concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart
09/15/2001



Review written by: CHRIS (TOOLSMACK FAN@AOL.COM)
Review posted on: 09/15/01 23:50:35 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 (TOOLSMACK FAN@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 09/16/01 00:08:20 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

TO FINALLY GET TO THE SHOW WAS A THRILL. BUT AFTER THE FIRST 5 SONGS IT TURNED INTO THE MOST DRY ASS CONCERT I EVER SAW. AS THEY ALL STOOD IN ONE SPOT AND TO WATCH MJK HIDE INFRONT OF THE TV WAS POOR. HE SHOULD OF JUST SANG BACKSTAGE. AND THE ARTWORK TOOK OVER THE SHOW. I COULD AT LEAST NAME 10 SONGS THAT WOULD HAVE MADE IT THE SHIT. AND WHEN MJK MADE THE COMMENT THAT "THIS IS NOT A POLITICAL FORAM" BECAUSE THE CROWD STARTED CHANTING USA, USA WAS NOT COOL. WHEN YOU WAIT ALL THAT TIME TO SEE YOUR FAVORITE BAND AND YOU FEEL LIKE THEY WERE TO GOOD TO BE THERE AND TO TALK TO THE CROWD FEELS BAD AND IT IS A SHAME THAT I FEEL THAT WAY. AND THE REACTION I HEARD FROM A LOT OF OTHER FANS LETS ME KNOW THAT I AM NOT ALONE. THE FLOOR WAS DEAD AND THERE WAS A LOT OF FANS SITTING DOWN. IF I WANTED TO WATCH TV I WOULD HAVE STAYED AT HOME. THANK GOD FOR THE CD'S.

Review written by: CHRIS (TOOLSMACK FAN@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 09/16/01 00:10:05 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

TO FINALLY GET TO THE SHOW WAS A THRILL. BUT AFTER THE FIRST 5 SONGS IT TURNED INTO THE MOST DRY ASS CONCERT I EVER SAW. AS THEY ALL STOOD IN ONE SPOT AND TO WATCH MJK HIDE INFRONT OF THE TV WAS POOR. HE SHOULD OF JUST SANG BACKSTAGE. AND THE ARTWORK TOOK OVER THE SHOW. I COULD AT LEAST NAME 10 SONGS THAT WOULD HAVE MADE IT THE SHIT. AND WHEN MJK MADE THE COMMENT THAT "THIS IS NOT A POLITICAL FORAM" BECAUSE THE CROWD STARTED CHANTING USA, USA WAS NOT COOL. WHEN YOU WAIT ALL THAT TIME TO SEE YOUR FAVORITE BAND AND YOU FEEL LIKE THEY WERE TO GOOD TO BE THERE AND TO TALK TO THE CROWD FEELS BAD AND IT IS A SHAME THAT I FEEL THAT WAY. AND THE REACTION I HEARD FROM A LOT OF OTHER FANS LETS ME KNOW THAT I AM NOT ALONE. THE FLOOR WAS DEAD AND THERE WAS A LOT OF FANS SITTING DOWN. IF I WANTED TO WATCH TV I WOULD HAVE STAYED AT HOME. THANK GOD FOR THE CD'S.

Review written by: LordMandinga (LordMandinga@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 00:20:39 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

WOW!!!!! What a great show, the set list was as follows. -The Grudge -Stinkfist -46&2 -Undertow -Schism -Reflection/Disposition Intermission -Opiate -Pushit -The Patient -Parabol -Parabola -Lateralis The order may be a little messed up, but it still doesn't take away from the fact that it was a great show, although I was really looking foward to Aenema and Prison Sex, not to mention Sober, which i can't really understand why they wouldnt play. Maynard didnt really talk much, especially for being around the area, he really didn't seem like he was into the show..... and where he shot down the USA USA USA chant was kinda disapointing, and I do somewhat agree with the review above, but not whole heartedly. Tool is by far the best live performance there is HANDS DOWN. Ive seen alot of shit, and this takes the cake... even better than Hed, Manson, Korn, Slipknot.. EVEN OZZY, TOOL RULES!!!!!

Review written by: Sneaky Pete (weneedfocus@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 00:45:38 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Here Tool focused on thier new album, playing only a few older songs (stinkfist, opiate, among a few others). They seemed to enjoy playing the Lateralus songs more than the older ones, but certainly gave it thier all throughout. The crowd was quiet, even though one person was removed on a strecher, wearing a neckbrace. Maynard addressed current events by suggesting the crowd translate thier feelings of this week into positive energy for the "global collective," a topic he dwelled on in his few crowd addresses. As always, a fine performance, if a bit subdued.

Review written by: Jason Ramsey (ramzloy@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 01:30:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was my first Tool concert and I was simply blown away at the show they put on. The performance of the "Parabol/Parabola" was simply awesome. This was a concert that personally helped me get away from everything that has happened this tragic week, and Tool did not disappoint a fan in the house. I can say that I will go to several more Tool concerts.

Review written by: Timmah (mole_69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 01:49:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

The show kicked ass, the lights were amazing, and I don't know which show the first reviewer was watching, because the floor was crazy. I certainly got my moneys worth and can't wait to see them again. Who cares if Maynard shot down the USA chant, he did have a really good message. I believe it went something like, "This week was rather emotional. Remember what you felt like, and when you go home, try to do something positive with it." Well now I've got some A-dvice for you, little buddy. Before you point the finger You should know that I'm the man, And if I'm the man, Then you're the man, and He's the man as well so you can Point that fuckin' finger up your ass. Even though they didnt' sing that, I believe that kinda sums up what he was trying to say to you buddy. Goodnight, need to recover from the floor.

Review written by: Jon D (withheld) Review posted on: 09/16/01 01:51:18 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I'm not posting my email address because I'm sure this will be met with some hate, but I think it needs to be said. After tonight's show, I think Tool would be hard pressed to find a reason to go on making art. Simply no one tonight seemed to think they were anything more than a band to mosh to. MJK spoke from the heart about the tragedy not for patriotsim, but humanity, that happened recently. His soft spoken words were drowned out by a roaring U!S!A! cheer from about 98% of the audience, who seemed to totally miss the point. He finally stopped talking, and waited for the brutish chanting to start to die down. Then, with a new found authority in his voice, he simply said "This is not a political forum." He then said something to the effect of that we need to think and unite and not be a bunch of *inflection* yahooing morons. As you can expect, the yahooing morons (that was paraphrasing) comment was met with moronic yahooing cheers. For the last song the band just went through the motions to end the show, waved, and walked off. You could feel just how upset and disillusioned the band seemed from the night. I can only hope that the band will read this and know that there's some people who don't go to Tool shows to just shout and bang their heads. And the rest of the show was simply brilliant. No hits except Stinkfist or Schism.

Review written by: Chris (dysthemia6669@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 01:54:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 8 Tool show

Ok this might be a little extensive so please stay with me and read. Also if anyone ever wants to talk IM me at Dysthemia6669 if you have AOL or AIM Messugah- Always liked them, amazing band and everyone should buy there stuff. Not the band you'd see on a Tool show but nonetheless one of the best technicalbands out there. Seen them before and tonight they mixed up old and new songs. Now for Tool Ok 1st here is the true Set List The Grudge - ions Stinkfist (newer version w/added lyrics) 46@2 Undertow Schism Experimental Instumental/Intermission 1 (?) Pushit Disposistion Reflection Intermission (2?) Parabol Parabola Eon Blue Apocalypse The patient Opiate Lateralus There is the set list (might have been one more instrumental part but don't think so) Ok now with the show:: (Now I could talk about the songs and all that blah blah blah but I won't, I'll simply describe the show) The show was amazing, but at first The Gruge was a little rough and song didn't sound as tight as the CDs but throughout the night (after Stinkfist) it was tight as hell. The set up was amazing with 2 Giant screens above, 1 tiny screen behind maynards platform and The Golden Dawn/Aleister Crowley symbol (don't worry if you don't know what it was most people don't) lit up next to Danny's Drums the whole sert.i'm pretty sure there was some writing surrounding the gong but was up in the seats and couldn't see if there was or wasn't. The displays on the screens were awesome. Everything from people submerged in water, videos of Schism and Stinkfist, spirals, and the amazing spiritual symbols that were displayed while Parabola was playing such as the hmm nah better not tell if you really want to know talk to me and I'll let you know, who knows might change the way you live your life all together :). The band was great, sure they stayed still but I think that's what made it great.It proves bands don't have to hop around nd run back and forth to put on amazing show. Now the big complaint is BUT MAYNARD WAS IN THE BACK THE WHOLE TIME well you want to know something (and this is just my view) when you are in your own little area for a long time and then you come out of it and open up (like he did with A Perfect Circle) you have to always return to that place. I've done it before and I'm there now. That's why he's far away (in my opinion) cause he wants to go back to his little space and shed away from the light and people and media and all that shit. Ok here is where I describe myself, me personally (since 93) has always viewed Tool as an escape. No matter how sad, angry, happy I am whenever Tool is in it just makes me feel so at ease. Tonight they did just that. With all the tragic events taking this week for 2.5 hrs I was at ease and forgot all about the outside world and the shit that was going on. I felt relaxed and calm. That's really all I can say without getting real lengthy so i'll end with that. Highlights:: They played The Patient, Undertown and Opiate. They showed all the ritualist symbols or symbolic references during Parabola Maynard talking about Collective Conciousness, remind

Review written by: Timmah (mole_69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 02:12:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Something to add to my last post, I have nothing against getting high, I enjoy it quite often, but there were some dumb people in front of me, apparently from cleveland (indian's hats), that smoked up and acted like complete morons. Hell if you're gonna pay 40 dollars for a floor ticket and not remember the damn show, why bother. Go chant USA in a drunked stupor at home watching TV instead of while MJK is trying to actually tell the audience how he feels. I almost wished I would've got a seat instead of a floor ticket. I think Tool has become more popular and people that just want to knock into people and yell than enjoy the show that the artists on stage are putting everything they have into. The pit was crazy at times, but nothing like a slipknot pit, which is good because that's not the reaction the music is supposed to get from people i feel. Thankfully Tool played at least one song from their first cd, Opiate, that really got the crowd into the show. Other than some inbreeding problems in the crowd, it was a great show. Thanks Tool!

Review written by: Mudpie (mudpie@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 02:29:03 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

-Okay I have been looking forward to this show for a very long time, and I wasn't disappointed.This was a wonderful show. Here's what I have to say about the opening band... A lot of people have said "they sucked" or "they rocked" or whatever (such is the life of an opening act) but what I really feel is that they are NOT the right band for a Tool tour. Maybe a Cannibal Corpse tour or even a Slayer tour, but not Tool. Just not the same sound at all. Which is probably why so many people hated them so much. The crowd tonight was not happy about that band, and to be honest, neither was I. I didn't pay to see a Swedish metal band. I paid to see Tool. The two sounds didn't mix. As far as Tool goes, I am very satisfied. Occasionally they sounded a bit off (perhaps tired or bad acoustics or WHATEVER), but still extremely tight and responsive to each other. They must work very hard on the subtle changes to each song that they add in order to stick together like that. Some people have complained about the lack of activity in the audience. I think that was the most beautiful part. Moshing was minimum. How does one mosh to "The Patient"? I dunno, but they figured out a way. Kinda lame. I actually SAT DOWN (as MANY people did) through quite a lot of the show, and that gave me the opportunity to actually watch what was going on. It wasn't boredom, and it wasn't sleepiness. It was about more than just the music. There was so much going on on that stage, that lots of people just had to stand (or sit) there and watch. Sure, you could hardly see Maynard, and he very often faced away from the audience. SO WHAT?!? Maynard is not the BAND. He's the singer in the band. There are three other guys in that band making it what it is, and people forget that. They wanted to give us a bit of what brings them together, and they did a wonderful job. If any of them reads this, Thanks guys. Also... the USA chants were highly unneccessary. We all are fully aware of what's going on right now, and this was a chance for us to take a break from all this sadness and enjoy ourselves. It wasn't "Hacksaw Jim Duggan" night at the Convocation Centre, and it wasn't Bruce Springsteen. It was a Tool show. I hope that people who's tour date hasn't come around yet read this and understand that, and try to keep their inner Captain America quiet. The bands have to deal with enough assholes on any given day as it is.

Review written by: BMANG (gr8one232@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 02:32:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I read the earlier reviews, and i def agree that a good portion of the people at this show didnt understand the meaning of Tool. They try and try to get people to listen, and not mosh, but it just doesnt work. Some dumbass by me kept falling over, i didnt help his ass up. Its one thing to get high or trip at a show, but when you are so messed up that you dont even realize where you are, whats the point? You could sit home and pass out. On to the band, great show. I drove almost three hours from Buffalo to see this, and i wouldve driven 10. The setlist, while missing some favorites, was solid. It is organized well too, the heavy stuff coming right away, followed by the slower, relaxed playing, and finishing strong. Opiate was crazy. If you were among the USA chanters, and you think you were dissed by Maynard, youre right. He said something like "were not breeding ignorance" Hopefully you listened to what the man said, since it was probably the best speech ive heard on this whole thing. Meshuggah didnt really impress me, but i liked the really long song they did, and not just because Adam played on it.

Review written by: austin (whhiisper@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 02:53:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

i have been to maybe five concerts total (TOOL and otherwise), including this show, but damn, it was smooth. Meshuggah opened. they didn't get a very positive response. their sound was heavy with monotonous guitar- work, which is a very naughty thing. a big plus going for them though was the excellent rhythm section (just the drums, really), which made for a rather enduring set, plentiful with interesting time changes. TOOL, on the other hand, did not disappoint. mr. carey shredded his kit - he showed incredible discipline. mr. jones played caringly, and exhibited the most subtle stage presence i could have ever imagined. mr. chancellor was solid, and mr. keenan sang purdy. the sound wasn't as muddy as it probably should have been. the show was in the convocation center (read: ECHO), but it sounded pretty clear in all consideration. the fans, at least in my section, were annoying and elitist. they shrieked like junior high school cheerleaders whenever keenan mounted his personal stage. no cheering for the other members, really, except maybe when the heavy, distorted guitar parts kicked in - but of course that's always been the cue for big tough guys to start jerking off. c'mon people, everyone in the band works hard. anyone heard of a thing called dynamic? also, no one could seem to stand it when the closing guitar riff to disposition (or maybe reflection?) went on and on. this dude kept screaming "C'MON!! PLAY SWAMP SONG!!!... THIS SUCKS!!... C'MON, PLAY SOBER!!!". the group later went into renditions of opiate and the patient. of course, everyone got excited and swayed to the beat. as steve buscemi once said in a movie, "define irony.". it was really nice to see that a lot of people came to the show, but it would have been even nicer to have felt some kind of relation to them. most seemed to have come to worship this sort of "metal ethic" thing that has gotten a lot of popularity. it's like if TOOL didn't have any loud parts to their music, these guys wouldn't come to see them. all the self-righteous rush fans can stay at home, too. music appreciation is for the classroom, and should stay there. come experience the music because you LIKE it, not because it feels like the suave thing to do. damn, i bitched too much. well, ok, TOOL was really neat. nirvana was the first band i really liked, and i never saw them play. now it's too late and i always wish i had. TOOL is the only other band that got me this excited about music. this show meant a lot to me. they were awesome, and i hope it really meant something special to other people, too. thanks for reading. love, austin

Review written by: Karl W (novus14@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 03:34:02 ET

This was this reviewer's 20th Tool show

I spent the whole show on the barrier and didn't really break a sweat. The crowd was pretty relaxed. It was nice being that close and also be able to move. Tool put on another great performance. I was not offended by maynards comment towards the crowd for chanting USA. Tool shows are not a "political forum". Other than that I had great time. They played undertow and the patient. I'm very happy tonight.

Review written by: Zosofish (Uhockey@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 03:45:49 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

After getting a chance to enjoy TooL from the seats of Columbus last night, tonight I braved the floor of Cleveland's CSU. First off, Meshugga, there were 3 highlights to their part of the show. #1) When their singer's mic shorted out........they actually sound alright without his pisspoor vocals. #2) When Adam Jones joined them on stage.....after seeing Justin play a song with them yesterday, this was a suprise. Off the the side you could see Justin and Danny "Headbanging" along as Adam played. #3) When they got the hell off the stage. Sorry, they're not a band who should open for TooL. TooL, once again was phenomenal and the crowd once again was full of ignorance. Drunks, Potheads, and goths seemed to be everywhere, most of which had NO CLUE which song was being played or who anyone in the band was besides Maynard. On top of this most people interpreted Maynard's lyrics to Pushit as an open invitation to push and shove everyone around them........congrats on missing the point. The visuals were very impressive and the setlist was excellent.......despite the fact that people like too boo songs such as disposition and reflection.......undertow was a welcome addition. To all the people who thought this show was poor because Maynard didn't talk to the crowd.......listen to the music, don't just go to hear him speak, and when he does try to speak don't chant "Maynard, Maynard" over and over........I wouldn't wanna talk in that case either. I dunno, it just seems to me like too many people treat TooL like they're just another slipknot or godsmack, a shitty band to go and headbang and mosh too.........people need to start respecting them as musicians.......not an excuse to get drunk and let out some frustration.

Review written by: Greg (gnovotny@kent.edu) Review posted on: 09/16/01 11:54:14 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

For everyone that had something to complain about the show last night, regarding TOOL, why bother? They are an art form, and they do it how they want. Maynard stands in the back because there isn't supposed to be a front man in this. They all make up an equal 25% of the band. I chanted USA along with everyone else because I have pride in my country, and don't feel bad about that if you did also. So if you didn't like something about the show last night, then don't come. I'm sure they could have sold out jacob's field with people that actually would enjoy the whole show. Now I will state a complaint about Meshuggah. Fast music sounds like shit live, and they exemplify this statement of mine.

Review written by: Adam (darag1@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 11:59:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I believe that above anything, Tool needs to be thanked for performing last night at the CSU convocation center. Given the tragic events of the past week, I felt that they were under no obligation to perform at all on Saturday night. Amazingly, Tool went through with the show and delivered the best live performance I have ever seen. I do not understand the reasoning behind the fans that have criticized Maynard for being slightly subdued or "not into the show." Since when are the members of Tool not prone to the same human emotions that we all have been through lately? If anything, the very slightly subdued nature of the show was more respectful and more effective. I also appreciated Maynard’s comment that the show was not a political event. The emotional and spiritual themes in Tool’s music transcend political boundaries, and describe elements of the human experience that are far deeper. I hope that all of Tool’s fans, including myself, will be able to heed Maynard’s advice to turn the very negative emotions we have been feeling into something positive.

Review written by: justin (gummo_8@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:03:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

i just want to start by saying that i feel the performance i have just witnessed indeed changed my life. the experience was phenomonal. me and a friend drove down from ontario. (about a 3 and a half hour drive). car broke down on the way. got towed to cleveland. we got a ride home from someone who was very helpful driving us about 4-5 hours back to buffalo where we met up w/another ride home. my friends car was not an issue, the issue was making it to the show. it was by far the most spiritual and amazing experience i have ever had the pleasue of being a part of. tool was brilliant as usual. i was a little disappointed in the USA chant as well. i feel what maynard had to say was brilliant. i am not here to upset anyone. my heart honestly goes out to everyone in the US. you would be amazed at the support from canada. i have seen many cars w/american flags in their windows, or even hanging from peoples houses. as i now look forward to the toronto show on tuesday, i hope that everyone found the happiness that i have found from the experience.

Review written by: Sarah (MirrorsSideways9@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:07:19 ET

This was this reviewer's hey Tool show

I just wanted to say that i am disappointed. Most of these reviews blow Tool fans off as stoned moshing assholes. Think before you act. Do not make us all look like jackass just because you couldn't resist pummling the guy next to you. As far as politics, chant USA till the cows come home, but NOT at a fucking Tool concert. Think for yourselves. Do not believe what the media feeds you, do not sit there and act like we are all innocent. Nobody is innocent. To bring that attitude with you to a concert and obviously *from the other reviews* ruin it for the people around you is selfish, disrespectful to the band, and completely unToollike. You think the band did a bad job? Maybe you did a bad job by bringing that energy with you. You think Maynards a dick for *dissing* you? Well, maybe you are a dick for not realizing that they as people are having just as hard a time dealing with this as the rest of us. Tool puts on an amazing show, and i have never felt so much disgust for those of you who cannot appreciate it.

Review written by: A-dawggy (typhoid69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:12:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I had been looking forward to this show since well before Lateralus was released. I was impressed by the bands musical prowess, and of course by Maynard's voice, but I was ultimately disappointed with the setlist and attitude of the band. Where was Sober, Prison Sex, Aenima, Ticks and Leeches? I would have enjoyed more of a mix of music from them. It isn't like they are drawing from 20 years of music; they have only released 4 albums of original material. They seemed to rely heavily on Lateralus, which, while that wasn't a bad thing, you would think that they also would have played some of the songs that are responsible for getting them to where they are today. Finally, MJK's halting of the 'USA, USA' chant was in poor taste. While he was preaching to the crowd that they should take the energy and vibe of the show home and produce something positive with it, I believe that he shattered that vibe by stopping the chant. Unity and oneness in a time like this are important and imperitive to the survival of our nation and our way of life. By rising in a chorus together, the crowd was displaying that unity, and MJK, in his open condemnation of it, did not set a very positive example for those in the audience that idolize him and Tool. A more appropraite thing to do would have been to quiet the crowd, and offer up a moment of silent contemplation. That would have served him - so that the concert wasn't turned into 'apolitical forum', and it would have served the crowd who could have taken a moment to think about the events of the past week, and absorb the positive energy emanating from the crowd.

Review written by: DjBJ (bjferroanf@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:34:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I sat in section 115, first level, dead on looking at the stage. The show was pretty damn sweet. Of course you're gonna get those people who were disappointed about last night's show. I don't care if you're going to a Tool show or an APC show, don't expect a ton of crowd interaction from the band. The underlying premise being that both bands want you to simply listen, and take in the music they're playing. The crowd was pretty calm, seats and floor. Reading other reviews it seems like I wasn't the only one who thought some of the sounds were off at times....who cares...either way I got to see Tool play last night and they put on a awesome show...the visuals on the screen, the lights, everything was amazing. I heard Tool is probably going to tour through much of 2002...I'd love to see them outdoor and during the day next time. No need for a setlist...100 have already been posted...only bad part about last night...I fucking missed The Grudge and Stinkfist and made it in half way through 46&2...Damn!!

Review written by: DjBJ (bjferroanf@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:35:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I sat in section 115, first level, dead on looking at the stage. The show was pretty damn sweet. Of course you're gonna get those people who were disappointed about last night's show. I don't care if you're going to a Tool show or an APC show, don't expect a ton of crowd interaction from the band. The underlying premise being that both bands want you to simply listen, and take in the music they're playing. The crowd was pretty calm, seats and floor. Reading other reviews it seems like I wasn't the only one who thought some of the sounds were off at times....who cares...either way I got to see Tool play last night and they put on a awesome show...the visuals on the screen, the lights, everything was amazing. I heard Tool is probably going to tour through much of 2002...I'd love to see them outdoor and during the day next time. No need for a setlist...100 have already been posted...only bad part about last night...I fucking missed The Grudge and Stinkfist and made it in half way through 46&2...Damn!!

Review written by: Matt (histavista@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:36:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

My first Tool show, and it was great. A few quick notes-- those contornionists were amazing. I would choose Undertow over Sober any day. Some asshole kept chanting 'AENIMA!' behind me. I really wanted to be on the floor. For anyone that does no realize it, Danny Carey is probably the best drummer out there right now. He is so fast, it seems as if the sound comes before he even hit the drums/ cymbals. Meshuggah was great, if you are into double bass crunching guitars unintelligible vocals heavy metal. The best thing about that band was the guiatrists and their unison headbanging. Reflection sounded absolutely amazing. This would have been a great concert to trip at. Sometimes I wish that only certain people could attend Tool shows. I always laugh when these kids have their TOOL bumper stickers next to their Fear Factory and Slayer bumper stickers. But hey, to each his own... maybe some day we will look past that petty bullshit.

Review written by: Evan (ThirdEye17@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 13:41:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Id like to start off by saying I thought that last nights tool show was the best one I've ever seen. I dont know what some of these reviews are talking about with these negative comments. First of all, the floor was not "dead". During songs like opiate, pushit, undertow, and others the floor seemed to be one small ocean ebbing with energy. They also did not "go through the motions". I sat and watched Danny Carey play his fucking balls off during lateralus. To all of you who didnt like the show, I think that says a lot about the kind of fan you are. You only come to hear the "popular songs" and mosh like an asshole. Well, last nights show seperates the real fan who understand, and the teeny bopper, superficial fans. Also, I'd like to comment on how much of a suprise it was to hear Undertow, and then later, Opiate. I was at the columbus show last night, and I expected to hear the same setlist in Cleveland. AWESOME suprise.

Review written by: valerie (spaa649@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 14:16:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Well last nights show was awesome. I was lucky enough to have floor seats and I will say the floor was not dead, if you would have read the numerous signs Tool asked you not to mosh and run around like morons. I did notice that most of the people who didn't like the show it was theiei first one. Maynard was right when he said it wasn't a political forum a concert shouldn't be a place for that. It is a place to see your favorite band live. Beyond that the show was excellent. I can't wait until I can see them again.

Review written by: TheGrudge32 (relayer82@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 14:21:17 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This was an AMAZING show. I have no complaints. Disposition and Reflection were totally amazing, as was the rest of the show. Osseus labyrint was a surprisingly good addition to the show. Now, for the common complaints: 1) Who cares if people are smoking pot? People who are high have an incredibly increased sensitivity to music, making Tool's compositions even more incredible to listen to. I might have been quite stoned last night, but I was there for the incredible music I expected to hear and smoking made me love it even more. If you choose not to do drugs, then thats great, but I don't understand how you guys can bash others doing things to help them appreciate the music more, especially when they are not harming you at all. 2) Chanting "USA" does not mean you are taking a certain political stance and does not resemble anything close to a political forum. I am proud to be an American, and I hope you all are too. This is a time in which we are going to see nationalism rise. The reason people were chanting USA was not because they want to kill innocent Afgahns, but to come together as one during a time where we need to be together. I am disappointed that Maynard did not realize this, and to the people who posted on this board that this was a bad thing, shame on you for being so ignorant. You are criticizing people for being NATIONALISTIC

Review written by: Gerard (lateralus13@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 14:49:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I AGREE WITH EVAN UP THERE A LOT. I BEING A HUGE TOOL FAN WAS NOT THERE TO FUCK AROUND. I WENT SOBER UNLIKE MOST OF YOU JOKERS AND MADE SURE THAT I WOULD REMEMBER EVERYTHING. I WAS FRONT ROW ON THE FLOOR AND IT WAS CRAZY. THERE WERE SO MANY SUCKERS CRYIN AND COMPLAININ ABOUT HOW PPL WERE SHOVIN, BUT I EXPECTED IT AND DIDNT MIND IT AT ALL. I WAS IN MY OWN LITTLE " ZONE " . I KNEW ALL THE LYRICS AND EACH SONG. THERE WERE ONLY A FEW PPL AROUND ME THAT I NOTICED WHO KNEW WHAT WAS GOIN ON. THE SHOW WAS JUST SUPERB. MUSIC/VISUALS WERE STUNNING. IM GOING TO THE PITTSBURGH SHOW TOO, SO I AM VERY EXCITED TO SEE THIS EPIC BAND ONCE AGAIN.

Review written by: Jason Haramic (jharamic@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 16:57:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Ok, no need to post the setlist as many have done so already. Loved the show, 1st time I saw Tool at their own headlining show since '97 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Last couple I saw were festivals, which were still great performances, but in a closed arena where you get some better accoustics and the ability to show the stunning visuals makes it a much better show. I just wanted to throw my 2 cents in about the USA chant and Maynard's "dissing" of it. As soon as I heard it, something inside me said that the chanting may not have been a good thing. Don't get me wrong, I love America and I have pride in my country, but Tool isn't about Americans. They're about people, humans, emotions. My favorite quote of the night was when MJK said "we have tried to be a soundtrack for human." One of the thoughts I've heard about how terrorism has appeared in America has been something along the lines of "it's commonplace in other countries, now America just needs to get used to it." This is very disheartening. Not because America has to get used to it, but because it happens so frequently elsewhere. Tool is about humanity becoming one, "a collective" as MJK put it at the show. We need to get rid of the terrorism not because we need to keep America safe, but because we need the world to be a safer place. I've already gone on too long with this, but think about it. I'm sure as Tool fans, we are able to think for ourselves. Thanks for your time.

Review written by: Very Satisfied (rebecca@ifuckstuffedanimals.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 17:04:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Meshuggah were technically very good but hilarious to watch. I find the whole idea of a swedish Death Metal band pretty funny to begin with and they were exactly what I expected. New Millenium Cyanide Christ indeed. I enjoyed every minute of the Tool performance. Unfortunately, I guess they weren't "Cock Rock" enough for a fair percentage of the crowd. I even heard a woman say that she was bored and that she felt like she was at a Pink Floyd concert. I feel bad that a lot of people seemed to miss the point. I didn't feel that this was a show for cheering but rather a show for absorbing. For that reason, I felt that the "U.S.A" chant was completely inappropriate. I don't like crowds and its very difficult for me to enjoy anything in such an environment. It's a credit to Tool that they were able to affect me in a positive way regardless.

Review written by: Master Reviewer (ddgs@home) Review posted on: 09/16/01 17:28:50 ET

This was this reviewer's 6 Tool show

what's next?will we only get to see 2 bandmembers,and have the other two being recorded somewhere else?A lot of people who havn't seen tool before(alot of my friends),that attended the show,were greatly dissappointed they couldn't see Maynard belching out those amazing tunes.People pay good money to see 3 bandmembers,while the most powerful singer i have ever witnessed hides behind a screen.Not cool for the firsttimers.

Review written by: John Zedick (johnzedi@access995.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 18:48:17 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

My trip to Cleveland to see Tool went really well. The drive only took about and hour and I didn't get lost...much. lol We stopped by a chinese restaurant to compare their food to our favorite chinese restaurant in our hometown called 'The Great Wall'. I ordered some sweet and sour chicken while my friend ordered chicken and brocoli...the atmosphere was more than we're use to, with aquatictanks full of exotic fish and lobsters, but they couldn't compare to our favorite. After our meal, we tipped the waitress and the asked for directions to confirm our destination. We found out we were only a few blocks away, so we scurried to the car and blasted Tool as we jounied to our salvation. The parking was eratic. It was anywhere from $10 to $20 to park, we circled the block once and quickly found the nearest $10 lot, hosted by an african man in a orange vest and flag. We unfolded from the car and paid the man for the parking spot. A caucasion man then jumped out of a car, confronted the african man, and asked him, and I quote, "What the hell do you think you're doing?" The African man bolted from the scene while the caucasion started shouting at the con artist. My friend and I then said that we were unaware that the man was not legitiment and paid the man $5. After the man left, we quickly took out our half empty soda bottles we purchased earlier, and then poured some of the scotch I purchased earlier and shook thoroughly. With two big shit-eatin' grins on our faces, we strolled around the block a few times to consume the contents of our soda bottles and to see if we could locate anyone form the band. As our efforts failed, we sat down at a bench and slammed back the remaining shots of scotch held within the bottles, and then staggered into line. Getting in was no problem, as we clearly smelled like scotch (I poured a little on myself by accident) and slerred some words...but that is not important. :) We locate the restroom and relieved ourselves, washed up, and set out to find our seats. We were disappointed... ..our seats were located on the left side of the stage and very high up, I guess we got our tickets a wee bit late, lol, but we hurridly went to the balcony to maybe locate some better seats. Floor was not an option, because floor patrons wore green wristbands, which we coulnd not duplicate with the materials we had. Seating was strictly enforced, as we found out when we sat someone elses seats that had a beter view and then later told to move to our own seats. The opening act, called Meshuggah, is a swedish metal band that sounds a lot like Pantera or Sepultura, they were very loud and fast, I liked it, lol. They punished us for a while, with low chants and riffs, my neighbors were smoking pot as they played, and kinda caught me off guard. Since I don't smoke myself, I tried to turn away, which helped a little, but they devoured the joint quickly and perfumed air filled my lungs yet again. As Meshuggah ended their assault, the lights came on, and the crowd egerley awaited the main reason they paid for their admission. After watching the roadies teardown and then rebuild for Tool, we watched in awe as they unveiled Danny Carey's drumset...It was incredible. I couldnt see how one man could manipulate it all, but I was about to find out. My friend and I reclined in our seats as we tried to speak in complete sentences, but all came out in one word phrases... dudewhatthefuck? thatsnotright thatsfuckingsick! I was then glad I had the seat I purchased, as I watched Danny do some things that Vinny Paul from Pantera probably could'nt accomplish. Maynard called this session a 'Soundtrack for Healing' and if any magical force could heal someone without the PhD, it would definitley be music. I coulndt tell you every song the band played, as I was speechless the entire time, but Opiate, Pushit, Undertow, and The Patient really got the crowd going, escepcially when the actors from the Schism video emerged while the band played and did the head bobbing, crowl around on tip-toes thing, which was just creepy. lol Maynard didn't address the crowd as often as other bands do, but he said what needed to be said, and probably one thing that upset some people, but he just wanted people to use this energy in a postive and uplifting way, not hurting and badgering innocent people. The band did not play an encore, as most people are use to, which again, probably made people feel ripped-off, but honestly, I can't think of a better concert that I've been to. Without even seeing the screen, i was more focused on the vibe of the crowd and the visions of Danny just wrecking shit, I sat down, and let it all seep in. It made my friend and i feel that we, as people, accomplished something that no one else could have... ...we watched a band from a view that wasn't stimlutated with any type of infuence except the music, and thanked whatever we believe in that we didn't miss it.

Review written by: ashleyd (adisaster@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 18:49:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

the show was fucking amazing and I think we all agreeon that. But I wanna say one thing first...all these comments about wishing only certain types of people could attend tool shows totally violates the ideas the band stands for. For a band that is against the idea of group think and conformity, why do we all preach that people at tool shows should only look or act a certain way? What amazes me about tool is diversity. The diversity in their music, their shows, their fans. This current tour exemplifies these ideas. For tool to go from opiate to reflection to stinkfist and hit the range of emotions they do in two hours is a testament to the THOUGHT and openess that goes into their work. Maybe we should all take a bit of that THOUGHT and process it into our own lives, let the meat heads mosh, let the fairweather fans be fairweather and just enjoy it for yourself.

Review written by: N (000@000.000) Review posted on: 09/16/01 19:17:30 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Hi-one thing I noticed missing from all these reviews was at the end of the show when Maynard walked over to Adam and hugged him, and the two of them went over to Justin and Danny and embraced eached other in one big group hug for about a minute. It was really touching. Then they all turned to the audince grinning from ear to ear while they waved and applauded each other. Really, I actually found it to be a pretty emotional moment, for whatever reason. So now you know.

Review written by: Michelle (shell430@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 19:37:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 2 Tool show

I was one of the fortunate ones to have seen Tool in Chicago this past May. The Cleveland show was set up almost identical to the Chicago show (the backdrops, Maynards little stage, etc...). I really enjoyed the show...the band never sounds bad live, which is amazing!! The one thing that did suck was a lot of the crowd in attendance. Don't get me wrong, I'm not talking about the people who are "true fans", but there were tons of people there who probably didn't own a single Tool album, and they only knew the radio hits. As I was leaving I heard one guy say, "I'm so pissed they didn't play the learn to swim song"....HELLO...did he honestly think Tool would play a song about massive destruction of a city so soon after all the drama this past week?! Also, this is a tour in support of Lateralus- let's not forget that! Anyways, besides that, the show was unbelievable, and Maynard's voice was as beautiful as ever. I wasn't disappointed one bit!! Tool rocked!

Review written by: Josh (T00L_StuD@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 20:33:20 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was the best show I have ever seen. Sure it may be because it was my first time seeing my favorite band, but I think the show itself was very moving. They played a very good set, and I was happy to hear Pushit, my favorite song. I know they didn't move much, but I don't think that jumping around is what makes a good live show. Plus I honestly don't see much of the new stuff to be "jump around to" music. I don't understand why you would mosh at a Tool show. It is so mellow, and like Maynard said, a time for healing. It was one of the bst nights of my life, and I am already set to goto the Pitts show on the 28th. I just wanted to say a little personal view of the show. For the past 6+ months the only emotions i have felt towards people, and the world in general, have been anger and hate. I used to be in touch with my emotions, able to love things, and to cry when the time arose. I haven't cried in such a long time, which may sound stupid coming from a guy, but I used to cry. Last night I was so moved by the songs; Pushit, The Patient, Lateralus that I almost cried. I know most of the hardcore guys who are ashamed to admit to crying will just laugh, but that really means something to me. Tool has been there for me no matter what mood I'm in, they have helped me in a lot of ways for the past 6 yrs. Coming that close to crying should show people that MJK, or any singer for that matter, doesn't have to talk between every song, or that the guitarist and bassist need to run around stage and jump up and down every song to move someone. I have become so cold to this world we live in and last night Tool has helped me bring back some of my emotions that I once had. I hope that this makes sense to some, if not all of you reading this. Can't wait for the 28th! Peace- Josh

Review written by: Denae (denae@wizardworkshop.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 20:44:03 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Last night's show was amazing. The stage set up gave itself to the show, instead of emphasizing Maynard as the figurehead of the band. By placing him opposite to Danny in the rear of the performance area, the crowd was aloud to immerse themselves in the music, (the reason why everyone came) not being overshadowed by the act.

Review written by: joe (j_kuhlman@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 21:47:35 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

this was a fantastic show. it was only my second concert ever, my first being a perfect circle playing in kent back in march. my seat this show wasn't as close to the stage, but i felt that it provided a much better view of the show, as i was front and center in section 114. now onward..i strongly disliked meshuggah. there were a few bits and pieces that were somewhat sonically pleasing, but otherwise i didn't enjoy it. i'm not a fan of death metal in general, though. i thought it was pretty funny that most of the pit was pretty quiet during their whole show. on to tool---- fucking awesome. its enormously difficult to pick just one high point for me, so i will name a few. stinkfist was great, so was reflection(i liked the replacement of the indian instrument at the beginning w/ maynard vocals a lot). osseus labyrint were great, a nice addition to an already awesome show. in contrast to some other people, i enjoyed the "..political forum..." comment....i wholeheartedly agree. we need to think of the worldwide effect that this has had and the emotions it has caused and draw a positive end from it. turn a horrible tragedy into something good. perhaps unity among the citizens of this nation is something good, but NOT unity AGAINST another nation, in favor of more senseless murder. lateralus is probably the best song to close with. :D good night and thanks for your time, ride the spiral. joe

Review written by: greg k (gregorykellerman@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 21:57:39 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

an amazing journey... once again. i was curious what the atmosphere would be for this show, what with the events of the week. inside, emotions were similar to the mood all week: a bit subdued and surreal. meshuggah played a quick set, not more than thirty-five or forty minutes. they are an extremely tight band. as they played, the crowd began to rear its ignorant head, when numerous people yelled "you suck" and the even more impressive "get off the stage." i guess i should expect this, but i just always hope that tool's fans are more intelligent. tool began around 9 pm. the set up was visually stunning, much more so than in dayton four years ago. maynard stood in front of a smaller version of the two larger screens above him. the images were projected onto this screen, and only this produced an effect that made him look totally black. i'm sure the setlist is on here already. everyone else will probably cover all the little details. i will just throw out a few random thoughts and observations. after a few songs, maynard suggested to the crowd that we all use this shared experience as a type of healing. the drunken kid behind me incessantly shouted "fuck, yeah!!!" on slower sections of each song and between each song. surprisingly, the band did not acknowledge him, though i am sure his constant yelling helped them play much better. the sound system was spectacular. they did a magnificent job maintaining clear and audible vocals along with the music. before the last song, maynard thanked everyone for coming together after such a difficult week. everyone cheered and then it came: the chants of "usa! usa! usa!" this went on for almost a minute. i was anxious to hear maynard's reaction, and it was exactly as i had hoped. he stated, "this is not a political forum we have here." the chants quieted quickly, and he continued, "we are not trying to nurture ignorance tonite." (i am summerizing here) "instead, we should all be working together to form a global collective. take all this anger and pain home with you tonite, and try to create something positive." everyone cheered, though i am not sure everyone knew what they were cheering. at any rate, tool played their last song, lateralis. it was perfect, and quite emotional. i think it was fairly emotional for the band, because after the final song, they collectively embraced. just like that, it was back to our ignorant world. at least for two hours, i was able to feel optimistic. one other note: i realize that what happened earlier in the week was a severe tragedy. i just hope that this hatred toward all muslims and americans with a middle eastern background i have seen and read about stops abruptly. realize that only a small percentage of muslims interpret the tenets of islam in the way that the suspected terrorists did. remember, every arab-american is an american first. hatred solves nothing. i think our political leaders have failed this week by not espousing the idea of restraint and non-hatred towards those who physically resemble the terrorists' nationalities. do your part everyone: transform your hatred and anger into becoming more aware of what is going on in this world. resist the urge to crawl back further into ignorance. became aware. tool, i thank you. greg k

Review written by: Ben (beny2@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/16/01 23:46:58 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I drove for 6 hours just to see this show and it was awesome. They did a slightly extended version of Stinkfist that ruled. The live contorsionists (sp?).that dansed upside down during parabol/parabola ware very interesting. All in all I thought it was a great show and I plan to see them every chance I get. PEACE

Review written by: rick (ricketsx) Review posted on: 09/16/01 23:52:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show

good show. the crowd really wasn't getting too into it. mostly enjoying the music i think. highlights include extended stinkfist, pushit, and opiate. still good to hear opiate now and again. rock on.

Review written by: Ryan Alessio (ryan82@prodigy.net) Review posted on: 09/17/01 00:17:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

ahh, what to say. such a great night. something was special in the air that day in cleveland.....oh ya, i know.. it was tool. they were in town. and after making the hour and a half trip up to mecca, i mean cleveland. my friend and i saw an army of tool fans. over taking 18th street and the csu center. with a stomach full of food from a local chinese place. we looked for parking. one thing about cleveland is they know where the money is.....parking..15, 20 bucks a car. thats a lot. we found a 10 dollar lot. we felt lucky, but funny, after paying a man came and confronted the guy we paid. so luck would have it. we paid a man not affilated with the lot. it was some site to see the guy run away with our money....i think..but we forged on..we arrived inside, lit up on some scotch that was purchased earlier that day..it was good..maybe to good. except my friend mixed mountain do, coke and scotch..i dont know what he was thinking, but his body didnt like it. but like a true drinker, he put it down.....now we were off inside looking for our seats. we found them. we were to happy with them....so we tried to move. and we did. and the new seats were nice...just a man with a flash light had other ideas. he didnt like our choice for seats. and made us return to section 200. which is behind the stage. after the first bad, meshugga kick me in the head a few times. we waited for tool.....as we say danny's drum kit i thought.....he must have like 4 arms. cause 2 arent enough. you couldnt swing a dead cat without hitting a drum head...then the lights went down...the place went ape shit...and out came tool. they started playing the grudge. maynard then appeard in a black outfit. on a platform where he sang from all night. we couldnt see the screen. which helped us listen to there sound more..and ill have to say, ive seen plenty of bands live..but they kicked ass. all over. i cant belive the place is still there, i was afraid during stinkfist, and opiate, and undertow there would be no more convocation center. somehow it stayed together...God was with us..there was a nice USA chant when MJK addressed us on what happen to the USA, shows unity. there was a long period where justin played one chord over and over..it was like sleep music. and after the band finished with lateralis...they all came to the front of the stage, hugged, and waved goodbye...the lights came up. and everyone had the biggest shit eating happy grins on..my friend and i found it was hard to communicate..the language was all fuzzy and not able to be understood.....words couldnt describe what happen...profanity could...the words.."holy fuck" and such were used to describe the show...it was great..they sounded more together than any other band ive seen.....i cant wait for the pittsburgh show.

Review written by: MW (wachtems@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 00:30:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Unbelievable show! Every time I see them, they never cease to amaze... What a fitting end to such an emotional week. The band was obviosly affected by the horrible events, and they really let it out in their music. At one point, the crowd began to chant USA! USA! Maynard wagged his finger as if scolding a little child, and said "This is not a political forum." The crowd stopped at once. First confused, I later realized that he didn't want the crowd to drag all of their pain into the arena. The crowd rode the waves of music, exploding in massive highs, and swaying, passivley with the beat during the lows. The spectacle, that is a Tool show, got even larger this tour with impressive video, lights, and even contortionists. Last night was the first time, that I wasn't angry or frightened in the past five days. He said that he hoped this "...was a soundtrack for healing." For me, atleast, it was.

Review written by: Carl (undeniablyheavy@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 03:22:26 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Ok - what do I have to say about Tool. Well, first off - I'd like to state that they made a great choice in the opening band. Meshuggha (I might have spelled it wrong) were excellent. I was reading through the reviews and someone said that fast and heavy shit like that isn't good for a Tool show since the are not the same type of music. What other bands does that person know of that sound like Tool? What other bands are even in the same genre as Tool? Tool transcends genre definitions, and I could bet you my life savings that there is no other band with the sheer spirituality and diverse musical talent as Tool. I was in the 2nd row - floor, but I had to get the hell out of there. I had a migraine which really didn't help me enjoy the show, but with all the assholes pushing forward it made my headache unbearable, so I asked my buddy to get me the hell out of there. Too bad, if I had been in top form I would have stayed. Luckily and obviously - I had a better time standing on the side, I got a good view of the whole show that way, rather than the back of the dude in front of me. There were several key points in the show that I'd like to speak on now. Watching the physically artistic side of the show (ie. screens, "actors") was very mindblowing. I heard a few people saying how fucked up and stupid the nude figures hanging and spining and convilsing were, but I truely thought it brought me to a new dimention while watching the show. At one point in the show, I had a revelation of sorts and became very cold - almost shivering despite the body heat encombasing the whole arena. It felt like a wave of conciousness passed through me. I almost wept. Tool took to not catering the "I'm a fan of the single - and I thought Tool only had one album" crowd by not playing Sober, or any other real "hits" other than Stinkfist. This was perfectly fine by me. I was not dissappointed with the absence of those songs - albeit they are very important songs to me and mean a lot, it did not matter. The band was in top form the entire show, but I did notice that Maynard's voice was a bit strained during a few songs. Obviously - he has a wonderful voice and it IS going to be strained after playing show after show. The percussion was absolutely wonderful - he is a true musical genius. Everyone has touched on the topic of the crowd chanting USA over and over. Patriotism is a fine thing - I think that everyone should be proud of the country they live in - if that country is prospering and doing the best they can do with what they have, BUT - given that Tool is a quite human and emotional/spiritual band - I do not believe that it was the time nor place to chant USA. Maynard stated that we should all take what we feel and go home - and create something positive - that is positive for EVERYONE... This was one of the most heartfelt and beautiful things I have heard since the recent tragity. I met a really cool guy - and we talked a bit about the images on stage - about how truely amazing they were and how it truely was art. My one complaint about the show is: The lack of real fans. I'm not an elitist by any means. I do not go to every Tool show in surrounding areas, and I've only been to 2 shows. This is because, in point, of the people that attend their shows. They become drunken fools, ruining any hope of realizing spirituality or getting anything out of the show. That really doesn't make sense to me. Tool, while they do have some heavy stuff, is a dynamic band. If I want to mosh I will go see Slipknot. Slipknot - by the way - is not a band group and I enjoy their music as well as Tool - but for me, Slipknot is just a fun, run around and headbang, knock into people - type of band, not like Tool. It is disheartening to see the idiocy that was displayed on September 15th at CSU. This was kind of a long review and I'm sorry that you really had to read it all, but I hope that people aggree with me.

Review written by: redneck (justkidding .com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 09:00:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

since this was the very first time i got to see the band live since 95'. Its also the first time ive been in downtown cleveland since what has happened, but that didnt matter i was going to see tool. the show was awsome besides the retard people in the crowd, it was nice to see the light display,projection,light,laser and great music it would of left the perfect setting that got ruin by the absent mind dumb shit people in the crowd and the people who only knew "schism" as a whole it was the best show ive ever seen i would like to seen them play the song jerk off or swamp song.......... ps i have to give my thanks to everone yelling usa just kidding, i would really like to thank you for showing to everyone how shelter you all are "f@%king reedneck god damn do not see how fucking retarded you made everyone feel.........so in closing as bill hicks would say "fuck patritism this is a round world last time i checked" thank you tool for putting on an awsome show peace, the late JC

Review written by: Arthur (brpng@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 09:54:27 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

This was the first time seeing Tool headlining their own tour and definitely lived up to my expectations. The only other time that I've seen them is when they blew everyone else off the stage at Lalapalooza '97. For those of you who think that Maynard was being unpatriotic by not fueling the "USA" chant, that show was on July 3 and Adam, Justin and Maynard were painted red, white and blue. Maynard is not a politician. I don't know what some of you were expecting to hear. I think given the circumstances of the week prior to the show, he gave us some very good suggestions to think about. Secondly, although I was disappointed to see moshing going on at the show, I kind of expected as much. Which is why I purchased reserved seats. I guess I can sort of tolerate moshing, but crowd-surfing has got to cease to exist at concerts. I've never understood the facination with it. What a great way to hurt yourself and those around you. Who I might add, you are putting a great amount of faith in that they will support your fat ass and not drop you on your head. But then again, a few less brain cells won't make a difference for some of you. Thirdly, stop complaining that they don't play Sober or other radio hits that you feel you are entitled to hear since you paid for a ticket. If you wanted to hear it, you should've gone to see them back in '96-'97. And stop complaining that they are playing too much material off of Lateralus. Usually bands play a good amount of new material as a way to promote sales of their new album and to get their new material out to a wider listening audience. They are not on a reunion tour. They are not only going to play their "hits". The true fans appreciate the diversity of the set list. That way if you go to enough of their shows, you may end up hearing every one of their songs live at least on one occasion. If you only want to hear the same songs that you've heard a million times on the radio and mosh and crowd surf like the unintelligent, "MTV" fan that you are, do the rest of us a favor and go to a Limp Bizkit show next time instead. Well, now that I've shared all of my negative feelings, let me share some positive ones. First off, Cleveland is a beautiful city. It was my first time visiting and certainly won't be my last. I left very early Saturday morning from Rochester, NY so I could check out the R&R Hall of Fame before the show. I spent a good five hours taking in the incredible history of the genre. What an amazing way to spend a Saturady. Appreciating the legends of R&R, some of which have obviously influenced Tool, and then seeing the most phenominal band out there today live in concert. It was the ultimate R&R experience. As for the concert itself, I feel I had an unfair advantage over most of you. I was sitting in the first row, on the side of the stage furthest from Maynard's stage. I had an unbelievable view of the entire band. For me at least, having Maynard in the back next to Danny really added another dimension to the show. The acoustics, visuals, and lighting were all amazing. And it's always interesting to see what Maynard will be wearing, or in some instances, not wearing. Also, sitting where I did, I now have a greater appreciation for Danny's amazing talent. Everyone knows that Maynard and Adam are phenominal, but Danny is definitely the backbone of the band. Everytime he gets behind his set, John Bonham is smiling somewhere. Justin is pretty damn good as well. If you ever get the chance to see Tool live in concert, do yourself a huge favor and do so. It is an experience you will never forget. In this era of talentless "Rock Stars", such as Fred Durst and Marilyn Manson, they are one of only a handful of artists that exhibit the same spiritual songwriting and musicianship as some of those incredible bands forever immortalized in the R&R Hall of Fame down the road.

Review written by: Andrea (AJDhoops@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 10:54:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I thought the show was great. Those of you that were upset that Maynard stayed in the back of the stage and all we saw of him was a silhouette, you have to understand the essence of TOOL. Maynard isn't a crowd player (along with the rest of the band), he's not one to come out and start holdin' the mic out for everyone to sing along and start telling everyone to jump and wave their hands. He is in a zone. That is just the way TOOL is. We were there to be put in awe of the incredible genius of this band and having a personal and close experience wasn't necessarily what had to happen for it to be an incredible show. Everything about the concert was so them. What other band do you know of that could pull off having contortionists flopping around in the air and have those streams of video constantly behind them. Although there were a few songs that got left out and I would have loved to have heard, it didn't take away from the show at all because each and every song was extremely powerful in its own way and that is what we have come to expect from them. Sure there were some people there that expected a mosh the whole time and those people are the ones that will feel like they didn't get their moneys worth but that's their own fault. If they can't appreciate how awesome that show was, then they have no clear understanding of the band. We got a full two hour performance which is extremely hard to come by these days and I think an encore would have been asking way too much of them. So thanks to the band for putting on such an incredible show and showing Cleveland what TOOL is really about. <3 Andrea

Review written by: Sam (kornmaster@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 11:43:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

That show was fucking amazing. I was against the railing (which sucked because of all the squashing, but was good because I was in the very front) in the very center of the stage setup. I had on my Deftones hoodie and 2 TooL shirts on underneath it, but somehow I didn't overheat or pass out. I was a mere 15 feet from Adam and Justin. I'm sorry that I'm not gonna go in depth or anything, but if any of you are considering going to the concert, then just go. I got there at 4:30, I walked into the main entrance, over to the box-office. I went up to the window and I said "Ma'am, are there any floor tickets left?" "Sure are," she said. So I just bought my ticket right there and went and waited for them to open up the doors. Floor tickets were only $37.50. Funny how the tshirts were $35 each. I bought 2, and lucky enough I had exactly $70. My girlfriend is gonna go down on me when she sees the shirt I got her. Hehe.... That concert was just any old concert; it was an experience. I haven't had that much fun or felt so much pain afterwards. I loved it.

Review written by: David (Tool4881@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 11:50:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

First off, I would like to add something I noticed that , so far, every other review has neglected to mention. It seems as though the majority of people thought they just breezed through the set and left with a disappointment due to the hillbillies chanting "U.S.A." repeatedly and drowning out Maynard's speech. Well, I would like to point out that , at the very end, the group all came together and embraced eachother, like a family reuniting after an emotional event. I have been a Tool fan for about 8 years now, and being my first show, my anticipation of finally seeing them live and experiencing their emotional music first hand was incredible. I remember holding onto that metal fence right in front of the stage for dear life just so I could be as close to the band as possible. The weight of hundreds of sweaty people pushing against my scrawny ribs wasnt too comfortable, but after a while the music, visuals, and the band took me into this out of body experience that I have never had before. (and , no, I didnt get high either, that's how powerful that show was, drugs werent necessary to get the full effect of the show.) My only complaint is that they could've played 3rd Eye...one of my favorites, but with the new album and new material to experiment with, it's only common sense that they leave out some stuff. The show was incredible, even though Maynard was secluded in his little stage the whole time, but like one of the previous reviews said, I think it was because Tool is his way , and the whole band's way, of finding their most relaxed and isolated emotions and becoming a part of the beautiful art that is their music. So, I think that if everyone puts this into perspective, ending with the band's embrace at the end, you might see that the show wasnt as bad as many of you thought. In fact, when the crescendo of Lateralus was building up to it's climax, I looked around at people's faces and saw how drained people looked, looking up at the band with awe and thinking "god, i hope this doesnt end." But, it did end, and when the lights came on, I wished that the show could've just gone on forever. I have always listened to Tool to help comfort me when the world is harsh, and with recent events happening in New York, this show definitely provided relief. I think what Maynard said about the show being a healing experience was definitely true, and I'm sure everyone felt that way if they put aside the stupid yahoo's in the crowd.

Review written by: Tyler (vanwormert@kenyon.edu) Review posted on: 09/17/01 15:50:54 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Once Meshuggah got off the stage (i'm still wondering why Tool chose them to open......i wasn't too impressed) the crowd went silent as the house lights went up. Tool took maybe 20 mins to get ready and to come out on stage, and as soon as the house lights went down, the entire CSU (cleveland state university) convocation center absolutely went nuts. The opening riffs to "The Grudge" brought the entire stadium to it's feet, and cheers loud enough to rival the band's music. It was a show of different extremes...There were the hard and heavy moments from Stinkfist and 46&2 (accompanied by some kick ass videos) to the more relaxed duo of Parabol and Parabole. Maynard never really showed himself in front of the crowd - the group and I were duly impressed by this. It showed us that Maynard just sees himself as Tool's singer, not their frontman/leader. The concert was mainly selections from Lateralus, but a few old classics were thrown in, including Opiate (an excellent surprise, and in this man's humble opinion, Tool's best song) The concert finished off with a very befitting rendition of Lateralus, a group band hug, and left the crowd with undoubtedly one of the most awe- inspiring times of their lives to remember always.

Review written by: robert (yournotpayingattention@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 17:37:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I have been a fan for a long time and what i saw at the show disgusted me. Not the band, they were incredible, but the people. I'm not one to make Tool into a gods, but they were sending out so much energy that was obviously wasted on alot of people. These reviews are making me sick. If you thought the band made that a bad show you weren't paying attention. It's art, it's creative, and i understand that not everyone will get it. In all actuallity I'm very happy that not everyone will "get it". It makes it special. But the level of stupidity I experienced was horrible. I heard the always present "fuckin' Tool," but my favorite was "we want Tool." This chant began when the people from the Schism video began their performance, but shortly there after was being screamed while the band was actually playing. I flew from Houston just to see my two favorite bands playing together. From what I saw I'm glad I don't live in Ohio. Maybe this is why Maynard was distant. I wouldn't want to be linked to that either. As for the U-S-A chant, they might as well been yelling "kill the Arabs." Maynards comments were merely trying to bring us all together, to make us understand that killing innocent people is why we're mad. But this countries mentallity is of the out of site out of mind mentallity. Killing a bunch of innocent Arabs is ok. The people chanting were not trying to be peaceful, it was a war cry. And for you people who think Meshuggah sucks. Your heros don't think so, that's why they're on the tour. It takes a little listening to to really grasp what they're doing, but I assure you it's nothing less than amazing. To the members of Tool, thank you.

Review written by: RR (rx2_2137@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 23:27:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I will spare the re-hashing of the whole "USA' debacle, although I think that it is worth noting that Danny seemed to find it humorous. In all, I don't care; I am not TOOL, and what they think and believe is of no concern to me. Similarly, I am not one of those who chanted, and what they think is also of no concern to me. What I wish to say is that the sound and acoustics were horrible, from a listener's perspective. They either need a better engineer, or need to spend more time actually standing back and percieveing the sound from an audience perspective (of course, I wonder if they really care). If I had never heard TOOL before, and were to base my decision of whether or not I liked the music based upon this show, I would have to pass, or wait and see. The articulation was almost non-existant. This was in no way due to poor technique; what I could make out was as on as ever. None the less, the entire performance was just one puddle of mud, to me. There was far too much bass, which may be fine for brainless moshing, but this detracts substantially from the musicality. In certain instances, there was nothing to be articulated other than the drums (which are always beautiful) and a low-end drone, which enveloped all mid and upper mid, making it difficult for even a long-time fan (8 years) to identify the songs with any strong conviction. This was truly dissapointing, as I come to listen, not to dance around. Actually, during the segue, where Adam played a three chord progression, the overwhelming resonance in the low-end frequencies seemed to throw off the intonation of the last chord of the progression enough to make it seem flat at times. As for the opening act, it was the same. Little articulation of instruments and note, due to an overwhelming bass response. I cannot say that they were a poor act, as I could not really hear anything clearly (perhpaps my ears are too sensitive). I will note, however, that with the possible exception of a lyrical message (I couldn't make out anything, so I don't know), they were dissapointing. They are doing something that has been done a thousand times before, and often much better. The two-handed tapping solos were weak, and the rhythm seemed to have come from a cookie cutter. I much rather would have seen Mike Patton's band. The atmoshpere was as to be expected. A fair amount of narcotic useage, several mindless and testosterone driven bouts of rage, and the like. It did seem a little dead compared to other shows I have attended (which is fine by me). I do think it to be amusing, still, that for a band that preaches individuality (except for in their collective consciousness spiel) that there were so many fans donning tool paraphenalia. After all, if you payed 40 dollars to attend, chances are you are a TOOL fan, so there is no need to wear it on your chest, and they really don't need the advertising. There were also a large number of yuppies in their shiny new outfits from high-priced outfitters, who showed up in their SUVs, but then, I shouldn't judge based on appearacne. If they get the music, then all is well; I jsut have the suspicion that many show up just because it is now socially acceptable to like TOOL. Anyhow, while the other members where as lax as usual (Chancellor seemed a little more into it than some may credit him as being, and let me say that I perform the same way, so I know where they are coming from) maynard was mroe subdued in the past. I have heard that this is how the whole tour has been. This could be for many reasons. It may be part of what he considers tha art, he may be tired after all of these years, he may be disenchanted with the fan-base, he could have been disenchanted with that particular audience, he may just be wary due to current events. I don't know, and before we are too hasty to slam him, we should try to see things from his perspective as a grizzled veteran, so to speak. After the show, the band did the huddle thing, and threw out stuff to the crowd (sticks, a drum-head, and water). This is a little more than some bands do, I suppose. However, as they walked off and waved, I can't help but speculate as to what they might have been thinking. They waved to the audience, with slight grins, and casually disappeared; but what did this mean? Perhpaps the cheers from the audience brought them a little joy, or perhaps they smilied grudgingly, inside fuming that the audienced did not get what they wanted them to. I can't say. Hell, it could be all a big joke at the expense of the audience, as TOOL, like it or not, does have an elitist air about it. Overall, I must say that it was somewhat underwhelming. Sure, they had plenty of computer generated visuals, but the sound was terrible, and no matter how hard I try, I can't help but think that the members of the band just weren't there all of the way, and that perhaps thought themselves to be above the audience, thus resulting in a lack of vitality that has shown through in the past, despite the most stoic of appearances. It all seemed too forced, with not enough emphasis on the music. Furthermore, while Maynard claims to a small part of the band, he seems to have set the agenda. Maybe, though, I am just jaded. I just hope that this is what they want, and are truly, deeply satisfied with what they are doing, for that alone gives somthing merit, and not what I or you think. This is just one man's thoughts, however insignificant they may be. Release or explode.

Review written by: Paul Greiner (paulisgod33@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/17/01 23:50:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I saw this enlightening show about a week and a half ago. I figured that I would give myself a little time to sit back and reflect on what I experienced that night. Buying the tickets was almost as much of a memory to me as the actual concert. Four friends and I decided that we were going to have to realize that if we wanted to do what we wanted to do at this concert, than we were going to have to get pavilion seats to avoid all of the ignorance. We decided to have a gathering and then leave for the ticket store on May 15 4:30a.m. and then have a little nap in front of the place. I recieved lower pavilion tickets and then through sheer kindness of ones heart,I was able to sit in the third row exact center. -The show- Although this was my first live tool experience I did know what to expect. I knew 90% of what was going to happen at this concert. Some people think that this might be deadening to the experience, but I take it as a sort of preperation for what was about to happen. The one thing that i did not expect was for it to blow away my expectations and basically blindside me. Don't take this as negative at all. I have been researching this band for 6 years and I am 17 years old. The level that my study has taken me to is amazing. Tool IS actually a tool. Just think about what I am saying and you will know exactly what I am talking about. Put yourself in the same frame of mind as you were in at that beautiful concert you were at. Do you think you have ever felt like that in your entire lifetime? This band will teach you the beginnings of an unbelievable journey and that is just the beginning. I am not blabbing about how this band rocks. We need much more than that. the catchphrases and the slang belong exactly where you found them. Please truely think for yourself. This is only my opinion. Write me paulisgod33@hotmail.com

Review written by: Darth Hippo (darth_hippo@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/18/01 12:22:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Obviously Tool have finally made it. Giant venues, screaming little girls, a number one album, and everything else a money grubbing bunch of people could ever want. Most often with this much success a band will let go of integrity and become just a shallow image of themself (not unlike 80s, 90s Pink Floyd) and show the world how much they suck now after their prime. This is what I would be saying if this was just another hasbeen band. Having quite possibly the worst seat in the venue this was by far the best show I have ever seen. They beefed up all the old songs and made all the new ones even more intense than thought possible. My last review was in 97 from lollapalooza (i bitched about the band getting to big.) While I did have like front row vision of this show it almost fails in comparison to this monster of a show I saw Saturday (except for the seats of course which I ordered right as they went on sale.) Speechless is all I can say. No details needed. Amazing. Matthew A. Pascale

Review written by: Larry Sellers (immerjung@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/18/01 13:37:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

HAVING BEEN A TOOL FAN FOR A LONG TIME, I WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SHOW AT THE CONVO CENTER. THE SOUND WAS GREAT, THE BASS WAS HEAVY AND THE SNARES CRISP--YOU COULD FEEL THE FULLNESS OF SOUND THE BAND PRODUCES. THE STAGE SHOW WAS SWEET EVEN FROM A NOT-SO-GOOD SEAT, THE CONTORTIONISTS ABOVE THE STAGE WERE EXCELLENT, THE LIGHTS WERE FAIR, AND THE SCREENS WERE TOP-NOTCH. THE SHOW WOULD HAVE BEEN 10X BETTER IF THE USHERS KNEW HOW TO DO THEIR JOB BY CHECKING TICKETS CORRECTLY (USHERS WITH BLINDING FLASHLIGHTS MOVING PEOPLE THEY HAD SEATED 10 MINUTES AGO, SECURITY SCREAMING AT PATRONS BECAUSE THE USHERS WERE TOO PUSSY TO DO IT THEIRSELVES OR DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME) IN OUR SECTION. OUR ROW WAS FUCKED WITH AT LEAST 5 TIMES, WHICH PISSED PEOPLE OFF AND TOOK AWAY FROM THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE OF THE SHOW...WHICH MIGHT BE WHY SOME PEOPLE DIDNT STAND. HOWEVER, THOSE NOT STANDING WERE STILL CHEERING, SCREAMING, AND BOUNCING AROUND ( I WAS TOO TORE-UP TO STAND WITHOUT FALLING DOWN). THE USA CHANTS WERE NOT NEEDED, THIS SHOW WAS A MEANS FOR RELEASE, NOT PATRIOTISM. THE BAND DIDN'T SEEM TOO HYPED TO BE PLAYING FOR THE CROWD, BUT THEY WERE PRECISE AND WELL ROUNDED FROM BEGINNING TO END. HAD THEY PLAYED HOOKER WITH A PENIS, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN THE ICING ON THE CAKE...