| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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09/09/2001
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Review written by: RobT (betotores@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 00:35:25 ETThis was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Though I missed them on their first pass here in Chicago, I'm more than content with having seen tonight's show. Next to my wife and I was a young guy and his pal at their first show; and for them, as it is with all of us, this was more of a religious experience than anything else. Musically, the band was really "on" - and the show itself was nothing short of stunning. Between the lights, screens/movies, and live performers, this was the most intense TOOL show I've seen yet. There were great intimate moments (during Disposition with Maynard on guitar) and incredible sonic explosions (Parabol/Parabola kicked my teeth in!). Maynard faced the back screen most of the time, but was more intense than I've ever seen him (thank God for my binoculars). Sorry, I don't remember the set list exactly, but they started with The Grudge, and went on to play quite the mixed bag (everything from Forty-six & 2 to Ænema to Lateralus). No one plays as well live as TOOL does, and given the combination of power and emotion that you feel at the shows (I lost track of how many times I got goose-bumps), its no wonder we all come back for more.
Review written by: ml (ml46n2@yahoo) Review posted on: 09/10/01 00:43:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
undertow eulogy the patient and some of merkaba Quote: it has become more evident that in the larger cities, new york, detroit, chicago, l. a., san fran, that the bad people are taking over. the suits, the industries, the lyers, advantagous, the vampires, the leeches, the cocksuckers are taking advatage of the artists. all we can do is continue to speak our mind with our dollar. those people can go ea a fat sack of dicks for all we care, and hopefully they will choke on one of them.
Review written by: Tony (paulstanley10@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 00:48:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I have three words to say. TOOL kicks ass. Meshuggah was ok but TOOL was awesome. My best friend in the world got me hooked on them like 6 months ago and ever since then ive been nuts about them. We had floor seats and we were like the tenth row from the stage I was to immersed in the experience to remember the set list but all i remember is that they played Eulogy and it kicked ass. EVERYONE NEEDS TO SEE TOOL LIVE !!!!!!!! - TONY
Review written by: Sako (tooltow@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 01:20:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 2NDH Tool show
Just got back great concert, heres the set list: the grudge stinkfist undertow 46 & 2 eulogy shcism w/ maynard on guitar disposition reflection intermission w/ contortionists parabol parabola eon blu apocalypse the patient aenima lateralus
Review written by: zaum (a@a.a) Review posted on: 09/10/01 01:34:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Well we got Undertow, Eulogy, and the Patient tonight. The energy was definitely there. I could've left after they opened with the Grudge and still been happy with my night. Interesting Maynardisms: He sang a few extra notes during the Stinkfist breakdown. He sang the violin-ish part in Reflection. He sang "fret for your mohawk" in Aenema. He said his favorite color was blue. oh, and i had a feeling of where they got the "lateral" idea from. During Lateralis, after the breakdown when it cuts to just guitar and then the bass comes in: the bass rhythym seems so awkward that it feels like it comes in sideways. or something like that.
Review written by: johnny (opiatedtool@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 01:36:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
tool has this amazing ability to make an hour and 45 minutes feel like days, but in a good way. this show was way better than last time they came around, and they played undertow! i was a bit dissapointed before i came because i had seen that they hadn't played it yet and i was really looking forward to hearing it. the first few notes into it i almost shit myself, it was so amazing i had to sit down for a couple seconds. until about halfway into the set, i was still thinking that lollapalooza 97 (i think, whatever year they played it last) was a better show, cuz hey they played fucking crawl away (which is my favorite tool song ever.) but then i got to the point where i wasn't as interested in watching the band and i focused more on the screens behind them and just tried to absorb into everything that was going on around me. this being the third time i'd seen them this year helped that too because i knew what most of the visuals were so i didn't have to worry about missing anything. this is easily the best tool show i have ever been to so far, and i think the only way any other show could top it is if they played jerk-off or cold and ugly in some upcoming show that i happen to be at. i'm sure there will be people that will talk about what all of the visuals were so i won't bother, plus i really don't remember too much of them. it seems like so long ago that i saw them, yet it was just about 3 and a half hours ago. on a different note, meshuggah fucking rocked and anyone who says otherwise is either close minded or just has bad taste in music. that shit takes fucking talent to be as tight as they are, and fredrick thordendal is a god. i think i was one of the maybe 10 people in the seats that was actually banging my head for them, a couple people around me laughed when they started playing, i guess they just aren't used to seeing an actual metal band. but anyway, tool is definitely my favorite band of all time, and they totally proved it tonight and i'll never forget this show.
Review written by: Cailean (cailean@eatme.org) Review posted on: 09/10/01 01:37:32 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Having attended the show earlier this year at the Riv, I can say that the larger venues seem to make Maynard remain near the rear of the stage. Much more interaction and movement before. That's about the only negative I saw (other than having seats where Maynard blended in between the his screen and the drums most of the time). The visuals were mostly the same as the show before, edited again or left the same. . .still forcing you to look at the images and think. The hanging couple. . .impressive. . .wish I had that much stamina in my back. And the best part about this show versus the Riv, they played Eulogy...my personal favorite. Too bad for the band that the one gal that took her top before they came out, Maynard complimented some girl at the last show - "Sorry, I didn't mean to be rude. Nice tits."
Review written by: Chris (salvchr@iit.edu) Review posted on: 09/10/01 03:00:01 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Alright, first off, ppl who are posting false reviews of the setlist for the Chicago show, man screw you! Ok, now for the review. AWESOME SHOW, to the core. Meshuggah was actually pretty good, I can definitely see their influence on Tool with odd time signatures and a lot of intricate work done in the songs, despite their heaviness. I don't remember the actual setlist (too busy having a good time), but I know they started with The Grudge, ended with Lateralus, and somewhere in the middle there was 46 & 2, Stinkfist, Undertow, Aenima, Aeon Blue, The Patient, Disposition, Reflection, Schism, Parabol, Parabola, and Eulogy. Maynard was quite reserved, but inspiring. 3 songs go by, and he greets the crowd with a humble "Good evening." Kick ass!!! Adam actually reminded me of Jimmy Paige, with his Gibson(?) guitar and stoic attitude on stage. He seemed like he was in a trance, unmoving but definitely feeling the music. Danny is God, enough said. I was sitting 3rd row on the left side. Nice touch with the naked climbers suspended by their feet during the Parabol/Parabola section. For a first show, definitely completed my experience. Tool forever!!!
Review written by: Tom V. (toolshed46and2@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 03:10:53 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Having seen Tool for the third time now (and the second time within a few months), I personally find it remarkable that they are able to put forth such a great effort on a nightly basis, still going through the trouble to make these songs sound fresh and recently created to each city they play in. The setlist was as follows: 1. The Grudge 2. (-) Ions [only a half-minute or so] 3. Stinkfist [complete with interlude after the bridge] 4. Forty-Six & 2 5. Undertow [with a great bellow by Maynard at the end] 6. Schism [with the Labyrinth performers - quite cool] 7. Eulogy [with a "Merkaba"-like intro with Adam on keyboards for a little bit] 8. Disposition 9. Reflection [extended ending with Adam leading to intermission] Intermission with Labyrinth again - you have to see these two perform. 10. Parabol 11. Parabola [both with Labyrinth performers again] 12. Eon Blue Apocalypse 13. The Patient 14. Aenema 15. Lateralus I won't reveal any special words or stories told about Adam; you all will have to experience it for yourselves. I will say that the show was not very loud (compared to other concerts I've seen at the Allstate/Rosemont Horizon), and this worked out quite well for the band's sound. You could hear every instrument as clear as day, and this made moments like the intro to "Eulogy" and "Disposition" quite special. I thought it was great that they varied the setlist for those of us lucky enough to attend the May 15 show at the Riviera, sacrificing old singles for fan favorites. One last note, the crowd reaction was by far the largest for "Aenema." Take that however you want. I can't recommend going enough for everyone. Tool is truly a special band to witness, and their live show is only grand affirmation of their place in rock history.
Review written by: Andy Reitz (areitz@uiuc.edu) Review posted on: 09/10/01 03:46:39 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
======================================== Tool's Lateralus Arena Tour Live at the Allstate Arena, Rosemont, IL September 9th, 2001 ======================================== Meshuggah, from Sweden, opened the show. They are very much about "kick'n it old skool". I think that if this were like, 1994, I may have been very into them. They had a few friends in the crowd, but most people were definitely waiting for Tool. At least they were better than Psychotica. Anybody remember them? Setup: ====== The stage was somewhat 'compact'. On the left were Adam in front, and MJK on an elevation in back. Adam had a synth to his right, and MJK had a small video screen behind him. Danny (with has maaad kit) and Justin were on the right. Danny had a neato fluorescent disc (similar to the wooden one in past tours), with a red geometric symbol in the middle. Above the band, were two large video screens. The screens showed complimentary mirror images, to great effect. I first noticed this during "Stinkfist", during the part with the 'bouncing machinery'. It looked like I was seeing a special wide-screen version of the lab. There were several times throughout the show when this mirror image enhance the video. The screen behind Maynard showed the same content as the right-most big screen. The scoreboard in the center of the arena showed the same content as the left-most big screen. Setlist: ======== 1. The Grudge ** A little bit of (-) ions? Maybe? ** 2. Stinkfist[1] 3. Forty-Six & 2 4. Undertow 5. Schism[2] ** Extended Intro / break ** 6. Eulogy 7. Disposition 8. Reflection ** Extended Adam-Solo Outro / second break ** 9. Parabol[3] 10. Parabola 11. The Patient[4] 12. Aenema 13. Lateralus[5] Footnotes: ========== [1]: This was probably the best rendition of Stinkfist that I've heard in a long time. Not only did they play the extended bridge at the end of the song (and even parts of that were a bit different), but Maynard added a few extra lyrics before the the big yell in the middle of the song. I couldn't quite make it out, but it sounded like "..seeing this through...". I'm probably way off, but that's what I remember. [2]: During Schism, the "Schism Dancers" (as I call them) came out on stage, in full body makeup, and did the same dance that they do during on the video -- namely, walking on all fours, and bowing their head in and out. It was pretty cool. [3]: But then, during the second break, they came out again. This time, they were suspended by long ropes, upside-down, in front of the two large video screens. They climbed up to near the top, and compacted themselves at the end of the rope. Then, to the beat of the music (not Tool) -- they sort of "hatched", almost like larve from a cocoon. Then they started swaying, and eventually "latched on" to each other (their heads meeting). They danced some more, and eventually broke apart, swinging back and forth. It was all very, very cool. They were still up there when "Parabol" started. When things kicked into "Parabola" (i.e. high-gear), they were really contorting themselves, moving all about. Their routine *definitely* takes a lot of body strength; needless to say, we were quite impressed. [4]: Before playing "The Patient", Maynard spoke a little (for the first time of the evening). I'll try and paraphrase what he said: He said that in all of the major cities, like L.A. (crowd boos), New York (boos continue), Seattle (more booing), Chicago (crowd cheers -- morons), and San Francisco (back to booing), all of the "evil people" are winning. These are the corporate people -- the suits that lie, cheat, and steal. That attempt to stifle creativity, and manipulate those to their own selfish ends. So it's up to the artists, to continue to create, and to fight this oppressive force, and that is what this song is about. [5]: Maynard spoke again before "Lateralus", dedicating the show to Adam. Who, when he was 15, went those this very arena (then the Rosemont Horizon) in order to see "two dudes": David Bowie and somebody else (possibly Neil Young?). I googled this, and Bowie played the Rosemont Arena in '83 and '87, when Adam was 16 and 21, respectively. Well, enough surfing -- I can't figure out who the opening act was in '83. Hopefully somebody else had better ears than moi. Maynard then thanked the "Schism Dancers", whose names and troupe were hard to hear. Leading into the song, Maynard made another reference to his previous speech. He called on the crowd to take the "artist's oath". He said, "Repeat after me: Question authority. Think for yourself... etc." Culminating with "Never repeat what anybody else says". Hardy-har-har... Misc. Notes: ============ MJK had a guitar, notably during Schism and also again, but I can't remember what song. It didn't look like he played it very much, but I could be mistaken. A lot of the video (or "graphical nuggets") was the same as for the mini-tour in May. Some differences included some reddish "gut-like" material during the Schism video. A naked women swimming and turning all green-solarized and fuzzed out. A naked man and women, super-imposed -- sometimes the man would be in front, other times the woman. It was a very interesting effect -- tying into the dual natures of man and women -- both sets traits are typically present in every person (a theme that Tool explores a lot). All of the geometric stuff was back during "Lateralus", also to great effect. I didn't notice any of the "Aenema" video when the played the song of the same name. The "Salival" man appeared when the "Schism Dancers" were hanging upside down in front of the screen, their arms out-stretched. My Take: ======== The stage setup of this show really emphasized that for Tool, the music is really what takes center stage. The band has always been good in sharing the limelight equally -- too many times, people focus on the "lead singer". But on this tour, MJK was all the way in back, and a lot of times, hard to see. Also, they don't move around much -- they are pretty much there to simply present their art, to a very willing audience. Occasionally, I noticed that the lighting would single out members of the band, when they were doing something particularly impressive (Justin's baseline in "Schism" and "Reflection", Adam in the "Reflection" outro, Danny in "Stinkfist", and hell, pretty much every song). Musically, Tool was tight, as always, but played a few things differently then the albums (not as 'mechanical' as the last show). I thought that Maynard's vocals were a little 'tinny' at times, probably some thing wrong with the PA. Everything else sounded great, though. I can't believe they played "Undertow". I fucking lost it for that song -- I've never heard that live before, and it was *great*. In the instant that I recognized it (~5 secs in), I decided to blow out my voice after it was over. It was worth it. :) Easily the best song of the show (although "Lateralus" and "The Patient" are really close). Speaking of which, I hadn't heard "The Patient" live before either -- spectacularimo. I was also really happy that they didn't play "Sober" or "Opiate". In fact, I was surprised that they played so many songs off of Aenima (4). They only played one off of Undertow, and none off of Opiate. That's the problem with having so many 8+ minute songs, the oldies can't compete. :) All-in-all, I'm a satisfied customer. It was interesting, but I was able to discern the true, hardcore fans, from the pussycore. I was surprised how many people knew the lyrics to "Undertow", but what really separated the flock was during "Disposition/Reflection". A lot of people were flat-out *bored* -- talking loudly, and Einstein even yelled - "Play a song about Fucking". I wanted to tell him that all of Tool's songs are about fucking (in one way or another), but I don't think that this braniac would have understood.
Review written by: Andrew and Brad (android481@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 04:43:30 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was a religious experience for the both of us. Messhuggah did an excellent set, unfortunately it was not received well by the crowd. As the lights dimmed you were overwhelmed by the electricty of the crowd. Maynard stayed low key but still managed to have everyones attention, hands down. Tool opened with the Grudge, a great opener, followed by Stinkfist and Undertow. Then the combination of 46 & 2, Eulogy, and Schism, with Merkaba somewhere in there, blew everyone away. Tool mellowed the crowd with Disposition and Reflection. Adam Jones played the last three notes of Reflection for a few minutes which forced the crowd to worship him as if he were a god. After a brief intermission that featured contortionists hanging upside down, Tool again captivated the crowd with Parabol and Parabola. Tool finished like a bat out of hell. First they played the Patient. Second was an outstanding performance of Aenima. Last but certaintly not least was Lateralus which was a perfect ending to a perfect night. The music, performers and art combined to be one of the best shows that we will probably ever see. Peace.
Review written by: Will (zarkain1@home.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 05:08:06 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
undertow, Eulogy, and the patient were tonight rare treats!!! I've waited 4 years to hear eulogy live again and finally got my wish after seeing my 4th show from the lateralus tours. Truely the best song. I was glad to see the setlist change so much from the last show in chicago i saw. Instead of pushit, prison sex, sober, and opiate we were treated to the 3 stated above. A perfect list if you were lucky to see both shows:) It's kind of weird how sober has yet to be played during the arena tour. maybe it's part of the message of fighting what the corporations make popular and the radio friendly. who knows... i'm just glad i heard eulogy, parabol/parabola and the patient!! Well it's 4am and i think i should get some sleep...maybe i'll add more tomorrow. Oh when maynard talked about adam being from chicago and seeing david bowie at the rosemont, the other performers included on that bill were van halen. Oh during Aenima what lyrics did marnard change? i heard a couple but not sure if i heard them correctly. I heard fret for your mohawk, fret for your fruitbowl, and another. anyone? If Tool is playing near you, do what ever you can to go! It's worth it trust me. You won't hear any other band with this talent and their message. They have a gift and want to share it with the world.
Review written by: jonny (electrovc@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 10:02:30 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
ive been waiting to see tool since i was about 15..im 21 now..it was by far the best show i have ever seen or probably ever will see..there is nothing out there that touches this..i thought nine inch nails was top of the line but they havnt got shit on tool..the backdrops were awesome..the naked people hangin from the ceiling was outfuckinrageous..and my god you should see danny carry work those drums.he is a real worker.absolutely spectacular..this is a very powerful band and everyone in it has REAL talent..unlike a lot of bands out there where only the singer is the back bone or whatever the case maybe..everyone in tool is the backbone..i never in a million years expected this to be such a great show..it was a mind blowing experience..i think after last night a lot more people have a new respect for tool and their new album they put out..thanks for the awesome show..it couldnt have been any better..peace jonny
Review written by: Master Reviewer (kpdantic@xsite.net) Review posted on: 09/10/01 10:06:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. If nobody has, you ought to. The less duplicated info, the easier it is for everyone to read these. Especially your mom. Anyone concerned about how the show translates from small venues to arenas ( I know I was ) . . not to worry! It was perfect as far as sound and visuals . . didn't lose any of the viscreal impact you expect from Tool . . don't miss it!
Review written by: Master Reviewer (yeah right) (mcse4cne5@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 10:30:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Four word summary - THE SHOW FUCKING ROCKED!!! Even before Tool walked on stage, the anticipation and sense of intensifying energy made my blood boil. It was almost as if I could feel my entire body beating (not just my heart) as every hair stood on its end, while MJK began to take his signature stance before the opening song. I have to admit I spent most of my time watching Maynard. He is just so intense and unique. Even though he was backlit and rarely ever faced the crowd, seeing him perform live provides an extra element in feeling his obvious magnitude of inner emotion. Danny, Justin and Adam (in alphabetic order) where so tight as was the group as a whole. They are exceptionally talented and focused musicians. Tool is not just a band, they are truly artisans that have chosen music as their form of self expression. I applaud the changes in the set list. I can remember reading or hearing an interview of MJK where he was displeased about the reveling of a surprise. And yes, this is a poke at those of you that have chosen to post actual concert events. Weather Tool has decided to mix things up a bit to keep us astonished with their performance, or if they are choosing to do so in an effort to make each stop distinct from the others, further signifies their dedication to the whole experience. In short - never miss a chance to see Tool perform live.
Review written by: Lloyd McFarlin (lloydmcf@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 11:16:14 ET
This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show
I just got done posting a review for Madison and pretty much the same goes here. I didn't get to catch Tool during the King Crimson run so it's been since the Aenima tour that I've been able to see a show. I'm happy to see all the occult symbolism going strong (the visuals, the thelemic Aleister Crowley hexagram within the center of a green goetic Sigillium), and the trippy stage presence. However, I'd love to see Maynard go nuts in front of the crowd like he used to. Staring at people constantly, "stirring the pot", etc. It was pretty cool to find out that Adam Jones had some memories about the Allstate Arena and seeing David Bowie there before. Cool stuff. Once again, I didn't care for Meshuggah at all. I thought all the songs sounded like the same thrash over and over and I still couldn't decipher any of the song's titles (the singer screams/growls the titles to make them sound ominous for some reason).
Review written by: Jones (kissmyass@retarded.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 11:28:23 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
THIS IS FOR THORDENDAL! (the retarded reviewer, not the incredible guitarist). I'm not going to go into the 20 page long details about what an artistic phenomenon TOOL is, but frankly, you're not worth our time, so let's just cut right to the chase. Meshuggah is one of the best bands on the planet but if you think for one second that they are better than TOOL you need to seriously re-evaluate your musical knowledge...or just kill yourself.
Review written by: Charlie, the and only from Holt (hayesch3@msu.edu) Review posted on: 09/10/01 12:46:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show
Hey Tonia, They play UNDERTOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Undertow, holy goodness, it was the best song I have ever heard live. The patient was very nice as well. Schism....please stop playing the guitar Maynard, and the song for that matter. Oh yea, and whats with people passing out, before during and one after. COme on people, what the hell are you smoking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Review written by: johnny in ee (jhoward_1@lycos.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 12:51:08 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
All I have to say is this: Between Maynard playing gutiar, Adam playing keyboard, and the stunning visuals behind them I was surprised and blown away. Tool has always been my favorite live band visually and they are on a new level now! During the parabol parabola song the two people from the schism videos climed the stage and up to the big screens naked and writhed and wiggled throughout the whole song, UPSIDEDOWN!!! I thank the short people who were in the row infront of me I was able to witness everything because of it. It was a pleasure to hear all the songs I wanted to off the new album (The Grudge, Patient, Scism, Parabol/Parabola) And good to hear some older stuff (46 and 2, Euology, Undertow). --Johnnyh
Review written by: Mike Laur (hayesch3@msu.edu@msu.edu) Review posted on: 09/10/01 12:52:18 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
MagguSHIT!!!! They were aweful. I dont care if Adam Jones, or God for that matter, like MagguSHIT!!!!!!!!! They were like watching an 80's hair band play really bad Limp Triscuit. Their singer had no stage presents what so ever!! And chick in the front row with your little pigtails, go to hell, MagguSHIT is one 45 minute time span that I wish I didnt have to endure again. But since I love TooL so much, I will Patientally and respectfully watch them do their twirly headband crap!
Review written by: Makintrax73 (**Makintrax73@hotmail.com**) Review posted on: 09/10/01 13:01:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
For a long time before I discovered Tool about a year ago I was searching for something unique and intelligent in the music scene, and getting pretty disappointed with music in general. Words cannot describe what a revelation finding Tool was for me. This was my first Tool show. This is band with no weaknesses in terms of musical ability. The sound is so tight so intense it is incredible. I thought the mix was really good - with every member of band made his mark on the sound. The clarity of the vocals was the standout compared to other concerts with a heavy sound - they usually get drowned out but that was not the case here. The emotional force of the music takes on a new dimension live and the quality of the music and sound leaves no doubt that these guys don't cheat in the studio. However, I am not going to go on kissing needlessly kissing Tool's butt. I do have a couple of small gripes: First: The crowd really seemed to lose its energy after Disposition/Reflection. Seemed like the band could have helped here, but didn't bring the energy back into the show for a while. More than anything I think this had to do with it being a Sunday night and everybody starting to think about going back to work in about 8 hours and being tired from the weekend or whatever. Second: I was really hoping to hear H and Prison Sex. OK, so that is a really small gripe. Overall this is an incredible show. Well worth the price of admission. I hope these guys can keep making incredible music for years to come.
Review written by: Matt Hannigan (Bollocks62@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 13:01:43 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
Good show. I am glad they changed up the setlist a little bit from the Indiana show, since I attended that as well. The set was pretty close to the show in May at the Riviera. One thing I liked was the whole "think for yourself...." deal and everyone repeating what Maynard would say. That was cool yes! I was so happy to hear Undertow and Eulogy, since I have never heard Undertow live before. Good stuff. I was on the floor area, with no seat, so I was able to get about 10 feet from the stage, so I was really happy to be so close, but of course, there was a price to pay. Like any other show, there were the jerks that pushed and shoved just for the sake of pushing and shoving, even when there was no music playing. I do remember specifically this man pushing everyone out of his way, and myself asking why he was doing this. He said I should go to the back with all the other bitches and whatnot. He then started shouting about how he is going to the Slipknot show next week. That is expected of course. There were so many asses on the floor that night, I could totally understand if the band lost complete respect for their audience. To be that close to the band during a show is such a great feeling, but the caveman-like folk definitely take away from the experience. JerkFaces
Review written by: shawn (TestEkels@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 13:49:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I went. I saw. I lived... again. This being my 2nd Tool show, I enjoyed it just as much as the one at the Riv back in May. Especially since I was able to get tickets 2 days early through Toolband, and avoided spending $200 on a ticket.... Mainly from what I saw, I couldn't exactly see what kind of guitar Maynard was playing, but it looked very different to say the least. Also, it sounded like his Mic cut out a few times, but not too much to get annoying. He also mentioned that Justin had seen David Bowie and what sounded like Van Halen at this same arena (aka Rosemont Horizon) when he was 15 years old. I found that to be pretty interesting. Overall, the show was great, and the visuals which included 2 people hanging in front of the screens, made the show fantastic. Seeing your favorite band put on an amazing show like this is definitely an experience you can never forget. I look forward to seeing them again someday.
Review written by: Neal R (mjkx13@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 14:00:32 ET
This was this reviewer's 11 Tool show
Once more...... It has occured, my eyes have opened and amazed!! TWO WORDS.........THE PATIENT!!!!!!!! This is the fifth time i have seen Tool this year and i was absolutely overwelmed when i was able to see/hear the TOOLGODS play The Patient TWO nights in a row. Last night in Chicago and the night before in Indy. All this traveling and Tool following is making me tired but hearing The Patient set it off. I can't wait to go to the rest of the shows i have tickets for (Grand Rapids, Cleveland, Colombus, and DETROIT!!!!) and maybe hear The Patient jusr one more time...I would make this a full circle experience! Thanks Guys!!! Neal
Review written by: Bob (deadbob99@yahoo) Review posted on: 09/10/01 14:37:25 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Last night was unbelievable. It was my second Tool show, and definetly the best (minus Pushit....). The opening band was alright, I can't say they sucked because I never heard them before, and had no idea what they where saying. Though I must admit they have interesting names for their songs.....It seemed that no one was really into them because they where just a blockade for what the people really wanted. Tool none the less pulled some surpirses. Undertow being one of them. If I recall, it was the only song from Undertow that was played. Undertow was fantastic, but I think that the best song that was played was The Patient. The Dancers where very cool. They blew me away, and you guys have to see these dancers move about (whether they are on stage or hanging in the air). Plus Maynard played guitar, kinda strange, but it was very cool. Over all, Tool played with a great passion last night, and I can't wait to see them again.
Review written by: Curty Curtis (carrollj@tds.net) Review posted on: 09/10/01 15:24:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I will take this time to thank TOOL for the wonderful show last night. I know they have been touring hard for months now and their devotion to their fans and the energy the bring each time is appreciated, thank you Maynard, Danny, Justin, and Adam. This was my second favorite concert of all time, the first being the TOOL show I had seen todays earlier in Madison, WI only because I was very close the the stage(unlike at this show) and they played Pushit (my favorite song), but these are petty reasons. Fist of all, Messugha sucks. Everyone on here says they have been around for a long time and it shows. They are old school hair metal and while I enjoyed some of their riffs, they are stuck in the past and come across as noise more than music. Just my two cents, if you like them more power to you. TOOL's set list has already been posted so I won't bother you all with that. As I said before I had seen them two days earlier in Madison, WI and would like to tell everyone who has only seen TOOL once or not at all that no two show are a like, most of the songs and even the videos on the screens were different and just shows that TOOL just doesn't rehash everything and trys to put on an original show each time. I say each time like I've seen tons of shows, but I am sure that TOOL does this everytime. Even Maynard said different things to the crowd, some where sorta the same, but he didn't just go through the motions. He addressed Adam and told the crowd that Adam saw David Bowe and Van Halen in this arena when he was 15 and then Maynard said "Wasn't that like four years ago?" He talked about the "Vampires" and the liers/energy suckers who basically destroy the art of the true artists, he then said that they can suck a bag of salty dicks. Later in the show he talked about it again and said that "maybe they will all choke on something". Kick ass. I also would like to thank the crowd for being cooler than the crowd at the Madison show who thought it was cool to throw everything that they could get their hands on at TOOL while they played. WTF? Don't throw shit at TOOL when they play!!!! They might get pissed and leave, you jack-asses! But the Chicago fans didn't do much of that, so again thanks. TOOL sounded perfect. Maynards vocals and screams were chilling, Justin's and Adam's guitars were amazing and Danny's drums were LOUD and complex. If TOOL wanted to play for days straight I would still be there right now, unreal. THANKS TO THE BAND AND TO THE FANS AGIAN!!!!! SEE YOU ALL NEXT TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!RIDE THE SPIRAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Review written by: Justin (jmc_44@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 15:28:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Well, what can i say. I have been up for over 24 hrs now and drove from st. louis to chicago and back in the same day. This was my first TOOL show and i loved every minute of it. The energy was very intense and each band member seemed to be in good spirits. The setlist was great. "Undertow" came out of no where. I didn't even see it comin. That was incredible. Stinkfist was amazing as always. The crowd responded greatly to every song. The videos and the catortionist were jaw dropping. It was the most amazing show i have ever been to and still can't believe i was actually there. If anyone is going to a TOOL show in the near future, cherish every moment of it. It was an inspiring and emotional show. Thanks for an incredible show. Oh yeah and Mushaga fuckin sucked ass. You know what i mean Mike, Kyle, and Ryan.
Review written by: Saw TOOL 3 days in a row (C_Butron_Bell@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 15:34:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
1st off, I did go to all 3 shows in Madison, Indy, & Chicago and Chicago had the better setlist. Though Madison Got Opiate, It was good to hear Undertow & Eulogy in concert again. Great show all around, and the boys did not disapoint me at all. Compared to the Show at the Riv earlier this year, well there is no comparison to an intamate setting like that. The pit was great and I was glad to see nobody was moshing during disposition & reflection like there was in Indy & Madison. Dont know how you can mosh to those songs. I really thought the fans and the band were in tune last night, though there were so newbies that just dont understand Tool as an art show rather than one big mosh pit. Thanks Daney, Adam, Justin, & Maynard for the wonderful experience and thank you guys for giving me the time of my life for 3 straight days. Tool fan 4 life!
Review written by: futant (futant46_and_2@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 15:53:49 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: Chris (hevymedalmachina@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 16:24:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This is kind of choppy, but no one's going to read it anyway, so oh well. Well...this show was unbelievable....but I'll get to that a little later. The t-shirt prices are a little rediculous. Why do we need to pay $35 for a shirt? Of course I bought one anyway... After buying the shirt I headed down to my seat, which was in the very front row on the right (the band's left) side of the stage. It would have been so easy for me to hop over the boards and onto the floor. I'm still kicking myself for not doing that. So after sitting there for about 30 minutes, the lights went out, and Meshuggah took the stage. They sucked. I went in with an extremely open mind...and I still thought they sucked hard. The lead singer (who shouldn't even be referred to as a singer) just screamed the entire time. Using odd time signatures does not make a band good. So I sat down and rested during Meshuggah's set. Surprisingly, they got a pretty decent reaction...no boos at all. After about another 30 minutes, the lights went out once again, and out came Tool. Maynard was fully-clothed, but that would change (I don't remember exactly when he stripped down to his little underwear, but it was somewhere in the middle of the set). I had an amazing view of Justin and Danny...and I have even more respect for what they do...fucking amazing (even though Justin spent a good amount of time with his back to the audience, facing Danny) I think that there was only one totally correct setlist posted. The high points were definitely Undertow and EULOGY. They played Eulogy...which was all I asked for...it had a little extended outro in which Danny went nuts on the drums...very cool. Being only 13, I was very surprised that I wasn't the youngest one there. There was a 6/7/8-year-old girl sitting on the boards in front of me...she was totally rocking out to Ænema and a couple of the other songs...very cool. This guy came over from the floor and almost shoved her over...not cool at all. If I had to make a complaint, it would be the lack of Undertow/Opiate songs. Only one song between the two of them. But I got Eulogy, so I don't really care. Osseus Labyrint - WOW. They made their first appearance during Schism doing that cool little dance...and came out again after Reflection. The crazy shit they did during Parabola was one of the highlights of the night. Some quotes from Maynard... "Good evening." (how exciting) "Why don't you just go eat a big bag of nice, salty dicks." (speaking of the bad guys, the energy-suckers, the vampires, the cocksuckers, etc...I'm almost positive that I got this quote exactly right) ...and of course the non-conformists oath...and the little Adam Jones speach...he said that Adam saw Bowie and Van Halen when he was 15. At the end they threw some water bottles out into the crowd, Danny threw a frisbie, and they had a nice little group hug before walking off the stage. I think that's about it. This was my first, but it definitely won't be my last.
Review written by: futant (futant46_and_2@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 16:32:09 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
[sorry about the first thing i sent, that was an accident] it's the next day. couldn't write yesterday- overwhelmed, exhausted, mentally dead.... i don't when it was more surreal yesterday or five minutes ago. did it actually happen? i gotta say the serious gnawing excitement began when a techie started testing out danny's set. huge vibrations temporarily snuffed out the noise from the crowd and the background music. a few minutes later- some bass riffs. then, adam's axe got handled... i'm sitting and waiting. this show is going to flow through me. i'm going to stand and listen and not move. meditation ala TOOL. that night it was all about the music. very few things said by maynard a) hello b) thank you c) energy suckers d) non- conformist oath: repeat after me....:) "shitty seats, man" [we were sitting on the second balcony] fuck no! fuck no! it's TOOL, there ARE no shitty seats... ...the lights go down...jesus...it's starting... 1. the grudge- vocals a little high in the beginning, but that's ok, 'cause, hey, so was i :)) the dim, bluish lighting turned red during "defining......confining".. and the crowd went nuts. meditation ala TOOL? couldn't do it. the music took me and had its way with me. i couldn't contain myself - i was pulsing with the energy that is TOOL. maynard pulled off the scream! he fucking did it! i think i came in my pants... maybe not. (jk) when the song was over i looked at my hands- they were trembling. and so were my knees and so was i. 2. stinkfist- a little bit of an intro into this one... i was thinking: sober? no, this don't sound like merkaba... third eye? we're not that lucky... and then "oooh SHIIIT!!!" the opening riffs did some serious damage to my brain, something got switched. i went fucking nuts. i was momentarily dissapointed when adam came out of the breakdown and didn't do the cool outro. but i was wrong, he did it, but after jamming for another verse. the coolest rendition of stinkfist i ever heard. i found myself laughing and rubbing the back of my head.. down there, across the basketball floor is adam, danny, justin, maynard... and they feel each other. they feel us. and we felt them! the energy in that venue was unbelievable. totally unexpected for an arena tour. 3. undertow- need i say more? when was the last time undertow was on a setlist? fucking awesome. barring the extra stinkfist verse, all songs were exactly true to the album versions- TOOL is THE live band. 4. 46 and 2 - ... danny danny danny 5. eulogy - one of my two favorites (but it's so hard to use "favorite" with TOOL songs, isn't it? ). again, an intro which makes you wonder, what's next? and then the tapping... the bass... maynard's megaphone... driving intro..!!!!! the last riff, when adam just slamms that E chord over and over, was extended for about 20-30 seconds and danny worked some magic meanwhile. cool as fuck! 6. schism - i've been in love with TOOL for years. opiate, undertow, aenima, lateralus. i love them all. but something about this song made that night's experience come together. i think it was the ultimate mass communication. we were all thinking the same thing. we were all feeling the music and this unity really got to me. i almost broke down. what a beautiful feeling! this togetherness... this love.. isn't this what TOOL is all about? in our realities, we try to think, act, learn, do... whatever.. and it's so rare that we get to channel our emotions so singularly. 7. dis/ref- true to the album and beautiful. it feels so redundant to comment on the quality of the band as musicians, but they are amazing. maynard almost lulled me to sleep. but the indian reflection changed my disposition:) and made it more reflective:) . .... from here on (this is where ozius labyrinth came on [sp?]) in, things became more and more of a blur. 8. parabol/parabola, even though the guitar was quieter then it should have been, rocked the house. people quickly woke up from the dis/ref/inter break and were back on their feet. 9. another treat! eon/patient. always a rarity on setlists. impeccably performed. i was happy and drooling. 10. aenima. fucking aenima! goddamn. rock on! 11. lateralus- i knew this was the last song, but i didn't want to believe it. i prayed for pushit. i summoned every god and demon i have ever heard about and prayed to each in succession. i offered to sacrifice the friends i came with.... to no avail. lateralus is great. the music and the message. TOOL is the only band that can be worshipped, because worshiping them comes in the form of worshiping your own mind, of growing, of understanding, of loving. we are eternal, all this pain is an illlusion thank you TOOL
Review written by: me (bob_c@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 18:20:24 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th 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. Well there is just too much to say, three shows in three days wow! Tool is amazing. Go see them, do what you have to do, go see them. It's like church, well except for the fact that I've seen tool more in the last three days than I've been to church in the last three years. after each show I felt more and more cleansed of stress and free of burden. To listen to the music is to think, and to think is to further one's self - both mentally and spiritually. Tool rocks!!!
Review written by: tim (floydballs@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 19:04:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Well, I've waited 'til now to get around to collecting my thoughts regarding last night's show, and after reading through the reviews already posted, I realize I've not much to offer in terms of memory & sensory info that hasn't already been covered. Instead I'd like to address an issue that seems to rise up again and again in these reviews, and everyone writing in seems to opine for either one extreme or the polar opposite, without ever exploring the middle ground. I don't know if this is the proper forum for this discussion but here goes: I noticed that Maynard kept his back to the crowd for much of last night's set (he did this often on APC's last tour as well). For each one who says, "Fuggin' Maynard turned his back awn meh! Asshole! Paid my $$ blah blah," there's another who counters with: "It's not about the people, it's about the music--the art. Grow up, etc." Tool of course have always shared the latter viewpoint. They come to us to share their art, their visions, NOT themselves. Before I go any further I would like to say that I support this philosophy, and any desire of Tool's or any artists' to reserve the limelight for their work and their creations I hereby salute. OK. That being said, I want to offer my thoughts regarding the other side of the debate, from a fan's perspective. For me, there's something magical about the interaction between performer and audience. I feel that the opportunity to look into the eyes of an artist whose work has moved you, has influenced your life and your emotins, is a true gift. I have received that gift before, more than once. There's really nothing quite like it: Standing (smashed!) against the rail at a concert at the foot of the stage, up close & personal w/the people--the minds who have created that special touchstone in your life, moving with them, singing with them, seeing them and knowing that they're also seeing you, receiving your emotional feedback. Experiences like those are what I think phrases like 'better than sex' were coined for. But this gift is really the artist's to give. Or withhold. They reserve that right. And I think that maybe some of these fans who feel shunned or dissed when the Maynards turn away from them don't always realize the significance of the gift and cannot always understand the joy of getting it and the disappointment of not. Also, sadly, the gift can and often does become abused-- which is why the artists usually revoke it in the first place. There ARE rock stars who are assholes; but it's been my expereince that the biggest assholes are always in the crowd, like the dude next to me last night who kept giving Adam Jones the finger. It's ignorant people like that who ruin a true fan's chance to send a message back to the performer. And this message, when communicated properly, is never "Maynard is god!" or "Tool kicks ass!" The real message is, "Thank you." So there you have it. Hardly a review, I know. But this needs to be said, I think. Hopefully someone'll read it and know what I'm talikng about (I don't know how well I've articulated it myself) but if all this gets the editorial ax, I won't hold a Grudge.
Review written by: Not Important (Auradefect@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 19:43:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
First off i want to say that this was simply the best concert i ever went to. I had box seats and i got in for free. We had a little room to sit in while waiting. Watching the simpsons while waiting for meshuggah to come on really help pass the time. Once Meshuggah hit the stage is was in in awe. I have been listining to them for a few years now and never believed they could actually hold up on stage. Well they did and it was amazing. After Meshuggah Tool came on and put me basically in a trance. Everytime i see them thye still manage to suprise me and that is the reason is will continue to go to every show that comes my way. I was a bit sad that they didnt play third eye or pushit but i understand since they have a whole new album of songs to play. when maynard started having his "non conformity speech" or whatver you want to call it i think i got a little scared. A whole crowd of people moronically chanting "I WILL BE UNIQUE" and "I WILL THINK FOR MYSELF" makes me realize most people in this world are mindless idiots. We are losing...Just like maynard said and a crowd that size of chanting robots yelling that shows his message very clear. For the most part people dont think for themselves. Now i believe msot people took that as a joke and just laughed but it made me sick to my stomach. Now i see how the holocaust started. Now a message for the haters in the crowd. Yes this is about meshuggah. It seems that there is a big deal on whether meshuggah "SUCKED" or "RULED". Well that honestly makes me laugh. Speaking from a technical standpoint meshuggah is one of the most talented bands out today. Now if you are speaking from just a personal preferance then thats fine.. Just please stay away from saying things like they "SUCK", they are "PHAT", etc, ect. Saying things so simply has no place in a review. In my opinion Tool and Meshuggah are both masters at what they do and i will continue to go to all of there shows. now repeat after me ........just kidding
Review written by: bizz0ch (bizz0ch@tenmileshigh.org) Review posted on: 09/10/01 19:51:38 ET
This was this reviewer's 99th Tool show
traveled 5 hours to see tool play.. i had floor tickets, dunno how i got them but i did 2 days after they went on sale.. it was fucking great... well besides people getting lost in chicago. the bands performance was inspireing.. if you were there you know what i mean... i got goosebumps and shit, they played eon blue apocalyps before they played the patient and that was great cause eon blue fucking rocks... any way the light show was fucking cool... during lateralus when the lyrics go 'then red and yellow came to be' red and yellow lights appeared it was great... i dunno im just all fucking crazy cause this was my first time seeing tool and i hope to see them every chance i get... it was nice that they had a no mosh rule because really who the fuck needs to mosh to tool... the artwork was cool also... went with the music well... fuck im getting out of here this is not my place...
Review written by: chris Sisson (agnoztik@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 19:52:33 ET
This was this reviewer's 0 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: trick89 (trick8950@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 20:34:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This was my first tool show every and it was completely amazing. I knew that it would be an amazing show either way, but I was hoping and praying that they would play eulogy. I didnt think there was a very good chance, but all of a sudden i hear the opening and the crowd goes wild! I have to say eulogy was the highlight of the show for me. We had very close seats(sec.110) but of course you dont anticipate a goddamn speaker being in your way. and it couldnt just block my view of justin or something but it had to block fucking maynard!!!(no offense to justin but id rather watch maynard than justin play bass..) Oh well I could still see him if i kinda moved my head around to follow him but it was still an awesome show. The setlist near the top is completely wrong... 4 degrees and opiat and sober?? WTF? they never played those songs. So ignore that setlist...but the others are correct. If you have the chance you NEED to go see tool. But if i were you id stay out off the floor or moshpit...i saw countless people being dragged out either unconcsious or looking very bad. anyway................bottom line is that this was the best concert ive seen yet.
Review written by: Patrick Mitchell (MonkeyTrik@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 20:39:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
It was my first TOOL show and it was spectacular to say the least. In the hectic car ride over to the allstate I was saying "I hope they play this song." and they played every one I wished for. Eulogy was amazing. Maynard held nearly all 25 seconds in The Grudge. Reflection was sweet, Adam played the guitar riff at the end for like 30 minutes. The contortionists in the Schism video came on during Schism and were doing the animal thing where they move their heads. I didn't see them on ropes during Parabol and Parabola though because of my seats, shiznat. The visuals were stunning, I really liked the geometrical and spirals played during Lateralus. It was an incredible performance, if you ever get a chance to see tool don't pass on it.
Review written by: Jacob (Snake508@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 21:11:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Ok, so Meshuggah. I have to say that it's not exactly my type of music. It was a little hard for my taste. And I couldn't understand the vocals one bit. And I didn't like all of the palm-muting the power chords of like every note of every song. But it was worth sitting through it to get to Tool. First off though I'd like to state that I am not just some fan that started liking Tool after the surfacing of APC. I just started liking the band at a really awkward time. I got into them through my brother a little while after the release of Aenema. So when I got into them they were dormant for a while. Anyways that is why this was my first Concert. That and the fact that the other Chicago show sold out in like a half a second. But The show was the best I have ever been too. It was great. The sound was so clear. I mean like crystal clear. And they all played perfect. I didn't hear any flaws in playing. And Maynard's voice just ripped through me like paper. And the video's in the back of the band were great too. A lot of really cool images. I really liked the spiraling vertabrae's. And it was alltogether really spiritual and inspiring. Hearing maynard talk inbetween songs was great too. He always has interesting things to say. Or at least funny. And the setlist was great as well. Although I would have liked to hear at least one song off of Opiate, but every song they played I loved. My favorites were Eulogy, Parabol(a), Aenima, and The Grudge. I have to say the worst part of the night was trying to get out of te parking lot!!
Review written by: Matthew (mstover@math.uchicago.edu) Review posted on: 09/10/01 21:36:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
OK. I've been waiting to see TOOL live for 6+ years. Living in the sticks of Maine made it hard to make it to shows as a teenager, and then when they finally came to Maine in 98, with my ticket in my glovebox and ready to go, two days before the show I fell with a burst appendix. No TOOL. Now I finally had my chance, but with a seat...albeit a good one, but still a seat. I think I unfortunately hyped this moment way too much in my mind and found myself disappointed at the end of the show. People may flame me for this, but God forbid I have an opinion, and I suppose not heralding everything they do as the greatest thing ever makes me that much less of a fan than everyone, but I don't want to hear it. Anyway, don't get me wrong, I was extremely pleased with the show. Not being able to go crazy I think was the main reason I was disappointed, which was definetly not TOOL's fault. Like many have said, 46&2 and Eulogy were highlights. I flipped for Undertow, since it still remains in my heart as the album that started my love for TOOL. AEmina was amazing, as was Parbol/Parbola and The Grudge was a great opener. The setlist was plenty long (with five+ minute songs how can one not have a long setlist??). The performance was near flawless, but it's those little mistakes they make that make it real and different from listening to the album, right? Don't get me wrong, there weren't any serious blunders, just little things that set the live version apart from the album one. If I wanted to listen to the album I would listen to the album. My only problem was the lack of intimacy, which has been mentioned in certain aspects by others. Maynard spent most of the show back to the audience or staring at Danny (as was I..damn he is amazing, and the glowing golden drumkit just adds to it) and the things that he did say were rehearsed things that he said at the Madison show Friday. Of course, how are you to get intimacy at an arena rock show? You can't. If they were to have played any smaller a venue, I think the city would have rioted (I would have tried my damndest to break in). I think if I were in GA and was fighting for life and limb the adrenaline would have been pumping faster (I don't think I've ever had bigger butterflys in my stomach than while the lights were down before they came out...this continud through the first few songs). The visuals were great, potentially the best I've seen at a show. The end actually was very touching where all four hugged at mid-stage and had genuine smiles on their faces. I guess I'm just not an arena rock guy. I do have to break the trend of everyone praising everything TOOL did (there might be soneone out there that agrees with me, since I didn't read ALL the reviews), but to me this was just a great show, not the religious experience that my mind had been expecting for the last 6 years. Oh, and I suppose I should say Meshuggah was fine for a metal band, but I'm not a metal fan (I don't believe TOOL is metal), they did chug their guitars in different time sigs, which is more impressive than people chugging in 4/4, but I still think there's a difference between technical and talented. I gave them a chance though, unlike most of the typical disappointing arena rock crowd (like the drunk guy screaming NO QUARTER!!! NO QUARTER!!! the entire talk Maynard was talking and I was trying to listen, I did catch the part about Adam seeing David Bowie and Van Halen at the venue though). It seemed that most of the crowd didn't give a damn, a quarter showed up late, and an eigth acted really into them at first because they feel a need to like what Adam likes (anyone denying the existence of the 'I must like everything TOOL likes' crowd is blind) and they quickly sat back down. Then there were the eigth of the crowd that gave them a chance and kinda grroved along for the show and enjoyed it though maybe it wasn't quite their bag. Unfortunately, those that were really into it were few and faw between. I saw a few, and it was nice to see people really getting into the opening acts. There was even a convert behind me that sat through the first song and was on his feet bobbing his head with me after the second, and was way beyond my barely present excitement after then third song and was screaming for more by the end. Go figure. It was nice to see though. I'd give Meshuggah a 5/10 for overall performance, only losing points because their music isn't my style (CHUGACHUGACHUGA), and TOOL gets an 8.5/10, mostly because I felt a lack of intimacy/excitement toward the crowd (they were very intimate with each other musically). Wow...this was longer than I planned. Oh well. Cheers.
Review written by: GBowles (fatassj@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 22:18:24 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Wow, I was very impressed by Tool in Chicago. I've heard some live recordings from other shows and this one sounded much tighter. I don't know where to begin so I'll just start at the beginning of my Sunday afternoon. A friend of mine from high school came into town and we drank jack daniels part of the afternoon and smoked a good amount of herb. After the rain subsided, we began our trek out to the burbs. After much train riding out of the city, we arrived in Rosemont and of course we were hungry. The nearest place to the blue line train was an expensive restaurant called Gibson's where we mingled with rich travellers from all over the world and ordered expensive steak and drinks even though we couldn't really afford it. After that monstrous meal we cabbed it over to the Allstate Arena and got lost in the crowd. We drank beer in the lobby area until we heard Meshuggah begin. These legends of Scandinavia did not disappoint, displaying the sheer brutality and heaviness of their northern brethren while playing time signatures that could run circles around any normal metal band. These guys made Slipknot sound like the Backstreet Boys. Meshuggah just got better as their set went along. Thanks Adam for your choice (although I would rather have seen King Crimson ;) Next was the wait for Tool. We had floor tickets so we pushed our way up towards the front. Then some vixen flashed the audience which was great. Several other women teased the audience for a while. Also, Danny Carey's special new drum kit was displayed in a spotlight. This had to be a good omen. Tool began with The Grudge so I promptly lit a joint and tried to avoid the moshpit (been there and done that, this isn't Pantera folks). The light show was spectacular, and the video parts complemented the music almost perfectly. The highlight of the visuals was when the performing duo osseus labyrint were hoisted up into the projections doing their contortionist act naked. Another thing that made my day is the fact that they played the song "Undertow" and dedicated it to Chicago. This was the song I wanted to hear the most and they played it even though they hadn't played it at other venues recently. It was the only song off this album however. As for the setlist, my memory is a bit foggy shall we say, but here's what I remember in no particular order: The Grudge, Stinkfist, 46 and 2, Enema, Eulogy, Undertow, Part of Me (maybe), Eon Blue Apocalypse, The Patient, Mantra, Schism, Parabol, Parabola, Lateralus, Disposition, and Reflection. I think there might have been one or two more songs but I'm not sure. I know they played some ambient stuff as breaks and even pumped more air conditioning or dry ice or something when this happened. Oh yeah, Danny had a nonahedron type diagram bathed in a black light by him. The whole band hugged at the end
Review written by: Chris (Exalted_cyclops@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 22:34:55 ET
This was this reviewer's Best Tool show
Tool Owns. plain and simple.
Review written by: chris (sunking76@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 23:21:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Tool is quite an amazing band! The vamping music before the show alays gives me goose bumps and stomach butterflies. Once the first few guitar notes of The Grudge began I thought I slipped into another world. I like the MJK sillouhette cast in front of the projection of crazy images. Some recognizable images from stinkfist and aenima videos colliding with newer ones. The light show and numerous screens and dancing naked people were interesting to say the least. Don't make the same mistake I did and smoke two joints after eating a chili dog. Somewhere around reflection and merkaba (i think???) I began feeling dizzy and extremely sick. So i sat down and thought i'd rest a minute. that plan went down the shitter. I became unpleasant and did my business right thenand thereall over the floor, then the headache and pains kicked it. Felt like I was having a bleeding ulcer. It was tripped out hearing The Patient and Lateralus from a bathroom stall. Although I made some reoccuring stumbles in and out of the arena and bathroom, the show was over for me. I was completely out of it. I enjoyed what i saw. i was surprised to hear eulogy ad undertow i got to see those. :-) Itwas exciting, weird and disturbing to say the least. i definitely want to see them again SOBER. speaking of that what happened to that song and prison sex? nothing from Opiate. All in all not too bad but last night turned into a disaster personally for me. My friends began looking for me right before the last song i guess. i eventually found them in he parking lot andpuked once more right befoe i got in the car, thank god iwasn't driving. NOW MY MISSION IS TO SEE THEM AGAIN ASAP. I LOVED what i did see! words can't even tuch upon what i didn't see because ofwhat i was doing at the time. sweating, breathig heavy, chest pains, mind blowingheadache, 20+ vomits. HORIBLE but i figured my little story isn't quite as graphic as the images on the screens. if anyone wants to email me go ahead, i'm interested in hearng a response and an update on the second half of the show that i could only hear echoing from a toilet stall. i missed the people hanging from the ceiling. damnit! rock on!
Review written by: not relevant (Sqeegeed3rdeye@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 23:27:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
I have posted an a more detailed review of last nights show and will only use this space for explaining the diferences of the two. First off the show was indoors as opposed to last night in indy, and I was not nearly as close, but I got a better all around view of the show. Basically the same amazing experience, but pison sex was replace w/ undertow and was fucking great to hear! After schism adam and maynard were talking then maynard stepped back and said "news flash...ADAM.....JONES is from here, and he saw david bowie and van halen right here when he was 15, so what was that like 40 years ago or something" lol, adam then gave him the fingerw/ a smart ass smile, it was good to see them having a good time. Then came the intro to eulogy, replacing pushit from the previous night. After parabola reverend maynard said something along the lines of how it is "so apparent that the bad guys are present in the big cities and that you must think for yourself, question authority", he had the crowd repeat these words a few times then got'em by saying never repeat what other people say, which was so much something he would say/do. I thought also I might also for those of you who are gear heads tell at least from what I could see what the guys were using. Danny of course was playing his new drum kit made from his old cymbals and a synth of some sort w/ his usual eletronics (simmons I think) also I think he was sing in on schism a bit. Maynard got out his steinberger for schism, dispositio/reflection and I think the patient. Adam had asome sort of a synth set up to his right and he was using his custom silverbursts for everything but prison sex (in indy) and parabol-parabola he used gold or natural custom, I cant tell. Amp wis he ran his plexi through a marshall 412, and two Deisel heads trough two mesa 412s and I wish I could have seen his pedal board though (oh well I'll be close in Louisville). Justin ran his Wal basses trough two mesa 600 watt impules into two 810 mesa roadready cabs. Oh yea and by the way TOOL IS THE BEST LIVE BAND IN THE WORLD TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Review written by: Eric (staatsy@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 23:37:15 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Alrighty, setlists have been mentioned. As have most of the quotes and descriptions of the show. I guess I just wanted to post a few words on Meshuggah. I had never heard of or heard anything of theirs before the show. I was impressed with the musicianship, but they didn't do much for me as a live band. I don't know how their recorded stuff is, but they're almost too heavy for a live show. All the notes just kind of drone together. I have to say that this might be due to the venue, also. But I couldn't make out any lyrics and most of the notes just blended together for an endless drone for the set. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt and blame the arena. As for Tool...well, what more can be said? Thanks to the band for a magnificent show. MJK kind of stands silhouetted against the screen for most of the show and moves to the music. A very nifty effect. The lights would focus on band members for different parts of songs...Dana Carey has to be the most amazing drummer in the world. See Tool live if you can. You will not be disappointed.
Review written by: Drewdogg (bozobuttz@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/10/01 23:40:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
A very splendid show, all from my view about 10 feet from the stage. I was very close and it was special to be there. Although, the May 17th Chicago show which I attended I liked better because of the intimacy of the Riviera as a venue. I never received the password for the presale, so I purchased 2 floor tickets on Ebay at a great price. I bought a very nice tour shirt. Meshuggah was too heavy for my likes. It was funny when the lead singer introduced Tool with his Swedish accent. Maynard embraced the stage wearing a leather suit and his head was painted, white with black down the middle of his face. He later stripped down to underwear. He held a headless guitar for a while, but I don't think he actually played it. I anticipated to see Danny's new drum kit, and it was a spectacular sight. I liked the setlist. I am glad that I got to hear some of the lesser played songs such as Undertow and Eulogy. osseus labyrint took the stage during the intermission and their act was, of course, unlike anything I have ever seen before, besides the Schism video. Their performance was magnificent. Maynard told the crowd that Adam saw David Bowie and Van Halen in this same arena when he was 15. Adam then pointed out to the back upper level where he sat. And naturally at every concert, idiot(s) are nearby in the crowd. They insisted on forcing their way thru to get in front of us; they weren't going with the flow of the crowd. One goon had his back facing the stage not even watching and was shoving us forward for no apparent reason, even when the music wasn't playing. Another was badmouthing about how the security guards were giving out free water. Those pinheads probably have no idea what Tool is all about. The moshing in general wasn't too violent. I did not have the urge to puke. The concert came to a great end and the band had a group hug. Bottles of water were tossed to the crowd along with Danny's drumsticks AND a drum head. All-in-all, this was my second favorite concert experience. Tool will always occupy the top of my list.
Review written by: todd (apc417@msn.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 01:34:22 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
tool played a heaven sent show as usual last night at the allstate arena (which you had to pay 11 dollars to park at). i did however, like the riviera show better in the sense that the music was much louder. i wish i could hear tool play ticks and leeches though. i thought they were going to play it last night when maynard started talkin about the energy suckers and everything but no such luck. maybe next time? i hope so. i also find it pretty sad that many people decided to walk away when tool starts to slow down and play disposition and reflection and the likes. do people just like to hear the same old heavy guitar riffs in music? is that the only reason they like the sea of crap that tool towers over and unfortunately gets catergorized into? i was suprised by the lack of interest in mesuggah. especially when the crowd cheered when they anounced their last song, that was a little harsh on their part. as always i had an experience at a live concert that only tool can do for me and its always great. i hope tool continues to love what they do so they can continue to enrich our lives as well as theirs. peace.
Review written by: Jeff Yoho (JeffreyYoho@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 01:47:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
First off, Mushugah or whatever they're called SUCK ASS! I was standing about 5 people from the front, slightly left of center. As far as I could see, the crowd stood absolutely still the entire set. It's like everyone was so stunned that a band could be this terrible and play such a big venue. The guitarist literally played 2 chords for every song. The same 2 chords. I can't remember the name exactly, but one of their songs was something like "New Millenium Jesus Cyanide". Woooo, maybe if they creep us out enough we won't notice how bad they suck? Anyhow, to get onto TOOL, it was great. I saw them at Riviera in May, and although that show was awesome, this one was even better. You know how certain tool songs the energy just builds and builds and then it explodes at the end? Imagine seeing that over and over, like on Eulogy, AEnima and Parabola. The only thing I really didn't like was where they added the extended part to Stinkfist. It's like that section of the song the tension grows and grows until it finally climaxes with the lines about digging until I feel something. But they had to go and throw in 20 seconds of music so the feeling is lost. It was interesting to watch all the people trying to mosh at the show. They'd mosh for like 20 seconds then stop while the song is slow and then they'd start up again. This went on all night. That's the only disadvantage really to seeing TOOL in an arena, you get people like that who don't come for the music but come because they like to feel other men's bodies and moshing is the only socially acceptable way for them to vent their latent homosexual desires. Go to a Slipknot concert assholes. Maynard was funny as usual, he got off quite a number of jokes considering how sparse the talking was. My favorite joke of the night was when they were thanking that Mushugah band for opening, the bass player played a few seconds of some shitty generic metal song and laughed. I strongly reccomend seeing them live if it is at all possible for you to do so. The music is played so perfectly it's hard to tell the difference from the cd, but at the same time the energy of the music, and the raw sound of Maynard's voice will just blow you away.
Review written by: Martin (nonprophet23@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 03:51:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Well, other people posted the setlist, so I'll skip that... Unfortunately for me I missed the Show at the Riv, and I would have liked to hear them perform my personal favorites Sober, 4 degrees, Pushit and Prison Sex, but oh well, I cant complain too much, this show was still one of tehe best I've seen in a long time, well at least since Radiohead a month ago... I went with a roup of friends, and we had all purchased our tix seperately, so were were spread out across the arena. From where I was sitting, only part of the left screen was obscured, but my friends who were further off to the side could only see the right screen, as well only the one acrobat in front of the right screen. That was definately the high point of the show. They pulled themselves to a height of maybe 40 feet using just their arms, their legs crossed in a lotus postion. then they wrapped their legs in the ropes and hung upsidedown, arms outstretched. They embraced and the swung back and forth while writhing around as Parabol started. When Parabola kicked in, they writhed even more violently, it was incredidible that they could do that. Maynard Speaks: "News Flash, This just in: Adam Jones is from, right here. When he was 15, he saw David Bowie and Van Halen, Right here."(Crowd Cheers) My own personal anecdote: Adam went to my highschool, whereas you might know he was a classmate with Tom from Rage Against the Machine. My highscool buddies always had a joke going where we were going to go to either of those bands shows with a homemade banner that said "Electric Sheep Rock!" We never got around to it. PS to Adam (although you probably wont see this) Tom comes around every once in a while to visit, why don't you? after Maynard's speech about staying creative and expressing yourself, he had the audience repeat after him "Think for yourself, Question authority etc" I saw what was coming and of course didnt repeat after him, choosing instead to quote "Life of Brian" ("Listen, you're all different" "Yes, we're all different" "I'm not") My friend Pat hopes he upped the metal quotient of those sitting near him as he headbanged to Meshuggah, who would be his second favorite band after Tool. Meshuggah were tight and fucking Brutal, go get their CDs and make your head bleed.
Review written by: Cate (purplfaze@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 04:45:50 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
For all those people at the TOOL show that moshed, all those people who felt it was more important to jump around and pump your fists in the air than it was to listen to the music, for all those people who repeated Maynard's words, for all those people who screamed and yelled DURING songs, for all those people who I could tell just didn't really give a fuck about feeling the music and absorbing what was going on, stay the fuck home next time, Tool diserves better. The arena had horrible acoustics, but somehow both bands seemed to use it to their advantage at times. It was my first show, and I want more. I left feeling like I NEED to see them again. Meshuggah was good. I wish more people would have given them a chance, rather than blowing them off because they were so siked for Tool. I suggest you listen to some recorded stuff before you go to the show. The Osseus Labyrinth was blocked by the massive speakers hanging from the rafters. After moving around a bit I was able to see them a little bit. I have to say that those people are very talented. If you have yet to see a show, try standing there, close your eyes, and feel the music. Don't just hear the music, LISTEN to it. You might discover something about this band that you never noticed before. They offer more than you can ever imagine, take the time to take it all in.
Review written by: rick (ricketsx@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 11:00:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show
this review is dedicated to karl wurm (proud t.d.n. contributer) i don't know what the cops were expecting but there were a ton of them. outside the venue anyway. inside was a much younger crowd than the night before. i'd say not as many tool shirts but they were plentiful. at the beginning of the show maynard said someting about deja vu. i got this feeling that it would be a show to remember. was it ever. the lights were amazing. as were the visuals on the three screens. 'stinkfist' seemed perticularily rockin this evening. 'undertow' was a treat. 'eulogy' was the prize song for me though. i'd say this was one of the best tool shows i've seen. keep rockin!
Review written by: super j (gorgagee82@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 17:25:29 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
a good show, as i should expect from tool. i loved the screens/videos shown, and the schism people were impressive. the stage set-up was very unique, but it was difficult to see the band for me (i was in the back, but facing straight at the stage). eulogy and 46 & 2 were real treats, but i missed pushit a lot. oh well... hopefully they'll play smaller venues sometime and tickets wont go to $1,000+ each. anyways, the show was great, tool expressed their music perfectly, and i officially declare: $50 for a l/s shirt can kiss my ass. that's a bunch of crap.
Review written by: Brian The idiot monkey boy (Brv1983@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 20:26:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
The Grudge Stinkfist Forty-Six & 2 Undertow Schism Eulogy Disposition Reflection Intermission - Osseus Labyrint Inversion Parabol Parabola Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Ænema Lateralus The Grudge - Started out with guitar sounding a little too tight but nothing so horrible that the show was ruined. Scream held for approximately 17 seconds. Very good. A heavy experience. Just all around romping feeling. Stinkfist - This one got the entire place bouncing, even seated spectators stood and writhed up and down to the beat that we are all familiar with. Extra "White lines running through my mind..." and guitar solo type stuff before it kicked into "Something kind of sad about..." Forty-Six & 2 - Really great song. The venue sways to the beat. Nothing particularly special that I can remember but hearing the song live was as perfect as experiencing that song can get. Undertow - I was totally blown away at this. I was so not expecting it and I am so glad that I got to hear it. Very tightly knit as was the rest of the show, but for some reason this one sticks out in my mind as far as musicianship and execution go. A great little raspy scream from Maynard at the very end of the closing riff. I am just in love with this song and so grateful that they played it for me. Schism - Over all, a lot better sounding than a lot of bootlegs I've heard of it as far as execution goes. The only idiosyncratic problem I have with it's performance is that when Justin played main bassline, I did not hear (or feel) that immediate thumping as he hammers on the D and E notes which in turn killed the possibility of getting the full effect of hearing the E slide up to F. But that's just me being a picky little bitch. The rhythm brake after the final reference to "communication" was particularly what I have in mind when I say that it was executed much better than the bootlegs. Maynard was very good on the guitar. Very good. Everything else about the song was perfect. Plus! I think they had some kind of tape playing the vocal harmony for Maynard during the "between supposed lovers..." part. I distinctly heard both the baritone and the soprano together. Eulogy - Another very big surprise. I was so shocked when I started hearing the glasslike ticking. I went nuts. I was like "Oh, shit!!!" I couldn't believe we got "Eulogy." Everyone was screaming the "Don't you step out of line/Don't you fucking lie!" part, including my friend, Jim, whom I converted over to the TOOL world, which pleased me no end. Very tight band, great voice. A little bit of fluctuation on the opening honks which I believe are done by Maynard with an overdrive effect on his mic. But nothing so horrible. It was good to get a little bit of variance. Over all the belting out of the "So long..." and "Don't Cry..." parts was so good, obviously to Maynard's credit. The "Goodbye" lived up to the album and then some. Closing low E bar chord was dragged out forever while Danny switched up the beat of it by playing different signatures right under it which was awesome. Disposition - Very good. But I'm sure that there are a few too many guitars on the album to be able to reproduce them all with just two guitarists playing but it was beautiful nonetheless. I think Maynard skipped a couple repetitions of the lyrics that we all know, I suspect, to focus on playing the guitar for it. Reflection - Maynard sang the odd eastern melody about one octave lower than the album version. I wish he would have gone for the higher octave but I'm still not overwhelmingly disappointed with it. Still great. Drums were tight. Maynard sings "Don't want to 'look' down here..." as opposed to "peer." Great voice. Adam drags the closing emotional riff out infinitely. In fact, I think he's still on stage doing it right now. No joke, he dragged it out forever. Not that I'm complaining or taking it as a great display of power but I just thought I'd mention it. Very well done. Definite distinction between "Before we hide away" and "Before we pine away." Each was repeated twice. Beautiful. [Intermission] Osseus Labyrint Inversion - A very odd crunching sound, as if someone was chomping on a piece of brick or wood, was playing in the background. The performers are hung upside down with arms out swinging side to side, facing the audience. Salival alien guy rotating on the screens. Parabol - My dumb bitch friend who hardly listens to TOOL commented that "This sounds like Church music." In a complanatory voice of course. Any way, performed beautifully, sung beautifully. I think it is the first time the Osseus Labyrint make contact with eachother by grabbing and holding eachother when they swing together. Guitar sounded great. Bass was well defined as on the album. "All this pain is an illusion..." is carried out gracefully and... Parabola - ...the guitar comes fuzzing in very tightly. The guitar tone throughout the whole show was more of a clip than a saturation. Although I typically prefer saturation it was still great. Pretty much just as good as the album. "Holy" was sung with just the lower octave of the harmony. When given the choice to pick between the two octaves, Maynard took the lower one throughout the song. So it was all good. The crowd bounced for this one too. Eon Blue Apocalypse - Basically exactly the same as the album version. Perfect nonetheless. Really just acts as an intro to "The Patient" as we all know. Great to have it there. Before the music started Maynard gives a speech about "the bloodsuckers, the vampires, the artless" and how they make art a struggle. He referred to them as "the bad guys" and of course he mentioned how they were "winning" just like at the APC show I saw when they opened for NIN. He told us to just go out and be the artists and just create. How sweet. Although I ABSOLUTELY agree with him. The Patient - Creeps in nicely. I was very excited to here this song. This was the only song that I said to myself that they had better play. It was my only qualification for the show. And they met it. It was executed very accurately. All I can really say is that I love this song and was glad as hell that they played. To great to elaborate on. Just one of those great moments. Ænema - Okay. What the fuck??? It came out the whole time as if they just had the album playing over the PA. Fucking perfect. Absolutely fucking perfect. To par. Danny's performance being particularly noticeable. His drumming was just perfect and the rest of the band followed that lead. My face just rose to a smile as soon as I heard the "hey, hey, hey, hey..." at the very beginning. It just came out great. The only indication that this song was done live is that Maynard couldn't possibly sing "Learn to swim" simultaneously during the verse. No human could. But are these motherfuckers human??? They're too damn good to be. Lateralus - Well we got the "Artists oath of honor" or whatever. It was a very good point to make of course and it was funny but I already knew it was coming having read many reviews of this tour. But it was still good. To tell you the truth I can't exactly remember if this speech came before "Lateralus" or "Ænema." Oh well. The song was done amazingly. Just really great. No idiosyncrasies to point out but it was just amazing. Sidenotes: I might be wrong about the order of "Shcism" and "Eulogy." I was sitting dead center, highest balcony, second to last row. I think the ceiling being right over my head took away from the volume. After one of the songs in the first half of the show Maynard mentions that Adam was born here in Chicago and saw his first Kiss show at that very venue when he was 15. The videos were great. That's all I can think of now. Fucking best show ever.
Review written by: ToolsEulogy41701 (toolseulogy41701@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/11/01 21:56:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
ahoy hoy all...i know i may be setting this review up a little too late...but oh well, someone is eventually going to read this... first i'd like to state one thing...Messugha (however u spell their name) sucked ass my friends. they're a mixture between mudvayne/slipknot and it was terrible...that is the only mistake tool made that day, was having them come along...but enough of that. time to get to what u wanted to read. a fans review This is prob the best show i've ever been to. their first chicago show of 2001 was good, but this one kicked that other shows ass. the intro music was much longer, maynard grooved to the music much more, he just didnt stand there, he moved the whole time :). he is truely a god. but the part i enjoed the most, was the first song (grudge) the intermission (schism actors/actresses) and the last song (lateralus). if u missed this show....well it sucks to be you. cause u missed a great show.. i'll see them whenever they come through chicago or anywhere near here. well, enough BS , heres an accurate setlist...i hope The Grudge Ions (30 seconds to a minute was played then flowed into...) Stinkfist (extended) 46&2 Undertow Schism Eulogy (danny, ur amazing for this intro) Disposition Reflection Intermission (schism actors/actresses climbed rope to top of screen, and hung there upside-down for....) Parabol Parabola Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Lateralus All in all, a great show...except for the drunk asshole who threw his cigarette from the upper balcony to the lower one...what a jag off....
Review written by: nuttree (nuttree@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/12/01 02:12:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Tool took the stage after a band called Messugah. They opened with an extremly powerfull version of "the grudge". i heard every note. fucking superb. they continued to play a variety of songs off of their albums. notably, my fave, eulogy. maynard sang and danced, adam played guitar justin played bass danny played drums. there were some bigass screens that had visuals throughout the show. there were naked people contorting and writhing on and above the stage. tool is the first band to scare me in a way i couldnt pinpoint. like the first day of school, or a carton of post dated milk. at one point in the show i saw the ghostly spirits of timothy leary, aleister crowley, and fibonacci smiling down on them. all was well.........
Review written by: elixir (elixirelixir@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/12/01 17:47:24 ET
This was this reviewer's Tool show
Hello, This was my 3rd show in 3 days (didn't get my reviews up in time for Madison & Indy). I've seen TOOL a bunch of times before, but these 3 shows were my cousin's first. CHICAGO was the best out of the three. Madison was good ('Opiate'); Indy was VERY SIMILAR (TOO SIMILAR) to Madison and had definate sound trouble (no 'Opiate'); Chicago got 'Undertow' & 'Eulogy' (instead of 'Prison Sex' & 'Pushit' and no 'Opiate'). Adam is from Chicago (Maynard told the crowd that "Adam saw David Bowie with Van Halen here (old Rosemont Horizon) when he was 15 ... (about 40 yrs ago)." REVIEW: -The opener, "Meshuggah", SUCKS!!! really bad! seriously, THEY'RE HORRIBLE! -which only makes you appreciate just how good TOOL really is! (Tricky would've been MUCH better) -The new album sounds graet live! ("trance rock" at it's finest) -Danny's new kit (the kit is nice but this man is amazing!) -Maynard playing a little bit of guitar and of course singing (this guy has some pipes!) -Adam sounds incredible; his projected video visuals are a big part of the experience as well as the electronic (computerized) sound scape effects. -Justin looks a little scruffy with long locks (I liked him better a few yrs ago with short hair (horns) and blue body paint) but sounds great as ever! -The contortionists (i forgot their name) added to the atmosphere and experience. -MY BEEF: seeing them 3 times in 3 days ... WOW; but ... I WISH THEY WOULD MIX THEIR SET UP A LITTLE FROM NIGHT TO NIGHT. At times, particularly compairing Madison & Indy, it felt like i was watching the same 'video' again (like they were on auto-pilot), like i was re-living the same experience i had 24 hrs earlier (essentially word-for-word, not-for-note, etc. At least shuffle the order of the setlist, add a different old song each night (perhaps significant for the city/venue {'Flood' would have been perfect for Madison considering it was pouring so hard you couldn't even see that evening and everyone was soaked by the time they got inside}), and also change the routine speeches (are those tele- prompted?) Are they (TOOL), too, experiencing the same "experience" each night (re-play)? oh well, it's still tool! ABOVE ALL, THANKS I'll be catching more shows later this week; interested to see if the terrorism war changes things up a little with the band as it has for so many people. Anyone know anything about the cancelled Dayton show (ie: refund)? elixirelixir@hotmail.com
Review written by: Master Reviewer (kirkaplan@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/12/01 19:01:13 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: kate (yello888@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/12/01 23:35:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
this being m second tool show of their fall tour, i thought i would kind of know what to expect. i was sure wrong. i first flew out to san fransisco from chicago to see them with king crimson. the same auditorium made them seem almost devine. the chicago show blew that one out of the water. i was fortunate to get floor tickets, and sadly had to sit through masuggah to keep my close seats. i went with tony, who already posted his review. opening with the grrudge caused tons of moshers to go insane, but it didnt matter. i was soon enveloped by the music and sent to my own world. after the grudge came stinkfist, then forty-six & two. its hard to recount exactly what i was thinking through the comcert, the whole tim i was in awe of actually seeing the greatet band on earth. being 14, this was definetly the best espirience of my life! i was so excited that they played eulogy and the patient, both of which were not on the setlist at the previous show i saw. the band was definetly great, and this would have been so no matter the atmosphere. but what really helped the whole performance were the lighta and videos on the screen. since im really short, it sux that i couldnt really see maynard too well, but i had my eye on the contortionist/performer a lot of the time. they were really really interesting to watch. i think it gave and even more beautiful and mysterious edge to the music. if you havent seen tool live, you definetly should. i would give anyhting to be able to see more shows, and for those who have to miss the show because of the cancelations, im so sorry.