concert reviews firsthand, immediate, from the heart
08/16/2002



Review written by: PaulC (PaulC880@attbi.com)
Review posted on: 08/16/02 23:49:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Good show. Triad w/Tomahawk definitely saved the show. Show was very similar to last years set, but still a good show none the less.

Review written by: Joey (joeyk@bu.edu) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:14:32 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Setlist: Sober The Grudge Stinkfist 46 & 2 Schism Parabol Parabola The Patient Aenima Reflection Disposition Triad Lateralus Something like that anyway... This was my first Tool concert and I literally came in my pants. I have been to many concerts, and none have ever come close to this. Every song was the best song I've ever heard, and the visuals were spectacular. I would pay anything to see them again. I have been playing drums for almost 10 years, and to see my idol up on stage kicking ass just made my whole fucking year. I hope that everyone else who was there felt half as priveleged as I was to watch these guys perform the most intricate, musical, intense set I've ever imagined. I must sound like a fucking moron, but that's about how I feel after seeing what these guys are capable of. There is no need for any more bands, because the apex has been reached. Tool is king.

Review written by: Adam... (twiztddreams@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:28:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Setlist: Sober The Grudge (-) ions Stinkfist Fortysix&2 Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Schism Parabol Parabola Ænema ----------------- Intermission ----------------- Disposition(w/ Maynard on guitar) Reflection(w/ Maynard on guitar) Triad(w/ Maynard on bass and Tomahawk) Lateralus Tomahawk was... Blah. The first song they played had a little potential and I was heading toward not believing the “They suck” stereotype that they have had. But then, they continued. And wow.. Did they ever blow ass... The chorus to one song was... "rabble babble rabble babble" or something close to that... Then some techno music went on as the lights same about. The lights then went out and a ring of the Lateralus eyes appeared on the screens. Then Sober started. I would give details but I’m still shaking. During (-) Ions Maynard chatted with the crowed for the while. He said... “Hello.” :loud cheer: “How is everyone tonight?” :cheer: “How’s everyone from medford((my home city...))? How about Sausgus?” :names a few more cities followed by cheers: “Well, thanks for coming and I hope you enjoy...”. Now follow the setlist etc.. Then after Parabola, the crowd feel silent and everything dimmed to black. there was a pause for about a minute and then roaring cheers followed a raspy chorus of “Hey, hey, hey, hey...”. The intermission was a simple bass line with some weird samples played over it with some pretty cool images on the screens. After Reflection ended, Maynard had a little speech while Tomahawk left the stage. “Let’s hear it for Tomahawk. :crowd cheers: Let’s give a special thanks to Troy. We all know his father invented tacky glue and Velcro. And wait! He was also employee of the month at the LA Wal-mart... Maynard then walked over to danny’s drum pedestal and spoke “Sometimes people need some place to go where they can be free of all worries and daily chores. I hope this has been that place for all of you. I hope that you leave this place inspired, awakened.... Or just really horny. :chuckles lightly: So, I want you all to go from here, write some poetry, and have sex.... Thanks for.... Cumming(/coming).. heh’..” then Adam soloed for a little while then there was a small brush of silence before the opening notes to “Lateralus” I’m terribly sorry... So much else happened but Im still in shock. You need to see this band live at least once in your life...

Review written by: Amber (Toolbox13@attbi.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:38:09 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Sober The Grudge (-) ions Stinkfist (extra verse/words) Forty-Six & 2 Some instrumental interlude that sounded similar to Eon Blue Apocalypse Schism Parabol(a) Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Aenema Disposition Reflection Triad (with bonus drum stuff) Lateralus Of the three shows I've seen in the past year (which are all the Tool shows I've ever seen), this one is definitely the best. We missed the opening band (not to mention meeting up with anyone) because we missed our train and all sorts of shit because of that damn Moxie, and we got to our seats about 10 min before Tool went on. Anyway, the show was pretty much like any other---there were two screens with mirror-image projections of various weird effects and videos, Maynard was nearly nekkid and well-hidden in the back of the stage, Adam didn't move much and Danny was on fi-yah. Maynard wasn't super talkative, but he did do a little speech about compassion during the Eon Blue-ish interlude, and, in addition to the usual "do something with this" deal, thanked Mike, John, and Tre(y?) for their help during Triad and wished Rick a happy birthday. Aenema was incredible and the brief break following was a nice breather from the hard rockin' going on. Between Disposition and Reflection they had a bit of a change of scenery where a gigantic 7-pointed star was lowered from atop the stage and what my boyfriend called the "sacred mirrors" were brought down around it (I'm not familiar with that stuff, he said it was an Alex Grey thing). The visuals were better than I remember and the crowd was 10x better than the Tweeter Center last September. All in all a wonderful show and my only regret was missing out on meeting up with my peeps. Hope you guys liked it too :-). -Amber

Review written by: Chazz (Chazz897@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:41:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

HOLY SHIT.....Is all I can say. They yet again astounded me with their creative works of sound.....The show was outstanding....The only way to describe it (A Religius Experiance)...I'm still speechless. Bottom line, TOOL is the greatest band in existance!

Review written by: Time To Bring It Down Again (hausj@bu.edu) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:49:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Ok, well this was certainly my favorite TOOL show to date. Rev. Maynard was particularly lively tonight. The rest of the band was clearly feeding off his lead. The boys were extremely tight. As for the the Alex Gray artwork, it was fucking amazing. So visually pleasing. It is quite amazing to observe just how much this band continues to progress and evolve. TOOL has again confirmed thst this is by leeps and bounds the best thing out there. Hands down! Til next time, find that comfortable and vulnerable place and see you on the other side!

Review written by: johnson (johnson@johnson.net) Review posted on: 08/17/02 00:54:04 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

My god...

Review written by: NQ (none@none.none) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:03:37 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Setlists above are correct. Amazing show. Crowd was fucking awesome. Everyone in my area was cool as hell. No drunkards who only knew Sober and Schism. I almost cried during Sober. Don't ask me why. I really don't know why. But it ruled ass, let's put it that way. Couldn't hear much of Maynard's verbiage. Gave a few speches as explained above. Damn, that is one TINY speedo. Let me just say, that despite being in the last row of the balcony (AKA, the Super Nosebleeds), I was thrilled. I could see everything except the backdrop of course. But I was plenty satisfied. Plus I had me some trusty binoculars. Highlight....hmmm......really tough one. I guess it's a tie between Aenema, Triad, and Sober. I can say however that although good, the Patient wasn't as good as I had expected. But I did expect it to be superfolously orgasmic, so that's a tough standard. Okay, now for what I know you'be all been waiting for....what I thought of Tomahawk. Well, I wont bash them, or say they suck, because if I didn't know every Tool song in existence I might not have thought they were so great when played. However I wont be purchasing any Tomahawk records to see if they are any good pre-recorded. Mike Patton said some Boston cliches, like CHOWDAAAH, and "Boston, HOW ARE YAAAH?!". I will say this, at least they have a fresh sound, and are original, not a cookie cutter band like most out there today. I just didn't like them that much. But they kept it short. And got a surprisingly warm response from the crowd (like I said, awesome crowd). Mike seemed pleased. So to recap; Crowd was cool (people on the floor looked like they were frozen, must've been the shock of Tool's utter kick-ass-ness). Aenema, Sober, Triad = highlights for moi. Patient, SEMI-disapointing. Tomahawk, wouldn't say they totally suck, but I definatley didn't enjoy them. And just a note, I don't know if anybody ever said it, but if anybody ever said that hot chicks don't listen to Tool, they are dead wrong. Damn, some nice sites tonight. "All you know about me's what I sold ya, dumb fuck."

Review written by: Mark C (mjcspamcatcher@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:04:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Wow, what a performance. The setlist has already been posted and seems pretty accurate as far as I can remember, so I won't be redundant. Well, what can one possibly say that would sum up tonight's experience? I honestly can't think of a way to put it all into words. The energy of the crowd was incredible, and it was at it's peak during Aenima. I'm getting ahead of myself though, let's start with Tomahawk. Beyond the ever popular, in depth opinion of "They sucked," can anyone honestly give an objective opinion as to why you think they're so terrible? I've yet to see anyone go into depth about their dislike for the band. I've always enjoyed Mr. Bungle (another project of Pattons) and I regret not looking into Tomahawk before seeing them live. Regardless of hearing their music beforehand, I still managed to enjoy their performance. It seems like they were received pretty well by Boston, and judging by previous reviews, I'd say that they had themselves one of the best audiences tonight. The crowd was cheering them after every song, and I noticed a minimal amount booing/jeering. Mike Patton is a really funny guy. He cracked me up when he said, "Hey, it looks like we have someone wearing a Celtics jersy in the house tonight. FUCK YOU buddy, yeah, fuck you! FUCK YOU!" The funny part was that even after he went out of his way to piss off the crowd, everyone still cheered the band afer they finished the next song. Boston loves you Mike! I was going to attempt to give a summary of the concert, but I really just can't. I feel that if I were to try and take all the thoughts and feelings gathered by the concert and convert them into words and sentences, I would lose far too much quality in the conversion. It's impossible for me to accurately reproduce tonight's experience in any way, so I just won't try. The sounds, the visuals, the atmosphere, it was truly an assault on all perceptual fronts. My suggestion to you is to stop reading this review and find a way to get your sorry ass some tickets. Oh, and to anyone who sat in section 306, thanks for being good neighbors!

Review written by: residual (residual@dangerous-minds.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:05:23 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Amazing, Once again the entire bands performance blew me away. First off I heard nothing but bad things about tomahawk. When hearing them, I started to understand why. I also heard they were boo'ed at many concerts. This was not true tonight. And then when they came on to play Triad oh wow that was amazing. Just overall a great show. I haven't seen tool since Paul D'Amour left back in 95 and I'd like to say that Justin Chancellor has taken his place nicely, him and Jones where on the same page all night long. Song List Sober The Grudge Stinkfist 46 & 2 Aenima Parabol Parabola The Patient Schism Reflection Disposition Triad Lateralus

Review written by: Mike (mike@uranus.net) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:06:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Christ. Where do I start. The 95% jackasses in the crowd, or the 4 guys on stage that made me forget about them all? Seriously...a lot of people were talking around my section instead of watching Tool, and I was dumbfounded. Anyways...fuck em. Sober The Grudge (-) ions Stinkfist 46&2 Schism Parabol Parabola Eon Blue Apocalypse The Patient Aenima (intermission) Disposition Reflection Triad (holy shit was it impressive) Lateralus EVERY SONG WAS PLAYED PERFECTLY. Like I said, there were a lot of jackasses in the crowd that obviously weren't there for the music. But ones who were there that appreciate Tool and understand what it takes to make music like that...well...it was an inspiring night us all. One last thing...no matter what people say...and I know some have posted messages about this...Tomahawk is amazing...so go to hell!!! Mike Patton was letting the crowd know not to talk shit about them too. Pretty crazy bastard. All in all...kick ass show and I can't wait for the next one!!!

Review written by: matthew (lateralaenima@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:07:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Well, after thinking it over and over during the ride home, the only comment I have to say about tonights experience is words could not do it justice, so I will not even try to describe what I expereinced. I have tickets to another show sunday night, to which I was considering bringing along some hallucinogens, after tonight I reconsidered. There is no way I would have walked out of there sane had I seen that tripping. During the entire show I was in awe of how powerful an experience humans can create for one another. As of late, I have had very little faith in the human race, danny, adam, justin, maynard, thank you for giving me something back that has been missing in my life. I believe for the first time, hearing the voices of fellow humans sing along to aenima wide eyed and hopeful, I trully understood the words. Again, thank you guys, it was a healing experience, it was a spiritual experience, it was a tool experience above all.

Review written by: Jon (Juanquapha@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:10:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

First off let me state this if you go to see tool expect something unexpected , from the frist note in sober to the last note in lateralus , the band was on time and in key. The energy put off by maynard and the rest of the band had the crowd moving in a sea of extacy , and enlightenment. Aside from a melodic buffet of Drop D riffs and lyrical utopia from the mouth of the man on the soapbox of the masses , the visual effects from the lighting crew , and the art on screen there was never a dull moment. Tomahawk - A band less wanted... I wish that the people that wanted to see tool and not tomahawk would have just waited untill tool hit the stage , to show up. Simply because the ones that did show and wanted to see them , got nothing but insult after insult in there ear about how much they suck. I say give credit where credit is due , and when all the people that make fun and insult can get on that stage and open for a band as loved as tool then I personaly would accept their critsisim. I would also like to point out , (this may or may not have been said/noticed) but the Light structure was in the shape of a septagram (7-Pointed Star like the one that was lowered during reflection.) very cool. To Sum up... if you have the money and the time go see them next time around. ~~Jon

Review written by: Chris (ibanez144@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:16:29 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Oh my god... what a show. Even though we were way way up in the balcony, 3 rows from the back wall, it still looked amazing. The artwork was beautiful, it fit the mood of the show perfectly. The band sounded unbelievably solid, and Maynard was really nailing all the high notes and long, drawn-out screams. Unfortunately, the wall of speakers blocked my view of Danny, and all I could see was the drums and a hand every once in a while. Oh, and instead of a third screen behind Maynard, there was one under him- the platfrom he was standing on showed the same stuff as the 2 main screens. Even though I wish they had played more older material (still praying to hear 4 degrees), the show was a religious experience... I can't wait to see them again in the fall.

Review written by: Jared (asdftool@htomail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:16:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Well to start off, Tomahawk sucked. At first, i didnt think they were that bad, but they got really boring really quick. I'd like to say they were good, but I dont know. The lead singer insulting the audience wasnt too swift. He tried to get us to say "chowda" then made fun of some guy wearing a celtics shirt. They finally left the stage and Tool came on around 8:45. I've been reading a lot of reviews of the concert with people saying how amazing they are. I knew they were good, but i had no idea they could be this good. All i can say is that I was moved. I can't even find the words to describe how good it was. The entire time they were playing I had the chills. They just sounded so perfect. The balance of everything was right. Maynard was loud enough and sounded awesome. I wish I could sing that good. The guitar, bass, and drums were absolutely in time with each other. I dont think I've ever been been happier over a two hour time span. Yes, they played for TWO HOURS straight. I know that takes a lot, especially with how much heart they put into it. The last part of the concert definately made it so great. I looked around during Disposition/Reflection and saw people basically falling asleep. The whoel time i'm just sitting there on the edge of my seat just feeling every single beat, every single riff, every single word that came out of Maynards mouth. The musical talent that these guys have is far superior to any band out there today. The only thing i didnt like was the actually seats on the floor. Not cool for this kidn of concert. The best part was comin home on the subway. It was just packed full of kids that had just been to the concert. All Tool fans. What more could you ask for. We all talked about the concert and shit. I guess the best way to sum it up is from one of their own songs: "I embrace my desire to feel the rhythm, to feel connected enough to step aside and weep like a widow to feel inspired, to fathom the power, to witness the beauty, to bathe in the fountain, to swing on the spiral of our divinity and still be a human." It was definately an amazing experience.

Review written by: Patrick (pats7314@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:20:27 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

INFUCKINCREDIBLE!! Tool's performance in Boston was truely amazing. It's hard to describe the feeling of what it is like to be at a Tool show, I dont know that words even exist. The above setlists are correct, and each song seemed to be better the last. The band sounded as tight as ever and the visuals were fantastic. There's almost too much to look at with the artwork, the videos, and of course the band. Maynard was constantly moving around his platform and he talked alot more than he did last time Tool played in Mass. last year. Justin really seemed to be more animated than usual especially during Triad, and Adam and Danny were flawless as always. The crowd was really loud, energetic and into every song from the moment the band hit the stage until the final notes of Lateralus. This was by far the best concert I have ever been to, and Tool is by far the best band on the planet. I wish I could go into more detail about the show but I still can't think clearly. Thank you Tool for this experience, can't wait for Manchester and New Haven.

Review written by: Aziz (azizaddy@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:24:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

tool was once again a religious expierience same as last year what a shocker. the set went: Sober The Grudge Stinkfist 46 & 2 Schism Parabol Parabola The Patient Aenima Reflection Disposition Triad Lateralus im still at a loss of words i only wish i could do what maynard said...

Review written by: nick(you know) (nastynickknocker@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:33:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

ok, so tool is the best...yeah yeah everyone knows...but why is the important thing. for starters, you can only know what i mean if you actually go to a concert. It makes you run through a whole gamut of emotions...being pissed at tomahawk for basing most of their songs on just yelling(maybe im missing something and just dont get their music)whatever...The anticipation of Tool alone almost made me piss myself, but once they come on stage and blow you away with some of the best music ever thought up, you go through more than 2 hours of screaming yourself hoarse and clapping your hands raw Its an emotional experience that ANY tool fan must see. I think the most amazing parts of the night for me would be: 1.The amazing emotional energy not only in the band but in the crowd (which i am happy to say wasnt completely wasted on a mosh) 2.The crowd's reaction when they recognized what song was being played(best example HAS to be after Parabola there was a pause and suddenly "hey hey hey" everyone exploded) 3.The extended version of Triad with the drummer from Tomahawk put so much energy into the crowd after seemingly being lulled asleep by disposition and reflection.(again maybe that was just my perception)and dont get me wrong i love those songs to death! 4.The artwork, lighting, everything was awesome!You have to see it to belive me 5.The rush of people after the concert who would yell things like "'yeah Tool" and so on...if anyone remembers,my friend was the one who yelled "you fucked my sister" and the train ride back on the green line with at least 50people cramped into one car.If anyone was there they know exactly what im talking about, the driver was just a little too sadistic he kept like "checking the breaks" trying to see how many passengers he could knock over all in all great night , now im gonna use this energy for sex.

Review written by: Graham (HomerJay105@juno.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:34:25 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Setlist: Sober The Grudge Stinkfist Useful Idiot/46 & two Schism (Maynard's wardrobe change) Parabol/Parabola AEnema Eon Blue Apocalypse/The Patient a brief intermission with awesome video clips Disposition Reflection Triad Lateralus The show was amazing. Tomahawk wasn't terrible but when you're waiting for Tool to come on anything else can suck. The four musicians busted out into sober before the crowd knew what hit them. As clouds of marijuana smoke billowed past (giving a cool smokey effect to the lighting), amazing video clips raged on overhead. In the background was emerged a huge banner displaying a large head with three faces. The show proceded to be a spectacular show. Maynard was much more involved then the 2001 tour... Let's just say we see much more of him than his silouette. During Parabol/Parabola, we see the entire stunning video, while two beehive type orbs float above the stage. During Disposition-Lateralus, 6 banners descend one at a time of a skeleton gradually turning into the weblike background of the cover of the lateralus cd. a seven pointed star descends. It was amazing to see Maynard stomping around in his black underwear, never missing a line and never running out of breath. danny's drumset was a golden glowing masterpiece, and i can't even get into what it's like to watch him drum. And, of course, Justin and Adam played flawlessly as well. The only criticism i would give is that the setlist could have been expanded a bit to include at least one "opiate" song and a few more "undertow" classics. but still, everything they played was incredible. what a great show. look for my review of the show on the 18th in manchester!

Review written by: john perry (rockon1820) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:37:13 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Awesome, I can't believe how many reviews are already up it ended like 2 horus ago. I had never heard of tomahawk, and i kinda still wish i hadn't, they were pretty damn bad, but they came back during the drum thing so i geuss tool likes them so they can't be ALL bad. Tool how ever were great. Starting with "sober" i knew this would be the most orgasmic expirence i've ever had with out actually touching my self (wait.....) Anyways, literally every song from AENIMA was amazing, parabol/parabola was awesome, and sober was awesome. there were alot of good ones too. the only thing remotely bad about it would be... you know 25 mins of drum solo got a little long. but nothing will beat when maynard said "well i hope tonight you were inspired, entertained (*i think he said that), and made very very very horny" and needless to say all three things happened to night, the best concert i've been too ever. tool rules. -john stinkfist[ing] forever

Review written by: Timmah (TTwohig260@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:41:41 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I like Tool. Ya know, I really do. I had reservations about seeing them at the Fleet Center, but it proved to be a great venue for the whole Tool experience. I had pretty good seats, so I was able to relax the whole show and really just enjoy the music instead of dodging idiots on the floor. Tomahawk was very good - I don't know why so many people have a bad opinion of them. But now onto the heart of the matter... This performance far and away surpassed the last time I saw Tool at the Tweeter Center. The band sounded absolutely monstrous, the lighting was incredible (nice blues, purples, etc.) and really went with the music. Usually I like to see the band actually perform, but I really don't care about that when I see Tool. Adam and Justin lurked in the shadows to the side, and I honestly wasn't even sure who was who from where I was. Maynard was clothed for about half the set, but then got a little frisky with his usual black speedo. He seemed very active with his crazy writhing around, and he even had quite a bit to say. I don't remember everything, but I know he mentioned how "it's times like this that make it all worth it." The crowd was really supportive and happy to see them, so I think the band was quite happy to be playing to such a good crowd. Maynard also mentioned something about somebosy working at a Walmart in Encino. What really made this show for me was the video screen - simply amazing. Some of the videos were the same as last time, but there were some new ones, including an insane face that started to move around, moving faster and faster until the skin separated from the skull. Very bizarre. There was also a very cool backdrop with the Lateralus guy with 3 faces and various other eye candy. And to top it all off, they all hugged at the end of the set as usual, making me feel warm and fuzzy. But anyway, that's my story. Awesome show, great energy, blah blah blah. I gotta take a shower.

Review written by: John (jstalker@mail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:54:55 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Yet another fantastic show by a tremendous band. I saw their show in Montreal in the latter part of Sept/01, and this show had many similarities, yet was varied in enough content to keep it from being a boring re-run. I won't mention Tomahawk because I didn't catch their set: I had heard enough smack about them and decided to have another beer instead of heading to the Fleet earlier than necessary. Tool's set started in the usual fashion (started the same in Montreal a 10 months earlier) with a 10 minute crescendo of synth chords, followed by the lights going out, and low bassy rumbling that brought the band on the stage. Here I was really hoping for the Ramone's cover, Commando (as I understand it), but wasn't overly disappointed when they kicked into Sober. The Grudge came next (my second favorite song from Lateralus) and I nearly lost my mind! The black curtain, which covered the human-like figure, dropped at the start of the song and then my favorite part out of any Tool song came up: when they drove into the riff after 'And we're sinking deeper!'. Following 'The Grudge', Maynard said 'Good evening' to the crowd. The proceded to say something to the effect of 'Tonight we have Medford, we have Southie, we have Somerville, we have Cambridge....so where the fuck is Boston?'...guess what happened next. (-) Ions (which showcased some cool neon blue electric arcing above the stage) led into the extended version of Stinkfist followed by the fantastic 'forty-six & 2'. Maynard then talked again, discussing 'something that is important to the world' (or something to that effect) then, after a bit of instumentals, they led into Schism. Parabol and Parabola came next. I guess those two songs can only be played together, because I've never seen a reveiew that had one or the other. Eon Blue Apocalypse came next followed by (it's pair on the album) The Patient. Aenema came up after The Patient. This was a real crowd pleaser. Everyone in the building was singing 'Flush it all away' and 'Learn to swim'. The visuals of a comet flying through space during 'Some say a comet will fall from the sky...' was great! Then a break happened...this is where we got robbed by one song! Many other shows had Opiate following Aenema...oh well, I was plenty happy with what I paid for! The break was lots of rumbling and synth sounds and lasted around 10 mins. The boys came back on stage and played around with noise machines for a bit (Maynard had a guitar for the 2nd or 3rd time in the show, even though it didn't look like he was doing alot with it). Then they eased their way into Disposition and Reflection. Reflection is such a great tune. It really shows off their musical genius... Then Triad happened...Good God! Danny Carey is an absolute GOD on the drums. I can't begin to describe how phenominal he sounded. He looks so relaxed when he's blowing the ears off everyone in the audience. It looks like he's barely trying, and yet these impossible beats are pounding through the crowd! Truly awesome. Finally (bitter sweet really) Lateralus reached out and let us see. My favorite Tool song because it describes what it is to be a Tool fan...letting the music take you away. 'With my feet upon the ground I lose myself between the sounds and open wide to suck it in, I feel it move across my skin...' To sum it up: Just go see the damn show! Words don't do it justice.

Review written by: Chris (Sljmp2@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:55:42 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Thank you TOOL for doing what you do.

Review written by: matt (mjcg@prodigy.net) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:57:10 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

WOW! Where to start? My first tool show and it was everything I expected and so much more. The setlist has been posted a dozen times already and its correct. I know its already been said but I want to reinforce that the crowd was awesome. I've read about Tomahawk getting booed in a lot of venues but that was not the case tonight. The crowd warmly recieved them even when Mike ragged on the guy in the Celtics jersey. Pattons first statement "You guys look like you're watching fuckin' Nickelodeon." All in all I think he was pleased with the crowd too. Maynard was great tonight slithering around like a snake. He was pretty talkative, instead of just saying "Boston" he named many of the surrounding areas such as Saugus and the North End. I could be wrong but I think he was pleased with the reception Tomahawk got too. Maynard lost his bodysuit and was down to speedos by Stinkfist or 46 & 2. he thanked us for reminding them why they do this before The Patient. After triad he introduced a couple members of Tomahawk and said something about Troy's father being the inventor of velcro and crazy glue. And he made an employee of the month at Wal-Mart comment. I think an above post got it more in detail. He then went on to say he hoped he inspired us and made us horny. He hoped we went home write poetry and have sex. "Thanks for coming" Personal highlight for me- Aenema, powerful powerful song If you have a chance to see Tool live do everything in your power to see them. Shout-out to Julian, Brandon, and Columbo for sharing the experience with me. Thank yous- Tomahawk-Really enjoyed first three songs kind of lost interest afterwards but you guys rocked. Tool- best live show in the world today the visuals were amazing, the music was absolutely moving. Boston fans- for being classy and generally the best fans on Earth.

Review written by: nick (nastynickknocker@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:58:51 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

wow i almost forgot to mention the awesome "stretchy face thing" during the bass intermission! that was just incredible, like a perfectly fluid version of the little parabola video guy- until the face started to pull so far as to rip the skin off completely and show bone.that sent my hallucionagenically "altered" buddies into a frenzyNUTS...chowdahhhhhhhh!

Review written by: Brian (tool483@attbi.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 01:59:47 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

this show was fucking amazing. . the crowd was great. . . i had no pot for the show and was pretty pissed but a BIG THANKS TO THE GUY WHO LIT ME UP a lotta weed for free. . . .3 huge joints . . .i've never saw the guy before. . .it was fucking amazng . .i love tool fans THANKS FOR THE GREAT SHOW TOOL :) till next show. . later

Review written by: mark (dhuntington@quackquack.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 02:04:31 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

I do not keep a journal because I never experience anything signifigant enough, or on a regular basis to go out of my way to write about it. Tonight was a special case, and it is here that I feel I should write it down. The best part of a tool show, for me, is that very momment when the lights go out, and the entire place erupts. I get excited because when tool is not touring, I always look forward to seeing them again. When the time finally arrives, I feel the affect of all of that waiting pay off, as I am about to be rewarded with the unexpected. No matter how many reviews and set lists you read, you never know what to expect from Tool. You dont know how you are going to feel when you see two objects floating in the middle of nowhere behind a great band playing a great song, nor do you know what will go thru your head when you see a slew of transperencies fall out of the ceiling during a three part masterpiece. All you know is that its going to happen, and that you are going to see it. I always tell people who have never seen tool and are about to that they need to be prepared to re think what they used to consider to be a great show. Tool have a higher standard for everything. They arent flawless, but i like that because it makes them human in our eyes. Its encouraging in ways different from the result of witnessing them at perfection. Tool have been playing mostly the same songs since last may, and although at first i thought it was dissapointing, I have come to realize that they have a message they want to send. Part of that message obviously needs to be sent thru songs, and the others thru their stage situation and so on. Those songs are not neccasarilly the best tool songs in everyones opinion, but they are the ones that best represent what they want to share with their fans as part of the big picture, and for that they deserve respect. Sure, there is the argument that they do a set with 7 or so radio hits, but maybe they just really love those songs for their own reasons. The worst part of a tool show in my opinion are those who yell at the opening band and disrespect one another. I have noticed three types of music fans as a result of all the shows I have been to: -the one who respects anything based on the fact that they are up there risking embarrasment and failure to share their art with people. They are always willing to at least give them a chance. -the one who is a music or specific band snob and will not respect anything beyond whichever applicable boudnaries. -the one who sees music not as something to take as inspiration or intelluctual growth, but simply as something to enjoy and bounce their foot to. I understand that all of these people fall under the same roof at every tool show across the world, but cant we all have the respect to empathize with one another in the concept that we all payed and got there, which was something we didnt have to do, and now that we are there why not try and make the evening comfotable for everyone around you? Yelling at the opening will never offend me because i like them and they dont, it offends me becasue they are up there doing their job. If you didnt go to see the opener, then i hope you went to see the headliner, in which case you can either show up late or wait outside once you realize you are not enjoying them. In the end you are not their boss and you do not have logically the right to yell at them. If a band you respect respects another band enough to have them open for them they should be given a chance based on that if not for the reason of common curtesy. We are human but we can at least try to improve on things rather than keep up bad habbits. In the end it will just make people happier.

Review written by: Bill (Yankees_suck1019@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 02:16:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I've been going to concerts for quite a while now, and i dont think i've ever anticipated a concert as much as i did this one. And it turned out to be everything that i expected. Tool was the best band that i have ever seen live, hands down. Not only were they good, the crowd was unbelievable was well. One of the better parts of the night was when Tool was walking off of the stage and the crowd was going absolutely nuts for them. I've never seen the Fleetcenter so alive in my life. As for the performance, every song was played perfectly, not one flaw that i could detect. Maynard sang awesome, and was very animated. The best part of the show, other than the performance, was the visuals. They were some of the most unbelievable and trippy things i have ever seen, especially the ones for the Grudge. My highlights for the night were when Tool kicked into the Grudge, the crowd during AEnima, and Triad, Reflection, Stinkfist, etc. Awesome setlist, performance, sound, visuals, crowd, atmosphere. Just an overall awesome show from the best band in the universe. I hope they come back to Boston during their fall tour, because i have to experience this again.

Review written by: Scott Cary (ThatMonopolyGuy@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 02:40:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

hmmm..... this show was... fucking amazing.. the setlist has been posted, and im tired, so ill just stick to the review. Maynard had his leather suit on for the first 2 or 3 songs, then it came off and he also had the black line painted down the middle of his face. The visuals have changed some since last tour, and they had the floating balls from the parabola video hovering around. I would say more, but im tired, and i have to wash my feet, but tool was fucking awesome. cant wait for sundays show in manchester, oh, but im really not looking forward to seeing Tomahawk, although they are better then Fantomas, they're music isnt much to be proud of... alright, im going to bed........ ill post a better review tomorow or for sundays show.

Review written by: Justin (Dbi1knbi7) Review posted on: 08/17/02 02:51:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

-Sober -The Grudge -(-) ions -Stinkfist -46&2 -Eon Blue Apocalypse - The Patient - Schism -Parabol -Parabola - Ænema --------------------------intermission--------------------------- -Disposition -Reflection -Triad (with Tomahawk drummer) -Lateralus Great show, visuals amazing. Maynard came out wearing a black leather suit and that came off right before Parobol. The crowd had a great energy and the band seemed very enthusiastic and pumped tonight and Danny threw his sticks into the crowd during a couple of the songs. Triad was amazing and it's intro seemed to be more than I had expected. Maynard talked a bit tonight, telling us that "hopefully the the experience we shared has inspired us......and made us horny and to go home and write poetry and have sex." After the show and the group hug the members continued to throw items into the crowd and seemed very energized, more than I would expect from a band who, on most occasions, likes to keep a low profile. In the end, it was great show. I would also like to share an experience that occurred before the show. My friends and I were looking into the the parking lot where the tour buses were parked and we sparked the attention of the security guard running the gate. While trying to explain that we thought we were hearing a sound check a man on a motorcycle proceeded to enter the parking lot right beside us. After a few seconds we realized that the man on the bike was Danny Carrey, and unfortunately we were to stunned to get out the disposable camera and take a picture. Well it's late and I need to wash my feet. ~justin

Review written by: Tolchok (powallaby@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 03:01:06 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Amazing show: Unlike most people, I thought Tomahawk was incredible. I've been a Mike Patton fan for years, and he never disappoints. To the hoards of people who put them down: open your damn ears! Tool was beyond words...I've yet to read any review that mentioned Maynard throwing the lyrics to the Elvis tune "Suspicious Minds" in the middle of Stinkfist ("caught in a trap, I can't walk out, because I love you too much baby...") - CLASSIC shit...

Review written by: Hausnelis (hausnelis@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 03:05:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Tomahawk wasn't as bad as I thought they would be. They sounded okay considering it was in the acousticly unfriendly envioment of Boston's Fleet Center. Tool came on at about 8:45 opening with "Sober". I missed the next song because I was watching some moron trying to a roll a joint for 20 minutes!! They then ripped into "Stinkfist" and then "Parabol/Parabola" and then onto "46&Two". Maynard was in rare form, very talkatve and even cracking a joke or two. Danny was incredible, I don't know how his arms can take a beating like that night after night. Adam and Justin seemed to find a comfortable place and proceeded to play their parts with the same quality and precision as the studio albums. The second half of the show was somber at first with "Triad" and "Reflction", the you heard the familiar sound of heavy breathing and the roaring guitar lick of "Aenima". A few of the members of Tomahawk including Mike Patton came on stage for a 20 minute jam with Danny. Overall this was an amazing show, the movie and slide show alone are enough to warrant buying a ticket. If TOOL is around go see them. You will regret it if you didn't.

Review written by: supine (halo@seanmccabe.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 10:12:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 6th Tool show

Everyone who's in a band in Boston -- of which there are probably 1200 in the Metro area -- knows that playing out here sucks due to the crowd just standing and watching. Typically not a lot of love in the room even if the Middle East is having dollar Rolling Rocks. We're famous for this mentality of "I could do that...better" complete with arms folded and unaffected shoe gazing. Last night was no exception but there was a subtle difference. Not one asshole could say they we're better than what we heard. Although I may never know the heights of success that this band enjoys I have played this town enough to know that the crowd was hypnotized with respect and enthrallment. Comments heard afterwards as we were hearded out of the arena were that of true love. Plain and simple. They reached a lot of people. Thanks for reminding US that sitting in a cavernous arena can be an intimate experience. Look forward to your return.

Review written by: PAUL B (TOOLUGY462) (TA2L@AOL.COM) Review posted on: 08/17/02 10:35:36 ET

This was this reviewer's 7TH Tool show

FUCKING TIGHT AGAIN LAST NIGHT!!!!! SETLIST SOBER THE GRUDGE STINKFIST(EXT.VERS.W/LYRICS TO SUSPICIOUS MINS*ELVIS-&WHITE LINES*GRANDMASTERFLASH) 46&2 SCHISM PARABOL PARABOLA EON BLU APOCALYPSE THE PATIENT AENIMA -------------------INTERMISSION--------------------------------- REFLECTION DISPOTION TRIAD(FUCKING ROCKED) LATERALUS THEY PLAYED FOR 2 HOURS,GREAT VISUALS,DANNY WAS THE BEST I EVER SEEN QUICK,MAYNARD WORE THE LEATHER SUIT THEN CHANGED INTO SPEEDO'S.ALSO METIONED IF THERE WAS ANYONE FROM CAMBRIDGE,SOMMERVILLE,MEDFORD SOUTHIE HERE TONIGHT(WAS A SOMMERVILE NATIVE @ 1 TIME)FACE PAINTED BLACK&WHITE.DANNY THE WISE GUY HAD HIS L.A.LAKERS OUTFIT ON. SEE YOU IN PROVIDENCE,MANCHESTER&NEW HAVEN. SPIRAL OUT

Review written by: Carl Champigny (carl.champigny@verizon.net) Review posted on: 08/17/02 11:23:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

Well What Can I Say??? TOOL is the best band - period. Their energy is something that one should be inspired by, and last night's show held right up to that standard of perfection. What a way to begin a set that lasted almost 2 hrs...Sober kicked it off and sounded ok, it seemed that as they got deeper into the set, they got more into it! The set list has already been posted by several others, so there is no need for me to post what songs they played :) I do remember MJK telling us all to 'Go home, write poetry, and have sex...Thanks for cumming'...and before that he listed several cities in the area (Cambridge, Southie..) and then said Boston. The crowd semi responded until he asked if we were sure - and the crowd went nuts. The Video and stage props were great, with the HUGE backdrop that must have been at least 150 x 150. I don't know what else to say, except that I can't wait to get my 5th TOOL concert under my belt. They are insane with talent and creativity, and imo their clean sound on stage leaves you thinking that you are listening to the cd but with a crowd in the background...and ya gotta love the way the mix it up sometimes when you least expect it. I also thought it was cool to have 2 of the Tomahawk members jump on stage to jam on the drums w/ Danny going ballistic as he usually does. What an awesome drummer! All around I will go to my grave w/ the 'firm' beleif that TOOL is the greatest (and most underated) band on earth. Thx for another kick ass show guys...til next tour - C.E.C.

Review written by: Julian--die-hard and devoted Tool fan (tooldannycarey@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 11:34:56 ET

This was this reviewer's 8th Tool show

Words to describe this show....oh man I am speechless. It was a mix of phenomenal, beautiful, umm awesome? heh Well, anyways the show was not my first and certainly not my last. The set-list was perfect, I sang along of course to every verse that I could. As a drummer, and watching Danny on stage, was so inspiring and sent me into shock. I loved how Mike Patton and the drumnmer Tomahawk came out to perform some shit on Triadd, which kicked the most ass, especially since I am a fan of all of Mike Patton's work. Danny Carey is my idol and biggest inspiration, as are some others that influenced Danny themselves. However, at times like this I have no choice that wins compared to others cause just how well he is independantly. The hugging with Tomahawk after the song was a nice scene, but the best one was seeing the band stand one-by-one and smile proudly, then hug together and wave to thank us. I loved it, I cheered and screamed so much, I kept yelling and saying "TOOL" and other shit to show every bit of support. I made a ton of great friends there, almost every person that showed, especially the guys from my area, and those cool dudes from Utah- wazzup Layne! It was nice to see for the first time that there actually were true Tool fans at the show, unlike some past ones i have been to. There is so much I have to say... I mean I have met these guys a few times before, but my friends and I (Matt, Brandon, and John (Columbo) who went to the show with me, tried to meet them after the show cause y'know it's always good to say a quick hello to your idols and main influences. Unfortunately we had no luck, and my friends from Connecticut that were there who were huge into Faith No More (hell yeah!) were with us trying to help. I was pist that I didn't the WAAF prize pack, but I got to meet the who did, nice dude, and he told how his view was heh, must have been great. We took the route under the bridge to Boston from Framingham (where we are from) and tried our best to get there earlier. I go to Boston all the time, especially the FleetCenter and there much faster ways, especially the T that goes into the Fleet Center. What really really made me happy was when after a couple songs, Maynard starts talking and says "Do we have anybody from (areas in Boston area, or suburbs of Boston) Medford? Southie? and how about Boston? I went crazy, BOSTON!!!!!! Patriots and Red Sox! Die-hard fan of those teams, as is everyone who was there and lives in New England, because I did see people with those teams, but what I was not happy with was that I saw Creed fans w/ their shirts and a ton of Yankee fans with their hats! Yea it sucks, because even New England pretty much has as many Yankee as Red Sox fans. ARRGGHH! Maynard knew what he was talking about though, especially when he mentioned those cities, because he was in my area of Framingham a lot a few years ago, according to my friend Brandon. It just made me really happy to see all of you were all big fans, I got to talk to pretty much everyone who was there and share thoughts, we are all the biggest fans! I LOVE TOOL sooo much, to death, such a devoted and die- hard/hardcore fan, will always be there to see them, I am actually seeing them tonight in Providence, and then the day in Manchester. Gonna be there always for them. - Julian-TOOLnatic

Review written by: steve (faaipdeoaid32@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 11:43:48 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

this is the setlist Sober The Grudge Stinkfist 46 & 2 Schism Parabol Parabola The Patient Aenima Reflection Disposition Triad Lateralus this is not only my first tool concert it is my first concert. it was the greatest. i was in the fifthteenth row but i could not see the band very well because i am very short. first tomahawk played and they were ok. when the lights came on every body began moving around as the stage crew set up for tool. the stage had a black backdrop and above it was a seven pointed star with lights hanging off it. all the lights went off and everbody began cheering. the ring of flaming eyes appeared on the two large screens on either side of the stage. as the band began to play sober the black backdrop lit up to reveal a huge face.on either side of the face was a skull. when they played the patient two huge balloon things from the video came up. after they played half of Aenima they took a short break . before reflection huge posters came down with pictures from the lateralus cd booklet. then they did a huge 10 min. drum solo. the last song they played was lateralus. the show was the greatest

Review written by: tom yeager (Yeager 2) Review posted on: 08/17/02 11:59:48 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. filrst of all I reallyknow nothing about Tool but I am a teacher and went to the concert as a guest of another drummer friend who said to me "You have to go and see this guy Carey play" I had seen the asrticles in Modern Drummer about him and read reviews but in no way did they begin to do justice to his abilities. As a percussion teacher at a small college I thought I knew all there was about the subject but know now thee is a whole side of the subject I dont even understand. To be simply stated I sat there and saw a man do things that I could neither explain nor understand how he did them. A drum set I would have just given anything to have set down ast for just a few moments.fI heard patterns played that were based on the vary basics of drumming asnd they expanded to such complexity that boggled the mind. I wont even try to comment on his speed other than to say that many time time s I way thing move or heard beats that I didnt know where they came from. I had a pair of 20 power glasses I was wtching him thru and at time I held my breath so long I forgot to breath.

Review written by: Bob Baker (philthebip@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:05:07 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Let me start off with Tomahawk. They came on to the stage and started their first song. It was hard to understand what the lyrics to the song were, but I thought the song rocked. After the song, everyone in the house was cheering. I was thinking "gee these guys aren't so bad after all" .. As the show countinued, I began to lose interest in them. The crowd was good to Tomahawk. Mike Patton tried to get the crowd going by making fun of the celtics, he got a few boo's, but overall the crowd was great to him. He kept saying something about the Disney Channel, and Nickalodian.. After their set they left the stage... THe lights went back on, and everyone anxiously awaited for tool. The break must have been 20 minutes long... then the lights went off.. 3 minutes or so past by, then the sounds of music started to fire up the crowd... Then after a minute or so, Tool just busted out sober.. By this time everyone was begging for it, and they got it.. Holy shit... That's all I can say... After sober maynard said "good evening Boston".. he might have said some other stuff, I'm not sure but they played the grudge next.. Tottally awesome.. Maynard spoke a few times inbetween songs, but he didn't say much.. Every song rocked. Everything sounded just perfect. After a while there was a little break. It probably was 10 minutes long. then Tool came back and played disposition, Reflection, and Triad followed by Lateralus.. It was just amazing.. Danny was amazing during triad.. I think triad was my favorite part of the show... Seeing someone play the drums the way danny did was jsut amazing. I couldn't keep my eyes of them. THe show was just amazing. It really is just impossible to describe the show in words.. There was so much to look at. The band, The lights, the screens, the fans... It was just a great time... I was sitting in section 306, so I couldnt see the finer detials, but over all the balconey wasn't a terrible place to sit.. Fuck I hope tool comes back to boston soon... I wish last night never ended. thats all I can say.... I wish it never ended

Review written by: Ashley (sugar_suitepee@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:05:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

This was my 1st TOOL show. HOLY FUCKING SHIT! I was so blown away by TOOL. I was so happy they opened with Sober. That was unexpected. We had nosebleed seats when it started and we couldnt even see any of the band members. So we all got up and moved to the side of the stage on the balcany and we could see every single band member and all the effects n shit. Maynard was right in front of us well lit. You could even see the black face paint on him. I got an awesome look at his tattoo. How awesome. He was so energetic tonight. His body movements were trance- like. Maynard hit every note perfectly. His voice never squeaked or even went out. Amazing. Danny Carey blew me out of the water! What an amazing drummer. I was getting so into Triad. That was just fucking amazing! Adam was totally awesome. He didnt move much during the show though. He pretty much stayed in the same spot. Justin, well what can I say? Fucking amazing. The whole set list was perfect. I did want to hear H though. But I didnt care b/c the setlist was perfect. The effects were awesome. We couldnt see the big screens, but we could see everything on the screens on Maynards little box thing. So that was kool. The sound was so crisp and clear. I dont think too many people could hear everything Maynard was saying. He was rather talkative though. I didnt think he would of talked that much. What a grat show. Id see them again anytime.

Review written by: JMAN (jaltxxx@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:06:23 ET

This was this reviewer's 3 Tool show

All I can say is wow and TOOL has improved from last years shows. Saw them at Tweeter and Pepsi arena last fall For those of you who don't read the Boston Globe here is a review from Steve Morse. He hits the nail on the head !!! "Tool hammers out a multimedia triumph" By Steve Morse, Globe Staff, 8/17/2002 No question, this was a night that solidified Tool as superstars. The show was sold out - that's enough evidence right there - but Tool backed up the numbers with an exceptional gig that was the best multimedia rock event so far this year. Tool has long been touted as the new era's Pink Floyd - albeit an even darker version of Floyd - but the group had never totally convinced until last night's show. Tool played to 16,000 fans who followed every note and every visual with an intensity that seemed to border on the maniacal, which was only fitting because that's what the band was giving off as well. Despite having no new album, Tool still sold out the FleetCenter. And it was a much better show than last summer's start-fast-but-wilt-later effort at the Tweeter Center, where the band descended into aimless jams. Last night's was a much tighter show, with a relentless pace right from the opening track, ''Sober,'' during which singer Maynard James Keenan again stood at the back of the stage (he's the epitome of the anti-frontman), but his booming voice cut like a buzzsaw, as did guitarist Adam Jones's power riffs. Tool does not write easily digestible songs - its last three singles have been headily titled ''Schism,'' ''Lateralus,'' and ''Parabola.'' And it is definitely out there probing the apocalypse, while its hammer-down, progressive art-metal sound suggests an industrial cross between Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Nine Inch Nails. The band featured songs that it has been playing for a while - ''Schism'' and ''Stinkfist'' stood out - but unearthed mostly all-new video and staging that really captured the crowd. There were white-lit wires above the stage that looked like lightning flashes, along with floating black balls clustered together like atoms, and a curtain showing a sleepy-eyed Nefertiti figure surrounded by two fiercely protruding male skull faces, as well as, later, a curtain covered with psychedelic eyes, much like the logo of the 1960s band the 13th Floor Elevators. The new videos shown on two screens on each side of the stage were filled with disturbing imagery - from twitching, deformed clay animation figures to alien-looking flies hovering around a man's head, to an eat-or-be-eaten montage of a mouth gobbling up everything in sight. To the uninitiated, the video clips were no doubt heavy stuff, but they were actually toned down from last year, and they also had more bright, computer-animated color splashes that hinted at more hope than before. That hope was matched by Keenan introducing one song as being ''about compassion, world peace, and global harmony.'' Tool is definitely not a decadent band. Even underneath some of the disturbed elements is a group that's trying to force people to think about the betterment of society, even if it's a tall task. Keenan, who once lived in Boston, also flashed some local color by saying hello to some of the fans from Medford, Somerville, Brookline, Cambridge, and South Boston. And before Keenan (by then dressed in just a pair of black briefs, like a performance artist run amok) he tore into the songs ''Be Patient'' and ''Disposition,'' he also praised the crowd for its support. ''It's really easy for all of us to get caught up in our daily lives and forget what we're doing. For us, it takes coming to a place like this to be reminded.'' There was no hope, however, for the opening act, Tomahawk, the latest project of the Faith No More signer, Mike Patton. His processed vocals sounded like ghoulish Vincent Price rants. The only thing that should be tomahawked is this band. Good point made by Steve. Get a better headliner next tour !!

Review written by: josh (imyoshi@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:13:00 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Last night was a great show. i think that Tomahawk was better than the fantomas were last time around. I really liked the extended version of stinkfist. If anyone has any recordings of the show let me know.

Review written by: iu (iu@xxx.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:32:15 ET

This was this reviewer's 4th Tool show

The show was really incredible. Don't bother getting there early to see Tomahawk it should just be an evening with tool because tomahawk lacks musical ability and their drummer plays 1 beat. Lets see. A little disappointed that they did not play H or Opiate. I am going to see them tonight in Prov tomorrow in NH and the day after, after, in New Haven so I'm praying i get to see Opiate and H. I don't see why they play opiate really there are so many better songs but i still hope they change the set around somewhat. last your i got to see undertow, prison sex, opiate, eulogy and pushit (slow) version as alternative songs which was awesome. Well even if i don't get to see what i would like i will still be the happiest person there. Its a complete 2 hours of a natural high. Don't go on any drugs and least 1 night of the tour see how awesome it is without it heh

Review written by: Elina (Matza316@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 12:52:20 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Set List: Sober Grudge Stinkfist Forty Six & 2 Schism Parabol Parabola Patient Aenema Reflection/Disposition/Triad Lateralus Tool amazed me again last night. I had been to two other TooL shows, but have never been able to see the stage. I have always had lawn at tweeter, and I'm not quite tall enough to see over peoples heads. So was I excited when I got to my seats (section 317). My friends and I sat in the first row, the first four seats. I couldnt believe it I was finally going to be able to see them perform, and see the visuals I Keep hearing about. So then the show began, I dont know what music they were playing before TooL came on, but it definately set the mood. The lights turned off, and everyone went nuts. They had the Lateralus Eye Ring on two projecters, and then the band came on stage. Then after some more waiting, they went into Sober. wow. I could tell from the moment they started that song that it was going to be an intense night. I was so glad to see from the beginning that the crowd was into it, and they were into it until the end. And i didnt see any moshers down below me on the floor, which was excellent...I mean moshing at TooL?? Seriously. Anyways, then came the Grudge, I was just in awe of them at that point. The energy was just building inside me, and i could tell in the crowd too. Then they start Stinkfist. I go nuts...i wanted to hear this one so bad. Then came my personal favorite of the night. Forty Six & 2. My friend Kate and I had wanted to hear this, so i was totally into it. Then Schism, and another of my favorites, Parabol, Parabola. Parabola gives me chills. Then Patient, amazing, then Aenema, HOLY SHIT! The crowd was singing along to this one, i hadnt heard this one live before either. They fucking blew me away. Then R/D/T, Triad was insane...wow. And then i got bummed, because said goodbye to us. They finished it was Lateralus, that song is so incredible. What a night. I wish i was going to the show in RI tonight, but if they come around again in the fall, thats it i'm following them. They cannot be missed. The show was incredibly moving, emotional, intense, and fucking insane. Tool simply does not get the credit they deserve, they are the best rock band out there, and they are not only musicians but artists as well. The visuals were out of this world, very trippy. The visuals and the music fit so well together, they are masters of what they do. Thank you TooL for making my night one i'll never forget!

Review written by: Jake (bornsteij@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 13:19:06 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

What an ubelievable show. I was lucky enough to get an aftershow pass, and met Danny Carey. Tool is my favorite band and to be able to shake the hand of the best drummer in the world was absolutely amazing. Maynard was around too, but unfortunately I didn't get to talk to him. I didn't see Adam or Justin. Maynard was drinking wine and Danny had a beer. Everyone was chill, no stupid drunk kids making fools of themselves. I met some cool people, and a nice guy from Burlington, VT gave me an unused VIP pass as a souvenir. He is friends with Danny's drum tech, who i got to meet too. who in turn actually introduced me to Danny. I am greatful for this unbelievable opportunity and I really can't express how i feel with words. One of the best things ever to happen to me. I can't wait for the show in Manchester. Thanks to TOOL for touching me in a way I have never felt.

Review written by: Sean (Grifan2440@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 14:08:53 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

OK, after my first TOOL concert last fall when I saw them at the Tweeter Center, I thought it couldn't get any better than that. But I was so wrong! The setlist was about as good as I could have possibly hoped for. Unlike my last concert, I wasn't standing in cold mud and I could see the band fairly well, except I couldn't see Justin at all cuz he was blocked by a speaker (my seats were in the balcony to the far left of the stage). I got a good look at Maynard, sporting a mowhawk. Before Parabol he stripped down to a speedo to reveal a big spinal cord tattoo down his back. But anyway, let me tell you about the concert: First off, my friends and I got in early enough to see all of Tomahawk's set, which we regretted soon after. I dunno, maybe Tomahawk's industrial, distortion-filled sound appeals to some people, but to me it just sounds like annoying noise. Thankfully, they finished at about 8:15 and Tool came on just before 9:00. As I'm sure everyone expected, they kicked ASS! It's funny - when I listen to TOOL, I don't really focus on the percussion as much as I do on the melodies. But then when I see TOOL in concert, I find my eyes are glued to Danny. He is without a doubt the most amazing drummer in music today. Toward the end of "The Grudge", which is really HIS song, he went into a frenzied solo where his hands moved too fast to be seen. Later on, when he and members of Tomahawk blasted the drums in "Triad", it was just as impressive. That song sounded 100 times better in concert than it does on the album. (And don't get me wrong - I like the album version A LOT!) The visuals of the concert were awesome, and I think the fact that this tour is at all indoor venues allows TOOL to really explore their visuals and enhance the concert. The electric lines above the front of the stage were cool and fit perfectly with "(-) Ions" before "Stinkfist". I also thought the laser pointer dots above the floor during the "The Patient" were really cool and ehanced the mellow vibe of the song. The video screens, as always, showed a lot of freaky shit, too. My favorite performances were the extended version of "Stinkfist" (my absolute favorite TOOL song), "Aenima" (which I was so pumped to hear cuz they didn't play it at my last concert. I think it was the crowd favorite, too - everyone was singing along the whole way.), "Triad" (during which all of the members of TOOL and Tomahawk sounded especially in tune with each other), and "Lateralus", which is the perfect finale and ended with a driving blast of drums and bass. I also liked how Maynard was much more vocal this time compared to my last concert. His sarcastic sense of humor really showed, like when he said a member of Triad's dad was the inventor of crazy glue and velcro and later on when he told us he hoped that the performance moved us, inspired us... or made us really, really horny. After that he gave us the sage advice, as only Maynard can, to "Go home... Write some poetry... And have sex." During this concert, TOOL reminded me that they are the best rock group in the world. Every component of a TOOL concert is musically sound. If you haven't seen them yet, WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!!! GO!!!

Review written by: Tim (Dopessociety@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 14:15:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd? Tool show

great show, i had a 104 temp when i got home from the show so i didn't post anything sooner. pretty much everything has already been said so i will leave you with this. fuck you idiotic close minded tool fans who didn't liek tomahawk. i know it's not for everyone but please shut the fuck up when they are on stage. go grab a 3$ hot dog, if you don't like them stop ruining the show for everone else by chanting they suck. the crowed was pretty good tonight but there are a few ignorent assholes in the crowed. like them or not the man on stage has more talent then you could ever imagine having. show some fucking respect. and this doesn't aply to everyone who didn't like tomahawk. i know they are not for everyone. this is for the people who didn't give them a chance, don't even know why they don't like them. and for the people who feel the need to yell out "you suck" you are worse then the people who mosh to tool, you probably do that to....

Review written by: zztoolzz (zztoolzz@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 14:18:11 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

This show was truly unbelievable. The best show they’ve done in the New England Area I would bet. The band was on, the crowd was on, It was a great night. Tool controlled the crowd the whole night. From the crunching start of sober to the killer end Laturalus. There was so much energy in the Fleet Center, it was out of control. Maynard’s voice was amazing and the music form the rest of the band was no different. The visuals just added intensity to the whole show. Truly an experience I will never forget. Thank you Tool. P.S. Does anybody’s concert t-shirt from the Boston show have Boston’s date on it? At least there was xxl...You don't see that much.

Review written by: zztoolzz (zztoolzz@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 14:18:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

This show was truly unbelievable. The best show they’ve done in the New England Area I would bet. The band was on, the crowd was on, It was a great night. Tool controlled the crowd the whole night. From the crunching start of sober to the killer end Laturalus. There was so much energy in the Fleet Center, it was out of control. Maynard’s voice was amazing and the music form the rest of the band was no different. The visuals just added intensity to the whole show. Truly an experience I will never forget. Thank you Tool. P.S. Does anybody’s concert t-shirt from the Boston show have Boston’s date on it? At least there was xxl...You don't see that much.

Review written by: Chris (ct9@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 15:07:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Let me just say that last night was quite possibly the most incredible experience of my life and one that filled me with hope. Just the fact that there is a band out there like Tool doing what they do is something to be greatful for. The Tool show is not just about hearing music, the whole experience is is a work of art in itself: the music, the visuals, the stage presence, and most of all the crowd. The energy that you could feel around the whole place was incredible. Thank you for renewing my hope that despite all the stupid shit that goes on in our society, there is also an oasis of beauty and an appreciation of something pure, spiritual, and fundamentally human that we all share. Peace.

Review written by: Chris (bscrockgod23@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 15:55:09 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

I really wish i was the first one to post about this amazing show, so you all already know the setlist, and you all already know the energy the band had... I do want to say, that my girlfriend and i took her little brother and his friend to this show for their very first concert ever, and i dont think that they could ever have asked for a better set! They were beside themselves! As for me, I have been a fan since '92 and just finally got to see them last year and then last night, and it was the most amazing show i have ever seen. Thanks Adam, Justin, Danny and Maynard

Review written by: Ken (mdmfk@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 16:04:03 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

This was a good show....better then the ones on last tour that I went to. In the beginning however I think there was something wrong with the sound though....which kinda sucked....I dont think it was mixed right, but right aroudn schism I think is where it started to sound really good. LIke my friend who went with me said, "Tool is just trying to put on a different kind of rock show and they'll probably lose alot of fans doing it" which is definitly true In my opinion. Triad was amazing, I was really into triad, it defitnitly woke up the crowd after reflection and disposition, and its always good to see Mike Patton go nuts on musical instruments. I think this whole show might have been aimed at people who were chemically altered that night, because I know the artist for all their artwork on this tour, Alex Grey, is definitly no stranger to drugs and he has no problem letting everyone know, so keep that in mind people who havent gone yet. I however didnt heighten myself with anything so I guess i missed out, oh well. Overall, good show...cant wait for the one on the 18th, in my home city...manchester, NH.

Review written by: jeff (jeffx@mac.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 16:39:16 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

halfway through the show maynard stopped to say "we live our lives day to day and sometimes we forget why we do what we do... and it takes coming to a place like this to remember. so thank you for sharing that with us." thank you, tool

Review written by: dave (threethirteen@cox.net) Review posted on: 08/17/02 18:39:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 9th Tool show

yet again they put on another amazing show. i would have chosen a different venue than the FleetCenter, but the far superior lighting of an indoor event does help the atmosphere...that whole disco ball effect wouldnt have been possible at the Tweeter Center. and another year with Mike Patton openning with his routine pure genius made it even more "interesting" of a show. and i am looking forward to seeing tool again tonight in providence and tomorrow in manchester! thank you tool. you make my life worth living.

Review written by: Mark Kivlehan (SaturnxAscends@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 21:03:45 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

First of All Tool Fuckin kicked Ass !!!!!! such Magic and energy between both the audience and tool. sober was a Great opener alex grey's backdrops where phenominal. 46n2 and aenima where the greatest songs live Triad Kicked ass and maynard talked with the audence for a lill while The show was fuckin awesome and i hope they come back this fall. TOOL - Unbelievably done!!!! Great Fuckin Job thanks. you have inspired and Healed Many thank you. \ Mark Boston Ma.

Review written by: Semi-satiated (mas74@yale.edu) Review posted on: 08/17/02 21:04:05 ET

This was this reviewer's 8th? Tool show

Hey you! Read reviews already posted for your show to see if somebody already posted the setlist. Wow, Boston is a shitty place to drive. That written, live TOOL is a good reason to brave traffic. The show was fair by TOOL standadrs. That is to say it was essentially the same shit I saw last year. Unfortunately, they left out MOST of the best graphics from last fall. It's cool that it takes five years to crank out a killer album, but it's time to change to stage show. We've seen it.

Review written by: Tom (Cheech52485@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/17/02 23:36:48 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

i wanted to post this sooner, but i was wicked tired after the show....what a great one though....i went in there expecting a great show and i left feeling more satisfied than i ever could have imagined....not only was TOOL at the top of their game musically, but also with their visuals...those were incredible to say the least....i was alos pleased with the crowd, very much into it unlike some other reviews ive read...hope to catch them again when them come back around.... thank you Maynard, thank you Danny, thank you Justin, thank you Adam...thanks you, TOOL...

Review written by: Merkaba (Rule25116@charter.net) Review posted on: 08/18/02 00:43:54 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Perfect...

Review written by: Jen (peachypoofies@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 00:54:34 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

TOOL WAS AMAZING! I MET MAYNARD!!! WEll we all did. Maly lisa and I! I had the best time ever! I could seriously die today! I tried calling all my friends...some weren't home. This night was so amazing. I felt so good. My heart was on the table. I was vulnerable tonight through Maynards voice. Ok calm down jen and tell what happened! We go...get there just in time. Saw Chadd. Went inside...went to our seats...which were pretty good. And then Tomahawk came on...Mike Patton's band. They didn't completely suck just the singer. Maly and i got bored went upstairs to walk around. Saw lisa and got some ff. And in the line i saw this guy come up to us. He complimented my lip ring and asked us if we knew the lead singer of Tool. we all yelled "Maynard James Keenan!" And so he was like..."well here are 3 passes come to the after show tonight...Maynard asked me to pass them out to girls." So we took them and tried gettin one for Chadd but he wouldn't cause Chadd is a guy. But omg...i never thought that i would meet maynard....never in my lifetime. To me he is an untouchable man. The one person in my life that i want to meet more than anyone in the world...i met tonight! OMG Started watching the show...i couldn't help the tears that spurred from my eyes as tool opened up with "Sober." I was in aww. They played "46 & 2" which completely kicked ass as well as "stinkfist" and "AEnima" was also incredible!!! Then after "Schism"...they played "Parabola!" Let me tell you. The begining part...i cried. I thought about how i was alone...and how i have pain...and how i needed to release it. That song just was so emotional. Fucking awesome! Ok back to my night. Well after that they played Matt's (HateBreed) Fav Tool song..."Patient." "Im still right here...giving blood keeping faith" This night made up for all the other nights. Well after they played "Reflections" They did this really awesome drumming to "Triad" featuring the walmart guy. And then ended with "Lateralus." So then we waited for this guy to tell us where to go with the passes. And we noticed that we were kind of surounded by girls. I meant the pass i thought was for groupies...but i didn't care at all. I just wanted to meet him so bad! So they take us girls around...and maly and i noticed that besides this one girl Erica (who was so cool...and hot...and had the same fav tool as me..."jimmy")...that we were the best looking girls in there. And then MAYNARD ARRIVED!!!!! My heart stopped. He is so cool. Not a whore at all. Doesn't like smokers or cameras so we couldn't get a picture. BUt we got and autograph. And he played this really cool trick on us It was so cool. He came over to me when it was my turn...and was like..."What do you study in school?" I blanked out. His eyes looked into mine piercing me...like it was my soul he was entering...making love to me through his eyes. I was like "uh...what do i do there? oh yeah music!" I was so dumb lol. This girl came up to him and hugged him and he waslike "please don't hug me i don't even know you." hehe Oh my goodness. Nothing can hurt me now. Now that ive met Maynard...i believe anything is possible. Im so glad maly came too...she is really good luck. Im so happy...that i want to be in tears right now. Maynard is my reflection...my parabol...my patient...hunter. His voice...is like a magic power that overcomes me and i have no will...all my inhibitions are weakened and this man...makes me vulnerable. And we are vulnerable together...and we cry together...and make love passionately...through his music.

Review written by: Anima (asfda@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 01:04:08 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Setlist: Ænima Sober Stink Fist The Grudge Reflection The Patient Lateralus Schism Parobol Parabola Disposition 46 & 2 Triad This was their best show i've seen, much better than last fall. Much more energy from the band (they actually talked to the crowed this time!) And alot of positive enerygy from the crowed also, a real lot. The crowd chanted "Tool" and started to clap their hands at one point of the show, which was cool. The band played better, and maynard sang much better than last time, pretty much flawless performance by the band, no bs. Tomahawk tried to piss us off by saying the Celtics suck, probably because of the celtic flags up above us...but it didn't work and we actually cheered, heh.. I doubt he expected that. Tomahawk itself was OK, if not inaudible, which is too bad since I like the album.

Review written by: Devo Keenan (Maynards 7 year old son) Review posted on: 08/18/02 01:52:35 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

My dad is amazing

Review written by: starlessCrimson (starlessCrimson@aol.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 12:10:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

this TOOL show was fucking amazing! twice as better then last years in MAnsfield , the boys were on their game everything sounded mint ,& the visuals spoiled my eyes ,,what a fucking concert to much goin on for one to see . it really took my breath away leaving my mind staggering after leaving the arena. the stage was a mind bending setup and the sound was great, everything sounded clear. aftre the first song 'sober' was over & they went into 'the Grudge' ,,& the big screen behind them popped up i just knew i was in for a ride . 'Triad' was a real treat as members of tomahawk shared the stage with TOol to perform. i had chills running down my spine almost the whole night. AMAZING! TOOL RULES. As for tomahawk, mike patton is the man, hes a great artist & i think tool fans should give him a chance of listen, he is so versatile ,i was getting so fucking angry at stupid ignorant concert goers not even realizing who was up on stage . samething with last years show when fantomas was playing & a guy w/ a slayer shirt was saying u suck u suck when he didnt know that dave lombardo was sitting behind the kit. none the less there was people screaming u suck for tomahawk which i let it slip by until they started annoying me so i started annoying them screaming tomahawk rules. if tool wants tomahawk to open for them obviously they want the crowd to have a listen & not just stereotype and scream out u suck when they arent listening. there is no justice in opening acts casue the sound quality isn't as great as the headliner. but if tomahawk was as loud as tool i think they would have gotten a better approach. BUt any way all in all. everything was as expected i knew i was in for one hell of a night. fucking AMAZING. the end.

Review written by: Nick (NMcGoo108@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 14:56:34 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

WOW! That about sums it up. TOOL was fucking solid in Boston on Friday night. My second tool show, and it far exceeded my expectations. Triad was in my opinion the best song they played with some friends on staqge playing roto-toms. Danny came out to play samples during Tomohawk. Make Patton made fun of all of the boston eccents. He commmanded everyone to say "chowda!". Then he said "Is that a celtics fan? "Fuck you buddy!" The crowd got pissed off, but everyone had a good laugh. Some asshold threw a t-shirt at Adam, but he was not even phased by it. Maynard was in his underwear for most of the show. Dannys drum set was incredible. They had these floating molecule like structures in the background. Kinda looked like some grapes floating on a cushion of air. I did not like the fact that the floor had seats that were linked together. I wanted to get rowdy but the damn seets prevented people from doing so. The songs were so tight! They were tuned up a bit since the last time I had seen TOOL. Cant wait for the next time they come around!

Review written by: Mark Kivlehan (Saturnxascends@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 16:25:48 ET

I WAS TOLDFROM A FRIEND ABOUT A REVIEW FROM ONE OF THE LOCAL PAPERS AND THIS DICKHEAD NAMED (JOHN RUTCH) WAS TOTTALY PUTTIN DOWN TOOL AND ESPECALLY MAYNARD JAMES JEENAN IN HIS REVIEW, SAYING THAT HE HID BEHIND THE DRUMSET THE WHOLE TIME AND SAYING THAT THE ART AND VISUALISATIONS WERE NOT THAT GREAT, HE ALSO WENT ON SAYING THAT EVERYTHING THAT MAYNARD SAID TO THE AUDIENCE WAS NOT INTELEGENT , FROM THE SOUND OF EVERYTHING THIS JOHN RUTCH GUY HAS PROBABBLY NEVER SEEN A TOOL CONCERT IN HIS LIFE AND DOESN'T APPRECIATE THEIR MUSIC AND THEIR ART, LIKE THE REAL LOYAL TOOL FANS OUT THERE. JOHN RUCH IF YOU READ THIS DO ME AND THE REST OF THE LOYAL TOOL FANS OUT THERE THAT ARE PROBABBLY ON MY SIDE WHEN I SAY THIS DIE SLOW MAN... HOW FUCKIN DARE YOU GO TO OUR TOOL CONCERT OR ANY ONE OF THE VENUES AND DOWN-PUT THE GREATEST PREFORMING BAND OUT THERE YOU SHOULD BE SHOT DEAD MAN. YOU WORK FOR A PAPER STOP BASING THE WHOLE CONCERT ON WHAT YOU THOUGHT OF IT BECAUSE I BET IF YOU ASK ANY PERSON THAT WAS THERE TO SEE TOOL WOULD TELL YOU THAT TOOL BLEW THEM AWAY THAT NIGHT. THEY WHERE FUCKIN PHENOMINAL IF ANY OF THE MEMBERS OF TOOL READS THIS - IT DOESNT MATTER WHAT A LAME ASS REPORTER SAYS THE REAL TOOL FANS LOVED THE SHOW YOU CAME ON WITH SUCH ANTHUSIASM AND ENDED WIHT A BAND NOT MUCH MORE THAT YOU COULD ASK FOR IT WAS GREAT THANK YOU. AND TO YOU JOHN RUTCH WHATEVER YOU MAY BE DOING RIGHT NOW I WANT YOU TO LISTEN TO ME YOU ARE A DISCRACE TO LIFE FUCK YOU BUDDY!!!!!!!!!! THANKS AGAIN TOOL FOR COMING AND TEACHING US INSPIRING US AND HEALING US DONT LET ASSHOLES LIKE JOHN RUTCH DETOUR YOU FORM DOING WHAT YOUR DOING KEEP IT UP YOUR BEAUTFUL. COME BACK TO BOSTON SOON.

Review written by: Scott Merriam (scottcarve@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 21:18:01 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

Absolutley inspiriring. i've heard people talk about a tool concert being a "religous experience," and it was just that. Every song they played was a masterpiece. That show opened my mind, it pried open my third eye. The crowd was amazing too. everyone around me was having the same experience. I had chills during every song. And Every word took on a whole new meaning. As crazy as it sounds that show changed my entire perspective on life . Tool Is .......

Review written by: Laurel (laurelannie@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/18/02 21:23:33 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st? Tool show

So if sitting tenth row on the floor wasn't cool enough for this Tool fan, I nearly needed to change my underwear after the first song in the set! I have seen many a concert in my life, but nothing in comparison to what I experienced this past Friday night. The performance was an amusment park for the senses with amzing tunes, colorful projections, smoke, video clips, and red sparkly shit falling from the ceiling! Members of the band are exceptional musicians, lyricists, and phenomenal perfomers. Hopefully this won't be the last Tool show I attend-- but if that is the case I wouldn't change my memories of it for all the Twizzlers in the world.

Review written by: N/A (N/A) Review posted on: 08/19/02 00:06:50 ET

This was this reviewer's 2nd Tool show

Excellent show. The band seemed much more into it as oppose to last tour. Adam, Danny, and Maynard seemed like they were enjoying themselves. Justin played great, but appeared to be half awake. The Crowd was good. Except for the heavy fog of ciggerate and pot smoke. No fights as far i know, and no god awful mosh pits. Now for the worse part of the show.... Tomahawk opened up with one killer of a song. I was in dissbelieve, i couldnt grasp ahold of the idea that Patton there lead man, just a few months ago was playing with the worse band i have ever heard (Fantamos, or whatever the hell there name is). Then the second song hit, which was ok...then the third song blew. Then by the forth Patton fell into his usual pointless shit. Its hard to take him seriously when some lyrics connsist of things like "DA! DA!DA! UGH!!! AHH!BING BONG!" and pointless nosies that add nothing to his band and have no lyrical value, in fact by the forth song he was taking away from them! His horride vocals are beyond me, and drown out, and take away any talent hes surronded by. FOr example Buzz was in his other band, and not even his talent could be heard over Pattons stupidity. For those who dont know why people hate Patton......its cause hes yet to form a song that makes sense. I mean in all honesty does he write these lyrics?! Does he really sit there with pen and papper in hand writing down nonsense....i coudl only imagen what his finished lyrics look like on papper "BOOM! BA! BOOM! BA! SHAA!". Get real, just shut the fuck up and let the rest of your band play. Bottom line on Tomahawk.....the band was good, but once again Pattons horrible vocals drowned anything even worth TRYING to listen to. Maybe Patton should try and form a sentence and place it into one of his songs......its just a crazy idea....but intill then his lyrics make less sense the the Barenaked ladies. (AND NO: I am not being sarcastic)

Review written by: Leonard (jim@wwf.com) Review posted on: 08/19/02 09:47:22 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

Wow! It was amazing. Just getting to the Fleetcenter got my heart pounding. This was my first nig concert and I knew it was going to be a great experience. Opening up, Tomahawk came out with a bang. I started to question all the rumors that they sucked.The song was actually good. And then, they started the second song....Nevermind. The rumors were right. After what seemed a good half hour intermission, the lights went out and the crowd roared. The Lateralus circle and eye appeared on the screens and then Tool came out. They started out with Sober, which was a surprise to me. Then Maynard talked a little, and then they went on to the next song. Stinkfist was great. It was extended, and the band stop at the "Lie, Steal, Cheat!", so the whole crowd just kept singing. Probably the greatest song / moment of the night was when the band played AEnima. Everyone knew every single word. Overall, the concert was so great, I wanted to spend another 40 bucks to see them again the next night. I didn't want to leave. It was just unbelievable.

Review written by: Gabe (gabe_tharp@hotmail.com) Review posted on: 08/19/02 13:44:21 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

I've never seen a more orderly concert. Although I appreciate the lack of moshing, a pit is a great sign of crowd energy. To anyone who posted that Boston's crowd was enthralled and ultra-respectful: maybe it was the hundreds of security guards throwing people out left and right that kept things "calm." Everyone up against The Wall! The Fleet Center was a fucking police state. They tried to take my pocketwatch, which was determined to be a weapon, despite the inch wide leather belt and buckle I was wearing. It makes no sense. Other things that make no sense: you must be 25 to buy beer (one at a time!) with an out of state license. What makes people in this goddamn puritanical state think that is appropriate. There is a federal fucking drinking age which is too high already. What good is ID if any state can decide only their ID is valid? The show was great, but you knew that. The visual effects were decent, but honestly they could be better. I was reminded of Jefferson Airplane shows by some of the retarded swirling lights. I feel like I'm being sucked into the stage. Right, whatever. The backdrops were great. Triad is the most amazing piece of music they played and saved the show for me. Mike Patton is a musical force, if you don't appreciate him don't watch, but shut up. You wouldn't like someone bashing Tool at their show. Tool good. Fleet Center bad.

Review written by: Jason (jason@cinoponic.com) Review posted on: 08/19/02 16:44:05 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

This show was truly awe-inspiring. That was the quickest 2 hours of my life, and I only wish it could have been extended longer. Everything they did was so overly impressive, I don't even know what to say. What I do know, is that Tool is the best band on the planet, and they KNOW it. But unlike some of the crappy bands who go out there and brag about how many fans they have or records they sold ::cough:: kid rock:: cough:: Tool are modest about it and Maynard's comments during the show reflected that. Out of all the Tool shows I've been to, this one had a whole connection going with the crowd and the band. Great, great show. Now, I also thought that people would find the Boston Herald's review interesting. Here are two excerpts. This guy should be fired and never allowed to write anything ever again!!! "...lead singer/poetaster/wretch Maynard James Keenan had stripped to his Jockeys and was moaning tunelessly while what looked like two gigantic, helium-filled black raspberries floated behind him. (Not the only raspberries that scene deserved.)" "...there was the Tool propensity for the songs to sound alike, and Keenan's rather characterless vocals to wear thin." Raspberries?? Characterless vocals??? Whatever dude, have a clue! In any case, I cannot wait for the next Tool show. In a time where rock music is oversaturated with mediocre bands that all sound alike, it's refreshing to still have a great band like Tool around after 10 years.

Review written by: Josh (JMH32680@Juno.com) Review posted on: 08/19/02 18:20:12 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

I'm sure more than half the people have already stopped looking at the review by the time they get down to me, but I can honestly say that this was a all around great show. For all you fools out there who think Tomahawk sucked, I will have to give big fat FU. I would say that 95% of the people who went to that show probably don't even know who Mike Patton is. The man is a genius and probably the most talented man in music. People's Ears are so screwed up from listening to shitey bands like disturbed, godsmack, and Slipknot. That they wouldn't know good or talented music if it was starring them in the face. If Maynard didn't like a band like Tomahawk I'm sure him or the members of Tool would not be having them open for them. And for Mr. Pattons comments to the crowd, they were hilarious. All you uptight jackasses need to get a sense of humor. For the rest of the Evening, The boys were all very tight and on point Danny is the best drummer i have ever seen, its amazing what he does. Same goes for Adam And Justin. Maynard Was great as usual, Love when he talks to the audience nothing better then words of inspiration from the man himself. Awesome show in total. Too bad i was surronded by a bunch of musically closed minded morons. Patton and Maynard are the best......

Review written by: ange. (bushaintmyprez@obscurecompany.com) Review posted on: 08/19/02 19:00:19 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

The show was superior, as you know. Our seats weren't the best for the screens or the Grey panels but turned out to be wonderful for Triad, especially. I could write at length but I feel it now unnecessary after reading the above review by "Jen". This particular tour has shown me more than ever what really counts for something when it comes to having any special opportunities. Between looks and being in the right place at the right time or just knowing one person, it really doesn't matter how big of a fan you are, or what kind of a fan you are (i.e. "maynard is God") I guess I always knew that somehow but it's just sickening to have thrown in your face often, especially when it has to do with Tool. You hope there's something more to it than that but it's a pity that most men or ugly women or even girls that didn't quite make the the "best looking girl there" mark rarely have a chance to be a part of it. Don't get me wrong, i still love Tool and what they do, but this is pretty disallusiioning.

Review written by: Bill Hicks Lives (thatangrykid@yahoo.com) Review posted on: 08/20/02 10:29:09 ET

This was this reviewer's 5th Tool show

Having seen the Manchester show two nights later, I can see this show in its proper context now. Small venues are always better for any band you can think of, but with a big venue, Tool can do a lot. I've grown to hate big rooms as i've gotten older, but Tool took the crowd energy from the Fleet and really forged it into something powerful. And from way up top of the Fleet, I could hear thousands of voices singing to every song. I much preferred this night's setlist to Manchester's, especially the 46 & 2 which totally ripped. The Aenima was also quite intense, if for nothing else because the audience was going apeshit over it. The Triad was also totally amazing, what with all of Tomahawk onstage as well. My advice to all Tool fans: see them in a big venue and a small venue every tour! And speaking of Tomahawk, I thought they were good. They're no Mr. Bungle, but as long as Patton and Stanier keep working together, let them do what they will. These guys are holy veterans of the early 90's, and need to be nurtured until they find their next big thing.

Review written by: Ang (ang@gundamwing.org) Review posted on: 08/20/02 13:28:23 ET

This was this reviewer's 3rd Tool show

Happy Birthday to meeeeee.... It was my 20th birthday and I got to see Tool live in Boston. Life is good. I saw them last tour in Tampa while I lived there, and I have to say that this show blew the last one away. I'm sure that the venue and attendees have a lot to do with it, but I couldn't be happier. I now live in southern Rhode Island, and I attended the show with my Dad, who a few weeks prior had taken me to see Yes with him at Jones Beach on Long Island. So as he took me to see his band, I took him to see mine. He really enjoyed it also. Though he was a little ticked off that Tool was playing a show in Providence the next day, but hey! It was my birthday and the Fleetcenter in Boston is such a better venue than the D&D Center in Pro. Besides...who can EVER forget a night when Maynard wore a black speedo? He was really really into the music and moment this time, much more so that he was in Tampa last October. Thank you Maynard, Adam, Justin and Danny for a great show and a great birthday! Your music was the best gift I could have gotten.

Review written by: Dave (DNickerson@Kronos.com) Review posted on: 08/21/02 10:38:29 ET

This was this reviewer's 1st Tool show

I guess I'm in the majority of Tool fans that didn't appreciate Tomahawk's brand of music. Genius??? Screeching and feedback is not genius...Tool is genius. Tool has always been on the forefront of original and meaningful music. Tomahawk is rubbish...Sorry to be do negative. Tool was great. The drumming on Triad was simply incredible. I'm not usually a fan of long drum solos, but this was amazing. The vibe was truly spiritual the whole night. Highlights for me were "The Patient" and "Aenima". The crowd really got connected for Aenima. Real spacey aura for the Lateralus material. Just plain hypnotized for that whole section. Mind-altering and all that good stuff. Minor complaints: Tomahawk-awful. Speakers to left and right of center front, blocked my view of Maynard most of the night. Moronic muscleheads spilling beer on me during "The Grudge". Small sacrifice to hear the greatest music ever created. Spiral out...Keep going.

Review written by: deadpossum (j.siefert@attbi.com) Review posted on: 08/23/02 05:26:58 ET

Well, i wasn't at this show but i work for Northwest Airlines and i found a book on a flight to Spokane Wa. on the 21st called Vampire of the Mists. I opened it up and low and behold there was an unused TOOL ticket for this show inside. I wonder if this is yours. Any kind of true TOOL fan probably would visit this site and read the review of the show that you missed. Just think it would be cool to hear the story from your side.