool left the stage after an emotional group hug. Maynard, Danny, Justin, and Adam have now shown us that long-time bands can communicate and maintain their focus. Music, intellect, art, passion, and their souls. All in tact. visit the eKo (an online resource, promoting Wisconsin's music scene) at http://www.geocities.com/theeKo Many props to Kabir for maintaining this site, and sticking to what really matters.....TOOL and there fans!
Review written by: luscious loobie (spoiled4life@msn.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 15:55:14 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Holy shit! holy shit! holy shit! why the hell didn't anybody tell me about this shit sooner. this is way better than any drug. the performance was the best concert i've ever seen, and i've seen some shit let me tell you. the way the music interacts with the presentation of video and live entertainment, astounding. they play live just as good as they do on record. it was amazing. me and my friends decided to sit back and watch it from afar instead of in the pit. damn, you must do this. you see so much more of what id going on. highly recommended. too is like now one of my top 5 bands of all time next to nirvana, black sabbath, slayer, soundgarden, and system of a down, who i'm seeing live next week. that's all just my point of view on an amazing show by an amazing band. and to those who thought meggugusha or whatever they were called, i've heard one of their studio albums and it is damn impressive of what they can do in the studio, but if you ain't down with the death metal, then it's probably not for you. later!
Review written by: GINA (RoyAl2112) Review posted on: 09/10/01 22:00:54 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
SWEET JESUS, I JUST SHIT MY PANTS.....I WENT TO THE CONCERT WITH RINGO IN THE CORNER AND BRUCIE....BJS TOO DAMN LAZY TO POST A REVIEW.... well i guess this isnt a review either, just if you ever get the chance to see TOOL, TAKE IT. TICKETS:2 for 115 SELLING TICKET:15 T SHIRT:35 SHITTING YOURSELF WHILE HAVING AN ORGASM AND WATCHING TOOL PERFORM 20 FEET IN FRONT OF YOU: PRICELESS IF NE ONE TAPED THE SHOW, PLEASE LET ME KNOW, ID REALLY LIKE TO SHOW THIS TO MY FRIENDS WHO GIVE ME SHIT FOR SKIPPIN A SOPHMORE FOOTBALL GAME. KEEP IT GOOD AND FINE BOYS TO KATIE BACK IN THE HOTEL, (THE GOOD LOOKIN ONE)- GOOD LUCK IN SOCCER, YOURE HOT, WISH WE COULD OF TALKED MORE
Review written by: Jackie Knoff (gina@goodandfine.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 23:24:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Jorge, I'm sorry, but just because a band plays odd time signatures doesn't mean they're good. Neither does monotonous man-yelling and no stage presence. Don't give me that "expanding the boundaries of songwriting" line of bull. All their songs were about the same length, started the same way, ended the same way, followed the same verse- chorus-verse-chorus-guitar solo-breakdown-chorus structure pretty much the whole way through. Don't get me wrong, they are an incredible band and I tip my hat to them, especially Mr. Thordendal, whom I consider to be one of the greatest guitarists alive right now. But Jorge here is going a bit too far. Every great characteristic about breaking down barriers and expanding the possibilities of song structure and musicianship and critical and musical acclaim applies to TOOL 100% and Meshuggah....well a lot less. They're a death metal band. Yes, they're probably the very best out of all those death metal bands, but they're still just a death metal band. TOOL is the greatest band of all time in just about every conceivable way, musically, talent-wise, lyrically, artistically, performance-wise, creatively, and so much more, and if you can't see that, then well your romantic, idealistic views of a death metal band have completely skewed your concept of reality. I'm not going to say any more, even though I could for weeks, and if anyone wants to discuss it, feel free to email me. My apologies to Jorge, whom I admire for daring to share his opinion on one of the most rabid sites in existence, and who probably didn't deserve my little lecture in the first place; he probably just switched the names of the bands around in his review.