The Tool Page: Tour Reviews

concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart

10/27/2001

Review written by: blake Guthrie (jello8mee@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 01:13:50 ET

This was this reviewer's 4st? Tool show

OK new orleans halloween time TOOL IS HERE Everyone else pretty much sucked--- Especially BUSh--ewww--scary thought--Gavin is back ewww anyway--same old setlist as everywhere else and unfortnatly the exact same fucking thing as VA Beach minus teh Prison Sex It was great seeing Tool with 60,000 people or more I dont know-- i went to va Beach and it seemed TOOl was a little more excited at this show---- Everyone playing instruments had Mardi Gras beeds on---I was right up front--the sound sucked-----but then again bass doesnt bounce off air to well-- Tahts all im gonna head down to Bourbon and try to find the guys-----But for those of you who know New Orleans---I doubt the boys from TOOl will be anywhere near it--- Peace--- If anyone found a Mask bong--its my friends and hell pay to get it back---even if if fucked to hell---- PEACE BLAKE

Review written by: George Menhal (limboabduction@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 02:01:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 1'st Tool show

The set list did not change from the previous shows so I won't post it. Danny was playing on his new drum kit, it sounded great. Very clean and warm. Adam didn't miss a note, and the droning riff at the end of reflection was great. Justin did better than I thought he would, because I've always been a bit more partial to Paul D'Amour. Maynard was Maynard, he sang great and if you don't know the rest of what he does, go try and see it. I won't tell you though. It's to be seen not heard. Osseus Labrynt stole the entire show in my opinion. Hanging above the band, in the nude (full nudity people, absolutely no clothing) during sixty degree weather. I thought that it was the most artistic thing I'd ever seen from TOOL....really. I mean, the members of TOOL had nothing to do with Osseus Labrynt, but it was the coolest addition to that show. The screen show was spectacular. Another thing to be seen and not heard. The only complaint that I have, and this has been a constant throughout the tour from the other reviews that I've read, is that the crowd was ridiculous. Most of the people I talked to looked lost through songs such as pushit or stinkfist. It seems as if they were looking for another excuse to mosh and act like assholes....but that's just my opinion. THIS IS THE BEST SHOW OUT THERE. NO WORDS CAN DO IT JUSTICE. TOOL-FOREVER.

Review written by: Julie Lodato (julielodato@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 02:19:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

The Grudge Stinkfist Forty six & 2 Parabol Parabola Eon Blue Apocalypse Pushit Schism Disposition Reflection Triad w/ Crazy Naked Upside-down people Aenema Lateralus Honestly this is the first time I saw TOOL cause the first was in high school. Which means exactly that-HIGH school, I don't remember much. This time was with a open clear mind that remembers every detail. With that said....TOOL, October 27, 2001 Voodoo Music Fest. The stage was being set up right before our eyes.Being a festival and all, there were several bands before TOOL, like G-Love and Bush. It was very exciting for me because I was with a friend who got to see TOOL twice last week. He pointed out every detail of what they were doing so I wouldn't miss a thing when TOOL came on. So they set the stage, 2 huge screens, one small screen off to the left for Maynard to stand in front of. There were many other details but...well just go see for yourself. Anyway...we stood there in and intensely think crowd, all the while this real sedated music is playing in the background. Music getting louder....and louder...my heart was racing. The crowd was extremely restless. Music is getting louder...a couple pathetic cries for TOOL come from the crowd. Music even louder. Lights go out. The Grudge. There they are, all on stage playing. Maynard is, of course, is decked out in the leather threads with the center of his face painted black. Hunched over, singing and rocking back and forth. At that point it was everything I expected from TOOL. Danny's drumset was unbelievable. It was huge. I couldn't get over how great he sounded especially in Reflection. I love the drums in that song. Well their set was perfect for Voodoo mainly cause the beginning was very heavy with old stuff getting the crowd worked up. The they broke it down a bit with Disposition and Reflection settling some of the people down. That kinda opened the crowd up a bit. When I say open I mean I finally had room to put two feet on the ground. Real estate was hard to come by, you know. Anyway...then come out one naked chic and one naked dude. They climb up these ropes and hang themselves upside down. The muscle on the people were un-freakin- believable. The were doing some crazy shit...dancing, running....using some serious ab muscles. Anyway that went on while the band played and excellent version of Triad. With Maynard, Justin and Adam just pounding on their guitars. Following into Aenema. My friend and I were especially happy to here that one. Then the last song. Lateralus. This song is spectacular. It has every face of TOOL in it. It is soft..it's heavy....it's melodic...its technical. What it really is, is talent. All in All I enjoyed the show. The fans of TOOL do need to lighten up a bit and learn to be more diverse with music. During G-Love they were screaming for TOOL along with Bush. No...these bands are no TOOL..I recognize that....but they too have tremendous talent and I enjoyed them. If TOOL hadn't been playing at the same time you can bet your ass that I would have been at The House of Blues shaking my ass to a little G-Love and the Special Sauce. It is great to love TOOL, god knows I do...but open your minds a bit people. There is a ton of great music to listen out there. Don't stop at TOOL. I am positive that TOOL's band members don't limit themselves. Why should you. Well....I am packing up and heading to Houston now to see TOOL. I do hope the set is a little different. See Oct 28th for my Houston review on Monday. Peace Love and TOOL.

Review written by: Tony Arnold (The_Third_Libra@thefragile.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 03:12:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I knew that finally seeing them would be great, but.........damn.............i don't think words can fully describe what i've just seen. When "The Grudge" first started, so did the pits.......I don't know about everywhere else, but in the pit i was in, it wasn't moshing........it was just embracing the music. It was amazing. Usually you have jocks in there who just want to hit people, and i saw a few, but not in this pit. The only thing better than this was nine inch nails live. .....Just utterly breathtaking.......

Review written by: JOseph Bigham (jdb23@students.uwf.edu) Review posted on: 10/28/01 04:16:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I appologize in advance for the length....but fuck you, i cant summarize myself neatly into a paragraph ok the last show i went to left me needing something, the crowd there(orlando) was disrespectful, ignorant, and violent, atleast where i was....that said, any need or dissatisfaction has been obliviated by this evening's show....I cant even tell you how much i enjoyed this show on so many levels..i'll try anyway...i'll start at the most basic level....the crowd, preceeding and during the show made me very happy. I would say that tool atleast in the evening while i was there had a nice representation...everywhere i looked, tool kids, tool shirts, yeah, we all know what voodoo music fest was all about...ok that said, when i went to the stage where tool was scheduled to play, i was overwhelmed by the number of people who where there. I was expecting the size crowd that i experienced at ozzfest, but this was atleast 3 or 4 times that. As i entered the crowd,i noticed how many people there were not even paying attention to bush, who was playing at the time. Yes, i sat through alot of bush's show... yes, know im a masochist...but one singular moment of zen made it all worth it...during glycerine, bush's sensitive please the ladies little ditty, he was singing a high note, and HiS VOICE CRACKED LIKE A THIRTEEN YEAR OLD BOY'S...you could hear gasps and chuckles rippling through the crowd...beautiful...either way...that was that..i was hoping that when that show was over the crowd would thin out a bit..it did but just a bit, i saw maybe 40 or 50 of the thousands and thousands of people there leave...the rest was there for tool...the crowd was so worked up for tool that they had to tell us to back up and relax...i was nice and comfy up against the sound board...no more baricades bullshit for me after my last show...plus the sound is best at the sound board...they put it where it is for a reason...either way..everyone around me was cool..they were considerate and shit and i liked them...this one little girl shouldnt have been there, or in this world for that matter, but whatever...so they bust out danny's drum and they get an applause, and then began the show...youve already read the setlist..i just wanted to say how fucking awesome the extended version of stinkfist with the added lyrics is...i love that shit...and that's what we got...seeing the stage from far away was even better than seeing up close..the guys dont really do a whole lot that cant be appreciated from atleast 100 feet away..so dont fight to get up close if you've been thinkin about doing that at whatever show you're going to...the visuals were beautiful, during parabol/parabola especially...maynard gave a little talk after the grudge i think it was..he told us that we needed to take a deep breath, breathe in breathe out breathe in breathe out, and take 2 steps back, and then 1 half step...it was kind of funny...then the little speech before lateralus of course, a bit different, considering that many of us had been listening to and seeing various bands all day...so he said something to the effect of i hope that youve been inspired by something youve seen today.. instead of: i want you to take this feeling that youre having right now....and then the rest. if you haven't already heard the whole thing im not going to spoil it all..ive got to say somthing about the assholes at this show...this fucking dick was doing something that he must've considered singing but sounded like a pain riden dolphin screaming...so i asked him if he could sing a bit more quitely so i could hear maynard's voiice...he said yes and apologized to everyone around him...at other shows ive been to ive been threatened elbowed smacked for asking the same thing..but he was cool...i was moved by the show..i mean tingles up my spine for 2 hours, eyes rolling back in my head.....dancing..i dont fucking dance..but i had to move , my body had to respond to how the music was making me feel........ive said enough, tool did what they did and fucking did it well...good good show...

Review written by: Dave Houston (Scourge3@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 12:58:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Wow...the most amazing show ever. The last time i saw Tool was on the AEnima tour in Houston, and that show was short and at a horrible venue...although they did cover Stranglehold...Anyway, back to Voodoo...everyone else sucked, and it was painful sitting through all that crap to see Tool. But it was all worth it when at 9, The Grudge came on and Tool took the stage. Maynard seemed much more friendly with the crowd than what i've heard about previous dates on this tour. He faced the crowd for almost the entire show except for part of Schism through Triad. The stage show was awesome. The two dancers from the Schism video were on stage during the song, and then came back out during Triad and hung upside down while dancing grooving with the music. Have to give them credit, it was 50 degrees and they were out there naked and really in to it. Maynard was in top form. He flipped two lyrics in AEnema, but other than that, it was flawless. He really got into the songs. He had the middle of his face painted black and wore his normal leather pants. Adam was perfect. He didn't miss a note the entire show, and he even added a solo to Push It!! Justin just continued to prove how talented a musician he is. He really got into the show and was impecible. Danny put on possibly the most amazing drum show ever. He was using a new set, and it sounded awesome. Tool has the best drum work today, and he was more than up for it. Wow. I almost caught his drum head too... The highlight of the show for me was Push It. It is, in my opinion, the best song ever. I've heard that in previous shows this tour Tool had been playing the slow version as heard on Salival, but not last night. LAST NIGHT THEY PLAYED A FULL SPEED, FULL VERSION WITH A SOLO ADDED IN BY ADAM. It was the greatest performance of any song i've ever seen. Full speed, full version...i still can't believe it. SO FUCKING AWESOME. I just wish more of the crowd would have known it. The set list was pretty close to the standard for this tour. Faaip was added in before Eon Blue Apocalypse, and the festival limited them to 2 hours, so they had to cut out Patient (dammit!), and of course the Push It version. Still no songs off of Opiate or Undertow, but i can't complain. The video presentations were incredible... What a show...

Review written by: Lownotes (dogtoejam@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 13:10:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

I saw them in Memphis earlier this month and I'm very glad I did because the sound was atrocious outside in New Orleans. The wind would rip the guitar and bass apart and at times leave Maynard's voice as the only thing truly perceptible. They played aenema instead of opiate, other than that the show went much the same. The crowd was a good mix of openminded sensitives, rednecks, goths, punks, spoiled brats, militant Tool fans and people just there for the festival that had no idea what was about to happen. I have to say that getting up close and seeing Tricky, Snoop Doggy Dogg and Tool w/Labrynt in one day for 25 dollars was very very cool.

Review written by: Preston Ginn (elvis12@texas.net) Review posted on: 10/28/01 13:58:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Well, I just wanted to add a little to what people have already said about this amazing show. I was up front for the entire thing, and I have to say, the majority of people there, and overwhelming majority actually, were great, curteous, smart, funny, and anti-violence. But those small numbers of assholes can really (nearly) ruin a night. I saw three different people get carried out by the crowd unconscious. All three had been trampled by the mobs. One girl had to be carried out on a strecher. Maynard even stopped after The Grudge to tell us to step back a bit. The front barriers between the stage and the crowd fell and had to be replaced. I couldn't see, but I think it actually broke. That gives you and idea of the force that these people were pushing with. I have been too literally hundreds of concerts, all kinds of venues and seating arrangements. This one for some reason had more scary, life threatening moments for me than any other show. The sheer unpredictabiliy of the crowd's movements and surges made fighting for your life a requirement. Most of the time getting both feet down on the ground was real work. Fortunatly I am pretty tall, so i can see over most people. But not when I am being pushed to the side by the crowd. The more amazing thing to me was the absolute opposite vocal reaction the crowd had to TOOL. The crowd was very attentive and relaxed. Maybe they were too busy trying to stand/swim in the sea of people. When the band would go into an unfamiliar part of a song or an extended jam (like the end of Reflection or Triad) people stood and stared, they were truly mezmerised. Small pockets of fans, including one that I was in, danced and sang like we were posessed, even when people were looking at us like we were retarded or something. I could definatly tell that a points people were confused. But also, realize that this was a festival, and many people weren't too familiar with non-radio-played TOOL songs, so this show threw them off. My friend, whom I was separated from for the whole show, said that a guy next to him had never seen TOOL, but was spewing his shorts at what he was witnessing, and vowed that he would be at the Houston show the next day. My friend and I have turned many people onto TOOL, and it's a wonderful feeling to see them begin to "get it." I am sure many of you feel the same. The setlist was probably already posted. And they stuck with the normal show. The dancers were great. Their body control is top-notch. A guy in front somehow got passed security, and jumped up on stage between Adam and Justin and started for Maynard and got tackled by some security guys instantly. I got hit in the eyeball with a flying glowstick right in the beginning of Lateralus, so I lost my contact in that eye and had to watch the rest of the show half-blind. That sucked. During the end of Aenema, Justin started banging his head and pounding his foot into the ground, I think that was about as physical as any of them got. Well, except for Maynard. His dancing was really cool. He also said the "fret for your mowhawk" line in Aenema. Funny thing is, I would have my head down and be really into the music, and I would look up to see him dancing just like I was. It was kind of a wierd feeling. Let's see...Danny had the 'gold' drumset, they had BOTH magick boards up there. I am not too knowledgable about them, but they had the one with the sacred geometry on the right side next to Danny, and the other one with the ancient-looking writing on it behind Maynard's screen. It was difficult to see that one from where I was. The last notes of Lateralus were an amazing emotional release for me, and they did a long outtro kinda thing at the end. They all had on Mardi Gras beads as well. (except for Maynard of course) After the show, they did the group hug thing, and Maynard ran off, but the other guys stayed for a little longer and threw out sticks, picks, and Danny threw out a drumhead. Adam threw out a setlist or two as well. The look on their faces made me cry though. I haven't cried for any reason for months, but they looked so happy to be there, and they kept waving and smiling, it was just emotional for me. All around, my favorite live music experience ever, even with the injuries :-)

Review written by: TOOLBOC (TOOLBOC@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 15:02:40 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Excellent show from beginning to end. Everyone on stage did their parts flawlessly. The extended lyrics and music gave a unique touch to familiar songs. Maynard did a great soundscape with his headless bass that captivated everyone's attention. Then the very talented Osseus Labrynt came out and gave the most amazing presentation during Triad. It consisted of contorting and extremely coordinated muscle movements done while hanging upside down above the band in the nude in cold weather. It was a very special treat to have them add to the TOOL experience. TOOL came together to close the show with Lateralus. It was a perfectly executed and visually stunning show. Definitely an experience not to be missed.

Review written by: Spoon Fed (icebergslimz2001@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 16:21:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

All right, I saw Tool last night for the first time. It was the best show I've ever seen. Go see Tool, you have to. I wasn't disappointed with the show at all. Bush played before them because it was a festival. I'm not really into Bush, but they were ok, but I was really waiting for Tool. When Tool came out, it was awesome. I saw Danny, Adam, and Justin all walk out, but it seemed like Maynard just kind of appeared on his platform. It was the best show ever. They opened with The Grudge, and closed with Lateralus. I know the setlist, but I won't post it. Osseus Labyrinth or however you spell it was really really weird, but really cool. I was expecting naked people. Everything about the show was a highlight, but I'd say the highlights specifically were: *The end of The Grudge where Danny Carey is just going insane on the drums *Stinkfist with the new parts *The breakdown in 46 & 2 *Transition from parabol to parabola *Oh wait, I'm naming everything, so I really can't do that *When they started playing Aenema, the ending was so great *The trilogy of songs *the end of lateralus *naked contortionists It was a great show, and it was really inspiring. Tool was my favorite band, and now there is no question whatsoever. Thank you.

Review written by: That guy next to the fire (po_mt@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 16:42:18 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Tool opened with an extended bit of noise -- very conducive to opening one's mind to the rest of the set (well, the ecstasy helped, as well). the flow of the show was perfect, and there was never a musical moment that felt awkward or slow or boring. my friend (an avid Tool hater) came with me to the show (i had to buy his ticket, but it was worth it), and he stated that it was by far the best musical performance that he had ever seen (he now loves Tool -- excellent). osseus labrynt was incredible, definitely a mind-blower. aenema was crushingly intense, and lateralus was, of course, the perfect end to the evening. my only complaint is that the crowd were a bunch of assholes. during the grudge, some ppl right in front of me started a bonfire, and kept it going. between the grudge and 46+2, maynard stopped the show and coaxed everyone away from it so that no one got hurt and so that it could be put out (actually, some drunk 14 yr old piece of shit got smoke in his eyes, but he deserved it -- that's what you get for starting fires). during osseus, some more fires started up, and they kept going until the middle of lateralus, when they slowly started to die out. i couldn't help but hope that those ppl got the crap burned out of them, but it was not to be. ah, well. this was by far the greatest musical experience of my life. Tool is beyond description.

Review written by: The other guy next to the fire (bill_nye_the_sensitive_romantic@yahoo) Review posted on: 10/28/01 16:55:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

First things first: I had never been a Tool fan until last night. Now I must admit that they will probably wind up being my favorite band. I find that their message melds very well with my changing, and more mature, worldview. About the show: Easily the greatest musical performance I have ever experienced in my life. Every aspect of their show is intensely psychedelic. The visuals were mindblowing, as were the contortionists. As for the music, my god this band is good. Even outdoors, with wind gusting to ten and twenty miles an hour, these guys managed to sound like they were in a studio. As for the crowd: I've noticed that other people had been complaining about the crowd, and I must agree. I was three feet away from that fire that forced them to stop the show after the second song, and was incredibly annoyed. Damn high-schoolers. Last night was the first time I've ever thanked a cop for anything, but I was really glad that got rid of that hazard. What it all comes down to: TOOL IS FUNTASTIC!

Review written by: Sean (devilbob2569@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 17:07:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Setlist: 1. The Grudge 2. Stinkfist 3. Forty Six & 2 4. Parabol/Parabola 5. Pushit 6. Schism 7. Disposition 8. Reflection 9. Triad 10. Aenema 11. Lateralis This concert kicked ass.

Review written by: Stelly (willowssky23@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 17:48:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

The day bagan with some pretty weird shit from some dude freaking out and some chick saying "Thank You" to me for nothing. I even broke up a fight by stepping in front of an angry crazy person (he really was crazy). But then TOOL came on and my spirit just opened up and this stuff just poured out of me. All the bullshit inside of me just poured out. The Grudge was the very first song they played. They also played Reflection, Lateralus, Disposition, Aenima, Schism, 46&2, Stinkfist, Triad, Parabol, Parabola, Lateralus, and Pushit. It was the GREATEST CONCERT OF MY LIFE! It was very spiritual and very promising. I love TOOL. They have changed my life from the beginning and this experience has made me even more of a better person.

Review written by: Shawn Hudson (pope_45@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 17:49:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

No, I will not repeat the setlist. I will not complain about anyone else's interpretation. I thought the performance was awesome -- Tool, in my second show, really blew the roof off of the visual aspect. The videos were funny, poignant, and to be fitting of a get- together called, "Voodoo Fest," downright scary. My gripes are small and inconsequential, but here they are, nonetheless. 1. People wearing Tool merchandise who left in the middle of the show ... I won't make assumptions about their "honor" or "self-honesty," and at least there was more room to breathe with their crackerjack, flip-flopping asses gone. 2. I wanted to hear more of the older work. I thought at times there was a silence too long, or a moment when the audience grew restless. Audiences can be fickle, I know. Tool is doing something very artistic, I understand. But, that "perfect blend of art and rock" was achieved at the UNO Lakefront Arena w/o the alienation of audience that this show had. It's a simple fix. Tool was attempting to get a message across. For many, they suceeded. And for many, they failed. Perhaps, that's the risk of being before your time or avant-garde. I can't believe there were actually people who went to go see the Black Crowes playing opposite ... Now that people are upset with me for voicing my opinion, I will subtitle this work, "And Here's to What I Enjoyed." 1. The video, as I already said, was f**king great. I especially loved the two "pirahna" women attacking one another. Really beautiful and frightening. I love the new album -- its positivity is really heartening, and I think something worth mentioning, especially after Sept. 11th. 2. As always, I was impressed with Maynard's stage presence. It was damn funny to see the crowds move backward in a wave when he asked them to, whereas Gavin from Bush was simply dismissed and flipped off. He's an assclown, anyway. 3. You've heard about the naked, hanging people by now. I thought this part of the show was especially touching. The strength, the struggle, the self-discovery. And the fact that was illustrated upside-down really hit home a point with me about how we, as people, are fighting in our life, economically, emotionally, and mentally. 4. My friend, who was seeing them for the first time, said something like, "Man, this is like being in church." He's right. And I think all Tool fans out there have a real bragging right in the band they "worship." Collective members of Tool -- Thank you for making art in your image. Thank you for continuing to test the waters. All in all, the show was great, the festival was successful overall, I think. Better than Ezra put on a good performance, and maybe surprised quite a few people. Tool came through for me. I didn't regret a second. I never will. Shawn Hudson

Review written by: Shawn Hudson (pope_45@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 17:50:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Review written by: Acidstud (hhansenii@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 19:16:40 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

So the drive is over Dallas San Antnio And now new orleans. The whole day was spent in anticipation of the Tool show. I was discepointed in my self cause i could not really enjoy any of the other artist there cause i was so wound up about tool. But i got a chance to see a lot of great people and excperince a lot of culture Now for the show I started way in the back and thanks to an act of god i made it to the rail in 4 soungs. I am soory to say that ther was some many great horrors that i had passed on the way like that guy with the broken leg. And the guy that was so messed up he sat down and would not get up (that was 5 people back ) and the great big blue lighted man who despie the moving of the crowd was not moved at all. And that really crazy girl next to me on the rail that was BITING people. But all in all the crowd up front was very suportive of me and helped me to stay on the BROKEN rail (thoughts of getting ran though with the braces that held the rail as the crowd fell foward came to mind more than once) the entire show. So the mecca of existance standing ther up front of 60,000 people watching tool from the best seat in the house seeing the feelins that they where putting into the songs. Actualy seeing the performers do there perfomance. That wsa the most intence moment of my life seeing it all being in it all with them all Just being alive and breating . Thanks TOOL for all the artisty and musical talent and depth and every thing Harold

Review written by: Fink (WedgeAR2@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 20:28:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

First of all, this is only the 4th concert I've ever been to, and I've only been in the pit for APC (which was very different. They might as well have played Pushit all night with the way the crowd was moving. When Tool came out and the crowd started moving I feared for my life. I struggled to breathe, and it was so tight you didn't have to keep your feet on the ground to stay up. I almost lost my boots, and after what seemed like an eternity I found myself in a less congested area. But enough about the crowd. I was about 10-20 feet from the stage, and the sound seemed fine for me. I had to wait through Bush, which was alright, but nothing compared to Tool. When Gavin asked the crowd to move back they did nothing. When Maynard asked everyone stepped back. Anyway, it was the best show that I've ever been to. The band played so well, the images on the screen were surreal, and the performance artists (I forget the name) were amazing. I can't think, I'm still recovering.

Review written by: alittlechicken (Tidalcoil@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 20:47:29 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

First of all, I have to say I flew into New Orleans from Los Angeles to see this show. And of course, it was worth it. I saw them the week previous in St Louis, and the energy was tenfold at the "Voodoo" Music Experience (I don't think there really was any voodoo) . After Better than Garbage, I rushed pretty much all the way up to the front. Two songs into Bush(garbage as well) i had to get the fuck out of that pit of hell. I crowd surfed my way out ( I think quite a few girls did) and watched the show all the back. I could only see Maynard and the video screens. The visuals for Pushit were by far the most tripped out. I loved when the women walked through the horizonal balck and white stripes. However, all the sacred geometry during Parabola was beautiful. Was it just me or did anyone else see light images in front of the video screen? I've seen all these videos 4 times and i always find something new. A very intense show from a very intense band. I'm gonna see them on halloween during the BLUE MOON!!! I can't fucking wait!

Review written by: Michael (The_Mighty_Aquaman@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 21:03:52 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well, this was my first show. My only complaints come from the crowd itself, so I'll say that first. Will you mosh pit idiots please not go to Tool shows. Go watch Limp Bizkit if you want to "kick some ass". I couldn't focus on The Grudge because I went down and was at the bottom of a sea of people. So, after that I moved back for Stinkfist, which was amazing. They added a bunch of parts right before the "I'll keep digging" part. During Schism, all the way through Triad, Maynard played a Stienburger guitar. I noticed someone said that they played Eon Blue Apocolypse before Disposition. They didn't. They just made a bunch of feedback noise while they set up the effects for Disposition. The performance duo were amazing. They came out after Relfection and performed for a while, with Tool offstage. Tool came back on and played Triad while the performers danced, suspended from the ceiling. It was great. Maynard gave a cool speech about getting inspired and doing something positive. Then the band gathered around the drumset and Adam Jones played the opening riff to Lateralus. It was quite a sight. I enjoyed myself greatly. One of the people I was with got Justin Chancelor's autograph. That was cool too. Tool is great. Go see them.

Review written by: Trey (treyshed@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 21:22:58 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

This was my 2nd show of the tour this year and I drove all the way from Athens, GA to see it. The band was quite good and definitely worth the money. Unfortunately, the crowd was the worst crowd I've yet witnessed at a Tool show. I suppose, to be fair, I should say the part of the crowd that was near me was what was so terrible. I was trying to dance and there were people around me yelling into their cell phones and at the stage for "Sober." There was a rather large gentleman to my left hanging all over his girlfriend and complaining that CCR wasn't at Voodoo! Not to slight Creedence, I like them, but the Black Crowes were playing on another stage and I'm sure he would've preferred them to Tool. Also, during the Disposition-Reflection-Triad part of the set, there was an enormous amount of people just leaving. I overheard snatches of conversations about various things, mostly a disappointment at not hearing "Tool's Greatest Hits." That was sad. I'm sure that they could've gotten something different from Tool had they had the patience to be still and watch, listen, and enjoy. I don't know how often Tool comes to New Orleans, and if they don't come often, it would explain the strange assortment of crowd-members. Most of the people around me seemed to be there to see what all the buzz about Tool is about. Maybe one or two of them got something out of it they weren't expecting. New Orleans has great people! There was a very nice lady who gave my friend and me a ride back to the hostel. All the cabs were going to Bourbon St. I had fun. Tricky rocked! I hate Better Than Ezra's music, but I admit, they know how to entertain a crowd. They definitely knew that half of their crowd was just waiting for Tool, but they were having a good time and it rubbed off on me.

Review written by: Jordan (toolapc225@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/28/01 23:34:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

The show was unbelievable. Voodoo Fest was the perfect setting for me to see my favorite band. The weather was perfect, and it was in New Orleans. Maynard and the whole band are no doubt musical genuises, the know exactly how to keep the fans wanting more the entire show. Every note, every chord was beautiful. They did everything I wanted they played old stuff such as Aenima and Pushit to new songs such as Schism and Parobol/Parobola. The only thing they didn't do that I wish they would have was Sober, that is my favorite TOOL song. The videos and graphics on the screens were amazing and cool, they fit everysong perfectly setting the mood for what it was supposed to be. The coupld from the Schism video showed up and walked around like in the video, they also hung straight upside down for atleast 30 minutes. Maynard didn't say much except for the occassional plea to the fans to back up or settle down, and he thanked us for coming and wished us well. The hug at the end with all of the band members was cool, it is just awesome to see musicians show love for their fans and eachother. I have something to ask of the so called TOOL fans at the rest of the tour, please know how to be real FANS of the band and the music, do not spend the whole time "moshing" "crowd surfing" and just pushing the crowd around, I understand you enjoy the music but don't ruin other peoples concert and rare oppurntunity to see TOOL. If you must waste your money to jump around and push people then do it with the other inconsiderate assholes that do it, dont push and do all that to the real fans who are there for the music. Real TOOL fans are there for the music and the real fans are no doubt the best fans in the world. Best fans in the world for the best band in the world. Thanks TOOL for the perfect night and thank you for the music.

Review written by: Jentry (Horseman_1st@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 00:06:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Just saw these guys at Voodoo Fest in New Orleans. They played for a solid two hours. It was my first time seeing them, so I may be a little biased. Most of the songs they played were from Lateralus, there were only 2 or 3 older songs. It is diffucult to say how good they looked on stage, because there were no big stage lights on them. In fact, Maynard stood in front of one of the three huge projection screens, so all you really could make out of him was his silhouette. All I really have to say is that it was a damn good concert, very entertaining. There was a video 'presentation' (for lack of a better word) to go along with each song, as well as a live appearance by the two humanoid creatures (okay, naked people) from the Schism video, so you really had to divide your attention between the band and all of the extra stuff. The band sounded very tight, and did not deviate too much from the recorded versions of songs. Seeing them live makes you realize what gifted musicians the entire band is. Maynard even picked up a guitar, which I have never seen before. There was a lot of singing along with the songs by the crowd, which suprised me, but it was cool to hear everyone sing "Some say a comet will fall from the sky, followed by meteor showers and tidal waves..., etc." Also, there was a lot of those trademark 'interludes' between songs, which was a little frustrating because you want them to get to the next song, but you have to listen to the sound of an electrical current pass by for five minutes first. As far as the crowd went, there were a lot of jerks there. A lot of pushing and shoving and what I call 'weasels,' people who kind of ooze their way from the back of the crowd to the front, which is kind of frustrating when you get there four hours before the show just to have some dick slither his way from the back and stand right in front of you. Also, there were a lot of people trying to get out of the front, to escape the crush of people, and they were getting angry when people wouldn't move out of the way, to which I would have to say 'what did you expect?' I mean, you don't even have room to raise your arms, much less move over enough for a person to get by. All in all, the concert was very good, even though I had to sit through Bush and Better than Ezra. Just remember to be curteous to your fellow concert goers. You

Review written by: Pigzbutt (pigzbutt@bellsouth.net) Review posted on: 10/29/01 08:54:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Every time i see TOOL they blow my mind! The visuals, the music, the atmosphere, the wonderful green and the fact that i had waited almost 3 years to see TOOL again, made this experience like no other. The surprises, the added lyrics to Stinkfist, everything. Thank You. P.S.-fret for your fruitbowl.

Review written by: Indifferent (toolsmantra462@altavista.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 09:13:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I attended the Birmingham show and despite being the same setlist with very few changes, this show blew Bham outta the water! Firstly, when me and my compadres hit NOLA early that day and went downtown to eat and sightsee, it was inspiring to see so many Tool fans with a huge appreciation for this weekend. You people are great. We were not interested in any band, besides Tool, so we arrived at the site at about 7PM. After seeing the thickening crowd paying no attention to Bush, we knew it was time to make our move for the front. The trip through the sea of Tool fans was a long, and frustrating one, but all in all, the majority of the people there were very nice and enjoyable to talk with. I encountered very few morons and that was good. We finally found an open piece of land about 12 rows back. Perfect. My friend with me happened to think far enough ahead to bring his camera w/ zoom! I got so many great pics. Once Tool came on stage, any cares or worries drifted away with the opening riff to The Grudge. From there it seemed to be a journey through sonic lands with Tool leading the way. Thank You to Tool, the fans, my friends and the kind people around me who loved Tool as much as I do... peace from NOLA

Review written by: damp (damp@mirage.org) Review posted on: 10/29/01 10:03:25 ET

This was this reviewer's 1!� Tool show

wow ___ _ made it to snoop's performance, which started like 45 min late as i'm sure that mofo was probably sitting backstage saying something to the effect of "hold up, y'all, i ain't high enough yet!" his set was pretty good... my lungs and voice were saved for a later band, but were taxed a slight bit to show my appreciation...too bad more people didn't get vocal, which is what snoop + co. seemed to want... thanks to the awesome chick that gave me a joint's worth of ganja in exchage for a few hits from the one i was smoking... you rock _ later that evening, it got very fucking chilly and windy, so i tried to find a long-sleeve shirt that didn't say "VMX" on it for $25.oo... instead, the best i could find was a sweet tool shirt (black/white + lateralus fellow + logo) for $3o.oo (body heat renention and reusage was key here) which managed to keep me warm in the midsts of fellow fans, yet completely slacked off after the show - that sucked - anyhow... the moments before the moment of the show were suspenseful... it was hard to believe it was happening...and then it did the setlist was consistant with some other shows, whereas they played no opiate or undertow songs (maybe next time?)...maynard was none too talkative, save for having us "take a deep breath", then asking us to take "two steps back...now two baby steps... now four more baby steps... let's all make it home safely", the 'do something positive' speech, and the words "travel safely" before they got into 'lateralus' (not to mention a few "thank you"s) in between a few songs were instrumentals and such, one of which started sounding veeeeery much like 'merkaba', which i got really excited about... sadly, it was not to be... but all the songs sounded great i was so hoping for "third eye" but maybe next time... after 'lateralus', danny threw a stick or two or three out to the audience, as well as a drumhead which - like in another review - flew like a frisbee and landed about seven feet in front of me... a dude i smoked with prior to the show walked by me with it and let me see it..... had a star of david and some writing on it, but was flashed in front of me too quickly to decipher....amazing... new orleans was cool also, even though it was frigidly freezing at night and the bars want you to drink or get out... heh... boo

Review written by: Master Reviewer (drrobert6@home.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 13:32:59 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

I have seen many concerts in my life but it would be hard to top the Tool show at Voodoo. I have been a fan for quite some time and had no idea what to expect. They didn't disappoint. They are the exact opposite of every concert I have seen. No "Hey New Orleans, Are you ready to rock!?" Just come out and kick peoples heads in. Their set list was tight and mostly new materials. Their visuals would rival any Pink Floyd show I've seen. I would love to see them indoors because the constant shuffling of fans trying to get a better view, the cold weather and the external lights distracted a bit.

Review written by: Jayson (silvermetalbox@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 13:40:31 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Maybe of the above reviews were right on, so I'll save myself of carpel tunnel syndrone. Anyways, the crowd didn't really seem as bad as described above. The crowd was quite relaxed during most of TOOL. As compared to some of the concerts I've been to in Biloxi, MS. TOOL was just fucking awesome. I can't even start to describe the feelings I have and hold inside. Jayson

Review written by: Nyarlathotep, the Crawling Chaos (axon315@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 15:48:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 99th Tool show

......oo0O0(((O)))0O0oo....... Incredible Experience, Yes? I was the one with the cards. (Cards about Tool, enlightenment, the meaning of life, and Azathoth, the monstrous nuclear chaos at the center of all infinity.) I threw them into the air during song climaxes. Did YOU get one? hehehehe....spreading the wisdom of Dharma... A Messsage for those who think of Tool as a mysterious, mystical group of people who are trying to TEACH us a secret that no one else knows: You are on the right track. But Tool are not the only ones who know. And the secret is not difficult to unveil. Check up on such subjects as Discordianism, Buddhism(zen), Sufism, Taoism, Hinduism, and Chaos Magick.... Thanks to the white female & black male wearing Tool shirts....for the ACID. I myself took none, gave it all away to people who understood 3rdEye-pryage. Indeed, there were some people tripping by the time Tool started. Pushit was...just as indescribable as the rest of the performance, but...it was unique in that its beauty inspired me to infect all minds present with a Sigil that transmuted all perception of form into formlessness, dualistic ego- thinking into Unified Azathoth-Consciousness. 46&2....the vocal line, "see my shadow changing" seemed to weave over the instruments in a pattern alternative to that of the recorded version, and indeed much more powerfully. This occured more than once, in more than one song, by more than just the vocals. I was on drugs. Some advice on moving through/with the Crowd System: Less Greed and More Compassion. Try it. Email me 4 any questions. Anything at all: axon315@hotmail.com my work is done for now. I will pass through the gate into the Nothingness until I am needed again. Stay clear of dualism, and work towards Enlightenment. B Eye-ing U. Ia!Yog-Sothoth!

Review written by: Goatfucker (me@you.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 16:20:57 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Well, first off there were a lot of people there. it was a festival, and I don't really plan on attending another festival unless Tool is there to play again. It's not that there were lots of inconsiderate people there. It was actually surprising to see *that* many people hold that level of respect during Tool's set. Most everyone just sat there mesemerized. The setlist has been posted, and this is the 2nd show I've seen on this tour, not counting Atlanta on May 15th, which is the best show I've ever seen by anyone. I was hoping for a deviation from the other show on the set, but we ended up on the rotation of getting the same one I got 2 weeks before. It was still great again. No complaints at all. The band was supertight as usual. I mean, there nothing I can really say to describe the Tool experience. Just go see it for yourself.

Review written by: Melissa Moyer (staticelec_@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 17:46:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

OH MY GOD! I have been to 285 concerts in the last ten years and I have never been more impressed in my life. Tool, you rock like no other. No one could EVER compare to them or their show. Note for note they were perfect and crystal clear. Beautiful theatrics took over our eyes. After the fisrt song we were so mesmerized I don't even think we applauded! With no disrespect... I think you had us in such awe that we stood ther dumbfounded. By the second song was over I yelled at the top of my lungs "TOOL". Nothing else seemed more appropriate. They were fabulous. All I can say about the Voodoo Fest is Damn, the Black Crowes got jipped because they were billed at the same time as Tool. Not that any of us care... :) Anyhow, sorry to anyone who didn't get to go. It's was the best concert you'll never see. Sincerely, Melissa, Jason, & Robert

Review written by: Maynards_Girl (Nureyev62@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 10/29/01 17:48:44 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Well........what can be said besides WOW. Just WOW. I had seen TOOL in Portland, ME and Boston, MA last month on this tour, and we drove all the way from our college in New Hampshire just to see them again in New Orleans, and there was no way i was going to be let down.....I knew it would be worth it! Maynard was in better voice than he had been at the beginning of the tour, as he proved during "The Grudge" when he actually DID the ENTIRE 24 second scream...he hadn't even tried at the other shows i've seen this tour...Danny was a blur, as usual...Adam's opening riff to "Schism" was in a different type of distortion than I had seen before, and they changed the song during which Osseus Labyrint came out this time...every time you see TOOL, you see something new--its never the same show twice. They were particularly amazing this time on "Disposition/Reflection", "The Grudge", and the ever popular extended version of "Stinkfist". Also, it was the �nema version of "Pushit" this time, and during "�nima", Maynard added some funny little quirks to the 'fret for your figure' bit.....everyone laughed :-) Maynard came out in a leather trenchcoat, looking like the vampire from Nosferatu, and then really looked like a dictator banging his fist up and down during "The Grudge". Of course, since it wasn't that cold out, he eventually took off his shirt, which afforded me the opportunity to get a picture of that spine tattoo (if anyone knows a tattoo parlor that can reproduce that, let me know). It was interesting to me that the crowd was so violent at this show, because at the other two shows i've seen this tour the crowds were pushing and shoving but nowhere near this bad. Probably just because it was about 50 thousand more people than i'm used to sharing the experience with. Interesting sidebar: When the crowd shoved up against the barriers and they needed to be repaired, Gavin from Bush had to make the announcement...and everyone just sort of grumbled and ignored him. When Maynard came up to the front of the stage (rare for this tour) and asked us to take a deep breath and back up a half step at a time, everyone did exactly what he told us to do. No argument, problem solved. The guy next to me said "I can't go anywhere, man" and someone standing nearby told him "Just shut up and do what Maynard says, dude!" I thought that was hilarious.

Review written by: Jonathan Garrity(Gaping Lotus) (GapingLotus@dead-devils-radio.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 19:16:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

*I pasted this review from the site I work for, Dead Devils Radio. I did write all of this* Ok, here's the deal. I haven't been doing reviews of concerts lately because there's no section for them and they often turn out extremely long and make the front page look bad. But as far as I'm concerned, everyone who works at this site is going to have to live with this one. On to the review. Last night I saw a concert. Not just any concert however. This was TOOL. I finally got to see TOOL in concert and believe me, it was the single most amazing thing I have ever had the privilege of witnessing. So, now I'm going to give you the details of the concert of a lifetime. It was at Marconi Meadows in New Orleans. Despite the fact that it was outdoors, it was packed. I was lucky if I had the slightest bit of room to move. I could actually feel the crowd's anticipation as the roadies were seeting up TOOL's elaborate stage. For 20 minutes all you could hear over the PA was a high pitched buzzing sound. After 20 minutes of this TOOL actually took the stage. The crowd erupted with screams like I have never heard before. And as the opening riff to "The Grudge" was being played, everyone was trying to catch a glimpse of the art metal masters. Before I go on let me explain what the crowd is seeing at this point. Behind the band(and where Maynard was standing) their were huge screens that were showing various visualizations that fit together with the songs being played. Trust me, these visuals added so much to the show. They were mind blowing. "The Grudge" energized the entire crowd. "Wear your grudge like a crown of negativity. Calculate what we will and will not tolerate. Desperate to control all and everything. Unable to forgive your scarlet letterman." It was as if Maynerd were the conductor, leading the crowd word by word as he thrusted with every syllable. At this point, the crowd surfing began which wasn't pleasant but it in no way interfered with my concentration. Once "The Grudge" ended, Maynard instructed the crowd to take 2 steps back in order to accomodate the people who were being crushed(I was included). Keep in mind, no one listened to security, Gavin Rossdale of Bush, or Rod Ryan of 106.7 The End when they said move back, but once Maynard said it, it was like Moses parting the Red Sea. Once this was settled the band began playing "Stinkfist". Altered visuals of the video were shown on the screens as the band was unleashin a cerebral onslaught. "How could this mean anything to me? When I really don't feel a thing at all. I'll keep digging 'till I feel something." These words made the crowd go insane. (For the record, anyone who doubts the intensity and loyalty of TOOL fans has obviously never been in front for one of their shows). The next song on the band's agenda was "Forty Six & 2". Again, the energy coming from the crowd was unreal. At this point the majority of the crowd was completely mesmorized by the band as well as the awe inspiring visuals. "Listen to a muzzled memory. Contemplate what I've been clinging to. Forty Six & 2 ahead of me". These words simply sent the people into a frenzy. It was at this point that I realized that this was like the holocaust. Body after body was going over the gaurd rail. Some crowd surfing, some simply needing to get out of the herd. From where I was they looked like nothing moer than hundreds of bead bodies being removed from the crowd. Personally,I was happy whenever a small breeze would occur and I was able to breathe. The next songs they treated us to were "Parabol" and "Parabola". This managed to inspire wide spread moshing. Something I wasn't about to partake in at this particular show. "We are eternal but this pain is an illusion." And that is exacltly how we all felt. No matter how much pain we were going through it was all irrelevant. Next on the agenda was "Pushit". Absent however was the tabla that we were introduced to on "Salival". No, this was the original but the original is one of the greatest songs ever so this wasn't a problem. This is one of those songs that gave everyone a chance to relax and catch their breath. It was extremely mellow, however there were still people escaping the crowd. I did my best to help. The visuals they used during this song were extremely eye catching and they added to the song in a positive way. "Schism" was next. Once the opening riff started the crowd erupted. Radio song or not it is still an excellent song. This was interesting because Osseus Labyrinth was on stage recreating the video. This added a lot to the performance. (keep in mind, throughout all of this not one band member is missing a beat and Maynard is surely not missing a note). Next was the "block" from "Lateralus" . First off was "Disposition" which was followed by an awe inspiring performance of "Reflection" which is a truly great song live or not. The lyrics are great and the music was enough to send me into a state of peaceful meditation. Next was "Triad" which was probably the most memorable part of the show. During this instrumental, Osseus Labyrinth were suspended above the stage. It was almost like viewing a Van Gogh exhibit. The two performers dangled high above the crowd and at one point embraced. Also, during the entire song you could see their shadows on each side which really added to it. It was truly breath taking. Next on the agenda was "Aenema" which got one of the loudest ovations. This was one of those songs where the whole crowd was singing along. "Fuck L. Ron Hubbard and fuck all his clones. Fuck all these gun toating hip gangster wannabes". It was almost as if this was the new national anthem. Unfortunately there was no rain on this evening which would have made the song so much more meaningful(as if it wasn't already). Sadly, the next song was the last song. It was "Lateralus". What a way to close the show. The visuals were great, as was the music and the vocals. It was such a great thing to be a part of. TOOL really knows how to connect with a crowd through their music. Well, its time for me to rate the show. I don't think I can even do that. A 10 just isn't enough. It was so much more. I give this concert no rating which is higher than any number value I could possibly attach. Let me just say that nothing I ever do in my life will ever compare to seeing TOOL live and that is true. Farewell, see you at the next TOOL show.

Review written by: sean (devilbob2569@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 19:24:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I am extending my earlier post, i was in a hurry. First off this was my first concert in new orleans and i thought the crowd mostly acted like bastards. Thanks to the blond guy who helped me when i was beside the pit get the shit beat out of me. I thought it was a great concert overall. It took awhile for us in the front to get out at the end though. It sucked when Maynard told us "Take a deep breath and take to steps back. Now take a half step back." At this point a guy around 300 pounds had fallen over on my head. I thought this concert kicked ass and i hope sometime soon they will come to Biloxi to get a much better crowd reaction at the Coast Colesieum.

Review written by: Lucifloyd (lucifloyd@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 20:56:39 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Voodoo Fest was the WORST fucking Tool experience and the poorest excuse for a music festival I've ever seen...long story short...after wandering around for 45 fucking minutes trying to just get into the place (walking several miles, being told wrong things by staff, security, etc.) we finally made it to the stage...Tool was already 2 songs into the set...and we were at the back of 60,000 or so people...couldn't see shit, could hear, but what I heard sucked ass...the sound was terrible...outdoor shows are never as good as an indoor venue, but the sound was pathetic...I was so pissed...I listened to two more songs and couldn't fucking take it anymore...my girlfriend and I left...what a waste... A couple of suggestions for Tool and the incompetent fuckwads that produce the Voodoo Fest... 1. To Tool...please, don't ever ever ever play another music festival again...your show has outgrown, artistically, the confines of the "festival" atmosphere...you don't belong there anymore...be thankful for that. 2. To the imbeciles that produced the piece of shit event that took place on Saturday...would it fucking kill you to invest some money in signage..."Entrance"...what a fucking concept...hand paint some fucking arrows on a bed sheet for Christ's sake...just do something. Furthermore, how about informing the event staff about what the hell is going on...because nobody seemed to know. And before you decide to e-mail me and say something like "If you think you could do it better...yadda yadda yadda"...I work for a festival, and we DO do it better...it's not that fucking hard. Thanks for listening.

Review written by: atgdrummer (atg_drummer@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 21:02:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Disposition was one of the most peaceful things I've ever known. The images of the people underwater, and Maynard playing guitar put in a meditative trance. I only have two gripes: 1.The guy next to me singing Parabol waaay to loud and out of key. I didn't pay to listen to him, you know.... 2.I'm short (5'4), and I had trouble seeing the stage. The visuals definitely helped to cure this, though. Highlights were: 1.Pushit 2.The trilogy 3.Osseus 4.Aenema 5.Lateralus these last two had my body convulsing in ways I never have known. The guy next to me gave me odd looks. I was pleased with the amount of respect the crowd had (compared to Bush). One suggestion: If you weigh more than 150, or if you're more than 6'2, don't crowd surf. It's hard enough to deal with the people around you, much less people landing on your head. Oh, and Reflection's visuals were especially awesome.

Review written by: Monique (guette01@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 22:08:29 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

(whew) Where do I start? Holy f'in' a. I just saw Tool at the Voodoo Music Fest in New Orleans. As far as we were concerned, it was a Tool concert, although there were some other noteable bands there like the Black Crowes and a shitload of jazz as usual....zzz. But, we didn't show up for any of them. Not necessary to lose your high frequency on another band when there is Tool to be heard. The show was a nice variety from all albums except Opiate. All my favorites from Aenima, my favorite album. Not too mention an entire digital film studio on the stage with some of the most expensive, musically interactive graphics I have seen at a show. And the naked, genderless people? I'm at a loss for words on that one. Definitely see it for yourself. I must say if you do drugs, Tool is there for you heart and soul. They were very conscientious of entertaining their audience which I found heart warming. Thanks for remembering us and not selling out...ever! Two hours of unrelenting Tool!!! I was so inspired and exhilerated by the performance that I feel like I've been transformed into a higher being. It was the best concert I have ever seen. Tool is by far the best drug there is for me.

Review written by: Chloe' (QueenSkatha@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 10/29/01 22:36:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

OH MY GOOD GOD! This was my first Tool show, so expectedly my heart was racing and temples pounding as the band set up after Bush. I can't ever do justice to the show itself or the feeling I experienced but I'll attempt a slight description. As said in previous reviews there were huge screens set up behind the band and one smaller projector screen for god himself, Maynard. The sheer artistry in the visuals was unbelieveable. I was more amazed at the contortionists hanging above during Triad. They spun and danced as the music played steadily behind them and the entire crowd stood in awe. One of the most amazing things was the awestruck calm that seemed to settle over the audience during most of the set, almost as if that same crowd that moshed insanely during Bush had been struck dumb and zen as Maynard sang hypnotically in their ears. I was orgasmically close to the stage by the time Tool started and nearly died as I stared into the faces of my favorite band. As always, Maynard seemed absolutely enraptured by the emotion in his music and projected that unto the crowd. I was actually drawn to tears as he hummed 'watch the weather change...' almost like he was crying with me. The passion in the band itself and the audience seemed to climax during Aenima and by Lateralus and the end of the show everyone seemed to leave with a higher sense of self and the art we had just seen. At least I know I did. I even met someone who had seen them before and enhanced my first Tool experience in more ways than one. I will undoubtedly see them again, I am compelled to. No other experience can compare to what I felt Saturday night. I wish that same joy for all of you. There's no way anyone can see Tool without feeling that absolute elation...

Review written by: Trebor (rnbonney1st@aol.com) Review posted on: 10/30/01 00:47:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This wasn't just a concert I saw This wasn't just music I heard THIS WAS ART THAT I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO EXPERIENCE Being my first Tool concert, I thought it maybe be a little disappointing; "how can they do justice to the music recorded in the studio, and how can they do it live?" I am happy to say I wasn't just wrong, I was completely wrong. These guys are truelly artist, not just musicians. Sad to say there aren't many others like them. Tool is a band you can see, hear and feel. At the end of "Lateralus", I was just coming back from where Tool had takin' me and was lucky enough to get smacked in the face with a drum head, which will be hanging on the wall for years to come. Thank you TOOL, you were more than I imagined and thanks to "the big bastard" that got us in a little bit closer, you know who you are

Review written by: Ambitious Procrastinator (ambitiousprocrastinator@kissmyass.com) Review posted on: 10/30/01 03:03:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Tool kicked ass at the Voodoo Fest! I've been wanting to see them for years and it was every bit what I expected and then some. Stunning visual show, killer sound (even outdoors), and the "Cirque de Soleil-meets-X" style sideshow high above the stage was nothing short of spectacular. The crowd was enthusiastic and packed tightly even far back from the stage (Maybe to keep warm??). They played flawlessly for 2 1/2 hrs. Absolutely Mesmerizing.

Review written by: "]["(())(())][_ (mckinnjr@tribe.ulm.edu) Review posted on: 10/30/01 08:13:27 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I have followed "]["(())(())][_ for years. They are the people who transcend the music world/industry and tap right into what is life really is. No use telling you what the show was like, or telling you what went on, you just need to see the REV MAYNARD JAMES KEENAN doing what he does and somewhrere down in that small knumbed place in the pit of your heart, you will feel ... again.

Review written by: mind4spirit (gengar3@bellsouth.net) Review posted on: 10/30/01 12:14:43 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

My lord...that was amazing...everything was. Adam played PERFECT, Justin played PERFECT, Danny...of course played perfect, and Maynard's voice was perrrfect. The only complaint I have is the people...the people who know absolutely nothing about Tool, except what they've seen on mtv...schism. Three people in front of me were just mumbling on Pushit because they had NO idea what song it was and some guys behind me during Disposition were like..."dude...this is gay"...wow...that pisses me off. Why come to a tool concert when all they want is to mosh and shit when they can go to a gay ass Slipknot concert. Tool is brilliant, they are artists more than musicians, and their art is incredible...

Review written by: The Alchemist (the_alchemist@neuralalchemy.com) Review posted on: 10/30/01 13:42:28 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Once again TOOL mesmerized me. I no longer cry like a 12 year old girl at an *NSYNC show when they play, but I am compelled to sing, dance, and feel the changes consume me when TOOL does their thing. It was cold night in the Crescent City (even colder than the rain in Birmingham two weeks before) but it was worth the long drive from Montgomery to see the show. Later, having a few Warsteiners with some friends, I was able to appreciate the dedication of those fans who did brave the cold to be at the show. TOOL fans are the best, most loyal, and kindest people on the planet. Honestly, TOOL fans are like Phish fans except that we bathe and have good taste in music.

Review written by: J.R. Glover (Maynard@ou.edu) Review posted on: 10/30/01 15:17:24 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Wow, Voodoo fest was awesome. Tool played fewer songs than they did in OKC, but nevertheless the show was great. During Stinkfist, Maynard song the lyrics from the Elvis song " Suspicious minds," "I'm caught in a trap and I can't walk out because I love you too much baby." I thought that was the highlight of the show, along with the huge crowd who all seemd to be there to see Tool. The night before the show, everyone I met on Bourbon St. were going to the show to see Tool. IF you missed this, you missed an excellent show. J.R. GLover Skiatook, OK

Review written by: jellybelly66633 (jellybelly66633@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 10/30/01 17:11:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

This was my first and hopefully not last tool show. The did an AMAZING setilist and overall the concert was totally PERFECT. Two hours long! Everyone was incredibly excited. At one point Maynard had to ask the crowd to "take a step back, now a half step, now another." Maynard rerely said anything other than that. He however did play guitar on a couple of songs. I think he had a black Warlock and that same little guitar he's holding on the cover of the Guitar One featuring A Perfect Circle. On schism, Osseus Labrynt came out walking around naked on their hands and feet doing thier little head bob thing. And during Triad they hung upside down high above the stage writhing around (i can't even describe how weird it looked) After they played their last song, they all hugged and waved to the crowd. The concert was definitely a highlight of my life.