concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart

10/21/2001

Review written by: friendly pothead (www.234a@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/21/01 21:32:59 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  hey i got into the show and then i got out of the show i was 
kicked out i dont know how or why but ok anyway i say them 
in hartford that was a great show now if u go see tool and 
enjoy it then i suggest spending the money and buying a 
ticket to a tori amos show she is truly amazing i saw her in 
ny my god if anyone can top tool its her she is divine go 
take a chance and see her u wont be dissapointed









Review written by: unattended (notthere@inthehead.com)
Review posted on: 10/21/01 23:09:22 ET


This was this reviewer's 0th Tool show

  I didn't go.









Review written by: matt c (blackened58@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 00:59:10 ET


This was this reviewer's 4 Tool show

  well, aside from the lines and usual shit this show ran well, 
tricky was pretty impressive. after they finished i was 
surprised to see a dumbshit fall down seven or eight rows 
trying to get floor access.  
setlist was :
grudge
ions
stinkfist (extra bridge and lyrics
undertow
push it (hybrid)
schism
disposition
reflection
triad
patient
aemina
lateralus

additionally osseus labyrinth was the coolest thing this side 
of the mississippi, but some epsilon behind me kept 
saying "how much did we pay for this" the answer is an 
insignifigant sum, the way the light reflected off the bodies 
were amazing. also the visuals on the last three songs were 
slightly superior. i was rather disillusioned by the stupidity of 
the crowd, and had to fight off the fantasy of submerging 
the floor during aenima as morons pshycobabbled along to 
their own faults. maynard used fret for your football and 
oklahoma bay. other than that i really can't say enough 
abouit the musician ship or anything like that. maynard 
worked his c;othing down to a speedo or briefs. thank you to 
the people of tool, and i hope to see them at every 
available opprutunity. these reviews are bad, and you 
shouldn't read them before the show. because i was almost 
depressed to hear the beginning of lateralus, knowing and 
end was near. also do positive shit based off this show.








Review written by: Matt (aeon@beethoven.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 01:03:18 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  I just sat down, and I wanted to get all this down while it was 
still fresh in my mind.  First off, if there's any slim chance 
that any member of tool sees this.  I just wanna say, from 
the bottom of my heart, thank you for this night, thank you 
for sharing your music with my friends and I.  It's a two+ 
hours I'll never forget.  I don't remember the track listing.  I 
was too wrapped up in the moment to remember the order 
of the songs.  All I know is when I heard the opening notes 
to the Salival version of push it, my heart skipped a beat.  
The song was so beautifully done.  I had been hoping and 
hoping I would hear them play that.  And by the time it was 
over I found myself wiping tears from my eyes.  Pretty 
pathetic huh?  :-).  Anyway, great show. Best show I've ever 
seen and will be hard to top, ever.  Thanks TOOL.  See you 
soon hopefully.








Review written by: ben s. (robertpaulsens@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 01:12:35 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  this was my first tool expierence. i have never really even 
listened to tool before but my friend, the third reviewer, 
talked me into going with him, so i went. tricky was very 
good, kinda a upbeat sound with great drumming, but 
nothing compared to the drummer of tool. i must say seeing 
this band tool was incredible, the vocalist, seems everyone 
is trying to make him a superstar, was very laid back but 
was so emotional and into HIS meaning of the song. take 
what you get from it, not what he does. he's giving it to us, 
to strangers. the bass player seemed to be the brains 
behind it all, the guitar and drums were the bells and 
whistles to it, but DAMN, that was some bells and whistles if 
i've ever heard em. the far out best part of the show were 
the visuals. it's hard not to take your eyes off the band but 
to just see the creations of the band are absolutly breath 
taking. the contortionists were unbelievable as well and were 
the final touch to the greatest show. please go see this show 
if it is anywhere near you, you will never forgive yourself if 
you don't. thank you to the artists.

p.s. seems to be a lot of inspiration from aldous huxley, 
check it out. take care 









Review written by: EonApocalypse (eonredapocalypse@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 01:16:37 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  I saw Tool in chicago during the mini tour, and there are 
definatly some diffences in shows between a small venue 
and a arena.  I realy fucking loved the show, just as much 
as I loved the first one that I drove 9hrs to see... but alot of 
my friends that went along truely hated it.  Stating that it 
was one of the worsts concerts they have ever seen.  In their 
eyes it was too slow (the parts where Adam just played a riff 
25 times or so as an example), and they didn't like the fact 
that the band members just stood there, not seeming like 
they cared they were playing music at all.  I completely 
understand Tool, and respect them as musicians, and I 
realy loved the show... and I also see what they meant.  
Allthough I don't completey agree with it, I can see how 
someone could feel that way.  Sence everyone has at least 
one song that they wish Tool would have played that they 
didn't... i'll state mine.  They didn't play Eulogy... but they 
did play Aenima.  They played the salival version of 
PushIt... and the drummer from Tricky came out and played 
with the band during Triad, like all the other reviews I've 
read.  I was realy surprised with Tricky actualy.  I wasn't sure 
what to expect, but I was impressed... and will probably 
check out a few of his/their cd's.  There's my review.  My 
sugjestion is that if you haven't seen Tool, make sure you 
do.  But please realize that it's not going to be like a normal 
concert.  The band isn't going to be all over the place, the 
band members wont be out in the spotlite.  Pay attention to 
the music, and the way it makes you feel.  








Review written by: Dan Doedtman (DimmuBorgir420@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 01:26:52 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  This experience has changed my life.  My mind has not yet 
matured (it will) to the point of ability to fully describe this 
night.  The metal-head-fag in me went immediately to the 
floor.  I did mosh.  It wasn't moshing in the traditional 
sense.  I was feeling the sensations brought on by Tool and 
letting them do with my body what they would.  If I 
happened to get pushed by someone or if I happened to 
push someone, so it was.  I pushed my way to the front of 
the floor before the magic of the occurence could grab me.  
By the time I was within four feet of the gate, I was sweaty, 
hot, and barely able to breathe.  I was there to see and 
hear my favorite band, I wsn't there to die, so I backed off.  
I worked my way to the middle of the floor and let loose.  I 
wish there was some sort of device that could record one's 
thoughts as the person has them, because my elusive 
glances into bliss inspired by the observations to be had 
were enough foir me to waste the rest of my life reliving.  I 
learned why they're called Tool, or at least why I think they 
are.  It's an experience for all who care to have.  My 
thoughts and experiences shouldn't be pushed on anyone, 
that gets us nowhere.  Go to the show, learn what you will.

The third entry left Parabola off of the set list.  It was in 
between Push It and Schism.

There is an elite group of individuals too intelligent for their 
own good.  We don't have a name or care to have one, but 
there are boundaries.  This group was unacknowledged until 
this point, but was always definitely there.  Tonight I 
discovered our collective goal and, at the same moment, 
achieved it.  I can't tell you what it was because it's hard for 
me to remember, but it happened.  Jesus loves us all.








Review written by: yarlesberg (numbskull@bored.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 01:36:27 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  My ears are still ringing from the show.  In the interest of brevity, 
I'll keep from writing everything I think about the show, but the 
short version goes like this:
Tricky was the opening band, and I really think they were something 
terrible, unfortunately.  
Tool came on and tore up the arena with the grudge, and the show was 
on.  this is my first tool show I have had the privilege of seeing, 
and I was blown away.  They are fannnnnnnntastic live, I loved the 
visuals.  I loved hearing the salival version of pushit, I loved 
hearing the extra few measures of stinkfist.  the drummer from tricky 
came back out and played with tool for triad, and that, too, was 
something I loved.  the band was really together and totally there 
for this show, and I think that they felt it too cuz after they 
played lateralus they had a group hug before they left the stage.  
all in all, a wonderful show and I am counting the hours until they 
come back to town.  









Review written by: Grant H (ghinkle@ku.edu)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 02:15:05 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  This is just in addition to matt c's review. He forgot a few 
songs in the setlist. Main one is parabola.

grudge
ions
stinkfist (extra bridge and lyrics)
undertow
parabol*
parabola*
push it (hybrid)
schism
disposition
reflection
triad
eon blue*
patient
aenima
lateralus










Review written by: Gil (userg555@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 02:33:58 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  The sound of both bands (Tricky and Tool) were perfect. A 
bunch of stupid frat boys did not like Tricky but I thought his 
band was excellent. Tool played for almost 2 hours. They 
played all of the songs from the new album Lateralus. From 
their older stuff they played undertow, aenima, pushit (the 
long version) and stinkfist. One of Trickys band mates 
joined Tool to play triad, but I do not know his name, at first 
I thought it was Tricky but then I realized it was not him 
when maynard thanked him after the song. 









Review written by: Syd Barrett (knut83@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 02:51:00 ET


This was this reviewer's 13th Tool show

  Man, I just flew in from L.A. to catch tha show! It was fuckin 
amazin! I just have one question though? Why can't the 
crowd be a little cooler? I mean, why aren't you guys 
enlightened TOOL connoisseaurs like us? We realize that 
TOOL isn't life, man, just a small little speck of dust in this 
big ol' crazy universe that keeps spiralling out forever and 
ever, ad infinitum. Wow, It's getting early and I've got to 
catch a red-eye back to the city of angels for a power-
breakfast with my masseuse. late- see ya at the Fillmore!









Review written by: Brandon  (Nolovitum@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 03:18:42 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Tool, firstly, is one quite possibly the single-best live band I 
have ever seen. That's not to say that I have a vast wealth 
of live musical experience, but in mine, they rule with APC 
coming in closely. The musicianship of these four men is 
truly and utterly astounding. You get the impression that the 
recorded music of their album is only the basic version. 
While most bands struggle to merely reproduce what they 
have struggled with a producer to fix, Tool takes and 
transmutes their material into a new entity every time they 
perform it. Tonight, for listening pleasure of Danny's old 
hometown we had:

The Grudge
- Ions
Stinkfist (extra bridge and lyrics)
undertow
(an abridgement of Parabol)
Parabola*
Push it (hybrid)
Schism
Disposition
Reflection
Triad
Eon Blue Apocalypse
The Patient
Aenima
Lateralus


The band seemed fairly focused on making a good 
performance. Maynard was as wry and enigmatic as usual. 
Not terrible talkative. The only interesting comments 
made: "Let's thank Perry from Tricky (after performing the 
extra percussion on Triad). He's the record holder in Kansas 
for Women's Shotput; a little known fact." 

My best friend and I had a fairly good angle from above and 
near the stage. Danny Carey is inhuman. The speed and 
precision with which that man moves two wooden sticks 
across an impossible set of shiny, golden drums, is 
astounding. The only breaks he gets are when he is setting 
up the triggers and samples. Adam was fairly stoic 
throughout. Justin moved around quite a bit more, stomping 
his feet occassionally to the beat or crescendo. Maynard 
spastically contorted his way through every piece, letting the 
music flow through him. Truly amazing. 

The visuals are ineffable to describe. Extremely meaty, lots 
of commentary on beauty of human bodies...especially 
female. I, think, I'm not sure, but if you look I think the 
male and female nudes are actually Osseus Labyrint without 
makeup. Pay attention during The Patient. Either that or the 
grotesque nature of the human experience. Pay attention to 
the strange CG scene during Reflection. Most of the visuals 
and lights are enough to give an epileptic a fit, though, so 
be forewarned. The most beautiful one of the night 
accompanied the revised version of Pushit which involved two 
women endlessly circling a mannequin. It just seemed 
incredibly poignant given the agonizing nature of the song. 

Osseus Laybrint were beauty incarnate. How they can remain 
suspended upside down for so long is beyond me. At one 
point, they resembled St. Peter, crucified upsidedown. Sheer 
and sleek and beautiful. Hannah Sim has an incredible 
body. Marry me, Hannah! That is, if Mark hasn't already. :( 
Needless to say, they contribute a great deal during Triad. 
Don't miss it. Apparently, they can do that stuff for over an 
hour. 

All in all, one of the finest concert experiences to be had on 
God's Green Earth. The cohesiveness of this band is best 
demonstrated by the touching group hug they shared after it 
was all over. Humble as ever, they remain brothers forged in 
the fire of their creative genius. Our nativeson, Danny, 
smiled as he waved to chants of "Carey, Carey, Carey...". 
I'm sure that made Bob happy and proud of his boy as he 
very rightly should be. Sheepishly, humbly,  they all waved 
to an adoring crowd and exited the stage. This night will be 
remembered forever. I only wish, now, that I had remained 
and tried to meet the band. If only to exchange a couple of 
words. C'est la vie. Salvete, meum fraterum. 









Review written by: Carl A Stewart (zeke5588@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 03:49:02 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Since this was my first ever Tool show, I had no clue exactly 
what to expect from it.  What I had concieved in my mind 
could hav in no way prepared me for the awesome spectacle 
I was about to witness.  The show was, in a word: brilliance.  
Everything was as it should be and it was like for those 
precious few hours everything in the world was right.  It was 
an experience that will endure in my mind for the rest of my 
life.

Now with a little personal insight taken into account, a 
description of the show would be in order.  The show's set 
list went about like this:

Mantra
The Grudge
(-)ions
Stinkfist
Undertow
Schism
Pushit [much like Salival]
Parabola
Disposition
Reflection
-really trippy/artsy part-
Triad
The Patient
Ænima
Lateralus

That's how I remember it at least.  In all honesty though, 
being as it was my first time ever seeing Tool live ... there 
really was just too much for me to take in.  It was an 
overwhelming attack on the senses that didn't end from the 
minute Tool took the stage until the time they huddled 
together in their group embrace and the lights came back up.


The feeling was just so overwhelming by the end of the show 
that I don't really know if I have the words to describe its 
brilliance.  I just know what I felt for those short few hours 
and that was a feeling of awe and respect like never before 
for the group that we all know and love.  I sat there among 
many fools who didn't quite understand the conceptaul 
beauty of Tool's music and art.  Someone around me 
commented on the excessive amount of nudity in the show 
art.  To this one can only respond that the human body is 
an art form all in itself and has always been reverred for its 
artistic beauty.  It's art, not pornography ... so I just moved 
on with my intake of the events.  My friends accompanying 
me also were seeing Tool for the first time and we all awe-
stricken at the beauty of the show.  And I think that we all 
agreed upon one of the most awesome moments in the 
show, being not a musical one, but Maynard's words before 
they started into Lateralus.  Though I don't remember 
Maynard's exact words ... they were something to the extent 
of him thanking us and telling us to enjoy and remember 
this moment we spent together.  It was moving then and 
still moving now as I think back on it.

I wasn't really concerned with many of the finer details of 
the "inner-works" of the show though.  I was really there as 
a pure spectator to enjoy every moment of it.  Those that I 
did catch were that Adam was hit by someone glow ring that 
was thrown on stage [pissed me off], one of the guys from 
Tricky sat in on Triad, Maynard never left his spot in front of 
the screen except for the break before Triad and at the start 
of Lateralus, and I guess that everything seemed to be 
done precisely as it should.

Ultimately it was the experience of a life time that I will not 
soon forget.  The beauty of rhythms combined with artistic  
representations of the art were like no other and are 
something that every person there will carry with them for 
the rest of their lives.








Review written by: Lasalle Griffith (confucius57@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 04:08:10 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Wow, what a stupendous show!! How does Maynard and the 
boys do it night in and night out? The incredible energy that 
you can feel literally eviscerating the entire arena was really 
and truly awe-inspiring!!! And then when he said to " use this 
positive feeling that we are all in the midst of having and 
then go and use it for positive in two weeks" I lost it! I really 
liked the extended bridge version of stinkfist!!! You guys are 
really amazing. If it really is true like the last reviewer wrote 
that we experienced the hybrid version of push it , I feel soo 
honered to have been at the concert tonight!! I havn't read 
about that happening at any of the other shows in the 
reviews! Tool is the best! Stay positive!!









Review written by: CatWithTheGatt (ieatch1ldr3n@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 04:53:12 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  I had not yet heard Tricky's new album, so I was surprised 
to hear their new sound. Frankly, I didn't even think it was 
them until they played a song I recognized.  But that's not 
what people want to hear about. On to the good stuff!
It all started with The Grudge, and lord almighty did i go 
crazy listening to AND watching Danny go crazy on his set. 
Two songs later was the slow version of pushit, which yielded 
my friend with some bad news. His woman acquaintance had 
given him some crappy info on the way to the show, which 
made him miss Tricky, so that was a bit upsetting. Later on, 
Perry Melius from Tricky joined the band in an amazing 
version of Triad, but I love drums, so maybe that's just me. 
After a heart warming moment were Maynard asked the 
crowd to remember the feeling of the night and do 
something positive with it, they went on to play Lateralu(i)s, 
depending on what cd you have ;)  The show ended with 
Adam, Justin, and Danny tossing some things (?) into the 
crowd followed by a group hug on stage. Very cool, very 
classy. A band should be close, and they proved they're just 
that.








Review written by: Josh (ninkc@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 06:42:42 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  After the years of listening to this band, with the lights off, 
on, upside down, right side up, outside, inside, stoned, 
sober, driving, drawing, sex, whatever and more... I finally 
got the chance to see them live!

I'm glad I could be apart of something so magical. To 
witness four gifted musicians create a chemistry unlike any 
other bands out there nowadays. Truely unforgetable. If 
there was ever a reason to have a good time, to get down 
and feel the rythm. It was this tour. 

The crowd to me, for the most part, was pretty into it and 
were experiencing something timeless, as was I. I don't 
understand most people complaining about others moshing 
to certain songs, I was in the lower level seats but to me, It 
seemed fitting for the most part (It wasn't all that out of 
control)...I'd do the same to down there too probably, the 
music does something... it releases this energy inside you 
were you can't help but to move, especially if others around 
you are doing it. Besides. If that's moshing then Obituary 
concerts are a killing spree, ya delicate asses! :} 

I was there for the opening act Tricky, and it was pretty 
good, I dug it, but I've heard things like it before. That or it 
didn't seem all that mind blowing. Still it was cool. I was just 
glad, unlike others who tell a tale of people yelling rude 
comments towards opening acts, that didn't happen here for 
me (besides a point after the first song where alittle booing 
was heard in the back of kemper). 

The setlist for Tool, I don't remember the order of it.. I do 
know what wasn't played. No Parabol for one! :( %@&!@#! 
Damnit! I was really looking forward to hearing maynard sing 
that, yet Tool played a few notes from it and then right into 
Parabola we went. It's sorta hard to get into at first without 
the build up. Also no Opiate or Eulogy. Otherwise it's pretty 
consistent with other setlists. 

One of my favorite musicial moments was I think before 
Schism. I don't know if that was suppose to be a alternate 
version of Mantra, but whatever the hell it was , it nearly 
drove me into a flashback. Some sort of jamming unlike 
that of Merkaba but pretty close and even more trippy. I now 
must find out what pedal Adam uses. Triad was amazing, 
Danny Carrey and the guy (Perry?) from Tricky where going 
at it like nobodys buisness! I felt the whole thing. Very 
impressive, and at times it seemed hypnotic. Maynard's 
scream during the 3rd quarter of Push it was powerfull. That 
dude's got a strong ass voice.

The whole Osseus Labyrint was just plain nutty. A perfect 
touch for the evening. I Loved it but the whole time I'm 
going "well this is something you don't see everyday". I 
mean gee...what would the striaght and narrow people 
outside think of this? Muhahhaahaha! One thing I've 
thought about once I learned they would be performing for 
the arena tour, was their rope act. I almost wasn't sure if it 
would happen or if it would be safe in KC being Owen Hart 
died there damn near doing the same thing. Kemper could 
of been cursed but everything went well. The colored lighting 
against them was magnificant. 

Maynard didn't say much throughout the night 
except "Thanks for coming", and the postive speech. After 
Triad he told the crowd that Perry from Tricky "holds the 
record in kansas for shop lifting women's clothing" or 
something to that effect. 

All in all. Tight performance...unbelievable.... I didn't even 
go with dope or anything for an ephoric state of mind. The 
music did that for me.... Well.... that and the two "Pot 
Angels" who some how appeared beside me instead of the 3 
people who were there before. :} ....I don't know how they 
got there but wow, what a nice thing. The force knows I 
smoke so karma brought it back around to me, I guess.

I few acknowledgements I'd like to make to others in the 
crowd, The pot angels of course, the kid on the floor raving 
before the show not giving a fuck about what others would 
think, the girls flashing before Tool came on stage really 
should of grown them before they showed them, the people 
next to my girlfriend for eventually sharing their weed too 
and the preps behind me who were blown back in their 
existence by phenomenal gifted music. Welcome to the next 
level , boys! :}

I'd also like to say, I must of been in a good area, I heard 
no bitching by others about this night being a waste of 
money, about a outro taking to long, or any other rude 
comments.


One thing about others who say there isn't enough moving 
around between the band members in Tool is..... with other 
bands. Those nu metal bands "have" to do that to get any 
sort of feeling out of their music, they have to reach for 
something physical to do, cause frankly, creating nu metal 
doesn't take much of that kind of effort, where as in Tool, 
the compossing itself is more physically demanding than the 
creation of any nu metal music. Adam and Justin are 
moving. In true musician fashion. 

If I was to ever meet Tool, I'd just like to say THANK YOU. 
Thats all..... no freaking out you're my idol bullshit or sign 
this... Just thanks.. 

Bye to all who went, and I hope all went well for all the 
blotter droppers who might of had to much fun. :} 

Also remember to do something positive and hopefully 
productive with what you felt on this October night. 

The first positive thing I'd like to do is send a prayer to 
Chuck Schuldiner. Get well soon, brother!


-Josh from Wichita, KS.












Review written by: IAmScotto (iamscotto@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 09:26:47 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  Tool in an arena. What a concept. The sound at Kemper 
always SUCKS, no matter who's playing or what kind of music 
is being played. As a result, Maynard was hard to 
understand (sounded like he was swallowing the mike) but I 
could hear his fantastic singing. Adam's guitar tone was 
WOW dead on, baby.

Here's what I noticed. These guys evolved from being the 
really heavy, mysterious, kick-ass band I saw in Omaha in 
1994 to being not only a very intelligent, thoughtful band 
but a band that is FINALLY comfortable being musicians, not 
just "artists". They've really begun to let loose. Tool has 
always had a very controlled sound live, and as a result I 
think their shows have suffered at times. Now? It seems to 
me they're really just letting loose, letting it flow, and 
enjoying playing as a BAND. They're even improvising and -- 
OH MY GOD! -- allowing an occasional guitar solo! They're 
finally not too snobbish or afraid to be a ROCK BAND, but 
with brains and spirit.

Most of this show went WAY over the heads of the audience 
who, of course, is usually more interested in 1) sparking up 
2) moshing 3) posing (you know, wearing the right thing, 
smoking to look cool). These are the people who got off 
on "AEnima" and "Schism" but had no idea what "Pushit" 
or "Triad" was and found it boring rather than challenging.

Couple things, though: What is Maynard playing on "Schism" 
and other tunes, a guitar? Why was Justin wearing a wig? 
And is there a keyboardist backstage or is someone 
triggering those backing parts off a sequencer (occasionally 
there was more music than musicians, and I'm just 
wondering how)?

All in all, I was amazed. I can't say it was better than the 
OzzFest show in August 98 I saw because that show had 
such energy. This is practically a different band, so it seems 
unfair to compare. Kinda like the difference between 
the "Rush" album, "Fly By Night" and "Caress of Steel"... by 
the third album, it's hardly the same band. Same here. It 
sounds like Tool has made an incredible, fascinating 
transformation. They have finally realized their potential.


Scott Allen Miller

PS: Thanks for "Undertow", guys!








Review written by: Jon (factory81-38@home.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 11:10:23 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Instead of just posting another setlist, or commenting on 
the quality of herbal refreshments there was to be had at 
this show, I will give my own personal reflection upon the 
show I witnessed just a mere 12 hours ago.  Before last 
night, anytime a show came around in a big arena I was 
autmatically biased against it.  You cannot match the 
intimate atmosphere of a small club or concert hall that you 
get on an underground band tour.  However, even though 
there were a few, how should I say, MORONS, at the show, 
95% of the people there I can say are intelligent.  And to go 
further, I can say probably 20% of them I had seen before 
in the past few years at other shows of other lesser known 
bands.  Therefore, I can honestly say this crowd was very 
unique for an arena show.  The experience was brought to 
me by a band that is legions ahead of others and by far has 
influenced what we hear today like nonother.  The Beatles, 
Led Zepplin, Ozzy, Faith No More, Nirvana, and now (if not 
years ago), Tool.  The fabled few who have seen these 
bands can relish that their whole lives.

The show started off very melodramatic--wait wait, no, the 
music did.  Before the actual opening song, there was (as 
usual at Kemper), a mad rush to the floor.  My ticket said 
Section 229 (upper level across from the stage), row U (as 
high as you could get, just plain chairs also), seat 7 (middle 
of that section).  I could see my seat that my ticket was for 
from the floor during their entire set, it was kind of strange.  
The whole set was highlighted by energy--it might not have 
been a jumping up and down, beating up your neighbor 
energy, but it was a free flowing energy that was brought on 
by the most artful music I have EVER heard.  I must admit, I 
am not the biggest Tool fan--my friends were much bigger 
fans than me.  I had listened to a bit of Undertow (own it 
just never listen to it), and Sober happens to be my favorite 
track by the band.  I also am impartial to AEnima, loving 
that CD like a child.  Lateralus to me was just a step in a 
different direction.  I could never get into it quite as well.  It 
is just art--not as fast paced or as heavy, just art in a very 
mellow form.

By the time Stinkfist rolled around my senses were fully 
aroused.  I could feel, taste, touch, smell and of course hear 
the music, this life that they had created.  It flowed vibrantly 
and didn't stop.  No matter what the critics say about their 
music down the road or what anyone says about their style 
or this style of music in general, their life they created in 
their music will live in us all forever.

From there out it was all a blur.  It was all slow paced for the 
most part, emotional, and moving.  Every track flowed 
smoothly.  I couldn't tell ya what every track was, but I do 
know when Schism came in, the crowd was going crazy (not 
to say this was a radio crowd, they loved it all).  My favorite 
though was AEnima... Maynard was now wound up and 
moving like the sounds were forcing his body to flow.  It was 
beautiful.

They closed out, threw some stuff to the crowd, bowed, 
waved, and left.  Those 4 men on stage though, weren't the 
show.  They weren't the reason we came.  They were far 
from the show stealer.  We came for an experience, not to 
see Tool.  Tool was just the catylist.  Without the band, 
granted, it would have not started.  But it was more than just 
seeing those 4 Gods among men playing that we all came 
for.

I cannot wait till they come back.








Review written by: Eric Brammeier (winger017@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 11:21:42 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  This had to have been the most amazing live show i have 
ever seen. The visuals were awesome and the music was 
right on mark. I feel sorry for the people on the floor who 
wanted to see the show and had to deal with all the idiots 
who thought they could push their way to the front and all 
the stupid people who thought "hehe hey it would be really 
cool to get drunk and mosh". All and all it was great show 
and i hope its not going to be the only time i see them.








Review written by: Pube (Sicemptyness@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 11:24:31 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Definately GO! and DEFINATELY ROLL!








Review written by: tool fan (irishpride004@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 12:54:11 ET


This was this reviewer's 7th Tool show

  Well this is my frist time posting a review and here goes.  
Tricky was very good, and for you people that said that they 
were no good in the prior reviews, you were wrong.  I wont go 
into the set list since its already been posted and i really 
dont remember.  I will say that undertow was amazing.  
When Harry from Tricky came out and played Triad with Tool 
he put his heart in it.  Tool for me has become a source of 
allowing all my hate, fear, anger and love to come out.  I will 
say this about Tool,  I have been a fan since 94 and will 
continue to be.  Bands grow with the fans and we are seeing 
that from tool.  Each album they release is better and more 
emotional than the one before.  Tool is one of the only 
bands that i have seen that are able to sould as good live 
as they do on the Album.  This was the 2nd best tool show 
that i have seen.  If you have never seen Tool you are truly 
missing out on one of the greatest bands of our times.








Review written by: Bryan Rawson (orangefrogpad@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 15:09:43 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  We arrived at Kemper Arena at about 6:00 p.m and waited 
in line to get in for about 25 minutes before we got in. After 
waiting another half hour to an hour, Tricky came on, and 
played for about an hour. By the time Tricky was done 
playing the floor started to get really crowded and there was 
hardly any room to move. And finally, after a long time 
waiting, Tool came out to do their thing. The stage set up 
was Adam on the left, Maynard just to the right of him, but a 
few feet behind standing on a podium, then Justin and 
Danny on the right side. They had three screens, two huge 
ones in the back, and one right behind Maynard. I told my 
friends that we should meet back at the car, and that was a 
good thing to do, because the whole crowd on the floor was 
going nuts. They opened with the grudge, and they did it cd-
perfect, without missing a single note. As susal at a tool 
concert these days, they had tripped out stuff playing on the 
screen at all times. Maynard started out in what looked like 
black leather pants and a t-shirt with the lateralus eye on it. 
After every song, he took off another article of clothing until 
he was just in his black tights. His face was hard to see but 
he looked like it was painted blue with a white cross on the 
forehead.  After the first two or three songs, they played 
schism and osseius labrynth came out in the middle of it on 
both hands and feet and were walking around for the 
remainder of the song. After a few more songs, the band 
took a break, with Adam playing the outro to reflection over 
and over, getting a little bit slower every time until they all 
had left the stage. Then he left and osseius labrynth came 
out, and started climbing up two ropes until they were way 
above the audience. They then hung upside down from 
probably fifty feet up in the air, and did some tripped out 
movements, while the set up crew came and put out some 
toms in the middle of the stage. About five minutes later, 
Danny came out and started jamming on the drums, with 
the rest of the band and Pauly from Tricky following a cfew 
minutes later. They then did a song with him, triad, then 
introduced pauly from tricky. After he left, they played a few 
more songs, including aenema, and ending with lateralus. 
Then they finished their set, put their instruments down and 
went to the middle of the stage for a group hug. Then they 
waved to the audience and threw out some water biotlles. 
Danny threw out a frisbee, and adam threw out two little 
bags that looked like they contained perhaps a keychain or 
a necklace. Then, the lights came back on and everyone was 
rushed out by the staff. It was a night to remember, for tool 
put on the best show that i have ever seen, and they just 
keep getting better everytime i see them.








Review written by: Shawn "THE REV" Murphy (wallis_pikkle@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 15:16:28 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  I waited over the night to post a review to let it all sink in.  I do
have this to say, Tricky has at least 2 new fans counting my friend and I.  
Thank you guys for playing for us.  And sorry about those drunken idiots
yelling during your set.  TOOL was amazing.  I had what i thought were
crappy seats, upper duck at an angle, but they turned out to be probably
some of the best seats in the place.  Facing Danny, and able to see
Maynard quite well.  Although I did get the feeling of a closure to all
this, being the TOOL era of music.  As sad as that may seem, life does
move on, and in different dirrections.  GOD I hope Im wrong.  Thank you
Adam, Danny, James, and Justin for your lives.  And as some people may say
that they are changed forever, although I am a huge TOOL fan, have been
for quite a long time, I would have to say, this experience didnt change
me too dramatically and/ or as quickly as some others might have felt it.  
I will remember last night for as long as i can and I truely hope that we
all can experience them again in the future.

THE REV








Review written by: Enreekay (enreekay13@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 15:33:03 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Quite the experience if you had the chance to catch it.  As 
soon as Tricky came on, there was an overwhelming force of 
pushing from behind me (I was about 4 people from the 
front bar.).  After all the unnessessary pushing and shoving, 
I found myself in the middle of the floor, getting ready to 
watch tool front and center.  As soon as the lights cut, the 
pushing came back again.  Now this may just be my opinion, 
but the purpose of purchasing a TOOL ticket was to enjoy 
the inspirational and unique music, NOT TO TRY AND 
SURVIVE STUPID PEOPLE PUSHING AND SHOVING AND 
MAKING MOSH PITS.  The comfort level at this concert was 
zero in the pit.  You idoits can't even see the band when 
you're moshing!  Aside from all the discomfort, TOOL had an 
excellent live performance.  Danny Carey was definatly 
welcomed to his hometown (actually, he's from Paola, KS, 
but Kansas City is close enough.).  The set list was amazing 
playing song from the newly redone Pushit to a classic 
performance of Undertow.  The bulk of the set list was 
chosen from Lateralus (but they didn't play Ticks and 
Leeches!)  The artists from the Schism video were there to 
perform against the white video screens and an array of spot 
light patterns.  It sure was something weird, but definatly 
unique.  As the band ended with Lateralus, the arena just 
blew up with applause for the band and there amazing 
performance.  The band members were throwing things in 
the crowd to give lucky fans a memento of the evening.  
Things thrown were water bottles, towels, guitar pics, and a 
drum head and sticks from Danny.  Then the band all got 
together on stage to give thanks to the fans for "sharing 
this moment with them".  The band then embrased each 
other, all 4 of them.  It was just another sign that TOOL is 
probably the most under-rated and most inspirational band 
in rock music today.  

P.S.  and to those dicks who don't know how to respect 
people in a pit, F*CK YOU!!!








Review written by: Imphyris (sithicar@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 15:58:43 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Considering the wide spectrum of experience already laid 
out before me on this page, I will not go into things like how 
I will reflect upon this night and re-immerse myself in its 
feeling, or how great tool played, or how Maynard's flailing 
was a great addition to the music, or how increadible Adam's 
art is getting even more amazing.

I will, however, mention the fact that a few of you forgot to 
mention this:  Maynard said "Good evening" after the first or 
second song.  It was great, ingenious his lack of speech.  He 
did say to remember the feeling of the night and in the next 
weeks,   something positive.

To the one who already mentioned this, I too cried during 
Push it, and had to pull myself together so I could clear the 
blur in my eyes; didn't want to even blink.

In response to the others who noticed Maynard was holding 
something, I believe it to be a Steinberger guitar, as they 
have no headstock.

This show was definently worth the three hour drive to see 
it.  I waited years for this, having missed previous 
opportunities beyond my control.


If I thought there was any chance the band would read this, 
I would say more, but in the end I feel I must make the 
comment of:

Thank you for the moment we shared.......








Review written by: Phil Gautieri (bluntlegga@hotmaIL.COM)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 16:12:12 ET


This was this reviewer's 7TH Tool show

  I just saw them in StL Friday and I thought that the KC show 
was twice as good.  For one the crowd in StL was not as into 
it as the KC crowd.  Tool also seemed like they were having 
a lot better time in KC from the body language that Maynard 
was giving. 
 At the end of the show Danny took a drum head off of his 
drum set that he was playing on.  It was signed and dated 
with a big purple looking star.  Whoever those five people 
that I fought for it were, thanks for realizing that I am the 
one that deserved it.  Oh, and by the way, sorry for those 
elbow shots to the head, that was my friend helping me out 
on getting that unforgetable momento.  After the date on 
the drum head it has an E.V.  If anyone knows what that 
means give me an email.  
The show was great and pushit was unbelievable.








Review written by: Isis (isis@kc.rr.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 16:56:49 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  One should always seek to learn something from Tool.  That 
is their purpose.  Last night, I learned that I am an 
imperfect human being.  I am flawed.

I had been looking forward to this show for months, ever 
since the album came out – even before that.  The recent 
911 bombing had put a damper on the day I got the tickets, 
but the adrenaline rush was still there.  My boyfriend said he 
thought I was going to "pop."

So that night I headed to the arena with my boyfriend and 
his friend.  Neither one loves the band like I do.  It was just 
a show to them.  For me, it was something special, spiritual, 
beyond words.  

The band opened with “The Grudge”.  I couldn’t sing 
because I had a sore throat, but I mouthed the words.  The 
band was situated with Adam and Justin in front, and Danny 
and Maynard on pedastals in back.  To the left of Danny was 
an occult symbol.  I forget what it is.  Maynard stood in 
sillouhette in front of a screen that showed the psychedilic 
images.  Two more giant screens were above the band.  I 
really admire how Maynard chooses to conceal his identity 
and put himself in the background.  Although alot of 
attention is focused on him, he presents himself as just one 
element of the show.

I had to remind myself not to get too much into singing and 
moving throughout the show.  It was going to make me 
miss.  I tried to stand still and feel and concentrate on the 
meaning of it all.  

My boyfriend wasn’t feeling well at all.  His friend escorted 
him out to the hallway, and he asked if I would come with 
him.  I said no.  I had been looking forward to this show for 
months, and there was no way I was going to leave it.  But I 
felt very badly while they were gone.  What if he was very 
ill?  I knew I was being very selfish and a lousy girlfriend.  I 
knew this show meant way too much to me.  I put it above 
everything else –everything.  It seemed that I could not 
have a conversation without mentioning the band.  Nobody 
else cared.  I would berate myself every time I did that, but 
would always do it again.  And I could never express myself 
properly about it either.  What I felt was beyond words.  But 
what I felt as I waited there during “Pushit” for my boyfriend 
to come back was that I was a sinner.  I was breaking the 
first commandment.  I had put my desires above my 
concern for someone I supposedly cared about.  

He came back after a time.  He just had to throw up and felt 
much better.  I held his hand and tried to show that I cared, 
but it was too late.  This was a test from God, and I had 
failed.  He didn’t even seem to realize that I had failed 
him.  I had gotten away with it.  But I knew.  The event 
weighed heavily upon me throughout the rest of the show.

The show was wonderful.  I didn’t know where to focus my 
attention.  Should I look at the big screens which showed 
psychedelic images of mandalas, swimming naked women, 
and reedits of existing videos?  Should I look to Maynard, 
who crooned flawlessly and was quietly stripping as the show 
went on?  Should I check out the other band members?  
Should I concentrate on the meaning of the song?  Should I 
forget the parts and try to see the whole?  I tried to 
meditate in spite of my nagging guilt.  What did it all mean?

The show closed with “Aenima”, and then “Lateralus.”  At the 
end, Maynard, who rarely spoke during the show, closed with 
telling us to take the feeling that we were having right now 
and use it to create something positive.  Very Maynard.  This 
is another reason I love this band so much.  Tool is so aptly 
named.  It is a tool.  I have used it as a tool in many ways.  
I don’t know yet what I am to do with this experience.  It 
had a negative side, yes, but one cannot grow without some 
pain.  A night of bad decisions, bad timing, fucked up 
priorities, and personal realization.  My weaknesses have 
been shown to me. Lord, help me use this tool to grow, to 
reach my potential -- to spiral out.










Review written by: Hypno+Raygun (hypnoraygun@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 17:16:47 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Hey..I was and may type a lot here?. But first off.. SOmeone 
give me their FTP to Upload THE MP3's OF THIS SHOW! They 
aren't perfect, but better than nothing! Do it.. I don't want to 
trade anything right now, just want to get these out. 

Review? I can't see how anyone that likes Tool would not 
like Tricky. that is all I am saying, he was great. 

Ah forget it.. It was an okay show. 









Review written by: Zach (z_waterman@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 17:38:53 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Man, I don't know where to start. This was my first time 
seeing, no, experiencing Tool. I've been a fan since '94, but 
for one reason or another I never made it to see them when 
they've been here before. But this time, there was no 
fucking way I was gonna miss this. Me and my girl got floor 
tix, because we wanted to get the full experience, this being 
our first Tool show. We were about 5 feet away from the 
gate, in front of the huge speaker on the left, right in front 
of the two girls who were kind enough to expose their 
breasts to everyone. (By the way, they might not have been 
the biggest racks ever, but it was still nice when the girls 
began licking themselves and pinching and prodding each 
others nipple rings) I had never heard Tricky before, but my 
girl is a fan of his, so I listened to them with an open mind, 
and I have to say that I was pretty into it. They used a lot 
more electric guitar than I expected from a supposed hip-
hop group. Also lots of bass, but maybe that's because I 
was 10 feet away from a huge fucking speaker. They only 
lasted for maybe 45 minutes, and for some reason I got the 
impression that they cut their set short because it didn't 
really seem like much of the crowd, especially those on the 
floor, were into it. So anyway, at the beginning of Tricky the 
place was maybe half-full and I was like 'What the fuck, I 
know there are more Tool fans than this in KC'- needless to 
say when the lights went on after Tricky the place was 
fucking PACKED and I could feel the energy already starting 
to build. I thought that I had prepared myself to be on the 
floor of a Tool concert last year when NIN and APC came to 
Kemper. Little did I know. When the lights went out and Tool 
came out one at a time, each drawing a louder roar and 
bigger surge in the crowd, I knew that me and my girl were 
in for the experience of our lives. When The Grudge started, 
the crowd surged forward so hard that I had the wind 
knocked out of me, but shit, I thought my fucking lungs had 
collapsed. After a few seconds (seemed like hours) I could 
breathe again, but we were having a very difficult time not 
only watching but listening because everyone on the floor 
was either trying to mosh, sing the words, or stop other 
people from moshing or singing. I had been relatively dry 
before the song started- in less than 2 minutes I was 
COMPLETELY soaked in sweat (mine and everyones around 
me). By the way, I still loved every minute of that song. 
After The Grudge though, it seemed like everyone chilled 
out a little on the floor, with the occasional mini-mosh pit 
springing up. The little circle that I was moshing in was cool- 
everyone was slamming into each other and then shaking 
hands 2 seconds later, helping each other up off the ground, 
making sure no bones were protruding or anything. Shit, 
there was even this little chick with braids fuckin slamming 
into us like she weighed 250 instead of 90. Man, that was 
the toughest chick I ever saw, cuz she was getting fucking 
BLASTED, and she kept coming back for more. There's 
something sexy about a girl who can hang like that and still 
carry herself like a woman. Anyways, back to the real 
subject...It's funny- I've been a Tool fan for what seems like 
my whole life, I've heard every song that they have recorded 
at least 1000 times each, and I've read many of these 
reviews, each person describing the power and beauty of 
Tool's music from their own perspective. But every time they 
played a song last night, I really felt that I was hearing each 
song for the first time all over again. I wanted so bad for 
them to just start with Sweat. and go through each album 
and play every song they've ever recorded. I have felt since 
the first time I heard the extent of Tool's albums that any 
song that they have created could stand completely on it's 
own, without videos or singles promoting it, because each 
one digs into a different crevice of emotion than anything 
before it. Only Tool isn't digging with a shovel. These four 
musical and artistic geniuses take jackhammers to the brain 
of every person lucky enough to witness them create their 
magic, ripping every feeling and emotion you've ever felt up 
by the roots and exposing it for the entire world to see. Only 
you aren't embarrased or shy or angry, because, in the 
words of Samuel L. Jackson in that timeless classic Pulp 
Fiction, "...you have experienced what recovering alcoholics 
like to call a 'moment of clarity'." And the best part is that 
everyone around you. at least those priveliged enough to 
not only hear Tool but to FEEL Tool, is experiencing this 
wonderful sensation too. When I was younger I idolized the 
members of Tool. And although I still admire Adam, Justin, 
Danny, Maynard, and Paul (yes, Paul too), I now realize 
what they've been telling me all along- the beauty of their 
music, and any good music for that matter, is not whoever is 
creating the music, nor is it the music itself- the beauty is 
instead found in what the music creates and releases inside 
each person experiencing it. Sorry this review was so 
long...so many emotions, so few words in the English 
language to describe them...I'll leave you all with this- If 
you've never experienced Tool live,  I hope for your sake 
that you do before it's too late. If you think you like the 
music now, it rises to a whole other level at the live show. 
It's like nothing you'd  think to expect. I know now that  
those two floor tickets were by far the best $90 I've ever 
spent. To the members of Tool, should you ever read this, I 
can only say thank you. Your music has affected more lives 
in more ways than you could ever know. 



























Review written by: Penca (savedder11@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 19:31:04 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  Okay, I have to admit that I went to this show with nothing 
but high expectations, and they were completely fulfilled.  
Our seats really sucked, but it didn't take away from the 
show.  Tricky was really hard to watch, as the lighting was 
horrible (nonexistant for the first song, actually..).  Finally, 
Tool took the stage.  I was skeptical about Maynard staying 
on his little stage throughout the entire show, but I'd say  
that he was still the most powerful presence in the band, 
despite being "confined" to one area.   They were definitely 
in fine form, tearing through pretty damn near the entire 
Lateralus disc (no ticks!  damn!), and only throwing it back 
to the "golden oldies" for Stinkfist, Undertow, Pushit, and 
Aenema.  As I was watching, I couldn't help but be 
astounded by the fact that Danny plays his drums like he's 
asleep.  He's doing the most amazing things that any 
percussionist could ever dream of doing, and he looks like 
he's barely moving.   Adam and Justin seemed pretty 
somber as well, but I suppose that's typical.  Maynard had 
my attention through most of the show, however.  Playing 
guitar on several songs, and generally rocking out.  Overall, 
they are the best live band I've ever seen (and this is 
coming from someone whose "other" favorite band is Pearl 
Jam), and I can't wait to see them again.  The only 
downpoint was not being able to see more of the guys 
themselves, but I did manage to get a picture of Adam out 
in the parking lot when he came over to say hi, so I guess it 
all evens out.  Oh yeah....  when Maynard told us to take 
our moment together and turn it into something positive in 
the weeks to come.....  I had to smile, thinking about all 
that we've been through as a country in the last month, and 
all that I've been through with this band, for the last seven 
years or so.  Thanks guys, for never letting me down.








Review written by: Berzerker (none)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 20:53:38 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  Not to be annoying but does anyone know the song tool 
plays on the pa before they come out, the instrumental 
song that is like 15 minutes of cool noise and guitar. any 
name and or song title would be helpful thanx









Review written by: Jared (absentone@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 21:22:31 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Last night was one of the greatest experiences of the 19 
years that I have had on this rock called Earth.  Three of my 
fraternity brothers and I drove nearly four hours from 
Springfield, MO to Kansas City.  We finally got to KC at 4pm 
and had to kill 3 hours until we went in.  It was Josh, Jared, 
and I's first Tool show, and Jarrod's third.  Kemper sounds 
like shit.  Tricky put on an interesting show and I am now a 
fan of his music.  However, having to sit through the Tricky 
set was such a terribly long experience.  Then, at about 
8:40pm, Tool took the stage.

They opened with The Grudge and followed up with Ions and 
then Stinkfist.  The four of us were the only ones standing in 
our upper level, section 233, row J, seats 1-4.  Tool then 
performed Undertow to all of our surprise (we almost shit 
ourselves), followed by Parabola.

Tool then went into pushit, the long version.  I'll never forget 
their playing my favorite song.  I started crying when 
Maynard sang "Remember I'll always love you...".  I 
collapsed into Jared's arms and he consoled me.  Thanks, 
Shep.

Schism was next, as Tool was joined by Osseus Labyrint.  
Osseus is an amazing act and they really added to the 
performance.

Dispostion, Reflection, and Triad followed with a member of 
Tricky's band coming out to join Tool during Triad.  I never 
knew that Maynard played guitar.

Eon Blue and The Patient (my favorite Laturalus song) were 
next,

Aenema was next and the whole place exploded.  During 
that performance, I accidentally flung sweat, snot, and saliva 
all over myself and everyone around me...I didn't care.

The night finished up with Maynard saying a few words to the 
crowd and then the band launched into Laturalus.  They 
couldn't have chose a better way to end the night.

The four of us were the only ones in our section to stand for 
the show (probably to the disappointment of the guys 
behind us).  We stood there for a few minutes as the four 
men of Tool embraced each other and then passed out 
picks, sticks, and waterbottles.  I screamed "One More" for 
about 10 minutes to no avail.  It was probably for the best 
that they didn't play another song...Lateralus would be 
impossible to top.

We then filed our way out of Kemper with the rest of the 
sheep and then piled into Shep's Grand Prix.  I volunteered 
to drive the rest of the way home...I couldn't sleep.  I 
couldn't completely wrap my mind around what I had just 
witnessed...

Thank you Danny, Justin, Adam, and Maynard for the 
greatest night of my life...








Review written by: Cody Blanchard (randumbcody@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 21:38:46 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  Last night was freaking great. Tool did just as well as 
everyone expects them to. Tricky was good also. Anyway, 
onto my cool story for the night. I went with my best friend, 
and after the long drive, we waited outside by the buses for 
Tool to arrive. When they did, they went directly inside to 
start up their soundcheck. Bummer. After hanging out for a 
while, my friend and I saw a bunch of guys in white shirts 
walking into Kemper through the back door, and decided to 
file in with them. We walked past the guard and he asked us 
if we were CSI, so I told him "Yes" of course. So we had 
snuck in with the crowd control guys, which was a bit exciting, 
but we didn't wanna get kicked out and miss the show, so we 
decided to leave, and went and lined up with everyone else. 
Once we were inside and on the floor, I saw I guy with a 
mohawk standing beside the barricade in front of the stage. 
I recognized him as Hawk, Maynard's personal bodyguard, 
from posts made by reviewers from earlier shows. I went 
over and talked to him, and he said that he would see what 
he could do for us about meeting the band after the concert. 
Friendly guy. Tricky played, and played well, despite some of 
the booing going on. After that, the roadies set up for Tool, 
and everyone in the pit got just a little bit closer to each 
other. When the grudge started, the crowd went wild, and 
EVERYONE up front was pushing everyone else. Since I'm a 
pretty little guy, it sucked pretty bad, and I decided that I 
wanted out. After about a half of the song, I squeezed my 
way out of the pit, and went to get some water. After 
rehydrating myself, I decided to watch the show from the 
stairs near the pit. Better view, less discomfort. After 
Stinkfist, and during Undertow, one of the CSI supervisors 
was walking around asking to see peoples ticket stubs. I 
figured that when he asked me, I would just show him my 
wristband from the pit, and go back in, but stand towards 
the back. I looked down at my wrist, and my fucking 
wristband had been torn off in the pit! That wouldn't have 
been a big deal, except for the fact that Security takes away 
your stub when they give you the wristband. So I had NO 
PROOF of where I was supposed to sit. I tried to reason with 
the CSI supervisor, but he told me to go talk to HIS 
supervisor down at Information. So I walked to information, 
and I was already pissed because I was missing the show I 
had payed $45 to see. When I got there, there was a girl 
who was in the exact same boat that I was, and she was on 
the verge of tears. She went in to talk to the supervisor, and 
they told her that there was nothing they could do. So 
basically, we were screwed. We were walking down the 
hallway together and she started to cry. I felt like it myself, I 
had been way cheated. BUT JUST THEN, out of nowhere,  
came Hawk. He walked up and asked us what was going on, 
and she explained it to him. He told her "There's no crying 
at a Tool Show!" and motioned for us to follow him. We 
walked down the halls, through a few doors, down some 
stairs, past some guards, and then up to another supervisor 
who asked Hawk what we were doing down there. The girl 
explained again, and the supervisor told us in so many 
words that she thought it was a load of shit. Hawk kept 
walking and we kept following, and the supervisored asked 
where he was taking us. He replied in a really smart-assed 
tone "Back to the floor, isn't that where they belong?" She 
shut up after that. He turned and told us that the next time 
security gave us shit like that, to give back to them and tell 
them how inefficient they were. Hawk is cool. So, we got back 
on the floor and I got to enjoy the rest of the show, which 
was great. I really liked Aenema and the lighting on 
Reflection was incredible .Definitely a fantastic show worth 
$45.  So many thanks to the band for a great show, but 
even more thanks to Hawk, the bodyguard.








Review written by: Dave Walton (MrScarface420@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 22:33:25 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  UN-FUCKING-BELIEVABLE!!!  This show was the most 
incredible thing I have ever witnessed in my life.  I have 
never seen any band put as much skill, emotion, and quality 
into their music as Tool.  They are this generations Pink 
Floyd!!  They go deep in your brain where no other band 
goes and brings out the darkest recesses of your brain and 
makes it explode.  I will never ever experience anything as 
cool as what I just did.  TOOL RULES!!!!!  Rock out with your 
COCK out!!!!!!    

Later









Review written by: Matt (two_dog3@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/22/01 22:56:21 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. 
First off I just want to say thank you.  Thank you to Danny, 
Maynard, Justin, and Adam for sharing their talents as well 
as their lives with the millions of us that follow them 
faithfully.  Also, thank you to these four's parents, who 
without all that sexual intercourse they had, I would not 
have had one of the greatest nights of my life.  

I traveled four hours to see this show with two of my friends 
and I would have traveled eight and paid twice as much if I 
had to.  Tricky opened and I was actually surprised.  I have 
heard some of is newer stuff, but what he played last night 
was apparentaly a little older.  I thought Tricky was very 
good, he seemed to blend techno, tribal beats with rock riffs 
in a good way.  And he seemed to overcome the idiotic Limp 
Bizkit and Slipknot fans who are afraid to experiance 
anythinkg new unless they can mosh to it and booed 
throghout his set very well too.  I thought turning his back to 
the crowd for half of the show was a nice touch.

Now for the main event.  Everything and more.  My friends 
and I had seats on the fourth row of the upper deck, directly 
to the side of the show.  We could see everything pretty well, 
and it was nice to be able to see back stage and watch 
Danny and Adam go onstage.  Danny wore a KU basketball 
jersey with the number 22 and "Carey" written on the back. A 
nice tribute to his home state.  As soon as the band played 
the first notes of "The Grudge" I could feel the butterflies.  
The band plowed throught the first part of the set, playing 
some of their heavier songs before moving into a shortened 
version of "Parabol" which moved into the 
powerful "Parabola".  After "Parabola", I turned to my friends 
and said that if they played the slowed down version 
of "Pushit" as heard on Salival (my second fave Tool song 
next to Stinkfist), I would shit.  Sure enough, not 5 seconds 
after uttering those words, I heard Adam play those soft 
notes and I instantly got goosebumps.  I closed my eyes 
and sang along and by the time Danny's solo came around, 
I had to wipe the tears from my eyes.  The rest of the show 
was a little slower, as they played more songs from 
Lateralus before finishing with "Aenima" and "Lateralus".  

Maynard surprised me.  I didn't know he got into the music 
so much as I've heard that he is usually calm on stage 
without much movement.  He danced around and did 
something that resembled a Native American rain dance.  It 
was great.  So there it is. My first Tool concert, actually, it 
should be called an experiance, more than music.  I 
laughed, I cried, and jammed and I sang, but most of all, I 
experianced.  That's what we all must do as faithful Tool 
fans, just experiance. Thank you once again guys.








Review written by: JK (big_n_sexy52@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 00:21:46 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  I first must say it took quite a deal of motivation to even go 
to this concert.  I was really sick, mono, dehydrated, and 
more, but I had to see TOOL.  Damn good thing I did go.  
Tricky was a suitable opener, like TOOL, they had their own 
unique sound.  Hard to form an opinion on them right now.  
TOOL, however, wowed me from beginning to end.  Visually 
stunning and amazing candy for the ear.  Maynard's voice 
streams as well if not better live than on albums.  From the 
The Grudge to Lateralus I forgot I was sick.  My mind was 
not there, rather indulged in the music.  I must say 
Maynard's rhythmic movements are stuck in my head for 
eternity.  One disappointment, not one song from the 
Opiate album.  Oh well, can't bitch.  Best show I've seen out 
of close to 30 some. 








Review written by: Matthew Hoffman (phunkyphisher@aol.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 10:11:11 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  Sunday, 10.21.01
--------------------
a night to remember

There really are no words that could fully emphasize the 
energy in the room that night.  I was overwhelmed by it all.  
Every note of music that emenated from the stage lifted my 
soul higher. Every scream ripped out my heart and tore it 
apart.  I have been to many concerts and had many 
musical "orgasms" (for lack of a better description) but 
nothing I have ever witnessed compared to the awe-inspiring 
beauty that flowed out of these four geniuses and their 
creation.

The setlist was absolutely synchronistic with every thought 
and feeling I was having as I experienced the show.  It was 
as though they were playing just for me.  I felt like they 
were just reading the mind of the audience and responding 
perfectly.  (and, amazingly, I was completely sober!)

We arrived at Kemper at about 5:00pm and waited with the 
others outside the door.  A little before 7pm, we got to wave 
a friendly hello to Danny Carey's dad as he made his way 
into the arena; just before tickets started ripping.

A week prior to this concert, a couple people that I had 
considered close; those that to me were no less than 
lovers\brothers; had decided to end their relationships with 
me altogether, creating a weeks worth of "cold silence," if 
you will.  My girl and my best friend had both decided that I 
was not worth talking to anymore.  In light of these events, I 
shaved off almost 2 feet of long hair that I had growing out 
of my head to clear my palette of all the memories that I 
was now forcing myself to repress.  During schism and 
pushit, I saw every moment I had ever shared with these 
people being thrown back in my face for what a bunch of 
bullshit they really were.

My now ex-girl had purchased floor tickets for all of us to go, 
and all my other friends had seats.  So, I was chilling up in 
the seats with a friend, waiting for the right time to move out 
to the floor when, lo and behold, I saw both my old friend 
and my ex-girlfriend sitting on the floor waiting for the 
show.  And (dammit) I had to go and make eye contact with 
her.  Now for the rest of the show I felt everything that I 
could not possibly have expressed to these people being 
presented by Tool.  Thank you so much for this release, you 
guys are in every way the REFLECTION of every facet of 
emotional thought that I cannot possibly express through 
regular spoken or written language.

This concert was, for me, the musical narration of the hopes, 
dreams, successes and failures of the past 2 years of my 
life and I am eternally grateful.  It was truly a spiritual 
(albeit psychedelic) experience.

What I learned:
relationships are fleeting, trust yourself
no one believes in you, they only believe what they want to 
see.  we are all caught up in a physical facade of endless 
pursuit of companionship...in the end it all turns out to be a 
complex mating ritual. we think we're on top for awhile only 
to be thrown back down to the bottom, writhing around until 
we can find solace... and then it all starts over again.

in this world, Love is only defined by how much you can suck 
out of someone else until they notice that they are drying up.
It's a dream worth having, but only because you know that 
you really won't ever hit the ground and die from it.  You'll 
wake up in bed, covered in sweat, and realise it was all just 
a dream within a dream.

I wonder how I can possibly go on living in this shitty 
midwestern truck-stop town any longer.  If I could afford it, I 
would attend every show on this tour and my life would be 
changed because of it.  Instead, I surrender to this screwed 
up system and wait for the next tool show to arrive. 
(hopefully soon).

By the way, I think all you so-called fans out there who don't 
even look at the stage but instead push and shove your way 
around like rabid maniacs need to learn how to enjoy a little 
personal space, and show a little respect for those of us who 
do care about the entire experience instead of how bruised 
and beaten we are after the show.  It's because of you 
people that I almost collapsed from exhaustion not even 
after the 3rd song.  That is not the way I like to enjoy Tool. 
(in a helpless, exhausted stupor)

All in all, a truly life-changing experience.  I hope to one day 
be able to thank the band personally for affecting me so 
deeply.  Have a nice day.








Review written by: Atum (autumn@wealthservices.net)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 10:33:05 ET


This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

  We were very well prepared for this show, arriving about one 
o'clock in the afternoon with purple and silver sharpies in 
hand. We sat in the loading area of the area for a couple of 
hours, watched Danny's parents arrive, watched osseus 
labyrint arrive, watched Tricky arrive (we were grossly 
unprepared to meet him). Tricky was all smiles and waves 
when we called out his name. Seemed very friendly, 
although none of us ran down to meet him. We (along with 
about a hundred other small, screaming children) watched 
the band arrive. We witnessed a nice reunion between Danny 
and parents, and then watched the band disappear inside. 
We went to wait in line after that, and there were only about 
6 or 7 people in front of us at that time. The wait was long 
and painful, but we finally made it in, and plopped our 
happy selves down second row from the rail, slighty off dead 
center to the left (stratigically placed between adam and 
maynard). Tricky was outstanding, along with Hawkman and 
all others who joined him onstage. Tricky was wearing the 
same clothes on stage that he was wearing when he got off 
the bus! When TooL came on stage, there was a massive 
rush to the stage, and suffocating smooshing.  I was 
enveloped in pleasure, pain, and sweat through mid-
parabola. At that point, I knew that I was about to faint or 
disintigrate, so I reluctantly left my coveted spot by a boost 
over the rail from my wonderful boyfriend. After recovering 
with a nice $3.00 water, I tooled my way back down to the 
floor to watch the rest of the show from a safe distance. The 
show was awesome, despite all of the morons that moshed 
to reflection and disposition, and the dumb 12 year old kid 
who asked me for sexual favors, and the jerkoff who 
elbowed me square in the boob for no particular reason 
except that he was a jerkoff. I must say that I enjoyed 
seeing TooL at Red Rocks in CO more, because I could 
actually enjoy the show instead of fighting off the stumbling 
bumbling drunk white trash. 
Now, on to the best part. Sorry to all you sheep that got 
herded off by Daddy Warbucks after the show ('Time to go 
home, kids! Time for bed!'). We were patient, as instructed 
by TooL, and waited it out. And what rewards we reaped!!! 
We were the lucky group (probably less that 10 total) that 
got to meet and shake hands with DANNY and ADAM! Danny 
was very nice, and it was an absolute pleasure to meet him 
and shake his hand. He also came prepared with his own 
purple sharpie, so I guess our midnight trip to Wal-Mart was 
unnecessary! Shortly after Danny, got back on the bus, 
Adam came out to sign as well. Adam came straight to me 
first, said hello, and asked me my name. I gave him the 
Undertow vinyl to sign, and he wrote 'To Autumn' and signed 
it in silver sharpie. He also dedicated my boyfriends Aenima 
vinyl with his name as well. Adam was very nice, very down 
to earth, and made small talk and eye contact with each and 
every one of us. We were hoping to meet Justin and 
Maynard as well, but Maynard was on a mission straight to 
the bus with two girls after the show, ignoring any shouts for 
him to come over. Later, we see him nearly naked making 
out with a chick in the front of the bus. I guess that's why he 
was in such a hurry! Anyways, and as far as I know, no one 
in our group ever saw Justin get on the bus, but I'm sure he 
did at some point because after Adam said his goodbyes to 
us, and hopped on the bus, it left. All in all, a great show, 
we had a wonderful time at Kemper Arena, and meeting 
Danny and Adam was an absolute pleasure. I will embrace 
that moment forever.... and I'll do something positive with 
that feeling in the coming weeks.








Review written by: Master Reviewer (youaredumb@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 10:43:40 ET


This was this reviewer's 10th Tool show

  Hey, morons, the 'upside down naked people' do have a 
name. They are known collectively as osseus labyrint, and 
YES THEY ARE NAKED. Body suits do not have breasts, labia, 
or a cocknballs. Someday, you may want to pull up your 
friendly search engine and type in osseus labyrint and see 
what you get. The net is full of useful information.....








Review written by: The All Mighty Chew (TheAllMightyChew@kc.rr.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 11:41:01 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  I'm not really good at writing reviews, but here goes.
After waiting impatently since i first heard Tool's Sober in 96, 
I finally got to see them.  I am a pretty diehard Tool fan, 
fate has just kept me from seeing them.  It was deffneatly 
worth the wait.  The concert was so f**king awsome!!!!  Their 
lineup was perfect.  I don't know how they were able to play 
for 2 and a half hours strait but I just didn't want it to end.   
Bad @ss visuals so trippy they could throw anyone into an 
acid flashback.  The band had so much energy, you could 
feel them pulling you closer and closer to the brink of 
insanity.  If I had the money and the time I would follow 
them on the rest of their tour.  I can honestly say that going 
to concerts will neve be the same, as this will be the one 
that I will compair all future concerts to.  Nothing can beet 
Tool.  I believe I can speek for all of Kansas City in 
saying, "DON'T TAKE SO LONG IN COMMING BACK!  WE ALL 
LOVE YOU!"

Chew








Review written by: Toolapcfan (rob) (Toolapcrfan@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 11:51:37 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  As far as the set list goes, it looks right to me, but I thought 
they played Eon Blue Apocalypse before The Patient.  

Rgardless, Tricky sucked.  If you like them then they played 
well, but I'd never even heard of them.  Not a good opening 
band for Tool in my opinion, rappy metal does not 
compliment Tool.  

T-shirts were overpriced of course and several of them can 
be bought on the website cheaper.  None sturck me as being 
extraordinary so I bought the black tour shirt. But hey, I 
didn't go to buy a shirt either.

It was an awesome show to put it lightly.  They really 
seemed to want to be there and got into it.  Before 
Lateralus, Maynard said something to the effect that he 
wanted us to think about how we felt right then, and about 
the moments we shared and when we reflect on that over 
the next week or two to do something positive.  After they 
played lateralus, they had a group hug and danny threw out 
his drum sticks and they thew out frisbees and albums and 
some other stuff.  I was disappointed to hear that people 
didn't come to hear a perfect cricle, so apparently these 
people didn't like the new album that much.  I don't share 
their view in the least.  I look forward to seeing Tool next 
time, as I regret that this has been the one time I've seen 
them live. I would gladly drive the three hours from Omaha 
many times more to see them.    









Review written by: Jordan (Jordo66@ukans.edu)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 14:31:33 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. 

Wow, the more I read of he reviews for this show the more 
and more sad I become to realize it is in the past and my 
memory of it wll fade more and more as time goes on. I 
wasl still in a bit of a daze directly after seeing the show, 
and wasn't sure how to explain it to people. The three other 
people I went with were not real tool fans, as with most of 
the people in the floor section, as I was about to discover. 

Tricky came on first, and to me, quite earned their name by 
playing their first song in complete darkness, building the 
suspense before revealing their appearence. The first song I 
enjoyed quite a lot, although it seemed a little like techno to 
me which is a variety of music I don't care for too much. I 
thought the percussion was excellent. I may have been one 
of the "frat" boys mentioned in an earlier post, although I 
didn't think Tricky was too bad myself. 

When Tool finally took he stage, what I had been fearing 
occured to a degree worse than I could have expected. 
People jumped off the seating in flocks and rushed the 
stage. I was fairly near the stage at this point and was being 
crushed to a degree I have never experienced before. (I've 
seen Pantera, Slayer, and many other metal bands live and 
have survived amongst mosh pits). The Grudge was playing 
at this point, and my concentration was directed to not 
falling over and being trampled to death, escaping this 
enviroment so I could actually enjoy the show, and 
sympathy towards some girls nearby which were cying. The 
people causing this were probably of the same gene pool 
that pushed their way to he front right before Tool took the 
stage, either lying that their friend was up front or just using 
brute force. 

These people ruined my experience of the first song and I 
truly agree with a previous post that mentioned a similar 
feeling; I was praying for them all to drown during AENEMA. I 
am not a violent person but I hated these people so  
passionately that I wanted to cause them severe harm. 

ANYWAY...the set was fantastic. My only let down was that 
they never plaed 46&2, but the "live" version of pushit more 
than made up for it. Speaking of which, it was obvious that 
most people around me did not recognize the song, even 
after it progressed to become more and more like the 
recorded version. These were the same people moshing 
during Reflecion, no doubt. 

I treasured the experience of every song. Live Tool shows 
are truly a complete work of art, auditory as well as visual. 
You can find all the details to this in previous posts. :)
I've known people before to say that they were seriously 
considering following Tool around to their next show after 
seeing them live, and now I can truly say that I can 
understand where they are coming from. 

So in conclusion, best show I've ever experienced, although 
I knew it would be...and...I hate most Tool fans now. 
(Sorry about any typoes on here, my keyboard has been 
ignoring some of the keys I type recently. )










Review written by: AARON SCHROEDER (DRGRTHU420@AOL.COM)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 15:17:17 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  THIS WAS AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE. RIGHT WHEN I ENTERD 
KEMPER ARENA I FELT THIS ENERGY IN THE AIR LIKE I 
TRUELY FELT I BELONGED THERE SEEING THE HUNDREDS OF 
TOOL SHIRTS AND THE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE KEMPER 
ARENA ALMOST FILLED UP THE SIGHT WAS TRUELY 
SOMETHING I WILL NOT FORGET TRICKY WAS THE OPENING 
BAND AND THEY HAD ALOT OF TALENT BUT I HONESTLY DONT 
KNOW HOW THEY GOT AN OPENING SPOT FOR TOOL BUT 
SHIT YOU HAVE TO RESPECT THEM FOR GETTING THE SPOT 
BEFORE TOOL I HAD TO SIT IN THE STANDS DURING TRICKY 
WHICH KIND OF PISSED ME OFF BECAUSE I DIDNT HAVE A 
FLOOR TICKET THEY WANTED ME TO SIT UP IN BUM FUCK 
EGYPT SECTION 235 ROW T BUT I SNUCK DOWN TO THE 
FIRST LEVEL AND WATCHED TRICKY WELL I WAS ONE OF 
THOSE MORONS BITCHING ABOUT HAVING TO SIT IN THE 
STANDS BUT I KNOW THAT I WOULD OF HATED SITTING IN 
THE STANDS DURING TOOL I JUST COULDNT FEELTHE FULL 
EXPERIENCE OF TOOL FROM THE STANDS  BUT IT ALL 
WORKED OUT I WAS STANDING LIKE 2 ROWS FROM THE 
GATE TO GET TO THE FLOOR AND THE LIGHTS WENT OUT 
FOR TOOL THEN OUT OF NOWHERE I WAS RUSHED FROM 
BEHIND AND I GOT KNOCKED DOWN THROUGH THE GATE 
AND I WAS ON THE FLOOR I WASNT GOING TO COMPLAIN I 
WAS WHERE I WANTED TO BE  ALL NIGHT THE FLOORWELL I 
MADE MY WAY TO THE FRONT OF THE LEFT STAGE I WAS 
THERE TWO MINUTES I WAS ALREADY POURING OUT 
SWEATAND HAVING TROUBLE BREATHING BUT I TRUELY DID 
NOT CARE TOOL WAS ON THE STAGE AND I FELT LIKE I WAS 
IN THIS DIFFERENT STATE OF REALITY EVERY THING AROUND 
ME WAS BLOCKED OUT I COULD JUST FOCUS TO THE SOUND 
OF TOOL PLAYING LIVE SOUNDING  JUST LIKE THE STUDIO 
RECORDINGS THESE BIG ASS VIDEO SCREENS WHICH THE 
WHOLE NIGHT WENT JUST PERFECT WITH THE MUSIC TOOL 
WAS JUST SO TOGETHER WITH THE VIDEOS I JUST 
COULDNT GRASP HOW SOME ONE COULD ACTUALLY COME 
THIS CLOSE TO PERFECTION PLAYING LIVEBUT WHO ELSE 
TO DO IT BUT TOOL THE PLAY LISTS ABOVE WERE ALL 
PRETTY MUCH RIGHT--trust me-- i caught their playlist--SO 
IM NOT GOING TO WRITE IT DOWN IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN 
TOOL IF AT ALL POSSIBLE GO SEE THEM  WEATHER YOU LIKE 
THEM OR NOT SEEING TOOL LIVE YOU WILL RESPECT THEM 
FOR BRINGING THAT MANY PEOPLE TO ONE SENSE OF MIND 
THE WAY THAT MAYNARD JUST STAYED IN HIS LITTLE AREA 
AND HAIVNG THESE PEOPLE PAINTED SILVER  CLIMB THE 
VIDEO SCREENS AND HANG UP SIDE DOWN DOING CRAZY 
ASS SHIT TO THE MUSIC THE ENTIRE CROWD THE FLOOR 
THE STANDS EVERYONE WAS FEELING THIS IT WAS TRUELY A 
NIGHT THAT IS ENGRAVED IN MY MIND 

IM JUST GONNA SAY THANKS TO TOOL FOR THE AMAZING 
EXPERIENCE








Review written by: 
Mel71 (MLacey71@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 22:11:38 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  I had a wonderful time, and I don't mean to sound negative or elitist, but the 
bonehead contingent that filled the floor was a real let-down. Judging by the fervor 
when Aenima played, you know what kind of fans these people really are.

I know it's 2 days later now, but I still wanted to say a couple things about the show 
at Kemper on Sunday. I was anxious to see how it would differ from the Berekely, 
Calif. show this summer. Although it was fabulous, the Cali. show wasn't loud enough 
and the crowd was too subdued--a close link to the assigned seats and no G-A floor 
I'm sure. So I had floor tix this time and man what a mess. I was so disgusted when 
people rushed the floor as The Grudge started, ensuing a 
retarded-knucklehead-mosh-fest through the entire song. Don't ask what was 
happening on stage b/c I have no idea--I was too busy trying to keep my friend and 
myself from getting hurt. What a bunch of idiots. As I predicted, things did settle 
down, especially during the string of new, long and mellower songs--I kept wondering 
if the assholes around me had even heard the songs. So many people were busy 
lighting and passing joints and coughing their heads off I could hardly concentrate. I 
will never understand why these schmucks pay good $ to go to see a band like TOOL 
live and they don't even pay attention.
Minus that first bit, this show was FABULOUS. It was decidedly, and I'm not saying it 
lightly, the best show I've ever seen. 
Highlights for me were: 
--hearing the Salival version of Pushit-- That made my night, it was what I was hoping 
for the most! I could tell many people had never heard it.
-- watching Osseus Labyrint perform while suspended upside down in front of the 
projection screens--I have never seen anything like it--they are incredible. The 
woman would roll her abdomen muscles like a belly dancer or circus performer trying 
to regurgitate a string or something. You have to see them to understand, and many 
people simply won't understand....
--when Danny just stood there alone for what seemed like forever, just playing the 
same ending riff over and over, from Disposition?--I loved it.

The visual imagery of this show surpasses all of their previous tours, IMO.The point 
clearly is, to pay attention to the sights and how they coincide with the music, and to 
not even focus on the band really. Maynard is in silhouette anyway, a big change 
from the days of wigs and falsies. He still paints a large black strip down his face, but 
that's it.

And lastly, I didn't notice til he stood up, but Danny was wearing a KU bball jersey with 
his name on the back--priceless. It's so great that small-town Kansas boys can end 
up where he has. I'm so impressed by what TOOL has evolved into. I love the music 
and the band.










Review written by: Dan Doedtman (DimmuBorgir420@aol)
Review posted on: 10/23/01 22:24:32 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  I already posted my review.  I just wanted to add that before 
I experienced Tool live, I didn't get it.  Now I do.  Those 
others of you who do know what I'm talking about.  My eyes 
are open.








Review written by: Mel71 (MLacey71@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/24/01 12:09:15 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  HI, I posted a review already, which is two above this one, and I made a mistake
saying Danny stood still playing the same riff forever--I meant Adam of course.....!
thanks.








Review written by: Chris B (staypuftx@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/24/01 20:21:39 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  God, what a show. My ears and mind have never been 
graced with such beauty. My life truly is complete. Maynard is 
a power rush with his voice that can outstand any pop rocker. 
This band was better the night of the show then their albums 
could ever be. I no longer listen to anything else. I am 
posting this late so I can say that it has been three days 
since I have heard anything else but Tool. I loved the 
improvisation and re-orchastration of the songs that they 
performed. The drum intro to Stinkfist was amazing as it was 
played halfway through the show. What had me going the 
most before the show even started and held my atticipation 
the most was not to hear the music and see the set but was 
to see Maynard and to hear the man speak. He managed to 
do little of that but was plenty for my restlessness. What he 
said couldn't have been put better. Danny Carey was 
amazing as he brought his talents back home and amazed 
me as well as the whole show with his inhuman abilities to 
whale on the drumset.
      Maynard remained an enigma to me the whole night as 
he was kept out of the spotlight on to be seen by his voice. 
The visual eyecandy of the band was not important for me 
as the music painted a picture to go with the most 
outstanding visuals that ran through out the show. Osseus 
Labirynt was incredible as they hung there more at least a 
half hour.   I give them my thanks cause they added so 
much to the show. 
    ONe thing that did bother me about hte show but is there 
with all shows was the people who did bring pot. Now 
obviously these people have either seen TOOL or are just 
morons who are blind to the emotions of the music. You 
DON"T need drugs for this music. In fact I had a better high 
that night then pot could have ever done for me. I was out 
of control. I don't understand why you would wan to be high 
though while somthing so great was before you. I wanted to 
remember and feel everything that night and it dissapoints 
me that others didn't want to do the same. You owe 
Maynard an apolofy. Their music doesn't need drugs to be 
great. IT is great. Enjoy it high at home. 


Thank you Maynard. You have shown me a light. To the rest 
of TOOL I couldn't have found that light with only Maynard. I 
needed a beat to find it to. Also thanks for Parabol, 
Parabola, Prison Sex and Opiate. 
      









Review written by: Pimpy-doo (pimpydoo@yahoo.com)
Review posted on: 10/24/01 20:41:12 ET


This was this reviewer's 26th Tool show

  Pimpy-doo sez what's up.  I don't remember the setlist .... I 
was pretty f-in toasted, if you know what I mean.  But damn, 
Tool are gods!! It was amazing.  Everyone should see them 
or die! Muahaha!

-Peace out my jigs








Review written by: Sara  (TheFox@antisocial.com)
Review posted on: 10/24/01 22:09:26 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

  awesome show! It was my first concert, and I loved it. The 
osseus labyrinth was wonderful, and maynrd's soul truely 
poured out in all of him songs. Very beautiful. Wonderful, 
perfect, just plain great.









Review written by: jsn  (evolution46and2@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/25/01 21:02:31 ET


This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

  what silly little puppets we are, laughing and fucking across 
our own personal egocentric stage called life. 

i have yet to understand why it is that someone would 
attend a concert, Tool or otherwise, and spend the entire 
show pushing, punching, moshing, yelling, cussing, and 
disrupting the show by changing spots every two seconds or 
going to the bathroom, or buying processed cow shit 
between two buns, or some sugar spun around a tube of 
cardboard. 

i am there for one reason, and one reason only. to see Tool 
perform. that is why i arrived at the arena at 10am sunday 
morning to secure my spot up front, while the rest of the 
conscious world was drinking beer, or squirting out babies, or 
watching a war on tv, or perfecting the self-righteous 
persona that we wear to hide our own short comings and one 
true self. 

i did see Tool, but i saw so much more than that. i saw 
violence, anger, confusion, sadness, fear, pain, hatred, 
denial, regret, raw emotion, and complete lack of 
communication or understanding. and none of this came 
from the stage. it emanated from the john doe's of the 
audience. 

and it came to pass that none of these people were true 
fans. for the music could not possibly be in their soul. Tool 
is not about hurting people. or crushing people into the rail 
because you didn't have the commitment to get yourself up 
front. Tool is not about worshiping the devil as i heard some 
confused individual say. Tool is not about getting drunk and 
stripping off your shirt and showing everyone how tough you 
are because you can bash into someone who is trying to 
watch what is going on on stage. i can only tell you what Tool 
is not about. as far as what they are, that is something you 
must figure out for yourself. my suggestion would be to 
actually try reading the lyrics, re-listening to the music, 
studying the art, keeping up to date on Toolish news and 
web postings, and reading lots of interviews in the articles 
section of this web site. 

maybe something will sink in. or maybe not...........

now i am speaking directly to adam jones and danny carey. 
i cannot possibly express in words how much it meant to me 
to meet you. thank you for recognizing true fans of your 
message, art, and lastly......music. 
if you happen to recall, i was the gentleman with the aenima 
lp that you signed. as i (tried to) mention to you adam, you 
all have inspired me to look at life from a diffrent angle, 
seeing things i would have never seen before, and tapping 
me into a greater consciousness which has sparked, love, 
creativity in writing, learning to play the guitar, and 
genuinely made me a better person. thank you ~ 

remember, music is a reflection of the collective. 

to the side, 
jsn 1111

 









Review written by: shawna (shblair@nhsnet.org)
Review posted on: 10/25/01 23:16:33 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  First of all, I'm writitng a little late (4 days to be exact).  
This was my first TOOL show and I must say, i had a truly 
religious experience.  as a matter of fact, a quite teary 
religious experience.  My emotions took over pretty much 
when TheGrudge statrted to nearly the end of the show.  I 
have waited for a long time to see TOOL and I must say, 
this show was worth every cent and every minute of time i 
spent to get there.  I came down from Omaha Sat night.  KC 
is a confusing place.  Anyway, it was a spectacular show, I 
would recommend the genuine TOOL fans to go see it and 
the others to stay at home and not try and ruin it for the 
rest of us.  
I just also wanted to say, if by any chance the guys were 
read to this,  I just want to say "thank you",  you guys are 
tremendous artists and I was honored to have the chance to 
see you.  Oh-and thanks for playing Undertow.  You guys
are wonderful.

Thanks,
Shawna B








Review written by: Kristin (krisic740@hotmail.com)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 11:33:22 ET


This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

  This show was awesome!  Maynard came out in all black with 
this kick ass trench coat and by the end of the show he was 
down to barely nothing, just some spandex and that kick 
ass TOOL tattoo on his back.  They definately put on a once 
in a lifetime show and if you haven't had the opportunity to 
see them... take a road trip... this is one concert you 
shouldn't miss.  This was my 3rd show this year... one in 
Chicago, one in Cedar Rapids, and this one.  My only 
dissapointment was during every song, excluding ones from 
Lateralus, these ignorant fucks in front of us would talk... 
loudly.  SHUT UP!  Why go to a concert if you only know their 
new stuff... stay at home, listen to the cd.  Don't ruin it for 
the rest of us!!!!
Aside from that, and the fact that the sound at Kemper 
sucks, it was GREAT!!!!








Review written by: T-rev from Y.C. (yourmom@hotmail.com/)
Review posted on: 10/26/01 14:47:57 ET


This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

  The lights dimmed.  An electric hush reverberated through the 
crowd.  It was almost frightening to breathe.  And then, a 
pleasantly familiar tone escaped the ominous tower of speakers 
directly in front of me.  My amazing view of the stage was 
unobscured.  I knew that the wait was over.  The fantastic tribal 
energy of Tricky that remained was giving way to a far greater 
consciousness.  Four quiet and ominous figures crept on stage....  
And within a moment, that like all moments last an eternity, the 
consciousness that is Tool erupted.  My third eye was lacerated open 
as the first notes of The Grudge poured through the arena, and I 
stood in awe of its awesome power.  This wonderful experience of 
interconnectedness lasted the rest of the night as I pasted 
throughout and was interwoven with, various stages of 
consciousness.  Maynard was very animated, gyrating heavily with 
each movement not to mention progressively shedding his outfit.  
Hometown boy Danny was adorned with Kansas University basketball 
player Jeff Carey’s jersey displaying a great deal of energy.  Adam 
and Justin subtly moved as one throughout the performance riding the 
wave of their own creations.  The lights show also added greatly to 
every movement of the band and crowd.  After The Grudge, a sample of 
(-) ions was played to give the band a quick breather before 
exploding into the crowd-pleaser Stinkfist.  No sooner had the 
feedback from Stinkfist faded than the band tore into the older tune 
Undertow.  After Undertow, the band paused to collect itself, and 
then proceeded to enthrall the crowd with Parabola without its 
slower counterpart Parabol.  Through the statement of Parabola’s 
lyrics I feel the audience unconsciously began to think and move as 
one entity.  It was a very elegant thing to participate in.  After 
Parabola, came another very collective movement in the playing of 
Pushit.  Tonight it was played in the style that was adopted for the 
Salival release.  Following Pushit, Osseous Labyrinth made their way 
on stage and performed for the duration of Schism, which the crowd 
became very entranced during.  A brief interlude followed Schism 
that led into Disposition, Reflection, and Triad with Tricky’s 
drummer Perry contributing to the effort on Triad.  Osseous 
Labyrinth returned for more performance art suspending themselves 
for an introduction to Triad and then erupting throughout its 
performance.  After the powerful triumvirate ended came the eerie 
Eon Blue Apocalypse leading directly into The Patient.  The crowd 
was becoming physically tired at this point, but when Tool exploded 
into Aenima everything changed.  It was easily the crowd favorite, 
and best performed song of the night moving everyone involved.  The 
usual farewell from Maynard followed, and then the band closed with 
Lateralus.  The night was a very moving experience, and I feel very 
grateful that I could be a part of it.  Thank you Tool.

Setlist:  Introduction, The Grudge, (-) ions sample, Stinkfist 
revised, Undertow, Parabola, Pushit (Salival), Schism with Osseous 
Labyrinth, Interlude, Disposition, Reflection with extended outro, 
Second interlude with Osseous Labyrinth, Triad featuring Perry from 
Tricky, Eon Blue Apocalypse, The Patient, Aenima, Lateralus.