By Erin Lee
photo courtesy of RCA Records
In their third decade as a band, Tool has crafted and perfected an immersive live experience unlike any other.
The lights dimmed across Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fla., at 9 p.m. sharp on
Jan. 18, 2024, to make way for a large skull projected floating across three video screens, moving slowly stage left to right accompanied by the "Third Eye" heartbeat intro.
One by one, members took their places and began the evening with "Fear Innoculum," the title track of their 2019 album. Not one for extensive crowd banter save for the occasional one-liner, singer Maynard James Keenan kept the set tight, only pausing a couple of times to thank everyone for coming and encouraging our cheering.
Drummer Danny Carey was prominently showcased center stage. He was the most well-lit performer in the band, and with good reason: he is a powerhouse percussionist, effortlessly playing his way through song after song with technical precision. His riser was flanked by two raised platforms in which Maynard took turns singing from, his usual preference to not be front and center but captivating nevertheless. In addition to the venue's screens, the platforms and drum riser also featured a video element. For two hours, you felt truly submerged in Tool's world.
Along with the more familiar imagery by artist Alex Grey; we were treated to a large twitching eyeball, faces that appeared to swallow the band whole, and aliens staring down ominously.
They closed Act I of the show with an excellent performance of "The Grudge" from 2001's Lateralus. A countdown clock with 12 minutes appeared on the video screen, and the crowd filed out for a much-appreciated restroom break.
I overheard people chatting about how they wish more bands would do this.
The spotlight came down on Danny Carrey standing at a large gong on the stage left platform. He began playing Chocolate Chip Trip, followed by each member taking a seat front and center for "Culling Voices."
Throughout the second act, bassist Justin Chancellor and guitarist Adam Jones each took turns with solos, showing off their chops for the receptive audience. Metallic confetti burst from the ceiling, laser lights reflecting off of each piece as they danced across the venue.
Tool finished their 11-song set with "Stinkfist." Arguably one of their biggest hits, the entire room rose to their feet and roared their approval, singing along and pumping fists.
Tool only gets better with age, and this tour boasts the most thoughtfully crafted production elements from the band to date.
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