| concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart |
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11/01/2002
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Review written by: Shameful Audience (awrufus69@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/01/02 23:40:56 ETThis was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Setlist: Sober Grudge Stinkfist 46 and 2!!!! Schism Parabol/Parabola Aenema --intermission-- Reflection/Disposition/Triad Lateralus Note: i may have missed ions and/or mantra 2nd concert of this tour, and as usual, the band was on point. They displayed much more emotional enthusiasm at this show than at Erie. Yet another truely moving experience. The highlights would have to be Grudge, 46 and 2, and Aenema. Penn State audience really sucked this evening. Maynard actually had to ask the audience in the seats to stand for Lateralus, and after that people actually sat back down during the song!! The crowd just was not into it at all (a few exceptions, of course). Of course, the band members were good sports about it, stuck around after the show for the "thumbs up". Maynard did walk off the stage immediately, but it was a fitting jesture for the horrible crowd.
Review written by: Joe (fade_like_a_sigh2002@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/01/02 23:52:17 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I can't even begin to tell any of you how incredibly moving and beautiful that was. There are no words in this limited language to describe what i was feeling... so i'll just post the setlist: Sober The Grudge (-) ions Stinkfist Parabol Parabola Aenema -----INTERMISSION----- Disposition Reflection Triad (w/ Meshuggah drummer) Lateralus im pretty sure that's accurate. if not, let me know. yes, im sure lots of you are going to bitch and whine and say "they didnt change the setlist!" u disrespectful bastards can shove it because Tool works hard and has been touring hard for almost 2 years straight just so you can experience them. i was dancing pretty much the whole time, and i wasnt always aware of it. i just let myself go. i wont spoil it for anyone else but the artwork and the murals are absolutely mind-blowing. (anyone know how they control those molecular balls???) and to the asshole who dumped water on me during Sober, i forgive you for ur stupidity. im just in that kind of a mood right now. i cant pick a favorite song of the night, but id have to say Lateralus and Parabola were extremely emotional and very powerful. the hugging and waving at the end was very moving and left the concert on a good note. Meshuggah i thought was very tight... im one of the few people who actually likes them. the lead singer was a little scary with his weird dancing and Punisher shirt, but its all part of the act. they get a 9/10. Good job guys, keep rocking it out. And last of all, thank you thank you THANK YOU TOOL!!!! u guys put it all out for us and u play so excellent!! keep playing and don't stop because im with u guys all the way and id do anything to see u again!!!!! SPIRAL OUT... KEEP GOING
Review written by: Joe (fade_like_a_sigh2002@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/01/02 23:55:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
sorry, i cant believe i forgot 46&2 and Schism!!! my memory has failed me yet again... but yeah i cant believe the audience wasnt very responsive to Tool!!! fucking penn state snobs!!!
Review written by: DannyLove (DannyLove9@attbi.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 00:34:28 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
I gotta share this story. This being first Tool show, I was extremely pleased with the event. The night started off well enough because I'm a big Meshuggah fan, but the Penn State crowd was totally unresponsive to their polyrhythmic stylings, even to the point where Jens Kidman (vocalist) asked, "Is it silent in here or what?" On a sidenote, I was 3 bodies from the front and at the completion of the Meshuggah set, I called out Thomas Haake's name (drummer) at which point he came down to the front, kept pointing at me, and attempted to hand me a drumstick (I was pretty much the only guy banging out to every note) but such is the nature of man, some fucko ripped it from the security guy before I could get it. I know, that shit happens all the time, but still, it meant something to me. Despite a front floor section populated by seemingly pre- pubescent girls and fellow PSU students, Tool did not cease to impress me. Maynard was clad in his standard leather duds, with jet black face covering the middle of his face, appearing as the center portion of his face was literally missing. Before Parabol, Maynard tossed the leather for the traditional black bra and tight miniskirt. Stylin. Utimately the setlist endured only minor changes with the inclusion of AEnima, but with a list like that, who can really complain THAT much. As far as speech between songs, Maynard strayed from sarcasm and conveyed a sense of true appreciation and sincerity the few times he spoke. The final embrace of the band was a powerful gesture that solidified the evening not as a concert, but as an experience. Sorry to be so melodramatic, but its my first Tool show. Check them out, kids.
Review written by: Billy Bob (what in samhell...) Review posted on: 11/02/02 00:52:18 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
hell, dis was Tool, not Toby Keith... goddamnit i went to the wrong show.... cant wait for WWE! yeehaw that may nerd shure mus' be a faggot a'dressin up like a girlie... i like'd a'lookin at 'da nakie peoples on them big screens up 'ere 'top o' the seelin'.
Review written by: mef (fahy34@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 01:23:24 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
I just got home from the show and i must say that it was another great performance by the band. i'm not going to post the set list because it is already up and i agree with the other reviewers on the lack of crowds enthusiasm, however i was into the music and enjoyed myself so i'm not really worried about it. to begin with meshuggah, i enjoyed these guys alot even though i'm not a huge metal fan, they still put on a good show. as for tool my personal highlights were 46&2, Ænima, and Triad which was absolutely stunning there are other words to describe this song but i'm still speechless. maynards comment about his bra "thank you for you support...get it support?" was another highlight for me i personally thought it was hilarious. i want to finish by saying thanks to my friends (jen, amanda and allen) who put up with me and my obsession that is tool but mainly i want to thank danny, maynard, adam and justin for another amazing show i will definitely make something positive out of this experience.
Review written by: iii (zexct.color@dcemail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 01:45:47 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
i know this isn't a concert review, but i had a question and thought this was the best way to ask it: what is the song played over the PA right before tool comes out? it's a long soundscapy song that builds and builds with high pitched either guitar or synth sounds. it sounds really cool, but i haven't a clue what or who it is. someone i know said it was mentioned in an old newsletter once. any thoughts or ideas on this song? thank you
Review written by: chris (spankthebastrd@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 01:57:09 ET
hey i'm as against posting for other reasons as kabir himself, but.. i must respond to this one in saying i would like to know what that is too.. i've heard that song(?) about 7 times now.. its always the constant cue for me to stand up about 6 minutes before the band comes on.. i've grown to love it, mainly because of the feeling i get when it comes on.. hmmm.. anyone know? email me.. peace chris
Review written by: MILLS (SeeaPigg@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 04:22:43 ET
I've seen Tool a couple times now, they are very very good live. I've seen alot of concerts and most of them the stage show is pitiful and the band is usually unrespectful to the crowd. Tool is very much the opposite, they have a plentiful and very well put together stage show, no let down at all. They also are they only band other than Ozzy that i've seen to thank the crowd for coming to see them and supporting them. Well Tool, your welcome, thanks for thanking us as well. The sound tonite was pretty good, Tool were very tight and mixed quite well, Bryce Jordan sometimes can sound shitty. The crowd was seriously lacking it though, i honestly was the only person standing up in my whole section, it was pitiful. Maybe there's more knuckleheads in Pa than i thought, or maybe everyone was hung over from the festivities the evening before, who knows, i enjoyed the hell out of myself, hope everyone else enjoyed themselves even if they were just sitting there. Um...what else, Triad is unbelievable, its so good, you gotta hear it, extended Stinkfist was awesome, the whole show ruled, Meshugah however you spell it, not sure, those guys are good, but just a little too much for me, i'm more reserved i guess, but they were good, i might have enjoyed them more if i was more familiar with their music. Now on my final note, i understand that people want to hear select songs and what not, but these three people in front of me, they were waiting to hear prison sex, well Tool did not play it and when Maynard announced that Lateralas was their last song, these three people got all pissed off and left!! They freaking left, i couldn't believe it, i was so dissapointed, but oh well i guess its their loss, go home and listen to undertow and talk shit on Tool for not playing you your song, Knuckleheads. All in all, Tool rule, and you should go see them and if you already have, go again and again and again, it's freaking Tool man!!!! Ok i'm outta here, take care and Peace.
Review written by: toolgirl11102 (psu_violet@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 10:31:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I'm so glad to see so many reviews and the set-list posted already. It's good to know that the Tool fans in and around Penn State do have some dedication, despite some poor behavior at list nights show. I have to agree that for the most part the BJC was lacking in energy. My area of the floor wasn't, but to look up in the crowds when the lights go bright and see people SITTING . . . for TOOL?!?!? *shakes head* I know a bunch of people that went "just to go" and another bunch that were so drunk I doubt they remember a damn thing. What the hell, ya know? But I just wanted to say that I thought the show was AMAZING! Granted it was only my first Tool show, but WOW! For Maynard and the guys to open with "Sober", the song that made me the little Tool girl I am today was beyond bliss. Best song of the night (and this is hard), "Lateralus." Perfect way to close out a night that could only be termed a religious experience. Thank you Tool for the best concert of my life. "Spiral out . . ."
Review written by: xoxallstarsrdisturbedxox (succa13@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 11:59:04 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
The setlist is already posted, so I am just going to say what I thought of the night. I loved TOOL. I know this was my first show, and I hope it will not be my last. It was awesome, it was moving, and it was very, very artistic. The drive, the waiting in line, and the tickets were definitely worth it. I feel bad for the guys in TOOL though, because the crowd sucked. I was about ready to beat the guys behind me for the stuff they were saying, its like, if you don't want to see TOOL, don't come to a TOOL concert. I held back, because I wanted to see the rest of their set, before getting kicked out. I have total respect for all of them. To put on a show like that, and play music that well, it is amazing. I play bass, and I sing, and Maynard's voice is so authentic, and so powerful, it just strikes you, while Justin is so great at playing, I was in total awe every time I looked up. (Adam and Danny are awesome too, I just do not do the same things they do, so I was just saying what struck me) Everytime I will listen to one of the songs they played at that concert, it will bring back memories. This is an experience that is worth a long drive, worth all of your money, because it will stick with me the rest of my life. Thank You everyone that put on the concert, and i extremely thank TOOL for coming to Altoona(although they probably will not come back for the fans, like myself, who were really into it because of the assholes who came just to say that they went to a TOOL concert). Maynard was into it anyway(even making a joke about support after he decided to sport his black bra and speedos). Maynard, Justin, Danny, and Adam, thank you for letting me have this experience, and thank you for coming close to my town. Tool is my favorite band, and after this, I have more respect than ever for them.
Review written by: David (H7p7d7@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 12:15:03 ET
This was this reviewer's 2 Tool show
i just got back from the show this was a one of a kind show the croud was in just so in to the music the band was so in to the crowd it was just awsome i dont remember the set list off hand but i thought it was awsome that they opend up with sober insted of cold and ugly i mean the set and graphics were to die for the only thing i have to say is mushugga was a awsome band all they need is a new lead singer but all in all the pit was grate o yea and to the big fat stage crew guy who pulled me off the rail saying u were getting crushed fuck u if i would of got crushed it would have been on the way to the front spiral out
Review written by: Norm (panicfan13@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 12:29:40 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
Penn State....sux sober the grudge stinkfist 46 & 2 schism parabol/a aenima intermission disposition reflection triad (w/messugah) lateralus the lamest crowd i've ever seen. there was NO moshing,in fact there was nobody standing, so some of you would have loved it i guess. the crowd sat the entire nite. i'm not kidding. maynards speech at the end mentioned, besides the normal retoric, that every one must be tired from "halloween" and he ask if everybody would stand up for the last song at least. he also mentioned that they would be on tour through Thanksgiving if anybody wanted to try seeing tool again.
Review written by: J.C. (fuckingpsu@psu.edu) Review posted on: 11/02/02 12:34:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Amazing show. That's all I have to say. Decent sound tonight at the BJC, but the fucking fans fucking sucked. The only people into it were about half the people on the floor. It was my first time seeing them from the floor and it is so much better than sitting in the stands. Everyone in the stands just sat down the during the entire show!! What the fuck is with that? PSU fans/students fucking suck, atleast tonight. And it cleared out in 30 sec! No one even stayed to cheer for and encore, even though Tool wouldn't have come out. The band cleared off the stage real quick unlike when I was them this summer in Baltimore. They obiviously weren't going to waste their time with shitty fans, and I can blame them. Glad to here 46 & 2 this time instead of H. The whole concert was amazing, especially D/R/T piece, the Messugha drummer was pretty awesome on the quads. Tool is amazing. Anyone who hasn't seen them better get their ass to a concert and see the show. Peace
Review written by: shyna (bpbrab@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 13:13:21 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
set list is as follows: sober grudge stinkfist schizm forty-six n 2 parabol parabola -intermission- disposition reflextion triad lateralus that is to the best of my recollection this was my 5th show - i went to hershey last year and vowed that i would go to every show within my area. then was baltimore, erie, philly, and tonites my hubby went to long island's show the night before, but i had to work - fucking life sucks - what i'd do to be on the sound crew anyways, to get back to the show university park was a bunch of spoiled yuppies they weren't into the show as much as what tool is used to. they started the intro at 8:45 on the dot - as usual then what REALLY fucked the night up was that the jordon center kept a small amount of lights on at the back of the arena so the isles were lit and we still managed to burn a big fatty - so fuck you bryce jordon center - you just lost my future business and i can guarentee that tool will never be back to university park - fucking non-energetic nittany lion assholes! if penn state puts as much energy into playing illinois as they did into tool, they're gonna get their asses whooped - go to bed in your paid for by mommy and daddy dorms or apartments and sleep fucking tight - spoiled fucking yuppies! sorry, they REALLY pissed me off last night but, i had a blast maynard said "thanks for your support" and nothing came from the crowd besides my old man screaming out - penn state said nothing! so maynard said "support" and pretty much laughed at them - a bunch of tool virgins! tool was awesome, but they weren't into it as much as i've seen in the past - this show ranked up there wiht erie's but, i can understand - maynard said "we have to play like this tomorrow night, the next night and on like that until thanksgiving and we've been doing this for the past 2 years, so if you could do us a favor and stand up for this one..." then proceeded to play lateralus no one was standing throughout the entire show - what a bunch of unappreciative students! but, coming from lancaster county, it was definitely worth it - but, the sex afterwards definitely topped the show - that was the absolute BEST sex that i've had with my hubby ever! i asked tool to play no quarter for an orgasmic experience, but that didn't happen well, it'll probably be awhile until they come around again - they need a break - maynard, adam, danny (he plays like he invented the drums), and justin: you guys should take a well-deserved vacation. question authority... fucking bryce jordon assholes - fucking leaving the lights on you should give me my money back for that shit!
Review written by: 3288 (yahoo) Review posted on: 11/02/02 13:34:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Can you say incredible? Despite the fact that the crowd was indeed not that energetic, it was still truely a moving and amazing experience. The only 2 things I didn't like was Meshuggah, not saying they don't have talent, and the feedback during intermission. I was so happy when they played 46-2. I don't wish to ruin it for everyone yet so see Tool but i will say that there is 1 word that describes the banners, etc- WOW. Another great thing that happened was Justin through the playlist after the show and I managed to catch it. The following list is how it looks on the paper Sober The Grudge Stinkfist (Ext.) 46&2 Schism Parabol Parabola Aenema ----Intermission---- Disposition Reflection Triad w/ Drummer from Meshuggah Lateralus Tool thank you for such an emotional experience. You are truely my favorite band of all time and always will be. Learn To Swim....................
Review written by: me (shutthefuckup) Review posted on: 11/02/02 14:36:36 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
HA HA YOU GUYS DIDN'T GET TO SEE COLD AND UGLY AND THIRD EYE HA HA.
Review written by: bloodrodgers (primakl@susqu.edu) Review posted on: 11/02/02 14:52:33 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Stunning visuals and great performance, but the audience was the worst ever, they were so...lame. Only a few people really got into it, and I thought that was the worst audience in a concert that i have ever, ever seen. Tool were phenomenal, though, and I am sure that they will never come back to State College. Triad was fucking amazing!
Review written by: Greg (gavin_y2k@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 15:05:13 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Alright, I'm not going to dance around this subject or anything, but in response to the whole "there were no moshpits and no one was kicking everyone else's asses" etc, comments, this was my first Tool show, and to be honest if someone started to push me around in a mosh pit, I'd be sure to turn around and knock them out cold so I could get back to watching and listening. I mean, I'm sure my long hair might have brushed up against a few people seeing as my head never missed a beat the entire time I was headbanging, and my neck hurts like a bitch today, but there's a difference. I could still at least absorb everything, have my mind completely blown, and experience everything I wanted to experience out of a Tool concert. Christ, some guys were trying to start a mosh pit during Disposition/Triad... WTF... as I stood there, the FIRST time motionless the entire night, staring up into the blue lights, glitter falling over the audience, and a psychadellic backdrop sucking me into the pattern of 1000 eyes, I could relax, enjoy myself, and let my body/mind go completely numb... and to be honest, although Maynard made the comment about everyone being awake, I looked around and saw the "motionless" people.... their eyes were FIXED on the stage, their mouthes were singing every lyric, and they were either tapping their feet or bobbing their heads or whatnot. Is there some kind of PROBLEM with that? Is that BAD that I had floor, yet all I did was jump up and down and bang my head instead of beating the shit out of someone and stealing their wallet? I think people should start getting more out of the tool "experience." it's as if no one is thinking about it anymore. even after a speech like the one he gave last night... about finding inner trust in yourself and questioning authority in these troubling political and social times... a good amount of tool fans still view them as a hardcore band who want you to go "get down with the sickness." seriously... THINK about what he's trying to tell you... Maynard might as well run for the fucking Green party and clean this stupid country up... but if you're looking for a band that you can let loose and beat the shit out of people who pay $40+ to EXPERIENCE tool... you're shit out of luck because Drowning Pool is no more... and that's the kind of concert you should be attending. Don't get me wrong. There are some songs that are mosh worthy, but being born and raised in PSU, I guarantee you that 90% of the people who were there last night were seeing their first Tool show. (I being one of them) And just as if I were going to see a Pink Floyd concert (which disposition/triad TOTALLY reminded me of, i.e. my comfortably numb experience) I would much rather have the experience without someone else trying their hardest to distract me. I'd like to thank all the people around me who would just randomly make eye contact and tell me that they were having the time of their lives... I was too. It's going to take a hell of a lot to beat that kind of performance. Tool, you are one of a kind. Absolutely spellbinding.
Review written by: a c (xcomplicationx@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 15:18:27 ET
what a show. if anyone took pictures id really like to see them. the banners on this tour seem to make the video screens from the past tour pale in comparison. the crowd in the seats, mostly, fuck them. stand up, cheer, do something. the floor was great. who the hell is going to mosh to disposition anyway? for the hard songs the crowd was energetic, on the floor where i was at least. keep in mind also that the bjc doesnt sell only to psu students. its the closest big arena outside of pittsburgh, so alot of western pennsylvanians were there. anyway, triad was absolutely amazing with the guys from meshuggah helping out. and the animation of the stretching face was one of the creepiest things ive ever seen.
Review written by: Eric and Laura (sasafrasgrass@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 15:31:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
First off, we want to say that the show was excellent. Meshuggah gave a very good performance. We are not really into the extremely heavy stuff, but they performed it well and it was worth seeing. Tool rocked liked they always have and this show was better than the one last year in Pittsburgh. It made it well worth the drive to hear the awesome set list. Also we like like to say shut up to all the people out there that bitch and moan because people were sitting down. We sat the whole time, that's the point of buying a seat. If we wanted to stand all night we would have got floor tickets. Since when does anyone have to stand, dance and jump around to show appreciation for band. We have always loved thier music, we attend shows when we can, we buy all the cd's and a shit load of other Tool products. Look, the point of going to a concert is to witness a band that you like. How you spend your time when you're there is your decision and yours alone. We are totally proud of the section we were in for not being ignorant assholes, sitting and being all around great supporters. Grow up people, just because you act like fools at a show does not mean everyone around you has to follow. Thank you Tool and Meshuggah for a wonderful evening of good music and great performances! We'lll see you next time you come around if we can.
Review written by: Neo Dogma (neodogma@swirve.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 17:47:45 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Meshuggah was good at what they do, but the crowd couldn't wait for tool. if knew some of their songs i would have enjoyed them more. this was my first tool show ever and i was greatly impressed, they sound as good as, if not better than, on the cd's (clarity and quality). the songs they chose fell extremely well together,i was kinda hoping they would change the previous shows up a bit and play pushit, and no quarter this show was an emotion filled show beyond all other shows. i was one of those "yuppies sitting in the crowd". but that was because that was how i felt. shows have an aura about them, korn, system of a down, slipknot etc... i was in the pit jumpin bangin' moshing' stage diving etc. but this tool show was more of an eye opening mind blowing experiance, not just an energy release. in the words of leary "think for yourself" it was full of energy but i enjoyed myself sitting in my seat taking it all in the backdrops, screens, and just plain band placement. maynard has method to his shows. he made comments about being awake and stuff yeah but they do what they do to give you an eye opening experiance, a brilliant show. some people take it all in by sitting and enjoying, some take it in by beating the hell out of each other. either way the choice is there's to choose how they want to do it. who made you all the authority on concert going'? personally, the section i was in, we were all singing and bangin' our heads and we never skipped a beat or lyric. "question authority, think for yourself" if tool ever comes around again, i won't hesitate to buy tickets! they are my favorite band of all time, and this tight experiance just pushes the others that much further down on my list. "pry....ing..... o...pen.... my..... third.... eye!"
Review written by: Money (faygoholic13@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 18:06:59 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
The setlist has been posted up already and by now, you all know how bad of a crowd Penn State was for these great musicians and artists. The Penn State just plain sucked. I mean why even pry yourself off your beer stained floors to go to a concert and just be dead on your a$$. This was my 3rd tool concert and by far the worse crowd ever. Penn State won't get crazy for Tool but they'll go crazy for bands crappy bands that are just clones of each other. I don't blame Maynard for singing with his back to the crowd, asking them to stand up for the last song, and just leaving at the end. Enough about how snobby, and nonrespectfuly the crowd was, the bands played awesome. Meshuggah played really well. I never even heard about them until I saw them in Erie with Tool a couple weeks ago. The more I hear them the more I like them. Lastly, Tool was just as amazing as ever. No words can describe the feeling one has while experiencing a Tool concert. Danny just pounds away at his drums with such speed and force and Adam and Justin are just amazing. Maynard is Maynard with all his sumbolism. The Alex Grey backgrounds are awesome. Lastly, there's the videos. They keep getting better each time I see them. I especially like the videos incorporating sacred geometry such as the Flower of LIfe, the Tree of Life, and the Metatron's Cube. Tool is by far one of the greatest bands out there with their continueing evolution of their sound and art. The surpass most bands out there who just all sound the same. Tool's sound costantly changes along with intellectualy lyrics and messages which most of us would never have learned about if it was for Tool. Thank you Justin, Danny, Adam, and Maynard for once again sharing your music and art with all of us and good luck with the rest of the tour. Thank you to Meshuggah for rocking it out and mad props for the Punisher shirt.
Review written by: shyna (bpbrab@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 19:20:41 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
i wrote a review above wiht the setlist and completely forgot a biggy - aenima - this was played after schizm i think sorry!
Review written by: shyna (bpbrab@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 19:34:46 ET
This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show
i wrote a review above wiht the setlist and completely forgot a biggy - aenima - this was played after schizm i think and triad with the messhuga drummer in it - this was played after disposition i think - my memory's not too good - blame it on mother nature... sorry!
Review written by: Wes (wesley-l5644@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 22:16:05 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
I first want to thank Tool for another amazing experience. This was my 4th time to experience Tool's creativity. They sounded very tight and showed great energy. For those who criticized people for sitting during the show, you should ask yourself which band did you come to see? Tool is a complete experience. They assult your senses with their music and visual effects. Tool is a complete band and people need to realize just because someone may not be moshing or standing the whole show. that doesn't mean they aren't into the experience. I do not go see Tool to mosh or to be hit by some chowder head who thinks you have to mosh to Tool, People Wake Up!!! If you want to mosh, mosh to Meshuggah. Which by the way, I thought was excellent, very talented, and I didn't stand for them either!!! Though I have been listening to them since 1994, how many of you so called fans can say that??? I bet not many. Tool is awesome live, and the 3 shows on this tour I have seen. Maynard has always turned his back to the crowd and sang in that mannar at different points in the show. He doesn't just do it because people are sitting down. I think he understands he is not the most important piece in the band, why do you think he has a stage back beside Danny? It's more than just Maynard. I didn't see anyone saying anything bad about the crowd when Justin, or Adam turned their backs to the crowd while playing. That makes me believe most do not understand what Tool is about. I say this not to take up for Penn State fans, hell I don't even live in Pennsylvania, I say it to make you people open your eyes to what Tool is, AN EXPERIENCE!!! So people need to go out and enjoy what Tool really is and not listen to those who say you need to jump all around, mosh, and screem. Tool is a great experience and I Thank them for sharing.
Review written by: YorkToolFan (lordstanley88810@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 22:23:10 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
This will be short and sweet. I am not going to say what has already been said. Its just other peoples opinions anyway. Tool thank you for sharing your incredilbe talents with me again. Triad was a piece of music that will forever be imbedded into my brain. Thank you again.
Review written by: Bolly (allindians_nochiefs@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/02/02 23:43:34 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
if you want the setlist, check some other reviews, i don't remember what order the songs were in. I was too much into the show to remember what songs were played when. the visuals were spectacular, especially the giant screen behind the band. i liked how maynard stayed towards the back of the stage and didn't face the audience for much of the show. I gave me the impression that the entire band was important, not just the front man. maynard's leather outfit was cool, the bra and hot pants were even better. the little joke about support was very amusing. i did not care for meshuggah that much only because i was not in the mood for that kind of music at the time. i was impressed with the singer's ability to scream and growl the entire set and still have a normal speaking voice afterward. all of you fellow concert goers who say that the crowd was not into the concert must not have been paying much attention to those around you. i sat in section 120 of the bryce jordan center, and all but 3 people were going insane for just about the entire concert. all of the songs were great. tool teased the crowd by playing the intro to third eye, but never played it. i was not too disappointed because this was my first tool show, and i will not complain about tool not playing the song. i have been a huge tool fan for about 2 years now, and i am greatful that i was able to experience the band live. thanx.
Review written by: andrew (andrew@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/03/02 03:58:25 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 what an amazing show once agin tonight from tool heres the correct selist HOOKER COLD&UGLY THE GRUDGE PARABOLA THIRD EYE EULOGY PUSHIT JIMMY H. STINKFIST FORTYSIX&2 INTERMIISION UNDERTOW 4DEGREES SOBER TICKS AND LEECHEES EON BLUE APOCYLYPSE THE PATIENT PART OF ME OPIATE
Review written by: Marc (mad320@psu.edu) Review posted on: 11/03/02 12:36:01 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
I'd like to start by apologizing for the crowd...not all Penn State students were as dead and bland as most of the crowd. MESHUGGAH: Rocked, as always. I was a little disappointed that 97% of the comments I heard about them were, "THEY SUCK ASS!" Meshuggah really is a lot better than most people give them credit for. -Sane -??? (something off of 'Contradictions Collapse,' maybe?) -Nebulous -Closed Eye Visuals -NEW! MILLENIUM! CYANIDE! CHRIST! -Soulburn -Rational Gaze -Future Breed Machine TOOL: Nothing that hasn't already been said. Awesome. I got a kick out of when Maynard got a little ticked off and said, "We're going to be doing this tomorrow, and the night after that, and for the next two years night after night, so will you please *stand up* for this last song?" Also, gave thanks to Thomas & Fredrik of Meshuggah with, "Thanks to Meshuggah. Meshuggah: Inventors of the first......Swedish....Intercontinental Penis Pump." Thanks to TOOL for being so damn good, and thanks to the jerkoffs around me for embodying the true spirit of rock and roll: why stand up for one of your favorite bands, when you can sit down and not clap, sing, or cheer? You seated individuals are the REAL rock stars, especially when you rag on people who are getting into the experience.
Review written by: dabel (vertigod0000@aol.com) Review posted on: 11/03/02 14:56:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 18th Tool show
we drove all day to get there form westchester, ny. we got there early in hopes to meet the band. it was cold and the 'band' was no where in sight. we pee'd on the building then walked inside. we walked around the venue during messugah because we decided that they have little or no spectrum and the yelling was unidentifiable. over all a bore....so we walked around the venue looking for some help in getting back stage. We (my girlfriend and I) have seen TOOL 12 times since August 12th, 2002 and we thought that after all the eyr contact , after all the spirituality shared that it would be fitting and right to meet the band up close and give them the gifts we made for them. but no, the bands main security guard (some ex-highschool football alcoholic) said that there was no way he could help us out. the radio station whore pretended that she didn't know what we were talking about but we saw her later handing out passes to slut-whores... that was so depressing. After the show we waited outside the gate to "borrow" someones pass, but some guy that works there said that even he wasn't aloud to get near the band and that only slut- girls were aloud in!!!!! WHAT A CROCK OF SHIT!!! some dude came to the fense and talked to us about the band but couldn't take our gifts to them saying that the band doesn't take anything out of legal matters. Anyhow, our seats were great, they were on the other side of the stage this time, facing Maynard, other than the previous three October shows facing Danny :) ANyhow, Maynard sang the special Stinkfist bridge "...Because I love you too much baby.... White Lines" to me. He stared at us the whole time. They played sober for my girl who gave up drugs. Maynard wore the bra to thank us for the "support...get it? support?" hahaha. HE sang Parabol, my favorite with his back bone facing me, I saw eyes in it. AEnima as a farewell, I got it. Danny tried to throw his drum head to us, it was heading directly to us, but fell short, oh well, we just wanted to share a personal moment afterwards and we tried to sneak in , we tried our best , everything , to get in and finally introduce ourselves but the bands security was so cheap and uncaring. they are not The Rolling Stones, for christs sake, they are TOOL, there were like maybe 8 fans trying to see the band afterwards, not 800. we are so connected to them, the band and they would not except us backstage that night, they wanted cheap whores and lame contest winners instead..... the snow fell lightly as we alked outside, the first snow fall of the year. something told me that this ws the last time I was ever going to see the band perform.. I kinda have lost all interest in my life after what happened, I am just sitting on my bed now typing this nonsense to no one. it's over
Review written by: Maria (my_siren@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/03/02 15:26:22 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
Finally popped my TOOL cherry and there is only one word for describing the experience...orgasmic. The band was phenomenal and Maynard was one sexy beast in that black bra and miniskirt. TOOL doesn't just put on a show, they know how to move their audience with a spell-binding experience. I've been to many concerts and I must say that besides Tori Amos (goddess), TOOL and frontman Maynard know how to unify and rock their audience's asses. Yes, the crowd was somewhat weak in energy, but everyone is different in how they experience a concert. Some mosh, some sway, some just sit back and take it all in without disturbing others (hint hint to the moshers), and some just sit/stand and bob their head and mouth the lyrics. For those who think they are an authority on how to conduct themselves at a concert and think that in order to be a TOOL fan you have to mosh and act like an idiot...screw you. It's all about appreciating the band, no matter how you do it. Yes, there were some completely lame people there, but for the most part, true TOOL fans were in attendance. Think for yourself, question authority. Short skirts, fabulous racks, vinyl boots, and fishnet thigh- highs forever.
Review written by: John (jpm293@psu.edu) Review posted on: 11/03/02 16:24:44 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
The concert was pretty good, much much better than Trenton this summer but not as good as DC last year. Sound was real good, which surprised me; the BJC's sound usually suuuuuuuuucks bad. There was enough guitar this time...in Trenton it was all bass and drums, you could barely hear Adam or Maynard at all. So I was real pleased with that. Yeah, people have done the crowd thing to death, and honestly I was pretty surprised. Having floor seats I thought I was gonna get mashed by the mad rush of people when Tool came on, but everyone just kinda stood there. A couple pits broke out right by me, but it was nothing, really. So I guess for those of you that abhor moshing or any other form of debauchery that goes on at your generic rock concert, University Park would be the place to go. So have fun with that. Setlist was EXACTLY the same as when I saw 'em in Trenton, minus the Patient, but that's just the luck of the draw, I guess. I would have loved to see Third Eye and Cold and Ugly, but oh well. That's about it. Danny is a machine, and Maynard is a madman. END OF REVIEW
Review written by: danny carey is god of drumming, bow down (rabdrum6@msn.com) Review posted on: 11/03/02 16:47:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
this is more a thank you to tool than a review. first thanks for the best concert i have sean, and i think i will see in my life. to a drummer, thanks for playing 46 and 2, triad, the grudge, well and every other song cuz danny is god. maynard, thanks for going nuts the whole time, i heard from some friends that you dont always like to stay on stage, i especially apreeciate it due to the lack of enthusiasm of the crowd. personally, was up sitting (trying to mimic danny's every move on the rail), and if it were not for the security guards i probably would have came down to the pit and recieved an ass beating due to my small stature. you guys have to be the tightest band ever, my friends and i were blown away, which my one friend said,"i have sean so many great bands and concerts, but nothing can come close to this, not even the WHO." i am not going to say anything about hte crowd like every other person whohas submitted a review, because i have never bean at a tool concert before, with a band like tool, they are to be taken in many ways, so i can understand how most of the people did not look too enthused. to me, tool is the greatest band ever, and i will do anything to see them again. to justin, you were amazing, your stage presence is so huge. too adam, i could not see you much, but i cannot begin explaining how great you sounded. you guys have the coolest stage set-up, it remnds me alot of pink floyd's with their flying pig. finally, the concert was so emotional for me, i have bean a fan forever and have bean waiting for the show for what seamed an eternity, and if i havent siad it already thank you tool.
Review written by: Sitting not disrespectful (jds170@pitt.edu) Review posted on: 11/03/02 17:20:42 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Standing does not equal energy. I understand that the band may feed off the energy from the crowd, but I don't see how anyone can truly appreciate the show when they're moshing around like a bunch of dimwitted knuckledraggers. Tool is not moshing music (well, maybe Undertow, but anything after that is much too intellectual to be appreciated by those who's idea of a good time is to pummel everyone around them). I've seen Tool 1 time before tonight, on the floor, and I have to say that I enjoyed sitting in the seats more. I was able to enjoy and fully appreciate the imagery that the band has put so much effort into creating. I wasn't able to do that before, and I don't think that I'll get floor seats again. I don't have a problem with people dancing/moving to the beat (moshing is still stupid) but don't assume that I enjoy Tool's music less because I like to sit and experience.
Review written by: Gerard (opiumden13@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/03/02 19:29:59 ET
This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show
Of course they play third eye every show before the erie and psu show. I was just hoping to get to hear it for once. But i guess I was asking for too much there.
Review written by: Chase (clw205@psu.edu) Review posted on: 11/04/02 02:38:58 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
After about 8 years of waiting to see Tool I finally got the chance. I counted down the days until the concert for a month and talked about it almost every day. Our seats were in the very front row in the very center, they couldnt have been better. I guess I would be consitered lame by most of the concert goers because I sat the entire show and didnt stand or scream. My eyes didnt move from the set or the screens the entire show. I was in disbelief...I never dreamed that they would be as amazing and as eye opening as they were. I cant imagine people jumping around and moshing for this show, they would have missed so much, the visuals were amazing. Ive never seen tool's music as music to jump around and scream to, whever I listen to them I think, they open my mind and make me realize things about the world and myself that I don't think about on a regular basis. Most other shows ive been to I'm all about moshing and screaming, but to me that would defeat the purpose of it...it was an experience, not a concert for me, and for everyone that consitered people like me lame or snobby for not standing should worry about why they really came to the concert in the first place or even what they get from tool's music. I sincerely apologize to the band if they believe that people like me wernt interested...in fact i was amazed, I realize that there is a lot of people out there that don't understand or appreciate tool's music, but I believe there are more intelligent ways of showing appreciation than jumping into each other or standing. Ive heard people say that the band really isnt interested in meeting the people that come to their shows, and personally im not that interested in meeting the band, I'm interested in listening to their music and experiencing the concert, and if people are disappointed about this show because of the lack of enthusiasm from the crowd...i think you should keep your eyes and ears on the stage and the music rather than the people around you. Their music has been described as the thinking mans metal....it's called that for a reason...
Review written by: Christina (onemind@hope.com) Review posted on: 11/04/02 07:37:37 ET
This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show
First off, THANK YOU Maynard, Danny, Justin and Adam, your fans greatly appreciate you touring for so long! Incredible show, NEVER expected to hear 46&2 (that was heavenly). Now, however, I just want to defend the crowd-had we stood up and tried to move to the glorious sound of Tool, we would have fallen off the side of a cliff. The seats in the Bryce Jordan Center seemed extremely steep. Also, everybody has their own way of enjoying the beauty that happens when Tool takes the stage, whether it be moshing, moving, dancing-whatever you please. Thank you again, Tool, for being so good to your fans.
Review written by: el (answerace@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 11/04/02 11:34:32 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
This was my third tool show. Not the best but def almost tie because i was on the floor. Better setlist seen in philly but I WAS ON THE FLOOR and 3 rows back right infront of maynard! This was incredible i could see his lips movin and adam jones was soo calm through out the show. Justin let his hair grow really long since the last time i've seen him upclose. I CAUGHT A WATER BOTTLE OFF MAYNARD'S THROW! wish i coulda cought a drum stick or something else. Crowd in the stands sucked ass he actually had to actually ask them to stand. The crowd on the floor was good minus the girls b_tchin about being pushed around. If you don't like it GET OUT. I only wish i could go to the LA show ending the tour. Tool is always on top
Review written by: eric (thrsysdsntwrk4u@bored.com) Review posted on: 11/04/02 15:45:53 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
good show. being a virgin to the music of meshuggah, theyre super tight live for a band that does really out of time grooves. but every song WAS rhythmically odd, and it got kind of boring. but they were a good band live tool was amazing. the visuals kinda creeped me out, like during sober they had an eye on the screen that was being probed and having eyedrops put in it. that was kinda gross, but theyre the best band ive seen live. better than bela fleck :P and i think the crowd was respectful. how dare you mosh to tool! i went there cuz im a huge fan of their music! i dont sit on the computer and memorize lryics and figure out what maynard wipes his ass with like some losers. it was full of white trash slayer fans who claim tool is a heavy metal band and just went to bash in heads. i went to watch and listen, because theyre an amazing band, not an amazing metal band. but anyway, theyre so fun to watch. especially danny carey. he amazed me. hes such a good drummer. he's not the most talented as compared to mike portnoy or neil peart, the other prog drummers, but he's definately the most creative, and by far my favorite. anyway, it was a great show, and id love to see them live again.
Review written by: D (jfxk@iup.edu) Review posted on: 11/04/02 16:42:20 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
the show kicked ass! to be honest, i think the audience was just being respectful. you can mosh to any idiot band that comes along, but when you go to a tool show, you have to take in the sights and sounds.... it's really like no other show out there. if there were a thousand screaming @$$holes in the pit ruining the overall experience, i would be extremely disappointed. using words like "boring" and "spoiled" is unfair..... some people are just interested in the music, not how much carnage they can make. as for the jerk in meshuggah who made the stupid "silent" crack, he can cram it . nobody liked them anyway. i agree with all the positive statements everybody else made so far. the band sounds incredible, and they went the extra mile as far as visuals go. it was my first tool show and i'm already counting the weeks until their next tour. just awe- inspiring.
Review written by: D (jfxk@iup.edu) Review posted on: 11/04/02 16:50:55 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
Oh, and to everybody who unleashed a barrage of complaints about the audience's response not being energetic enough..... how everybody else acts shouldn't be a priority. you can still enjoy the music, right? isn't that what you're there for? i can't see how that's a legitimate complaint. especially since YOU were part of the audience.
Review written by: Austin (system_droid_downfall@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/04/02 18:43:26 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
WOW! That's all I got to say Tool put on the best performance i've ever seen. This was my first Tool concert and hopefully not my last one. I can't wait til the next time i come across them. The Show was just awesome! I was standing, singing, screaming and head banging along with all of their songs. Alot of other people in my section we're too I don't know what some you guys are talking about i saw alot of people standing up and doing the same, but this was my first one so if you are right i hope the next one I go to is even crazier!
Review written by: The Patient (isaac.edwards@att.net) Review posted on: 11/05/02 00:10:53 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
It is such a pleasure to see all the Tool family, and even some Tool Army members posting about what was yet another beautiful experience. Meshuggah was loud and rather obnoxious at some points, but I really don't think there were too many people there to see them. Unfortunately I was confined to a seat this tour, but I was able to enjoy the show with a spectacular view of the stage. I know that others have spoken to the seemingly lackluster attitude of the Bryce Jordan crowd, but it has seemed to me that a lot of PA shows are like that. The only way I combatted the apathy was to close my eyes and allow the sweet cacophany of sound that was 46&2 (which is my favorite song) carry me up and over the dead audience. What matters most in this post is that all have confirmed that Maynard and company made this like all other shows, a life-changing experience well worth driving 2.5 hours and standing for 3.5 hours in the freezing cold. I have rejected most other bands in favor of listening to Tool for the rest of my life. I envy those of you who got to see them for the first time...congratulations and welcome to the brood.
Review written by: KOATIS (koatis@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/05/02 18:55:24 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.
Review written by: Brandon (bbaumgardner@rowman.com) Review posted on: 11/05/02 20:33:19 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd? Tool show
I would just like to thank the band for another unworldly experience. So many great thing have already been posted I'll leave it at that, but I would like to appologize for the "fans?" from PSU who attended the concert and displayed a complete lack of feeling and respect for the band (there were exceptions of course, you know who you are.) Apparently the students from PSU only get up when Dave Mathews comes to town or Ambercrombie and Fitch has a 20% off sale. Narrow minded snobs, if you want to go to a concert and sit there still and silent I think Barbara Steisand is touring next year, mark your calenders.
Review written by: KOATIS (koatis@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 11/05/02 21:17:35 ET
This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show
Great show. What else would one expect? I wish they would have done H., but it was still a great setlist. I took my brother and my cousin along, and I think their jaws are still hanging. A great "experience" for all in attendance. Maynard's vocals seemed a bit too far in the background, but it could have just been the acoustics (or lack thereof). I encourage all of you to take someone who has never "experienced" to your next show. You may just end up creating a new fanatic. I think I created two at this show. Listen...Feel...Experience...Become
Review written by: Kevin (kba112@psu.edu) Review posted on: 11/05/02 22:37:16 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show
This was, without a doubt, the best show I have ever seen. However, I must say that I was not impressed with Meshuggah. If I want to hear a lack of musical talent and growling, I'll smack myself in the head with a blunt object. Secondly, as for those of you who are complaining about the crowd not being "into the show" and not "moshing", do you even KNOW what the Tool experience is all about?? Tool isn't about going and moshing and being violent; Tool is about taking in the atmosphere and appreciating the musicality around you. Not about beating the living s**t out of each other. If you want to mosh and release, go see someone else, but stay the hell away from Tool. Personal highlights for me was Maynard's joke about the "support" and Triad (amazing song). I would have really liked to see Ticks & Leeches, but Triad will DEFINITELY do as a substitute! I was completely speechless about the concert as a whole, it was inexplicable. Thank you to Tool for everything they have given to their loyal followers throughout the years. I will be seeing them again without a doubt. MENTION THIS TO ME, AND WATCH THE WEATHER CHANGE... P.S. As a fellow drummer, I must say that Danny Carey is a GOD to me...
Review written by: Bill (wnichols@aerotek.com) Review posted on: 11/06/02 12:16:54 ET
This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show
This was my third tool show and as always, absolutely amazing. It is almost impossible to put into words how amazing it is to see Maynard and the boys live. I have said it before and will say it here, if they're within 4 hours of Cleveland, I'll be at the show. Like most of the other reviews, I was highly disappointed by the Penn State crowd. But you can't get mad, they obviously just don't get it....all that means is more tickets for the rest of Tools fans. This body is holding me, but with all of you...I am not alone. PEACE.
Review written by: DuDeinPA (dudeinpa@arcticnetwork.net) Review posted on: 11/06/02 13:03:04 ET
This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show
This was an incredible show! Tool rocks! Great job guys, I've never seen anyone put on a show like this before!