concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart
09/27/2001



Review written by: Jeff (Forys572@aol.com)
Review posted on: 09/26/01 17:14:54 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This Setlist s better.. The Grudge Stinkfist Sober Eulogy Schism Relection Swamp Song Intermission- Parabol Parabola Ticksand Leeche 46 & 2 Pushit Opiate Third Eye Lateralus

Review written by: CArl (bucksrealtor@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/27/01 22:40:58 ET

This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show

Well I never thought Id write this but here it goes... I did not go to tonights show. Im not sure why. Ive been a fan since the preUndertow days and have seen Tool every time they came to the Philly/NJ area.Ive purchased all the cd's, shirts (including Kabir's beautys) and seen all the shows... That is, until tonight. I cant explain it. It could be the new album. (Not very impressed with 6 songs and tons of filler). It could be the ticket price (Its not like I cant afford it, I make more than enough money; maybe I just dont see the value) It could be the new found arrogance of the band. Who knows.. All I know is that I find myself sitting here at 1015pm while Tool is playing in my town, and Im not there. I hope that maybe after this tour the band comes back to earth and starts playing the music that got them to where they are today. Undertow, sober, Third Eye and to a lesser extent parabola are awesome pieces; almost works of art.. Lateralus just doesnt do it for me.. I dont know why... I sure hope one day Ill understand what it is but for know I just sit scraching my head thinking... So, what happens from here... Where will my journey as a faithful Tool fan take me? Who knows? Hopefully the next disc will be back to basics. Good, solid, masterful songs. Until then, I guess Ill hold my breath, cross my fingers and pray that the band's heads dont continue to expand as they are currently. sorry I missed the show guys. Your loyal fan and friend, Carl

Review written by: Roadie Killer (road_ie666@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/27/01 23:58:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

After no wait at all to get inside (but a wait for fantomas to get on stage) Fantomas started, and were actually not all that bad as a lot of people have said. They actually impressed me. Then it was time for the masters of music Tool to come on stage, the set list was: The Grudge (-) Ions Stinkfist 46&2 Pushit (salival version) Mantra Schism* Disposition* Reflection* --INtermission-- w/contortionists Parabol/a Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Opiate Lateralus Tool was amazeing despite the assholes that decided that a really big pit was necessary during every single song. but it was a phonomemal show and i will be going back to see the amazing visuals, hear the incredible music, and feel the music embrace me. nothing can compare to tool live, it was the best show ive ever seen.

Review written by: Roadie Killer (road_ie666@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:02:29 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

sorry, the * next to my above review means that Maynard was on guitar.

Review written by: it's not even fair (keith k) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:12:49 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

It's not even fair....the fact that four guys can be this much more talented than anyone else is just beyond comprehension. Fantomas: unintelligible Setlist: the grudge stinkfist (extra verse) 46 & 2 prison sex (otrm) pushit (salival) schism disposition / reflection intermission parabol parabola eon blue apocalypse the patient opiate lateralus The best concert of any band I have ever been to. I didn't think they could top the sound quality of the Electric Factory show in 1996 in this arena setting, but it was close. The video footage was amazing. Forget which songs were "left off" of the setlist, there isn't room (or the need) for anything else. Ignore the ridiculous complaints of anyone who cries for "Sober" or "Eulogy" or a "normal" stage setup - this show is perfect as they have crafted it. Looking forward to NYC 10/2.

Review written by: Brad "Zophar" Levicoff (zophar@covad.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:34:18 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, since there's already 2 accurate posts with the setlist, I won't repaste them here. First off, I thought Fantomas was... interesting.. to say the least. Not good, just different. Heh. Not for me, I suppose. Lots and lots of boo's. I thought the lead singer was funny when he said 'blame tool' and 'we don't suck, weezer sucks!'. As for Tool, they were totally amazing! Every song was tight, and the crowd was very into it almost the whole way through. There weren't many empty seats as I was looking around the First Union Center, which shows their popularity is through the roof right now. Except for a few assholes in the pit who seemed to want to mosh into the many defenseless female teenagers, it was a very respectful crowd. (I started flipping out on one guy who almost crushed a girl in front of me. Sheez..) There were some dissapointed people in that Tool didn't play Sober or Aenima, but damn, what they did play was good enough for me! The Patient was incredible live, as was Disposition/Reflection (Maynard on guitar!).. actually, every song was amazing! Heh. Osseus Labyrint were very interesting. I never knew the people in the Schism video actually existed until tonight. I thought they were computer animated... we also got a nice view of the 2 performer's anatomies... you have to see 'em to believe 'em. Anyways, great first Tool concert for me - can't wait for them to come back! TOOL FOREVER!

Review written by: Brad "Zophar" Levicoff (zophar@covad.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:35:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, since there's already 2 accurate posts with the setlist, I won't repaste them here. First off, I thought Fantomas was... interesting.. to say the least. Not good, just different. Heh. Not for me, I suppose. Lots and lots of boo's. I thought the lead singer was funny when he said 'blame tool' and 'we don't suck, weezer sucks!'. As for Tool, they were totally amazing! Every song was tight, and the crowd was very into it almost the whole way through. There weren't many empty seats as I was looking around the First Union Center, which shows their popularity is through the roof right now. Except for a few assholes in the pit who seemed to want to mosh into the many defenseless female teenagers, it was a very respectful crowd. (I started flipping out on one guy who almost crushed a girl in front of me. Sheez..) There were some dissapointed people in that Tool didn't play Sober or Aenima, but damn, what they did play was good enough for me! The Patient was incredible live, as was Disposition/Reflection (Maynard on guitar!).. actually, every song was amazing! Heh. Osseus Labyrint were very interesting. I never knew the people in the Schism video actually existed until tonight. I thought they were computer animated... we also got a nice view of the 2 performer's anatomies... you have to see 'em to believe 'em. Anyways, great first Tool concert for me - can't wait for them to come back! TOOL FOREVER!

Review written by: Brad "Zophar" Levicoff (zophar@covad.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:35:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, since there's already 2 accurate posts with the setlist, I won't repaste them here. First off, I thought Fantomas was... interesting.. to say the least. Not good, just different. Heh. Not for me, I suppose. Lots and lots of boo's. I thought the lead singer was funny when he said 'blame tool' and 'we don't suck, weezer sucks!'. As for Tool, they were totally amazing! Every song was tight, and the crowd was very into it almost the whole way through. There weren't many empty seats as I was looking around the First Union Center, which shows their popularity is through the roof right now. Except for a few assholes in the pit who seemed to want to mosh into the many defenseless female teenagers, it was a very respectful crowd. (I started flipping out on one guy who almost crushed a girl in front of me. Sheez..) There were some dissapointed people in that Tool didn't play Sober or Aenima, but damn, what they did play was good enough for me! The Patient was incredible live, as was Disposition/Reflection (Maynard on guitar!).. actually, every song was amazing! Heh. Osseus Labyrint were very interesting. I never knew the people in the Schism video actually existed until tonight. I thought they were computer animated... we also got a nice view of the 2 performer's anatomies... you have to see 'em to believe 'em. Anyways, great first Tool concert for me - can't wait for them to come back! TOOL FOREVER!

Review written by: Brad "Zophar" Levicoff (zophar@covad.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:39:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, since there's already 2 accurate posts with the setlist, I won't repaste them here. First off, I thought Fantomas was... interesting.. to say the least. Not good, just different. Heh. Not for me, I suppose. Lots and lots of boo's. I thought the lead singer was funny when he said 'blame tool' and 'we don't suck, weezer sucks!'. As for Tool, they were totally amazing! Every song was tight, and the crowd was very into it almost the whole way through. There weren't many empty seats as I was looking around the First Union Center, which shows their popularity is through the roof right now. Except for a few assholes in the pit who seemed to want to mosh into the many defenseless female teenagers, it was a very respectful crowd. (I started flipping out on one guy who almost crushed a girl in front of me. Sheez..) There were some dissapointed people in that Tool didn't play Sober or Aenima, but damn, what they did play was good enough for me! The Patient was incredible live, as was Disposition/Reflection (Maynard on guitar!).. actually, every song was amazing! Heh. Osseus Labyrint were very interesting. I never knew the people in the Schism video actually existed until tonight. I thought they were computer animated... we also got a nice view of the 2 performer's anatomies... you have to see 'em to believe 'em. Anyways, great first Tool concert for me - can't wait for them to come back! TOOL FOREVER!

Review written by: Brad "Zophar" Levicoff (zophar@covad.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 00:39:54 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, since there's already 2 accurate posts with the setlist, I won't repaste them here. First off, I thought Fantomas was... interesting.. to say the least. Not good, just different. Heh. Not for me, I suppose. Lots and lots of boo's. I thought the lead singer was funny when he said 'blame tool' and 'we don't suck, weezer sucks!'. As for Tool, they were totally amazing! Every song was tight, and the crowd was very into it almost the whole way through. There weren't many empty seats as I was looking around the First Union Center, which shows their popularity is through the roof right now. Except for a few assholes in the pit who seemed to want to mosh into the many defenseless female teenagers, it was a very respectful crowd. (I started flipping out on one guy who almost crushed a girl in front of me. Sheez..) There were some dissapointed people in that Tool didn't play Sober or Aenima, but damn, what they did play was good enough for me! The Patient was incredible live, as was Disposition/Reflection (Maynard on guitar!).. actually, every song was amazing! Heh. Osseus Labyrint were very interesting. I never knew the people in the Schism video actually existed until tonight. I thought they were computer animated... we also got a nice view of the 2 performer's anatomies... you have to see 'em to believe 'em. Anyways, great first Tool concert for me - can't wait for them to come back! TOOL FOREVER!

Review written by: Sarah Rose (MirrorsSideways9) Review posted on: 09/28/01 01:08:35 ET

This was this reviewer's bleh Tool show

You know...Adam and his girl Camella did those visuals. And they were kick ass. i don't know what show you were watching, but how fucking dare you bitch about their talent as you sit on your fucking ass at THEIR concert. Are you really a Tool fan? You go to a show and all you can do is bitch about the fucking video? WHat about the atmosphere? What about the spirituality? I don't care if you wish they would play Sober. I don't care if you wish they hadn't made Lateralus. Maybe you should sit the hell down and read the fucking lyrics. How dare you disrespect the only good band left, as you sit in your house and do NOTHING with the life around you. Learn to make yourself vulnerable. Learn to understand what the band is trying to tell you. NOBODY IS BORN ENLIGHTENED. you fucking disappoint me...

Review written by: Derek Walenta (tooldissectional@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 01:17:25 ET

This was this reviewer's 2 Tool show

Its about fucking time someone understands what tool is trying to do. You seem like a cool chick Sarah. We should talk sometime. -Derek from nj

Review written by: Derek Walenta (tooldissectional@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 01:18:18 ET

This was this reviewer's 2 Tool show

Its about fucking time someone understands what tool is trying to do. You seem like a cool chick Sarah. We should talk sometime. -Derek from nj

Review written by: Crimble Crumble (merkaba888@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 01:36:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 888 Tool show

Tool in Philly- The opening act Fantomas did an awesome job! They are the epitome of punk. All the people screaming for them to get off the stage and/or to "play Epic", god that was great. As for Tool, the imagery and the art work projected on stage are just one of the many aspects that sets this band apart from the Lame Biscuits and Norma Gene Krautmeyers of modern music. Having the singer area set up just next to the drummer area is brilliant; they are a band not the Maynard show. The set list seemed to be a bit short, but I want Toolstock, 3 days of Tool jamming all day and all night. Did I see Maynard with a Gee-tar? To me, Tool is a message of love, conscience, and evolution. I don’t think the Tool army will be a fan club as much as gatherings of like-minded people who understand this idea and can keep a hold on that vibration through the times ahead. It doesn’t have to be a struggle. I'm not going to say much about the posts above, if you flood a message board that's like holding up a huge sign that reads "I DON'T GET LAID!!!" Hold it up high bro!

Review written by: Master Reviewer (santa@gamedr.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 02:37:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

wow... this show was AMAZING... the opening band, fantomas, was probably the worst thing i have EVER heard in my life, but tool made up for that in the first second. the pushit was the salival version and im soooooo thankful for that.. they didnt play H. though.. and im sure they heard me screaming H from waaaaaaaaaay on the other side of the arena hahah.. but yeah, it was fucking awesome in my opinion they played too much of the new stuff but oh well what do you expect, they're touring the new album hehe... IT WAS GREAT, to say the least.

Review written by: Ducklet (ducklet@thefragile.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 04:37:09 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Just wanted to drop a quick note to say the show was excellent. Thanks to those who posted the setlists for those of us too forgetful to bring a pen/good memory. I'm a little concerned about the slight differences... anyone know for certain? It was an amazing first time seeing them, the visuals, sound, closeness of the band, feel... everything very good. I do have a quick question, though, if anyone can help me out. Near the beginning, possibly during the grudge, Maynard sang a few lines from a song Elvis covered. I cannot for the life of me remember the name of the song, original artist, or lines he sang, but I know Elvis did it and if you were there and know how the song really goes, I'm sure you heard it. Please help me out at all? Anyone record it who can play back the lines and let me know? I know better to expect a band to play all my favorite songs, but it was just an amazing, amazing experience... every song great in and of itself. Anyway, if you haven't been out yet, GO; they defy all the standard expectations by skipping encores, not putting the lead singer in the center of the stage in the spotlight, not playing all their hit singles... but isn't their originality what makes them so amazing? thanks for anyone's help on the Elvis thing & take care!

Review written by: roberto (collnite@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 06:59:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

how you dare kick fantomas for doing something different...get the faith no more cd "album of the year "and listen to this genius mike patton work...that cd is any bit as good as lateralus or aenema or undertow...get a life and try and listen to the opening band...tool opened for nirvanna and there were dumbasses back then who would've hated tool because they didn't know them...give the f'ing music and then decide....take care

Review written by: justin (funkykarate@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 07:40:23 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Let me start off with F*CK the Phillies & Aerosmith. How dare they have an event the same night as TOOL. Thanks to their events I missed Fantomas. Ok, but seriously. I thought the crowd @ the FU Center was not very energetic. Having seen TOOL at both Scranton & Hershey earlier this week, both of those crowds were more alive. The building sounded really good, except for the super bass on the tabla's. Finally got to hear the salival version of Pushit!!! Definately one of the highlights from last night. Laterlaus is an awesome closer. Go out and see this show again and again and again and again. Anyone else skip the overpriced merchandise?

Review written by: tarik parvez (wikced5708@AOL.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 08:44:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

That was probably one of the better of the Tool shows I've been to. The set list was as follows: The Grudge, obviously ions Stinkfist, with the alternate interlude 46 and 2, best I've seen it played Prison sex, alternate interlude, Adam played the end a little different that I've seen him do in the past using the low B string not the high one Pushit, alternate version, would've preferred the original, why mess with perfection Schism, Maynard on guitar, although I don't think he even played anything on it. Disposition/Reflection, Maynard on guitar again, this time he actually did something. Jones broke his low E/D string right before the outro so it sounded a little different, but he used delay and chorus to make it sound perfect Intermission, not the song Parabol/Parabola, every idiot around me was muttering the lyrics, quite annoying The Patient, best song of the night, hands down. They nailed the performance perfectally. Opiate, always aclassic, but would have preffered something else of that album. Lateralus, obviously. Between sets they had contorsionist hanging from the ceiling doing some rather interesting movements, who stayed in through parabol/parabola. Also during schism, two contorsionists came out a did that odd style of walking they do in the video. Very interesting. I would just like to state for the record, that I don't think tool should ever play a venue of this magnitude ever again. I was fortunate to see them when the played at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York about two months ago, and the atmosphere there was far superior. There are too many fucking idiotic, illiterate, bozo-looking, college fraternity retards at shows of this size, who seem to think that they should mosh during Reflection. They apparently have failed to understand Tools message, and my bet is taht they never will. All in all, an excellent show as expected. For those of you who didn't get a chance to see them, don't make the same mistake the next time.

Review written by: KC (kcijones001@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 08:55:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Hey!! Can anyone give me the setlist from last night's show??? Thanks! Casey

Review written by: The Hammer (mr_mrsldaggett@excite.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 09:15:27 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Last night in Philly was an amazing show. I scanned the reviews before I placed mine and was wondering what show everyone was at posting all these crazy set lists. Did anyone catch Maynard throw in a few lines from Elvis' "Suspicious Minds" in Pushit? I liked the set, but I enjoied Monday's set in WB a little more. Opiate was great though. I was also glad that all the little frat boys again didn't get to hear Sober. I heard they played it in Hershey. Who cares. My friends and I were also discussing the Mosh Pit during almost everysong. Why would you go to an amazing show, and slam you self into sweaty guys? if someone has a opposite view, please enlighten me. I didn't see anyone post what Maynard was orignally wearing? I was a little too far to see anything. ..and to the idiot who posted a huge please play "eulogy" Ha hathey didn't!

Review written by: John (kantele99@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 09:38:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I was worried how well Tool would go off in the FU Center in thw weeks prior to the show. Boy, was my worrying for naught. Got there a little late, Phantomas was about half through their set. My friend is a Phantomas fan, and I suppose I am too, since I was a Faith No More fan back in the day and a Mr. Bungle listener but I never got around to picking up Phantomas' stuff. I cannot say enough for Mike Patton. Watching him actually "orchestrate" the band, and specifically the drummer Dave Lombardo, with hand motions and flail about the stage was jawdropping. I was tapping my foot the whole time thinking, "How the hell do you time this stuff?". I've seen the Melvins before, but I have to say it again: Buzz has just about the coolest low guitar sound in music. Second is the guy from Kyuss and I'll give Adam Jones third just for playing through a Mesa. We had discussed in the car on the way to the show the anticipated crowd's reaction to Patton's new act, especially considering we were going to an arena and the last time most of these folks had heard his name, he was singing Epic. As my friend said it best: "It went over like a fart in church." I totally expected this, and I didn't read any reviews for previous shows. It was completely obvious that a small portion of Tool fans could appreciate the seldom walked musical ground that Phantomas took us to, even for the small lengths of time they're songs are, while others were completely lost without a hook to get behind. So, then Tool. As I said, I was really afraid of alot of sucking. For one, i had side view seats in the second level, which while the view was awesome, I was worried that the sound was going to be horrible. Didn't turn out too bad. Secondly, last time I saw them they were ending their touring for Ænime, and didn't play the best set that I've seen. They did not disappoint. The new pushit (which I suppose is not so new anymore) was *really* tight, and I heard the new part in Prison Sex for the first time live. Out of the new stuff, I was really amazed by Reflection. Lateralus was just awesome as well, as I was waiting for it the whole time. A few questions for people who were at the show. Y'al can e- mail me responses if you know the answers. Post them here if you think someone else would care to hear it too. 1.) Maynard was obviously playing guitar for parts of this show. From where I was sitting, it looked like a headless bass. Anyone get a better look? 2.) For Lateralus, I expected Justin to use a fretless bass, but I don't think he switched to one and he just used some effects to pull off the end parts. Did he not use a fretless on the album? I had heard he was not too adept at it in the studio (had to tape frets on the back of the fretboard for reference). Well, awesome show all in all. I wish we could have all watched them in a place a little more concert-friendly, but I suppose this is what you get when your new album is at #1 for a few weeks. Damn you Aerosmith for taking the E- Center (Tweeder, whatever)! Thanks for reading, and I hope y'al had as great of an experience as I did! - John kantele99@yahoo.com

Review written by: John (kantele99@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 10:23:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

One thing I forgot to mention... $35 for a t-shirt? $50 even for some others? You have to be kidding me. And y'al were lining up to by them. Well, hope you frame them or keep them away from yer dog. My dog ate my cool t.d.n. shirt 4 years ago and I have never liked the bastard since! Anyway, thought I would post my disdain about that.

Review written by: gsus (gsus713@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 10:33:01 ET

This was this reviewer's XXXX Tool show

Most of what was needed to be said about Tool live has been said before, the things that have been left unsaid should remain unspoken... All I have is this... Tool is the natural alt. to all psychedelic and mind altering drugs out there... Maynard's voice is the perfect guide and Adam's mind is the perfect landscape... ogt - gsus ...see ya's in nyc...

Review written by: Kevin (kevserf1@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 10:57:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Tool has yet to disappoint. 1st time I saw them as a headliner (Saw them on Ozzfest a few years ago), they were 100 times better than the high expectations that I had. Also, I thought I was hearing things when Maynard, added "Because I love you too much baby" from "Suspicious Minds", during Stinkfist. But previous posts confirm that I am not crazy.

Review written by: Bunkster (LOIlars@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:02:53 ET

This was this reviewer's 420 Tool show

Anyone who screams for Sober or Eulogy, or is dissappointed that they played too much from Lateralus is NOT a real fan. Do all REAL Tool fans a favor and stick to going to Godsmack, Limp Bizkit and Korn shows, and leave Tool to those who know how to appreciate it. And another thing, why waste the time and vocal strain to boo Fantomas and try to get them off the stage. Like Tool will go on earlier if Fantomas leaves the stage. Try to open your mind and consume something different for a change. You would think that Tool fans would be open to giving a band that does something ORIGINAL a chance. And if you don't care for it, just shut the fuck up and go get a pretzel or nachos or something. The band you're supposedly a fan of (TOOL) picked this band to open for them. They must respect Fantomas if they chose them. The only thing that was dissappointing about the show was the ignorant fans that I just described. I only pray that the next time Tool comes to Philly that Limp Bizkit or Staind is playing the Tweeter Center so all those meatheads have somewhere else to go. My Daddy knows Johnny Ticketmaster and he hooked me up with great seats, so I had a great view of the show. What a great show.

Review written by: Who (funkyfresh123@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:03:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

We were in the nosebleed seats but our noses did not bleed. Tool was perfect, and in the crowd they planted a seed. Some realized it was occuring and some were oblivious, but since the seeds been planted the feeling has been continuous. We have risen from the void with our minds held high, emerging from the stadium without asking why. Our questions were answered, and our answers were askew, everything was tainted with a bright blue hue. Where do we travel, and how do we go? It's up to us now, but definitly to another show! Rise above oblivion and settle back down, contanstly changing, but remaining a counsel to the crown. "We hope we've been able to be a catalyst for healing....on some level." Maynard. Thank you.

Review written by: Cody (teppo@flyersfan.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:19:40 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Great setlist last night.... I wish I was allowed to bitch about not hearing ticks and leetches but.. I guess not many people have seen that one. Abby Road last night. Danny Carey is a freak of nature and doesn't deserve to walk around like a real person.. He belongs in a museum or something. All I'm saying is that experience that I had last night should not be something I have to wait for once every 4 years. It should be downloadable or something. I wish I could replicate that feeling I had between 46 & 2 and pushit. Seeing the newer version of pushit live is something I wont let myself forget. Absolutely Fucking Great!

Review written by: The Rob (ten257two@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:46:20 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I was really happy to be there....and to finally see them play... ************************************************* It is a shame that some people do not get it...but, that is life..... Eon Blue moves me for some weird reason...am I alone on this.....? Loved hearing "suspicious minds"...... Maynard is intense........ the band was flawless....... *********************************************** And for the first time in a month, it took a TOOL show for me and my girlfriend to actually get along. I guess I should thank the band for that.......Peace

Review written by: Nobody (cliched@earthlink.net) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:51:55 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

OK, Philly. The second time I saw Tool was at Lollapalooza. It may be unfair to compare ANY rock concert to that performance, for it was the closest thing to God Rock I've ever seen in my life, but one thing about that show was that it was like a grotesque freak show. And much of this had to do with Maynard. I mean his body was painted half and half in red and white, he wore an ugly oversized pointy-nippled bra, a g-string, high-heeled boots, and a fake pony tail attached to the top of his head. And he pounded his foot a lot and acted very weird. He was also up front. In this show, last night in Philly, the four members of the band stood at the four corners of the stage. Maynard was in the back to the left. His body was in the shadow most of the time. But let me tell you, when the band ripped into the opening of "The Grudge," Maynard looked like the badass motherfucker of all time. He was wearing a black trenchcoat, a body-hugging leather suit, and giant fucking black combat boots. He was certainly not grotesque -- but he was scary as shit. As the show progressed, he peeled off articles of clothing until by the third or fourth song, he was dressed only in black speedo swimming trunks. From freak show to scary show? [Aside: I was stunned at how close I was to the band, considering I bought my ticket yesterday]. The band was like a machine. They worked the cogs and wheels of their music to Swiss-watch-like precision. There was no room for error. They were on a mission. This was no fucking around. These guys were here to ROCK. (So yes, they are kind of self-absorbed, maybe a little too self-important, it's not gratuitous or anything. I would guess they have a sense of humor, but it doesn't come off in performance). Led Zeppelin reborn on stage, but without Robert Plant's sexual hystrionics. It's impossible not to notice that I just saw a band in which the lead singer spent most of the time in his underwear. Yet, there was NOTHING sexual about it. It was oddly asexual. There were two large movie screens behind the band. A third smaller one was right behind Maynard. Each screen showed the same thing -- often dismembered fictitious lifeforms, ugly filth, people extracting metal objects from other people's limbs, naked women falling into water, naked women shuddering at the sight of a live snake, naked men shaking in epileptic seizures, disgusting looking imaginary animals with skin rashes, stuff like that. At one point in the show, two people, one a woman and one a man -- who as far as I could tell, were completely naked, but painted in gold -- clambered across the stage as the band played, jerking like ugly mutants or lepers. They climbed up on ropes over the drummer and hung from the ceiling and writhed for a full 20 minutes upside down, making lewd sexual gestures, but in a very robotic clinical way. Freak show? Scary movie? Hard to tell. The band played the entirety of the new album, excepting "Ticks and Leeches" and "Triad." I was amazed at how much better the new album sounded live. It literally came alive, rushed out at you, and grabbed. The CD now sounds sterile. Even the mediocre songs on the new CD sounded good. Adam Jones played the soaringly gorgeous lead solos on "Parabola" beautifully. I was astonished at Maynard's vocal pitch -- he maintained near perfect pitch through most of the show. His voice was truly a work of beauty. He didn't scream as much as he used to, but the new stuff doesn't lend itself to that. In a surprise move, the second to last song was "Opiate." It was definitely the scariest song they did. Maynard writhed in his underwear like a leper having a brain seizure, and his climactic moment: "We both...want to rape you" was accompanied by a long primal fucking scream from the netherbowels of his vocal chords, as the screen behind him showed the repeating movie images of two naked women who had clearly been hurt in some way, shivering and cowering at the sight of a fake snake. This was the only scary moment in the concert. THe rest of the show was grace under pressure. Powerfully executed like an army platoon. The most beautiful song in the set was "Pushit," done in the way that they recorded it for "Salival." It was the best performance of the show -- guitars ringing and chiming, voices lilting and screaming, drums pounding and patting -- 13 minutes of bliss. There were definitely parts of the show that were closer to ambient rock than bonehead metal or anything. They seem to be making a conscious move towards some rock as "art" rather than rock as "catharsis" which was kind of their m.o. on "opiate" and stuff like that. Many of the songs had extended middle parts that made them sound even better than the original -- for example "Stinkfist" had additional lyrics and parts not on the studio version. Maynard said little during the show. Near the end, he merely said something about taking something positive out of the experience that night. The band ended with "Lateralus" -- an obvious choice for an ending. Again -- taut, to the point, no fucking around. They nailed the song to the bone. After the song was over, the four men came together, hugged, waved, and then left the stage. THe end. Overall review: "More art, less rock."

Review written by: biff (biff@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 11:52:52 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Thank you M., D., J., and A. Yes it was a step in a healing process. Thank you Sweeney for the water and for helping me get rid of that bottom feeder with his back to the stage. Way to be Mike and bro and friend. Stay strong Patton and Buzz and co. A.I. IS the mayor. KABIR! Your review board is turning to shit (or the lyrics page, I just can't discern anymore). This was the best Tool show (or any other band) I have been to. Everything was right. The sound, the energy, the emotion, the nudity, all were alligned. Also, the crowd was much more...how to express...appropriate for a band of such cerebral material and presentation. Unlike Monday in Where-Barre?, where the "Devastated Youth Movement"(?!?) (as proclaimed by the local rock radio station) combined with the 30-something beeer-drinkirs and heeal-raisirs to provide a distracting, disturbing and inhospitable Deliverance vibe. Where was the banjo, Adam!?! Anyway, highlights had to be an angry Grudge, a tear- jearking Pushit, an emotional roller-coaster of The Patient, a grinding Opiate, a fast and furious Parabola, and a surreal Lateralus. Disposition/Reflection wasn't too bad either. Prison Sex sounded gr.... Oh what the fuck, the whole show was ridiculous. Go see for yourself. Biff "Don't put your dirty little fingers up my ass in the mosh pit" Atkinson

Review written by: Kevin (kbrearey@unix.temple.edu) Review posted on: 09/28/01 12:58:02 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Firs off, I would like to say that Fantomas was absoultely the worst act that I have ever seen in my entire life. They were funny at first, but after a while they were just annoying and I wanted them to go away. Mike Patton should go back to Faith No More.....ANYWAY... Tool was amazing as always. Most of the new record played and precious few older songs (how unfortunate.) All in all a great concert. Basiacally, the big problem with this show was the stupoid mosh pit that opened up in front of me. I think that it is extremely inppropriate for a mosh pit at Tool shows...but this is my own opinion. If there is going to be a mosh pit, and for some reason it has to break out in front of me, I wish that the assholes around wouldn't try and push me into it....but I digress... Setlist has been posted to death, so I won't post. One thing that was cool about it was the absence of Sober. Is anyone ready to move on from that song yet? Sure it is an amazing song, but They have so much other material that I, personally, would rather hear them play live. Thank whatever deity you believe in (none in my case...) they didn't play that. The Patient was nice to hear also...great song...best on the new record. Another cool thing was the little bit of lyric in Stinkfist from Elvis Presley's Suspiscious Minds. (I'm not sure that anyone else has mentioned this one.) Thought it was cool and apropriate. ANYWAY...I have rambled long enough....great show...almost as good as 1996 at the Electric Factory...almost....

Review written by: Your Mom (hunkerdown@netscape) Review posted on: 09/28/01 13:01:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 5 Tool show

Unbelievable. You wankoffs who would prefer the AEnima version of Pushit over the Salival version need to release the crackpipe. All Tool rules. If I've said it once, I've said it a million times - WHAT A FUCKING SHAME SUCH A CLASSIC, INNOVATIVE AND UNIQUE BAND HAS SUCH RETARDED FANS. Those of you who don't like Lateralus, need to hear Sober, and mosh during Disposition/Reflection need to attend more Papa Roach and Korn shows. Like a previously ingenius reviewer said, I pray to God that Limp Bizkit or Staind is playing the same night the next time Tool comes. That way we can whittle it down to true fans. I'd rather see a concert with 100 real Tool fans then with 10,000 wannabes who wait the whole night to hear Schism because that's what they know from the radio. Anyway, enough bitching. Pray for a live album and/or DVD. Can't wait for the next album/tour. Hope it's real soon. DANNY CAREY IS GOD.

Review written by: Snoogans (eyeh8u2@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 13:03:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Yeah you all saw the setlist so no going over that. Fantomas...well...it's exactly what i imagined. Mr. Bungle & Slayer & a lot of coke. Enough said. I really would have liked to see Meshuggah though. But oh well. For some reason, my favorite part of the show is when all of the advertisements start clicking off, and the lights click off one by one. Then the roar of the crowd. Nothing can match that feeling. Not even Anna Kournikova jerking me off with anal beads up her ass. Well.....on second thought Everyone was on par last night. I'm used to going to metal shows and seeing all the agression and such and this was quite a departure from that. My girlfriend claimed that it was more mellow than she thought it would be. Thats fine. To anyone who didn't enjoy the shows or isn't gonna enjoy any upcoming shows need to remember: Tool is Tool because they're Tool. IF you think about it, you'll get it. Now stop thinking about Anna Kournikova and get back to work!

Review written by: Justin (jomboni@drexel.edu) Review posted on: 09/28/01 13:14:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I was very, very impressed with my first Tool concert. Fantomas recieved a better response than I expected, with audible cheers actually existing alongside the boos. Mike Patton making fun of Weezer was probably the highlight of the whole night, especially since that band has gone completely down the shitter since their new album came out. Fantomas was interesting, but they're really the kind of band where you need to listen to their cds before you see them, or you won't have any idea what's going on. Great set. Tool was also incredible, playing a set mostly comprised of new songs, with a few old ones mixed in. The setlist was already posted, and it was great for the most part. If I had my way I would have substituted Aenima or Eulogy for Opiate, but beggars can't be choosers. Everybody turned in a near-flawless performance, and it one of the best concerts I've ever seen. But it wasn't perfect! I have a few criticisms that I feel need to be addressed. Now, I'm all for bands extending/changing songs in a live setting, because I mean, if I wanted to hear the songs exactly as they are on the cd, I'd just listen to the cd. Extended Stinkfist, Prison Sex, and Pushit were all very cool. But I thought the repetition at the end of Reflection was completely unnecessary. Especially since they could have played Triad in that time... since aren't those 3 tracks part of a "trilogy?" Here, in my ideal Tool world is what would have happened: -The band finishes Reflection, and Adam starts playing that riff, but not for as long as he did last night -While he's playing that, osseus labyrint is raised up into the air -The band goes into Triad with osseus labyrint going crazy throughout the song -then they go into Parabol(a), with osseus labyrint still up there, and they come down after Parabola Wishful thinking on my part? I don't know, it seems like a cool idea to me, and it seems kind of dumb to leave the last part of a trilogy of songs out in favor of dragging on the second part forever. I'd also like to express my total disgust for well... just about every review I've read on this site. You all come off sounding like pretentious artfags who don't want to share Tool, and attack anybody who you see at the concert who isn't there for the exact same reason you are. Music is supposed to be a personal thing, so let people get whatever they want out of Tool's music! If you're there for the "cerebral" aspect, well good. If you're there to mosh and hear Sober, that's good too, as long as you know that's why you're there.

Review written by: Paul (bdsniper@msn.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 13:29:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Last Night was my 1st and long awaited Tool concert THE SHOW KICKED ASS!!!!!!! Especially the bobbing head freaks!!!! the only downfall they didnt play Sober but they kicked ass none the less!!!!!!

Review written by: bob (Lepisto) Review posted on: 09/28/01 14:15:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Yo This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was front row, against the rail dead center. The best seat in the fuckin house. Tool is the most amazing, spiritual, intellectuall music that I have ever encountered. They didn't dissapoint tonight. Pushit was amazing and I was so glad to hear the Sailival version. There are not words to descirbe it, you ahve to see it yourself. And getting Danny's stick out of the deal, made this night one of the best of my life!!!!

Review written by: Alex (Barabrkas@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 15:01:54 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This was my 1st Tool show and it fuckin rocked. I was in the pit and it was the greatest concert i've ever seen. Phantomos opened for them and everyone booed them off the stage cause they sucked really bad so my sugestion is to go to the concertright when Tool is supposed to start casue the other bands suck. The setlist went like this. or to this extent casue i kinda forget what went where but this is what they played. Openingwith The grudge and ending with Lateralus. The Grudge reflection parabol parabola 46 & 2 Prison SEX (extended) stinkfist The Patient schism lateralus opiate push it I cant tell you how incredible this band can play in concert it sounds better than the cd. Every picking by adam and every little tap from daniwas heard and fit perfectly. The volume between each instument and maynards vocals was perfectly adjusted. They just sounded incredible. In schism the weird alien guy that are in the video came out and did the wierd head banging between the legs thing. I was cool. The band tok a little break while the shism alien guys climbed up a cord and hung from the top of the stage and swung and did all these wierd moves it was really neat to see. So if your goin to the concert have agreat time and it wil be worth it and if your not goin go cuse you can always scalp tickets or something but trust me every cent that you pay is worth it. Maynard is GOD!

Review written by: Greg B (gregbogs@greg.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 15:17:44 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I went to the show in Philly last night. I am sure it was a bit better in the pit but I thought it was totally a disapointment. How can you expect to get the crowd into the concert while standing at the back of the stage in the darkness the whole show? I think Tool is a great band and Maynard is an excellent singer but he could have done better than that. I am unsure of what he and the band are trying to prove. The visuals were excellent and the sound was great. Now to the main point, I can understand bands do not want to play some songs but come on, how do you go to a Tool show and not play Sober. At least play a few songs from each of your albums. It did not even look like the crowd was into it either. At the breaks the applause died down after about 1 minute. My advice is that if Tool is not your favorite band then do not waste your time. They are way to out of touch with what their fans want to hear. To those that liked the show that is great, I just thought otherwise.

Review written by: Diego Dave (dwilk13@home.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 16:02:53 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Seeing Tool perform in a massive arena was a first for me. I went into the show expecting the worst. As far as the crowd went, I couldn't have been anymore right on. What happened to the Tool fan? Don't you people realize what you are seeing? Why would you boo the band because they are taking a 5 minute set break? Maybe those of you that were booing should pull your heads out of your asses, and realize that you are having the opportunity to see the GREATEST rock band in the world right now. Maybe it would be best if Tool took another 5 or 6 years to come out with another album. That way the die-hard fans could go back to seeing them in the smaller 2000 seat venues that they used to play. Setlist was pretty similar to the other shows. I was bummed about the fact that Tool was not mixing up their setlists. But I thought about it after the 5\20 show in NYC. They spent a whole lot of time on the video presentation of there show, which is a main part of the concert experience, So I can understand staying too a stringent setlist. Tool, if you guys read these reviews, which you've probably stopped, because for the most part they seem pretty lame. But if you do, I'd be happy to go out on tour with you to run your video presentations. You know, if you wanted to mix things up occasionaly. Tool is the greatest rock band in the world today. If you have to opportunity to see this show, do so. You will never forget. See ya in NYC on Monday and Tuesday. Diego Dave

Review written by: Joe (contuzz2@tcnj.edu) Review posted on: 09/28/01 17:26:38 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Truly a religious experience, the only time I've gotten goosebumps at a live performance. I left with the feeling that Maynard's voice is truly the 5th instrument. I was wondering if anyone could figure out the lyrics to the alternative interlude to Stinkfist. I couldn't figure it out. Let me know.

Review written by: jmfields (jeff@apexdigi.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 17:38:14 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

in two words.. goddam boring.. if it wasn't for fantomas, who were utterly brilliant despite the always shiity fu center sound, i would have wasted too much money on an already over priced ticket.. the extended version of pushit was a highlight.. as was the patient.. but a lot of the extending the band did.. especially before during and after disposition/reflection was unnecessary and uninteresting.. and people were cheering this stuff.. and booing fantomas.. go figure.. at least if you don't like a fantomas song, it only lasts for 55 seconds.. and i kid you not.. i saw people moshing during the intermission.. it's truly ashame.. ah well.. who am i to complain..? i paid for the ticket :) anyway.. if you haven't heard fantomas yet.. buy the albums.. they saved the night from being a total disaster.. - jeff

Review written by: PhillyPhan (KFC@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 19:22:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

What an awesome show, but first things first, I am a Melvins fan and like Buzzo. But Fantomas was so God Awful. A cross between opera, metal, and a circus act. Undiscernable lyrics(if that is what you call them) sounded more like a cat in a blender. Singer Mike Patton was telling us to boo Weezer, I boo'ed both. Now that we got that cleared up, Tool put on a great show both musically and visually. I was about four people back from the crash-guard, dead center. This is a great place to see a concert. But, if anyone else was in that area, you know what happened up there. Some dick head seemed intent on ruining the night for everyone else. We got the security guard to pull him out, but he was back in 5 minutes. Pretty much missed the begining of Reflection because it was really hard to pay attention to what was going on onstage. Why would you even buy a ticket if you have no regards for the band or their fans trying to enjoy the show. The Tool fans are to be commended though, because we did try to make it a great experience for everyone. Danny had that gold drum kit that was talked about on their website(made of melted down cymbals) and that was great looking. Oh yeah, and his playing was flawless. Maynard had a guitar for a few songs, but if you were up close, you could tell that he wasn't actually playing it (It was also the same guitar that he brought out and pretended to play at the A Perfect Circle Shows). Maynard took articles of clothing off until he was down to a speedo by the third or fourth song. He also put face paint on one side of his head during an instrumental break. Then after the intermission, the face paint ran down the middle of his face and both sides were unpainted. Justin's playing was great, and Adam, other than his guitar going in and out a few times, was in great form (Hell, even Jimmy Page had bad nights). The group hug at the end was great and jokingly, Maynard reached under and pretended to grab Danny's junk. I think that Tool had Fantomas opening up to make themselves look all the much better. And I hope that King Buzzo is in that band because he lost a bet or something like that. Thank you Tool! Here is a more accurate setlist: • The Grudge • (-) Ions • Stinkfist(with a little of Elvis' 'Suspicious Minds' thrown in there) • Forty Six & 2 • Prison Sex (incl. extra lamb and martyr part) • Before Pushit, for about 4 min., they were playing something that sounded similar to Merkaba • Pushit (salival version) • Mantra • Schism • Disposition • Reflection --Intermission-- w/contortionists • Parabol • Parabola • Eon Blue Apocalypse • The Patient • Opiate • Lateralus

Review written by: erin (shmerinbry@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 19:34:52 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

hey. this was my first tool show. i regret not seeing them before, but dont regret seeing them lastnight. it was fucking brilliant - plain and simple. i was pretty far away, but it didnt even matter. the stop motion movies were gorgeous and the performance was just otherworldly. i didnt want them to stop playing, but they played for a long time, and played beautifully. his voice never faltered, and it was, by far, the greatest concert i've ever had the privellage of seeing. i expected him to talk atleast a little about everything that's happened in new york, and he did. and i think he said the best thing i've heard someone say about it yet. not sure what else to say. it's around 8 pm the day after, and i still havent slept, so i'm running on empty. -erin. [ shmerinbry@aol.com ]

Review written by: Andrew (slamkutz@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 20:36:43 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. All I can say is WOW!!! This was my first TOOL concert or shall I say,one is which the band was actually there.Ive been a long time TOOL fan and only imagined them to be that good in concert!!! The sound system and the multi-media was awesome to say the least!!! The people hanging upside down for about 20 minutes was definitely a feat to be acknowledged.Maynard has a voice of the Gods and he has about 3 different voices that kick. I was quite impressed with the behavior of the crowd,at least where I was sitting cause the sights and sounds just floor you back into your seat. I did shed some tears at the beginning cause I was completely in awe of seeing my favorite band for the first time live and they sounded better than any music media I ever heard them on. I couldve spent the night listening to them jam.Im sure Ill be attending more TOOL in the future but thank you for the Philly playlist cause Im gonna burn a CD and entitle it-Losin My Virginity.

Review written by: Patrick (FallChild1026@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 20:54:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

There isnt much to say that hasn't been said, but It was a damn good show. The Patient was unbelievable, The videos were trippy. . As for the Phantomas, they are a very accquired taste. But I enjoyed them. Especially Godfather and the R&B tribute to Allen Iverson. The Weezer remark was damn funny. Uhhh... That sums up my review, and I'll now start waiting for their return.

Review written by: Id_X (iamidx@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 21:44:15 ET

This was this reviewer's last Tool show

ok, here it goes. we will start with the opening act. Fantomas Great studio band, just didn't do it for me live. Mike Patton has to have one of the most versitile voices ever, but using it to make funny noises felt like fingernails on a chalk board. Tool they rocked, the music was great, i thought the sound system coulda been better, but ya know. here is my problem with this concert...Maynard is the front man, he represents the band, i did not get a good look at him the whole night. i didn't have great seats, but i was seeing adam, justin, and danny just fine. i have been to many concert, and i have become acostumed to a few things, like seeing the whole band, the connection the band is supposed to make with the crowd, working the crowd into the music. i know tool is no ordinary band, but at least be there for your fans. i mean i paid 40 some odd bucks to see you guys. also, the tshirt prices were insane, are you fucking crazy?!?! 40 more for a tshirt?!?! good music, but no connection was made, and lets not forget the insanly long pauses between songs...

Review written by: Joe (jkfii@home.com) Review posted on: 09/28/01 23:51:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Since tool has been already, and deservedly so, been worshiped I'm going to say a few words about the brilliance of Fantomas. I've been a melvins fan, and a tool fan, as well as a patton fan for years and when i found out that the east coast shows were being opened by fantomas I had an anyeurism, I was so happy that a blood vessel burst in my head and I fell into a blissful coma for months... The sheer brilliance and talent that it takes to play that music, the extreme amount of practice and timing needed to get that all down, is nothing short of miracle work, or the work of the devil. No man can drum like that, the minute 15 long cymbal drum solo left me breathless, only being the drummer from slayer can teach you how to do that, a word of thanks to dave lombardo for selling his soul to the devil to be able to do that. Buzz Osbourne's guitar work is, for lack of a better word, the epitome of grunge rock, usually slower than your grandpa and twice as flatulant this man rocks like a son of a bitch. He's also great friends with maynard and the rest of Tool, Adam Jones tours with the Melvins all the time, he even did an album with them "Colossus of Destiny" but of course if you couldn't grasp Fantomas I wouldn't even try wrapping your minds around that beautifully mastered live album. Mackie Osbourne, King Buzzo's wife, even did the design work for Lateralus. Buzzo, at Lollapalooza, played with Tool on select songs. Mr. Bungle just about proves that moth Patton and Trevor Dunn work well together... trevor dunn bass work... flawless. Patton's vocals: unbelievable. You listen to the Fantomas albums and you think its computer work... its all Patton's voice... its fucking unbelievable to see him do that live. One gripe, where was Rosemary's baby and Chariot Choogle. Patton's comments were hilarious "We'd like to take this time to thank tool for subjecting us to you" "Hey don't boo us, weezer was here last night, boo weezer.... WEEEEEEEZER BOOOO!!!!" "This next song is dedicated to the mayor of Philly, the man also known as the answer mister... allen... iiiiiiverson" And here's where I'll go out on a limb... I think Patton even got mor into the music than Maynard all night. He could have killed someone with that hair and the wires from his many many mics whipping all around. While Tool did put on a better show I'm sure when Fantomas headlines their show and have legions and legions of fans that call themselves the fantomas army It'll be hard to do better than them too. Of course the people bad mouthing fantomas are probably the same people that got up halfway through show said "I'm sick of this progressive intellectual stuff... it makes my pea brain hurt and leak out my ears" and left. They played loud and clear, pages from Book 1 and some stuff, including Charade which at the end with the fake cheering fans perplexed many because of the realistic sound of it, and Golem.... i worship golem, Godfather... and of course Spiderbaby. Patton lovers In November go see "tomahawk" at the troc

Review written by: Joe Huber (FNMJOE@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 09/29/01 12:14:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Well it is comforting to know that the world is not without a plentitude of douche bags. The narrow-minded that booed Fantomas, the morons that thought that they came to see Pantera and moshed away their chance to see two extremely talented bands perform magic, and the people that posted reviews to this site that were anything but reviews. Anyway, Tool and Fantomas were both extremely energetic and are unbelievably creative bands. Patton was his usual funny self when he said that he'd like to thank Tool for subjecting Fantomas to the aforementioned narrow-minded. Tool's music and stage show was absolutely mind-boggling. I didn't know where to direct my attention but thankfully wherever i did wind up paying attention I was purely amazed. Without getting into detail I would just like to say to anyone not sure about what they are getting into at upcoming shows....go and just take it all in, you won't be disappointed. Oh yeah, keep an open mind, "you might surprise yourself". I believe Patton said something similar a few years back.

Review written by: josh ferris (toolrulz13@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/29/01 12:19:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

well to start out fantomas sucked ass and mike patton could have at least said one real word in english.but Tool was fantastic!!!. THE SETLIST.not in order 1. the grudge 2. stinkfist 3.prison sex 4.opiate 5. the patient 6.46&2 7.parabol/parabola 8.reflection 9. schism 10.lateralus 11.pushit 12.disposition the show was so damn great maynards voice was so pure and strong.and adam's guitar riffs were wonderfull.justins bass effects were perfect. but danny's drumming was the best i have ever seen him do.well im writing the review 2 days late but who cares im bored damnit. GOODBYE!!!!!!!!

Review written by: pretentious artfag (yeah, right!) Review posted on: 09/29/01 14:03:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st! Tool show

I may be a bit of an art fag, but I'm not pretentious(sp? hmm). This was my first Tool show, having managed to miss them every other time they were in the area. I saw the vid for 'Sober' in the wee hours on Mindless Tele- Vision and was a insta-fan, went out and bought Opiate and Undertow the next day. Became a total fanboy when Aenmia was relesed (the eyeball being my defalt cover, but the contortionest a fav for parties). Salival's release (DVD! Yes!) meaing I could free up some disk space and delete the vids I downloaded, plus my first taste of Tool's live sound. I managed to get a copy of Lateralus a day before release, and caused great feelings of envy in my brother. I won't bother telling how every piece of music has effected my mind and consiousness since then, because I belive it has had the same effect on most of you, as well. Finally, my karma and wallet has allowed me to see this human force of nature at work. I just turned 35. I loved Fantomas!!!! I personally thank Tool for bringing them out. I agree with the one reviewer who stated that if you havn't listened to thier albums before seeing them, you would have a hard time getting it. Fantomas pissed off all the right people, in my opinon. I was pleased that they open and closed with my 2 of my favorite songs from The Director's Cut, and that they played the Omen (my neck is still sore). Mike was funny and entertaining, and the band's music got people talking (good or bad). I spotted the banks of digital projectors when we entered the area, and knew my first tool show would be an experiance to remember. And so it was. the only graphic that I felt did not lend to the sonics around me was the perplexing toilet bowl sequance. I could care, though. as I was swimming in a great ocean of sound. Maynards words were good to hear, and I am greatful for the nod to the 09.11.2001 events without the histronics and magnified sentiment normally spouted by other media. It was like a pat on the back and a "we'll get thru this, dude" from a fellow human being. The one and only bad expirance I had was from, yes.. the drunken frat boy-yuppy types. Had a whole row of the fuckers behind me, screaming the whole time like feverish babies. The most distracting and annoying of the lot was the person who kept yelling a request that they cover Pink Floyd's 'Dogs'. I could have done without him. My favorite was the guy who started to 'phish-dead' dance even before the band came out on stage. He was a nice and funny guy, and was very much there for the music and the collective trip. i was also floored by the mix of people in the croud. it looked like some part of every type of fan was therei. the aformentioned frat boys in ball caps and neo-hippies, goth, metal heads, straight and narrow types, beloved freaks and glorious weirdos. Old and young. Parent and child. It shows the scope of people this bands music has touched and effected. Everyone, including the screamers, were cool and poilte (for the most part) towards everyone. No, we were not an over animated bunch in Philadelphia, but you could tell from the smiles, everyone was glad to be there, and to have BEEN there. My self included. (ps, I was the one in the "I See Dumb People" shirt.) untill then, take care, and may your third eye open a little wider and more often.

Review written by: OLD ESCH (lazoo@enter.net) Review posted on: 09/29/01 14:19:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

this was my third show in a row and the only one i had seats for. i had a good view from the left. the pit looked like it wasnt moving much at all from the stands. it was the only big arena ive ever seen a concert at. the set list was great, with the only changes being pushit and opiate. i was so glad to see the salival version of pushit. it was probably the best performance i saw of all 3 shows. i really wanted to see it and was not at all disappointed. opiate was a great performance as well. i guarantee you will never see a show better than tool. it was purely amasing. the contortionists from the schism video were fucking crazy. it dont get any better than tool. we talked to maynard's bodygaurd because we met him backstage at apc at the ecentre but he didnt recognize us but it was still cool to talk to him. the only yhing i really have left to say is i wish i had tickets to the rest of the shows on the tour because i would go every night. this week was the best week o f my life.

Review written by: Master Reviewer (iggy20@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/29/01 15:46:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Was anyone lucky enough to get a recorder of any kind(audio/video) into the show ? You can E-mail me @ iggy20@hotmail.com0-I will pay dearly for it !

Review written by: Sarah Rose (mirrorsSideways9@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/29/01 19:11:39 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

A little clairification: Maynard sings from an old Elvis song during the extended Stinkfist. "Caught in a trap Can't walk out Because i need you too much baby Why can't you see What you're doing to me Because you love me too much baby" --Stinkfist Extended--Tool--Elvis--

Review written by: ... (...) Review posted on: 09/30/01 08:27:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Ive seen people ask ''What was maynard singing before the drum solo/outro" If you read the FAQ, and if its the part im thinking of, its Suck My Dick in another language

Review written by: Vinny LaSpada (blindred@home.com) Review posted on: 09/30/01 12:10:43 ET

This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

the philly show was very good , the sound quality was excellent , you could actually hear all the instruments unlike the wilkes-barre show i went to earlier that week. setlist wise, i would have like to hear some more from undertow and opiate but you cant have it all, the songs they did play i loved and they did them perfectly. my highlist was probably the salival version of pushit. it was purly amazing. i like also how they teased with third eye by showing a clip of a man behind a door with a third eye, i would have loved to hear my fav tool song but oh well. all in all, i give the show 2 thumbs up . only tool can put on a show like this, the atmosphere and people (most of em) are awesome. the only dissapointment was from morons around me "common motherfuckers play something!!!!" , stupid shit like that. see ya at the next show vinny

Review written by: Benny Corgan (drummerbb@aol.com) Review posted on: 09/30/01 17:45:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I went to the Tool show in philly and man was it the best fucking show of all time. I don't know what some of you ass-holes who are complaining about it being boring and about the missing songs. Personally I would like to give a big fuck you to all of you. Tool is not here to be all your bitches. They are here to entertain, and if you don't get their message or don't like their music, then go listen to Linkin Park or *Nsync. They are their fan's bitches. Now as for the show is concerned, I personally loved every moment. I loved the whole presentation. The lights, the video's, and ecspecially the music. At first I was pissed that Maynard was in the back but by the 3rd song I really didn't give a damn. The opening was great although, I was like the only person around me who knew what time signature it was in and was also the only person who wasn't dancing in 4/4. I really liked the contortionists during schism/intermission/parabol/parabola. That was so cool. Maybe my fav. moment of the whole thing was something that everyone seemed to hate. I really liked the repetition at the end of reflection. It showed the sensitive side of tool. My fav. song of the night was probably Lateralus. Perfectly executed. Any way I guess that's all I

Review written by: Mr. Jon Ricter (brettweir17@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 09/30/01 20:51:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Holly Shit. My mind was blown away. I don't really know how to explain how great this show was. I have been to a lot of concerts, but this one has been the best. I thought most of the others were good but the guys in tool seemed to put everything into their music and nothing about bullshit messages about being yourself and kick peoples asses who piss you off. The amount of work that they put into all of the videos and just the whole show was amazing. Maynard hardly even talked, and instead of making himself in the center of attention chose to stand more in the back in the darkness. This does nothing however to the experience because I believe that tool is about music and not frontmen. In any case, if anyone is reading this, go see tool. I can die a happy man now because of this.

Review written by: chris w (cawilson1978@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/01/01 11:33:25 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I livine in nj and have never been able to see Tool during previous tours although I have been a fan through many since just about the release of Undertow. I decided to make fror lost time by seeing them in Cleveland, Wilkes-Barre, Philly, and tonight at the Garden. I am glad I bought so many tickets, as this is the single greatest rock tour I coud possibly imagine. Incredibly, the songs have even more energy live and all of their additions are genious. But this has all been discussed to death. I wanted take this oppurtunity to relate a story about people in the crowd coming together. Right up front in the middle there were a couple of people pushing and diggin elbowes hoping to get from row 5 to row 4. While all the while negatively impacting the show for me and everyone else enjoying the music. One guy in particular was behind me and all around diggin his knee in between my legs and then moving over and jamming his elbows inbetween people. Major asshole, ruined the first few songs ( as much as one asshole can). Everyone become annoyed and as a group the entire front crowd started pulling him and trying to remove him. The security finally noticed this guy and after a couple of visits and everyone pointing at this guy, helped us lift this guy out of the crowd and allow everyone to fully enjoy the concert. It was just greate that we were able to come together to remove this parasite from our little localized collective unconcious (Like you would any kind termite or roach) and improve our quality of life at the show. To all of you in the front, that was beautiful.

Review written by: Tom Mc (tizom162@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/01/01 21:35:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

September 27th, 2001. That was the day I had been awaiting for what seemed like an eternity. But it finally came... and came it did. I had originally planned on simply taking the bus/subway down to the First Union Center, but since I was going with my older brother, we got a ride with friends of his that also happened to be going to the show. Right away I knew it would be a mistake, but I went anyway. See, I knew it would be a mistake because the group of friends were your typical, big, dumb, roofers - the type of people that just don't understand what Tool is all about. The first thing one of them said was, "Damn Dude, I just hope the play 'Sober'." Well, at least I brought a tape along with me, now we could really get in the mood by listening to the band we were soon about to see. I was really getting pumped, as well as enjoying the melody floating through the air of the cramped Ford Cab Pickup Truck, even though I was cramped in the back. At lest I had been enjoying myself until one of them said "See, I've got not time for this shit, it's too slow" while we were listening to 'Disposition'. Now it was 7:30, start time for Fantomas, but we were no where near the venue due to the insane traffic. However, the boneheads I was riding with managed to pass their time by yelling at any and all females in the cars near us. Don't you just love these guys already? Eh, me neither. Well, now it was 8:00 and we were just finally pulling into a parking space... that happened to be about 7 city blocks away from the First Union Center. So, let's summarize - it was already after 8 o'clock, we had a 10 minute walk ahead of us, another 10 minute wait in line just trying to get inside the building, and what do these people decide to do? Have a few beers off the side of the truck before getting a move on! You can imagine how angry I would have been, had it not been for the fact that I would soon be blessed by the sonic force of the musical enigma that is Tool. Finally, at 8:30, I arrived at my seat and was quite pleased with what I saw. I realized that I had an awesome overhead view of the stage. I had orginally though that my seats in Section 214 would have been horrible, and that my view would have been blocked by all sorts of visual obstacles - I was wrong. I had a perfect view of the right video screen, all of the stage, and coolest of all, an overhead view of Danny's drumkit. Let the amazement begin... As all the neon advertisements flickered out around the circumference of the arena, and as the video screens lit up with the image of the flaming eyes all in a circle, I was shaking with anticipation. Looking out upon the crowd, I would have liked to imagine them as being a sea of the enlightened, as a "Collective Unconciousness" even. But I knew even then that I'd be proven wrong by the end of the night. But then I had been snapped out of my daze in an instant... Out comes Justin, Out comes Adam, Out comes Danny, Out comes Maynard. Tool were there standing in front of me, it was the moment I had been awaiting for far too long. And then Danny picked up the drumsticks - 1, 2, 3. - The Grudge - (-) Ions - Stinkfist* - Forty-Six & 2 - Prison Sex** - Pushit*** - Mantra - Schism - Disposition - Reflection - INTERMISSION - Parabol - Parabola - Eon Blue Apocalypse - The Patient - Opiate - Lateralus 'The Grudge' was masterfully done, with everything coming together perfectly. Even Maynard's infamous scream was done perfectly - it may not have been 24 seconds, but it was definitely 20. Midway through the song, however, Maynard was already losing articles of clothing. When he came out he was looking like the Antichrist himself - Black Combat Boots, Black Leather Pants, Black T-Shirt, and big Black Leather Trenchcoat. But by now, he had the Trench Coat off. After 'The Grudge', an extremely condensed version of '(-) Ions' was played over the loud speaker, along with Adam and Justing playing one or two quite riffs over it. But that was quickly torn apart by 'Stinkfist'*. Yes, the asterisk is indicating that the additional, extended breakdown was played, along with the lyrics of Elvis Presley's 'Suspicious Minds'. Then, we were all caught off gaurd by 'Forty-Sex & 2', which the crowd loved. The band was obviouly in top form... except for Maynard, who had now stripped down to merely a pair of Black Speedos. At least he was enjoying himself. After the song he blessed us with his only words of the entire first half of the concert - "Good Evening". Now we were greated with 'Prison Sex'**, which proved that as great as this band is in the studio, they're even better live. And once again, the song was revived with an additional, extended breakdown. But then there was a long pause, as Adam and Justin kind of just knelt down infront of their arrayment of wires and effects pedals, playing what almost sounded like a revised version of 'Merkaba'. But then we were treated to the Salival version of 'Pushit'. It was pretty funny seeing so many audience members confused by what they were hearing, since they must not have ever heard the Salival version - they looked like they recognized the lyrics, but didn't know what song they went to since the music was different, ah, silly fans. Anyway, this song was particularly great, and it broke out with all the force it had 5 years ago and then some. Then there was yet another pause, at which time something that sounded like "The Mantra Outtakes" was played over the PA System. But then, the fans went in to a frenzy as they heard a song that everyone knew - 'Schism'. Osseus Labrynt did a fabulous job giving the crowd some additional entertainment, especially the over-zealous, hormone driven fans I could see in the front row. But, I must say that Danny was looking like a Drum God throughout the second half of this song. Post-'Schism' there was once again a short pause, which quickly ended with the opening notes of 'Disposition'. From my seats, it was really beautiful to see the great circular lights shining out over the crowd all through this one. With the effect from the lights, it almost resembled the ocean at nightime with a full moon, which is one of the most beautiful sights a human can ever witness. Then as the lights retracted, the band retreated to Danny's drumkit as they made the transition from 'Disposition' into 'Reflection' with ease. Then, I was blessed with a whole new respect for these songs as 'Reflection' floated gracefully through to our ears. One of my many highlights of the evening though, had to be Maynard, Justin, and Danny walking off the stage one by one, leaving Adam there, standing all by himself, united with the fans alone has he repeated the closing riff over and over again for several minutes. Although many undeserving fans were agitated by the exhibition of art and beauty, I for one was very touched by it. But then, as Adam finally layed down his guitar and left the stage, out came our old friends, Osseus Labrynt. The went right ahead and hoisted themselves up over the stage, infront of the video screens, and entertained us with their graceful movements through the air, although they left me with the question residing in my head - "Can't you die being upside down like that for this long?". Amazingly enough, that question must not be true when it comes to these two talented artists. And might I add, that music being played throughout the intermission was also quite odd - it resmebled the sound of someone dry-heaving, or maybe even a toilet bowl being taken care of with a plunger. But once again, the members of Tool came back out one by one to their respective areas of the stage, scratch that, the members of Tool came back out one by one to their respective areas of their alter. Yeah, that fits it a bit better. Then, the massive arena went into a roar as the opening notes to 'Parabol' were played. The crowd kind of swayed back and forth in a trance-like state throughout this song, until 'Parabola' seared through the airwaves with a deafening crash. Both songs were played to perfection, and then fans loved it. And then Maynard finally graced us with some more words of his - "Thank you." Then 'Eon Blue Apocalypse' was played, and somehow those notes seemed to strike alot of people, myself included. I don't know why, but played live, those notes just seem so much more alive, and they seem to come out and grab you, if only for an instant. I was then happily surprised with how well the crowd welcomed the beginning of 'The Patient'. No audible boo's from those who wanted to hear 'Sober', I was quite surprised. Anyway, the song was amazingly played, every chord sounded perfect, and Maynard's voice was beautiful. Maynard then said the first thing we had heard from him that was more than two words long. He spoke of how they could only hope that their music can help people during this time of reflection and healing, and how they just wanted people to enjoy it and learn to enjoy themselves. He then thanked everyone for coming out, and told us that he hoped he would see us all soon. "Choices always were a problem for you...", I was completely taken aback by this choice. I thought for sure that they'd play 'Ænema', but once again, they surprised us all. This song was so great live that the studio version should be ashamed. Maynard's screams were downright evil - satanicular, if you will. But what surprised me even more was how ecstatic most of the crowd was as those opening notes were played. After spending that horrible ride to the concert having to subject myself to listening to those meatheads in the truck, my hopes of the crowd had been quite low - I expected the worse - bunch of people whose only knowledge of Tool before Ænima was 'Sober', but here we were a few thousand people screaming for 'Opiate'. Well I'll be damned. After that, the band once again retreated to Danny's drumkit as Maynard gave us yet another uplifting speach. As much as I had heard about this particular speach here on these reviews prior to the concert, I was still shaken by how uplifting this speach is actually coming out of Maynard's mouth. "I want you to take the feeling you have right now - whether it's good, bad, or indifferent -, and in the coming weeks, I want you to do something positive with it. But until then, I'd like to thank you all once again for coming, and we really do hope to see each and every one of you here again soon..." And then came 'Lateralus'. The intro to this song was extended, allowing you to fully take it all in. After the complete sensory overload you may have had after seeing all the images, hearing all the music earlier in the night, it was great to just stop for a second and enjoy the moment, even if it would all come to an end in just a few minutes. The bass was just amazing, Justin's basslines were pumping in and out of everyone, Adam's guitar was slicing through you like a knife, and Danny's ever increasing drum presence was great, but everything together was just breathtaking. Maynards vocals were great once the song came in, everything was there. It was all clicking, just as had been the case with ever song the band had played that night. It was the perfect cap to the perfect night. As the song was reaching it's climax, Justin's bass was giving you that feeling that your chest was just going to explode with all the action going on, and then Maynard's singing was the apex. As the song came to an end, Maynard came down off his personal stage, Adam and Justin both put down their guitars, and Danny came out from his Drum kit. Maynard started throwing out what looked like they could either be t- shirts or towels. Danny started throwing out his drum sticks. It was all so beautiful. But then this quartet came together for one great, sincere, group embrace, which could have brought a tear to the eye of any man. Walking out into the concourse, I could not feel my legs at all. My hands were completely numb, swollen, and purple. Even my arms were killing me from all the clapping. My chest felt like it was caving it. I was in immense amounts of pain... but all I could think about was how indescribably amazing the performance I had just seen really was. Even the cries of "35 Dollars for a T-Shirt?!" could not have broken my hazy-eyed stupor. And, hell, even when I got outside all I had to do was walk 30 feet away from the door and buy the exact same $35 shirt they were selling inside for the low, street price of $10. Don't you people know enough to realize that the shirts are always 3 times as cheap outside? So, as I was walking that 10 minute walk back to the "Truck of Idiocy", nothing could strip me of the feeling I had. Nothing could strip me of the memories I'd carry with me until the day I die. Nothing could stop me now. As my body was walking through the empty parking lot of Veteran's Stadium now that the Phillies' game was over, I almost felt as if me and my body were no longer one, as if while my body was moving one way, my soul was moving another way... as if my soul was swinging... on the spiral.