Ive been a tool fan forever and these reactions are such a strange phenomenon. I don't know why but I agree with you that it is such a satisfying feeling watching people discover them for the first time.
From my understanding, the guitarists play around and come up with stuff. They then pass it off to Danny Carey, the drummer for him to create what it needs. Then it goes to Maynard, the singer. He gives it the rest of what it needs.
@ashleyreeb yes, i heard Maynard say this in an interview. It seems like an intuitive way to go about it, but apparently kind of rare. Definitely works for them though!
I’m a 50 year old white dude, seeing a younger black generation appreciate, enjoy and respect a bands music I grew up listening to in the 90’s literally brings a tear of joy to my eye. Mad props to you guys for keeping an open mind and sampling something new. Not easy. ✌️
Those of us that are iniated into the Tool fandom love watching these first time reactions because deep down we all wish we could hear Tool for the first time again. 10/10 analysis guys you got my sub!
I was agreeing with you until I realized hearing the opiate EP was an amazing first, then undertow really amped that up. Then Aenima was like hearing them for the first time all over again. Then Lateralus was like hearing them for the first time again. 10000 day proved they could make something better than Lateralus. Then Fear Innoculum (at least half the album) made me think it was a whole new band. But yeah, to hear Tool for the first again would be amazing!
Do we?? I enjoy certain ones. I understand music is subjective. These dudes have no clue what this song is about which pretty much a majority of these. I like that they enjoy the music but they are missing the point.
Eyeballs deep in muddy water is a reference to Dantes inferno. It was the punishment for hypocrites. The song is essentially about a judge who was extremely tough sentencing minor drug offenses, was later caught with drugs and was crying for leniency and forgiveness. " Cohen indigo", " lemon juice up in your eyes" is an allusion to fake, crocodile tears. There is so much wrapped into this song.
"Eyeballs deep in muddy waters" is mentioned by Maynard to mean "Eyeballs deep in the muddy waters of materialism", as a statement against Christianity, as they claim that "Through the faith, we transcend materialism, even the material world itself", yet here we are with all these convenient Christians all wrapped up in material things, and judging others for those same problems. Basically, this entire song is based around criticizing Christianity. It could be a gentle nod at Dante's Inferno, considering Maynard isn't opposed to occult things like in Lateralus, but this is directly a critique on Christianity. Then Cozen Indigo is basically the fake tears that Christians give each other in forgiveness, knowing well they don't really care. This is furthered by "Kangaroo be stoned. He's guilty as the government", which refers to the corruption and dishonesty of major figures in Christianity, and MAY even be accusing Jesus. He's saying the major heads of Christianity that somehow were given the power to judge others, though the Bible prohibits it, have a rigged court and condemn men just as guilty as they are.
Oh dear. Following my reply to you (and I DO recall that pic in Dore's pics of the Inferno) I double checked the punishments for hypocrites and it's not the muddy eyeballs - hypocrites wear lovely clothes in hell, but the clothes are weighed down underneath with lead, iron etc, so it's really a slog for them to move, and that's the punishment. Damn! I wonder what the muddy eyeballs come from then? Research needed!
Danny Carey is my favorite drummer of all time. Have you listened to the Fear Inoculum album? Listen from start to finish. You will thank me later brother!
Definitely listen to a Tool song first without worrying too much about what Maynard is singing bc he means his vocal performance to be part of the music as a whole and not on top of it. But to not go back and read the lyrics is to miss out on the GENIUS of Maynard’s lyricism. The Pot for example has many layers about hypocrisy in general (The pot calling the kettle black) the hypocrisy of the war on drugs (prosecutors going after pot smokers when they themselves are the real criminals-“fucking hypocrites!”) and the hypocrisy of governments ruling when they are themselves corrupt. Read the lyrics after listening to a Tool song and then listen to it again! It will be worth your while. Genius all around!!
Very much so. He doesnt write lyrics until he's heard the band play the song. So it's very much a part of it, and not just something that he had in his head without sound.
what questionme2 said. Maynard tends to write in double, or even triple, entendres - there are usually two or more "meanings" to the lyrics, just beyond the musical contribution to the overall song. Its good to process it, and no shame if the first listen you can't really figure out what the "point" is.
@@tempsitch5632 i feel like it is also refering to the hypocrisy of a judge or a lawyer who would ruin someone's life over a minor drug incident while they themselves are high on some drug. I think it can very well be taken literally aswell as metaphorically.
This song is about hypocrisy, the title refers to the phrase "The Pot calling the Kettle black". It uses a masterful weaving of metaphors and turns of phrase combined with insanely technical musicianship. A true masterpiece.
Fun Fact: The instruments are complete before the lyrics are written. The lyrics are influenced by the instruments, which is usually the opposite of most rock music.
lots of metal bands do music first, like a majority of them. there might be an outline of what direction but most metal bands it is about the music, the groove and the feeling
@@superrhombus1 In this case it's pretty specifically the music that gets made first. Personally I find Tool's lyrics inseperable from my enjoyment of their songs. Both elevate the other.
“Every section’s dope”. From a massive Tool fan I so genuinely love you guys finding appreciation of this track and the band. It’s amazing to see music reach people in such similar ways. It’s universal.
I feel like everything tool does is epic, Maynard is a genius. I feel the same way I love when people find tool and even more when they appreciate their lyrics. Maynard has two other bands that’s pretty amazing 😁😁😁
This is a really good one for a BRAND NEW fan to listen to as well. As much as I love a Lateralus or parabol/parabola, it can be a lot if you're used to shorter more conventional songs. This one is way longer than a usual radio single but it's still approachable because it's just so tight and grooves so friggin hard.
Tool touches the inner core of who we are. They keep us on our toes when it comes to deciphering the meaning but once you realize this song The Pot it's about "calling the kettle black"***" enjoy your journey into the best band that ever. Lived ...you have now become a fan ...I e been one since the early 90s when they first came out and their videos were claymation! Dig deep and the substance of what and who they are will not only amaze and astonish you but will take you places you e never been musically .you have the honor of hearing drums by Danny and vocals of Maynard and guitars by Adam and Justin you now are in a room of greatness listen with an open mind sit back and realize the music you hear is of greatness . Their Omni Gods . Untouchable by others who try to imitate the rawness they have . Only Tool can be Tool others who try to cover them are the brown M&Ms not the Spectrum of all .. Tool is unique . Find the words and then the meaning stop guessing . Research them it'll make a world of difference.. good luck guys your on the right track . Sit back and enjoy.. become one with the music.... That's a Tool fan. We are one with the music ...... It's deep. Try Jambi.. then Parabola and Parabola they follow each other one leads into the next .. Awesomeness ... Pure Awesomeness
Tool uses insane poly-rhythms that constantly shift throughout their pieces in addition to frequent key changes and discordant harmonies. It is super complex and interesting music. And a lot of their lyrics are pure poetry. They are a highly technical band and they are very clean and precise at the same time. They really sound like this live too. And they improvise on top of it. They're not for everyone, but they are damn good.
Excellent comments, although I don’t know anyone whose been introduced to Tool, that hasn’t been enamored with them, but that’s just me. They’re technical, magical, tribal and nobody does it better. It’s not just music, it’s art, poetry as you stated, it’s a story, a journey, a spiritual and life altering experience…especially live. Saw them on their first tour in early 90’s and I’ve been hooked ever since. They’re absolute masters of their craft.
@@teddy.d174 First time I saw them is actually on youtube (I did not record) I accidentally drank about a quart of mushroom tea at a friends before wandering onto South St in Philly where my buddy was doin door at Dobbs, tells me to check out this band. The tea kicked in right as they started and Maynard stared at me the whole time, freakin me out, while I was shroomin without intention. Look up Tool live at Dobbs. Oh, no one told me their name so I didn't know if it actually happened, swore it was a hallucination, forgot all about it until about 8 years ago lol. Life changing for sure back then
The lyrics and how Maynard uses his voice.... it's the 4th instrument of the band. It's insane..... This song is about hypocrisy.... and it's beautifully written.
What even the majority of tool fans never think about, because they are very vocal about their preferences & things they notice in the compositions, is what both you & me point out. The fourth instrument is absolutely Maynard's voice. From his growls to his vibrato, movingly powerful screams to stabbing accusational crescendos. I get more emotion from the combination of the burden-laying bass licks tied to the heart thru the drum cadence, being whipped by the shearing guitar power chords in time with the lash of a scream or yelled lyric than from any other rock/metal combination. So whomever lays down the first layer that the others play off of has the easiest job (during composition) I'd think it would be the bassist, it is just so heavy & angry. I feel the drums are layered on top of the fat bass. Then the guitarist finds a rhythm & chasms to chop into. His fills rebuild a new sense of emergency then the drums build up your heart rate & whack! Guitar chords chop down to help you release the blood pressure before swapping to rhythm again as the lyrics take your new emotion for another ride.
Same with Porcupine Tree. Start with In Absentia. The latest Album seem to lose me. Even Arctic Monkey. They all have the same kind of style now. At least Tool still has the riffs.
@@IWantBasterds Porcupine Tree has so many time signature changes they always keep it interesting. Finally saw them live. Gavin Harrison brings so much talent to any drum style.
Tool structures their songs different than most. Adam (guitarist), Justin (Bass) & Danny (Drums) composes the music first. Then Maynard the lead singer will come in and add the lyrics after the composition . All 4 members are legitimate A+ musicians at what they do. Danny could very well be the best drummer alive. Check out Danny Carey drum cam Pneuma it's incredible. Always use lyrics and don't watch any music videos they will just distract you.
Also, the beauty of tool is that each instrument (including vocals) are doing their own thing, that can be listened to on its own, but when combined, it is supreme.
Angels on the sideline Puzzled and amused Why did Father give these humans free will? Now they're all confused Don't these talking monkeys know that Eden has enough to go around? Plenty in this holy garden, silly old monkeys Where there's one you're bound to divide it Right in two Angels on the sideline Baffled and confused Father blessed them all with reason And this is what they choose Monkey killing monkey killing monkey over pieces of the ground Silly monkeys give them thumbs They forge a blade, and where there's one they're bound to divide it Right in two Right in two Monkey killing monkey killing monkey over pieces of the ground Silly monkeys give them thumbs, they make a club And beat their brother down How they survive so misguided is a mystery Repugnant is a Creature who would squander the ability To lift an eye to heaven, conscious of his fleeting time here Cut and divide it all right in two Cut and divide it all right in two Cut and divide it all right in two Cut and divide it all right in two Fight over the clouds, over wind, over sky and Fight over life, over blood, over air and light Over love, over sun, over another Fight for the time, for the one, for the rise and Angels on the sideline again Been so long with patience and reason Angels on the sideline again Wondering when this tug of war will end Cut and divide it all right in two Cut and divide it all right in two Cut and divide it all right in two Right in two Right in two
@@crankfastle8138 I’m a huge mike Patton fan but a lot of his lyrics are complete gibberish, he’s admitted it himself he cares more about the sound of the words than what they mean, he wipes the floor with Maynard as a singer though
The fact you guys know about timing signatures already tells me you’re going to end up loving this band. Every music nerd from every genre I’ve ever met ends up loving this band
This isn't just rock music. This is tool and when you listen to tool you're going down a rabbit hole. My friends welcome to the rabbit hole of tool. Singers name is Maynard James Keenan. It's drummer. Is Danny Carey? Their time signatures are very difficult to identify, but I love that you appreciate their talent and the way that they put their music together. It's so amazing. I've been a fan since the '90s
@@belldracka Bro if you like psytrance i understand where you come from, tool is very synonymous to psychedelics in general. Right in Two is a great song if you havent heard it yet. The tabla solo is insane
@@Randomfliper speaking of tabla... everything danny carey knows of the tabla (to extent he does at least) can be attributed to his lessons from tabla master ALOKE DUTTA featured on salival (tool boxset, 2000)'s version of "pushit" (live). that's aloke. go ahead, youtube the alien. oh yeah, duh! ...yeah, he's an alien. (considered "fifth member of the band" - likely due to touring that version of "pushit" at the time) actually. "pushit (live)" ...is a good recommendation for reaction video i haven't seen much of
Yea I don’t worry about lyrics for a while when I hear a new Tool song… the music is soo complex and layered it’s all I can do to try to drink from that firehose for a while…
That's what makes these "first-looks" into Tool so fun as an audience member. Watching the S4S guys (and so many others) completely convert by the seventh minute of this vid (th-cam.com/video/4oJXNyup-KY/w-d-xo.html) to the sheer genius of what they're seeing is so fun. Damn right they're smarter than everyone else. Us TOOL fans have known it for years.
In regards to the question, “are you meant to understand the lyrics?” Yes, but not always easily at first. This song came out when you still bought the CD and had the lyrics printed off in the cover art to follow along. Tool is a great band to follow in that their music hits different depending on your mood. Sometimes you only need the vibe, like when you’re working out. Other times the lyrics really cut deep and you need them from of you until you have them seared in your mind.
This song came out when you still bought the CD and had the lyrics printed off in the cover art to follow along. also stereoscopic glasses built into the album case. i still have that one in a box somewhere. i also had the aenima one with the lenticular cover, but sadly that one got stolen.
TOOL is a band with a lead drummer and a rhythmic vocalist, IMO. The interesting part too is the band creates the music first then the singer comes in and writes the lyrics.
Hence the 13 year hiatus between '10,000 Days' and Fear Inoculum...... These dudes reviewing this video have yet to comprehend the depth of TOOL. THEY'RE the MOST well-thought-out-satisfying band of all time. It takes A LOT of time ⏲️ to appreciate this band..... It's "EYE BALLS 👁 DEEP IN MUDDY WATERS" BTW...... Maynard is a lyrical genius not only with what he says but how he sings it. Please show me another band that doesn't have one bad (skipable) song! I've listened to their every song at least 90 times and every song, every time, it gets better.... No other band has a fan that can say that so suck it Megadeath!
Coming from a drummers perspective, I couldn’t agree more, and I have the utmost respect and love for MJK, as well as Adam and Justin! His lyrics are truly incredible, especially considering they are done after the music is completed by the rest of the band, but to have a master like Danny behind that unbelievable kit, he will always be the main reason I go see them every time they are in the Philly area. There is a reason they call him the human octopus!
If I were ever to write music, I'd definitely have my band mates create the instrumentals first and then come up with lyrics but that's just how my mind works most effectively
When I have a bad day at work or just am feeling a little off, I always check new tool reaction videos. Seeing people vibe to tool for the first time cheers me up immediately
Maynard is probably one of the most gifted lyricist in a generation. Very intelligent, and intentional. The great thing about Tool is that they are 4 uniquely talented guys, all doing their thing, and coming together. Where the sum is greater than the parts.
Yeah it's surprising how independent they are.. I mean Adam, Justin and Danny put the composition together and then Maynard comes in with lyrics later. But it all sounds and flows like it was meant to be. If it works for them, who are we to wave out fingers 😂
Tool is a band formed by extremely precise musicians that focus on unique time signatures and riffs blended with extraordinary solo performances from the rhythm and percussion sections. The lyrical ability and creativeness from the vocalists is the icing on the cake.
Wrote a paper in college about Tool and I had a section dedicated to their unique time signatures. How they change them up throughout the song and how different instruments are doing different time signatures at the same time. My professor didn't like that, said "that's not how music works" and insisted I change it. I didn't and got marked off. I'm convinced he never even attempted to listen to Tool before grading my paper.
@@meganwoehl5277 I lended a copy of a Porcupine Tree CD to my sister once. She had it playing in her car when she picked up her choir director and immediately she picked up on the tempo changes and odd time signatures. It’s not her genre but she recognized the difficulty and the talent it takes. Tool is in the same vein. Your instructor just doesn’t understand music.
Yes absolutely, but not so much so in the beginning of their career though. They definitely grew into the extremely precise complex creatures that they became. I mean they had it in the beginning, just not as much
When it comes to Tool, the rhythm is the meat, and the lyrics are the seasoning. You can’t truly appreciate the taste of the song without both aspects. It’s so damn good.
Tool is a stand alone band; truly one of a kind. Their time signatures are insane and Danny Carey, the drummer, is a MASTER at his craft. Tool composes the instrumental first, give it to Maynard to add his vocals to it. Maynard is also the lead singer in Pucsifer and A Perfect Circle if you want to check them out too. ❤️
Danny Carey is something else. It’s like wailing on those drums is as natural as breathing to him. And Justin chancellor is such a master on the bass and Adam with the guitar… sheesh… have you ever tried to play a tool song? The tabs are nuts. Nothing about that band is simple. MJK has a vocal range and writing skills that are just unreal. May as well try to play Dragonforce. 😂
Every member of tool is a genius.. that four men can play over 30 instruments which is insane.. everything they write is insane and i could never get enough of tool
@@randymiller3918 No, Maynard was definitely brought in later. They were actually looking for a female singer and Maynard had to convince them to go with him.
"I could almost understand what the guitar is saying!" My dude, that is the BASS solo. Tool has the best rhythm section of any rock band not named Rush. :D As much as Tool is incredible musically tho, Maynards lyrics is equally fantastic. This album is mostly dedicated to his mother's passing after 10,000 days of illness and paralysis, with Wings for Marie pts 1 & 2 being the culmination of that theme. I recommend checking it out, but maybe bring tissue.
Oh also, I recommend always listening to tool headphones (so many little details you miss otherwise) and always read lyrics to get the full affect. Enjoy guys!
Ive heard this song a million times and i still get goosebumps. I love Maynards voice and i love that yall are being so open minded about different genres
Every single member of this band is a genius at what they play and Maynard is a poet. The lyrics are important. As important as every perfect note they play.
I wanted to stand and applaud like six times during this reaction. You guys picked up on everything and had so much insight into the track just on your first listen. This is what music reactions should be! Keep it up!
“I think they’re doing completely different things” Exactly that. Tool use a lot of polyrhythms and polymeters in their songs. You’ll often find that the drums are playing one time signature, whilst the guitar, bass and vocals are alternating in other time signatures. Pneuma is a stunning example of this, from their latest album. Especially towards the end, when the guitar, bass, and drums all drift in an out of sync with one another. It’s honestly hypnotic to tune into. The Pot is one of my all time favourite tunes though. Such a great choice for an entry into the world of Tool.
Watching the video of Danny Carey playing Pneuma live gave me a whole new respect for his skill, and I already thought he was one of the best drummers alive today.
Tool songs are my favorite Tool songs. Even the ones that don't hit on the first listen. I just need that song to hit in a different moment on a playlist. I've never found a genuinely skippable Tool song.
Watching people hear Tool for the first time, and get it!! Brings me so much joy. I've been following this band since the early 90s. Thanks guys. Keep up the good work
lifelong tool fan and just stumbled on this video. I love this video so much and I love seeing you guys encounter this song and this band. It is so amazing to see. Will be watching y’all more
I absolutely LOVE watching videos of non TOOL fans reacting and interpreting their music and lyrics. Perspective and experience is everything. Welcome to the rabbit hole that is TOOL.
Remember this was before Internet, we bought into the music, the artistry, and lyrics. Buying a CD and pulling out the sleeve with all the lyrics and looking at all the art was like opening a super cool present. Sitting in my room with headphones on just looking over the sleeve over and over again! 😊❤️
Amen. I can remember when audioslave came out with that badass flame album and my dad bought it. We all sat down and took it out the case. Played it on surround sound. I'm building my cd collection up. Imagine what it will be like in 25 years. I'll be about 52. Probably not cds
@@jimidave6281 UUUGH BUT THEY DIDNT RELEASE ON ITUNES. I remember being a kid wanting to download this album so bad- because I heard it on the radio. But it WASNT AVAILABLE ONLINE. TOOL ended up being the first CD I set out to buy as a kid. This comment took me right back.
This is one of my favorite Tool songs! The song is about hypocrisy, All the little sayings about the pot calling the kettle black. Also the Kangaroo court is like your guilty before the facts are giving out or at all. All Tool songs have a deep meaning thats why I love them so much
@@scapito A kangaroo court is basically when a group arbitrarily judged people with little to no actual evidence and typically one that doesn't apply the law correctly (ie All Stoners are Lazy, Metal Heads are all devil worshippers ect)
Tool's lyrics are always important. Always lol. Just as complex as the music itself. These guys can't be compared to other bands. They are their own genre
Love your guys energy and your analysis. I think the understanding of the lyrics comes from listening multiple times, like you picked out parts in one listsen, and all it takes is 20 listens before you can follow along! Got a sub from me.
It's all Danny's fault really that fucker is just too damn technical, all Jokes aside you are right they have so much going on and Maynard said on JRE that working on Tool projects is exhausting as fuck
Been listening to Tool since 92 . These reactions from ordinary people to vocal coaches makes me chuckle . Finally they understand why Tool is one of the best if not the best band for the past 30 something years .
I especially like Dre's comment about how before, he assumed that anyone could play rock. As someone that grew up with rock/metal, I always thought the same about rap. Once I opened my mind the world of music opened up. Now, it's not uncomon for me to have Tool, Pharcyde, J5, and Iron Maiden all queued up. Continue using music to connect us as people. Respect.
I’ve tried liking Tool since they came out, but there was always something about them that was elusive; I recognized the genius I was hearing but I couldn’t feel it. Then, about a month ago for some obscure reason, my brain decided that what was hidden is now visible, and it all came together for me. I watched the reaction compilation for Lateralus, and the collective stunned silence afterward was in sync with my own.
To me as a fan of rap and metal there's still a huge difference in difficulty. If only because Rap artists often have many many people working on lyrics and the beat and all that. Most metal bands I'm into basically write 95-100% of the lyrics and music and play the instruments. Both have unique skill sets for sure.
According to Maynard that was not planned. The song just came out that way which if true makes you wonder how special they really are to naturally input the most natural sequence found in the world.
I loved seeing you guys agree so much on this reaction. I think that is some of the magic of Tool. Even if you're a lyrics guy you cannot help but feel the music. And Maynard uses so many carefully chosen deep metaphors that it takes a few listens to even start to catch everything he is saying. The replayability of this music is infinite. Thanks guys.
There's few songs that have been created over the last 60 years that are perfect, where the the sum of the parts are creatively unique, technically sound, soulful, emotional and when they come together to form a whole, nothing can be added or taken out to make it better. This song is an example of perfection.
Top bands I’ve seen live. 95 at the shrine.. they sound just like they do live as you do from a cd. And they had a shemale strip on stage while we laying one song lol
You’ve hit the jackpot with Tool. Legendary, iconic, award winning amazing band. Also, read up on their guitarist Adam Jones. He has done cool film work too! Film work Jones was offered a film scholarship but declined and chose to move to Los Angeles to study art and sculpture. His interest shifted to film, and he began to work as a sculptor and special effects designer, where he learned the stop motion camera techniques he would later apply in Tool's music videos, such as "Sober", "Prison Sex", "Stinkfist", "Ænema", "Schism", "Parabola", and "Vicarious". He graduated in 1987. After graduation, he went to work at Rick Lazzarini's Character Shop. During the next couple of years, he worked the TV show Monsters. He designed and fabricated a Grim Reaper makeup and a zombie head on a spike (later used in Ghostbusters II) among others. After that, he went to Stan Winston's special effects workshop, where he worked on Predator 2, sculpting a unique-looking skull for the Predator's spaceship interior. Jones worked on several other films in Hollywood doing makeup and set design, including Jurassic Park, Batman Returns, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Dances with Wolves, and Ghostbusters II. He did the "Freddy Krueger in the womb" makeup for A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child, as well as work for A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master. He also worked on commercials for salad dressing (never aired), Olympic Paints & Stains (Albert Einstein makeup), and Duracell (boxers and taxicabs).
Which is irritating as fuck, tbh. It's brutal wanting to find something similar but knowing you just never will. And I've been looking for, what, 25 years?
@@TR-ut3yhoh yeah. And after hearing them live you can hear how these recordings can fill a huge arena. The bass and intensity reverberates like nothing else you'll ever hear. Still have vivid memories of Sober on their '02 tour
They don't usually post the lyrics until the record has been out for a bit because they want you to focus on how the music makes you feel first. Maynard is an incredible vocalist and lyricist. The music and the lyrics are fantastic independent of each other.
I'm an old guy who was in my late teens and early 20's when Tool was a big part of my life's 'soundtrack.' I love to see the young ones of today rediscover our music and react to it for the first time. It brings me back to the time in my life when I had the same reaction, and for just a split second, I am young once again, with you.
Subbed for Tool and Rage Against the machine! Your journey into these two bands will surely be fun to see. You two are in for one hell of a ride! Spiral out 🌀
They switch their time signitures constantly. They do odd things like match the Fibonacci sequence for weird math within their album. They are incredibly talented musicians who luckily found each other. Amazing live shows
Hey fellas, first time seeing your reactions and I was so impressed w your willingness to really open both your ears and your mind to grapple w one of the most incredible rock bands of our generation. Tool's ability to play with time signatures, ambiance, mood, dynamics, layered lyrics, etc is second to none. These guys are fucking apex predators on their respective instruments and have an uncanny knack for blending intellectual AND emotional potency. I loved hearing what you had to say and I can't recommend digging into Tool's catalogue enough. Great job!
TOOL ARMY RISE UP!!! Keep doing tool man I can tell you guys love them already… I know it’s your first reaction to them I can’t wait for the other songs! I recommend “SCHISM” one of their favorite singles!! You guys are about to travel down the TOOL rabbit hole and I can’t wait!!
Tool is an epic level so don’t expect that with all rock. Try Right In Two from the same album. If you want something rock from more musicians, try System of a Down too.
If you want to be mind f’d by time signatures listen to Lateralus, it’s a song with timing written based off the Fibonacci sequence, and it’s just a great song.
Pnuema has some incredible time changes too, very wild the signature swaps that Danny Carey makes during the song. At times, he's playing one time signature with his left hand, and another with his right. Incredible drummer, top 5 all time in my book.
whats even more over looked is Wings and Wings part II ( 10,000 days) Apparently they dont even like to do this live as its so dam hard and can be messed up really easily as I seen in an interview with them. Not to mention the emotional toll it takes on MJK
Did it to a DJ at a Caribbean party. Sucker asked me to pick any song. 🤷🏽 I knew he'd want to count the beat to transition to his next song. He looked at me for a life raft.😂
I vote forty six & 2 for they lyrics alone but H is my favorite tool song of all time that part where MJK says "The snake is drowned, I can see the look your eyes. My fear beings to fade recalling all of the times." Still to this day sends a chill up my spine.
If you do Tool again, I recommend The Grudge. It has something for both y'all: musically perfect and a tremendous message in the lyrics. EDIT: A note about understanding the lyrics. It just takes time and practice. I fully understand all these songs where there's screaming and such, because I listen to it everyday. But if I flip on the radio and listen to a pop song, I have no clue what they are singing.
TOOL is definitely well known for using unusual and changing time signatures. Glad you appreciated this! Also, if you appreciated that scream, listen to The Grudge by TOOL.
Good choice. Glad to see your reaction. With TOOL, there are no coincidences. Everything has meaning, with multiple layers of hidden meaning sometimes.
New sub. I'm a huge Tool fan, and I really like that you guys break it down. Too many reaction channels just nod along and end the video. I like that you're pausing and breaking it down and really appreciating the song. I highly recommend more Tool, and a good one to go to next to really hear their complexity is the song Lateralus. I'd also love to see you guys check out Gojira, they are quite a bit heavier than Tool and RATM but they win over most non-metalheads or new metalheads. Stranded is a good song to start with for Gojira if you end up checking them out. I can safely say as a fan of both Tool and Gojira that we love watching new fans of the bands discovering the music the same way we did
my two favorite bands alongside deftones and my two favorite groups to see people experience for the first time, especially musicians. Danny and Mario are your favorite drummer's favorite drummers.
This is one of the best and most honest reactions to this song. You both had astute ways of expressing yourselves about what you were experiencing, more so than most other reactors. Tool is a GENIUS band. They utilize mathematics in their timing and lyrical content at times (so good luck keeping tempo), and present a perspective on art and human life in a masterful way. I really enjoyed watching you both experience this, and hearing your take on rock music. More Tool please (check out their drummer, considered one of the GOATs, on Pneuma live). Subscribed.
Tool is a whole other level of technical skill and composition when it comes to any genre of music. The lead vocalist is also a lyrical genius. They do not take any song off. They go hard every song
Just found your channel with this reaction, loved the respect you guys gave the experience, we can never have a first experience again so bands like this gain a cult following as people live vicariously through you guys and your journey. I don’t know if any one will see this, but I’d love to recommend another band that is a very incredible experience. Would you be willing to react to a band called “Sleep Token?” All of their songs are react worthy, but if I could recommend a starting point I love to see the song “Ascensionism”. PS. They are fantastic lyricists, I would recommend having lyrics available. There’s a lot of built-in lore to their songs so don’t get caught up on lines until you decide that you’re ready to venture down the Sleep Token Rabit hole, thank you guys, I will keep an eye out on your channel!
Danny is the metronome and it’s almost a religious experience for real. He’s so tall and has such i range of reach…wow. DUDE. Tool albums are meant to be listened to straight through beginning to end. And the musics is what sets the mood and let’s the lyrics pull you into the story. At the beginning of this song the chill entrance so that the message of the song pulls you into it.
First time viewer of your channel, and Tool is my favorite band. I love seeing emotionally intelligent people discovering new stuff. You have a new subscriber. Cheers!
Great, insightful reaction. Since you both know what you're talking about, I look forward seeing your reaction to "Pneuma" (Danny Carey Drum Cam), " Invincible", "Lateralus", "The Grudge".....Thank you! I promise, you won't be disappointed.
The grudge has one of the longest held screams in the history of music. I actually think you will love this one on particular. th-cam.com/video/3BXyEUOuNds/w-d-xo.html
The Pot” is meticulously written to criticize hypocrisy, mainly targeting the church (Christianity) and the government. This song comes on the heels of the titular “10,000 Days”, a song in which Maynard calls out hypocrisy in the congregations of the church his mother attended. This song, “The Pot”, can be seen to, in this context, be a response to his own calling out of hypocrisy as hypocrisy - in the words of the common idiom, “The pot calling the kettle black.” The black kettle is also referenced here to show how the so called God-men killed innocent natives and Chief Black Kettle in the Cheyenne tribe. On the track, Maynard also changes his vocal style dramatically from that of the prior track “10,000 Days (Wings Pt. 2)”, suggesting the appearance of another narrator.
“Black dudes reacting to Tool” needs to be its own TH-cam category
Agree 100%!
It pretty much is 😂
Lol
It's my 2nd favorite youtube genre. Right behind "Villagers trying western foods and media".
Segregation XD
Still 20+ years later, watching people discover TOOL brings me goosebumps, and brings that same exciting feeling to old fans.
Ive been a tool fan forever and these reactions are such a strange phenomenon. I don't know why but I agree with you that it is such a satisfying feeling watching people discover them for the first time.
Tool army still going strong! 🔧💪
💯
From my understanding, the guitarists play around and come up with stuff. They then pass it off to Danny Carey, the drummer for him to create what it needs. Then it goes to Maynard, the singer. He gives it the rest of what it needs.
@ashleyreeb yes, i heard Maynard say this in an interview. It seems like an intuitive way to go about it, but apparently kind of rare. Definitely works for them though!
You're gonna have a tough time if you're trying to count time in a TOOL song. They keep it interesting
You’re right Except most of this song is actually in 4/4, they just make it sound like it’s not ;)
@@flataffect displacement.
Rush or dream theater are even more fun
@@flataffect basically all of meshuggah lol
Yeaa they do! 🤘
I’m a 50 year old white dude, seeing a younger black generation appreciate, enjoy and respect a bands music I grew up listening to in the 90’s literally brings a tear of joy to my eye. Mad props to you guys for keeping an open mind and sampling something new. Not easy. ✌️
Maybe you are a 50 year old dude and these are some young dudes. We always have to divide for some reason. Right in two.
Omg me too!!
@@JuandongduckI see what you did there.
@@sillysam3277 I was thinking it might have been too clever.
@@JuandongduckMaybe 99% of black people only listen to black music. This is known by pretty much everyone who isn't an sjw.
Those of us that are iniated into the Tool fandom love watching these first time reactions because deep down we all wish we could hear Tool for the first time again. 10/10 analysis guys you got my sub!
I was agreeing with you until I realized hearing the opiate EP was an amazing first, then undertow really amped that up. Then Aenima was like hearing them for the first time all over again. Then Lateralus was like hearing them for the first time again. 10000 day proved they could make something better than Lateralus. Then Fear Innoculum (at least half the album) made me think it was a whole new band. But yeah, to hear Tool for the first again would be amazing!
@@dphunct EXACTLY 💯
Do we?? I enjoy certain ones. I understand music is subjective. These dudes have no clue what this song is about which pretty much a majority of these. I like that they enjoy the music but they are missing the point.
Yes we do
Well said and at times it do feel like it’s the first time …those are not just songs it’s a whole vibe and different energy when tool is playing
Eyeballs deep in muddy water is a reference to Dantes inferno. It was the punishment for hypocrites. The song is essentially about a judge who was extremely tough sentencing minor drug offenses, was later caught with drugs and was crying for leniency and forgiveness. " Cohen indigo", " lemon juice up in your eyes" is an allusion to fake, crocodile tears. There is so much wrapped into this song.
"Eyeballs deep in muddy waters" is mentioned by Maynard to mean "Eyeballs deep in the muddy waters of materialism", as a statement against Christianity, as they claim that "Through the faith, we transcend materialism, even the material world itself", yet here we are with all these convenient Christians all wrapped up in material things, and judging others for those same problems. Basically, this entire song is based around criticizing Christianity. It could be a gentle nod at Dante's Inferno, considering Maynard isn't opposed to occult things like in Lateralus, but this is directly a critique on Christianity.
Then Cozen Indigo is basically the fake tears that Christians give each other in forgiveness, knowing well they don't really care. This is furthered by "Kangaroo be stoned. He's guilty as the government", which refers to the corruption and dishonesty of major figures in Christianity, and MAY even be accusing Jesus. He's saying the major heads of Christianity that somehow were given the power to judge others, though the Bible prohibits it, have a rigged court and condemn men just as guilty as they are.
Ah is THAT where the muddy eyeballs come from! Well sleuthed! I can actually see the picture from Doré's Dante's Inferno 😊👍
cozened indigo but ye crocodile tears is the vibe there
The last sentence here sums up the lions share of their whole catalog
Oh dear. Following my reply to you (and I DO recall that pic in Dore's pics of the Inferno) I double checked the punishments for hypocrites and it's not the muddy eyeballs - hypocrites wear lovely clothes in hell, but the clothes are weighed down underneath with lead, iron etc, so it's really a slog for them to move, and that's the punishment. Damn!
I wonder what the muddy eyeballs come from then? Research needed!
Took sixty seconds for you to realize you were in the presence of greatness, respect.
I’m a 73 year old drummer that recently discovered TOOL. My favorites include Led Zeppelin and early rock …but TOOL… WOW just WOW !😊
How do you feel about aphrodites child ?
Danny Carey is up there w Bonham, Neil Pert, all the greats.
Danny Carey is one of a kind. And the man is pure sunshine as a human being. I get to meet him in 54 days. I am STOKED!!!
Danny Carey is my favorite drummer of all time. Have you listened to the Fear Inoculum album? Listen from start to finish. You will thank me later brother!
@@claudiamarianidamato9499 never heard! I will ..
I’m sure y’all can already tell, but tool fans love watching people hear tool for the first time 🤘
I turned my 19yr old friends on to Tool recently, their definitely fans now. They rock it out with me now. Took them to Tool School lol
Just as every other band fan
@@esavirtanen6418 not true, I could give a shit seeing someone listening to papa roach for the first time
Could make a living off reacting just to Tool 😅
There’s only one first time. Living vicariously through first timers is the next best thing I guess!
Definitely listen to a Tool song first without worrying too much about what Maynard is singing bc he means his vocal performance to be part of the music as a whole and not on top of it. But to not go back and read the lyrics is to miss out on the GENIUS of Maynard’s lyricism.
The Pot for example has many layers about hypocrisy in general (The pot calling the kettle black) the hypocrisy of the war on drugs (prosecutors going after pot smokers when they themselves are the real criminals-“fucking hypocrites!”) and the hypocrisy of governments ruling when they are themselves corrupt.
Read the lyrics after listening to a Tool song and then listen to it again! It will be worth your while. Genius all around!!
Very much so. He doesnt write lyrics until he's heard the band play the song. So it's very much a part of it, and not just something that he had in his head without sound.
what questionme2 said. Maynard tends to write in double, or even triple, entendres - there are usually two or more "meanings" to the lyrics, just beyond the musical contribution to the overall song. Its good to process it, and no shame if the first listen you can't really figure out what the "point" is.
And the “high” is, ‘high on your soapbox or pedestal’, and being high on the feeling of being up there.
@@tempsitch5632 i feel like it is also refering to the hypocrisy of a judge or a lawyer who would ruin someone's life over a minor drug incident while they themselves are high on some drug.
I think it can very well be taken literally aswell as metaphorically.
It’s a crime to overlook Tool lyircs. Point blank.
"Every section's dope , bro!"
And there it is . We have a new TOOL fan .
Welcome home! Tool is the best uncomfortable hug
I so love watching first timers dig in!
Bruh
Maynard's voice is just another instrument
And they mix the music like his voice is another instrument rather than the lead singer. Tool is unique and awesome!
Maynard vocals are rhythm, drums are lead...
This song is about hypocrisy, the title refers to the phrase "The Pot calling the Kettle black". It uses a masterful weaving of metaphors and turns of phrase combined with insanely technical musicianship. A true masterpiece.
This is the correct answer, spiral out!
And it's amazing to hear live!
Well put.
It's okay
It's also about the stuff you smoke.
25 seconds in and the pause to try to realize what your brain just got feed, is always my favorite part of a first time reaction. So good.
Right! First timers hearing Tool are never ready
@@sputnikalgrim "This right here is so trippy right now! Are we comin or goin? Who's on first?"
@@brettcloud8550 The only appropriate answer to which is: yes.
I remember first time to..was like being in 70's with stones zeppelin doors n hendrix all rolled up into one
It’s literally trying to drink from a fire hose the first time lol
Fun Fact: The instruments are complete before the lyrics are written. The lyrics are influenced by the instruments, which is usually the opposite of most rock music.
"Melody first, my dear, and *then* the lyric." -101 Dalmatians
Slayer did it first....
Music first, lyrics last
lots of metal bands do music first, like a majority of them. there might be an outline of what direction but most metal bands it is about the music, the groove and the feeling
Respectfully disagree. Lyrics sometimes write the music. I speak from experience.
@@superrhombus1 In this case it's pretty specifically the music that gets made first. Personally I find Tool's lyrics inseperable from my enjoyment of their songs. Both elevate the other.
“Every section’s dope”. From a massive Tool fan I so genuinely love you guys finding appreciation of this track and the band. It’s amazing to see music reach people in such similar ways. It’s universal.
I feel like everything tool does is epic, Maynard is a genius. I feel the same way I love when people find tool and even more when they appreciate their lyrics. Maynard has two other bands that’s pretty amazing 😁😁😁
This is a really good one for a BRAND NEW fan to listen to as well. As much as I love a Lateralus or parabol/parabola, it can be a lot if you're used to shorter more conventional songs. This one is way longer than a usual radio single but it's still approachable because it's just so tight and grooves so friggin hard.
Tool touches the inner core of who we are. They keep us on our toes when it comes to deciphering the meaning but once you realize this song The Pot it's about "calling the kettle black"***" enjoy your journey into the best band that ever. Lived ...you have now become a fan ...I e been one since the early 90s when they first came out and their videos were claymation! Dig deep and the substance of what and who they are will not only amaze and astonish you but will take you places you e never been musically .you have the honor of hearing drums by Danny and vocals of Maynard and guitars by Adam and Justin you now are in a room of greatness listen with an open mind sit back and realize the music you hear is of greatness . Their Omni Gods . Untouchable by others who try to imitate the rawness they have . Only Tool can be Tool others who try to cover them are the brown M&Ms not the Spectrum of all .. Tool is unique . Find the words and then the meaning stop guessing . Research them it'll make a world of difference.. good luck guys your on the right track . Sit back and enjoy.. become one with the music.... That's a Tool fan. We are one with the music ...... It's deep. Try Jambi.. then Parabola and Parabola they follow each other one leads into the next .. Awesomeness ... Pure Awesomeness
Tool uses insane poly-rhythms that constantly shift throughout their pieces in addition to frequent key changes and discordant harmonies. It is super complex and interesting music. And a lot of their lyrics are pure poetry. They are a highly technical band and they are very clean and precise at the same time. They really sound like this live too. And they improvise on top of it. They're not for everyone, but they are damn good.
Excellent comments, although I don’t know anyone whose been introduced to Tool, that hasn’t been enamored with them, but that’s just me.
They’re technical, magical, tribal and nobody does it better. It’s not just music, it’s art, poetry as you stated, it’s a story, a journey, a spiritual and life altering experience…especially live. Saw them on their first tour in early 90’s and I’ve been hooked ever since. They’re absolute masters of their craft.
Well said
@@teddy.d174 First time I saw them is actually on youtube (I did not record) I accidentally drank about a quart of mushroom tea at a friends before wandering onto South St in Philly where my buddy was doin door at Dobbs, tells me to check out this band. The tea kicked in right as they started and Maynard stared at me the whole time, freakin me out, while I was shroomin without intention. Look up Tool live at Dobbs. Oh, no one told me their name so I didn't know if it actually happened, swore it was a hallucination, forgot all about it until about 8 years ago lol. Life changing for sure back then
This is one of the cringe fans I was speaking of.
@@TheBear215 accidently? A quart... Tool is in your blood now your hooked!
The lyrics and how Maynard uses his voice.... it's the 4th instrument of the band. It's insane..... This song is about hypocrisy.... and it's beautifully written.
Well said
What even the majority of tool fans never think about, because they are very vocal about their preferences & things they notice in the compositions, is what both you & me point out. The fourth instrument is absolutely Maynard's voice. From his growls to his vibrato, movingly powerful screams to stabbing accusational crescendos. I get more emotion from the combination of the burden-laying bass licks tied to the heart thru the drum cadence, being whipped by the shearing guitar power chords in time with the lash of a scream or yelled lyric than from any other rock/metal combination. So whomever lays down the first layer that the others play off of has the easiest job (during composition) I'd think it would be the bassist, it is just so heavy & angry. I feel the drums are layered on top of the fat bass. Then the guitarist finds a rhythm & chasms to chop into. His fills rebuild a new sense of emergency then the drums build up your heart rate & whack! Guitar chords chop down to help you release the blood pressure before swapping to rhythm again as the lyrics take your new emotion for another ride.
Maynard's voice is incredible 🤘
Is it just me or does Tool get more & more fascinating the more you listen? It's like there's always something new you can notice in each song
Yup.
I feel the same way about this band and also Pink Floyd.
Same with Porcupine Tree. Start with In Absentia.
The latest Album seem to lose me.
Even Arctic Monkey. They all have the same kind of style now.
At least Tool still has the riffs.
@@IWantBasterds
Porcupine Tree has so many time signature changes they always keep it interesting. Finally saw them live. Gavin Harrison brings so much talent to any drum style.
@@tapsX3 they all tend to have slowed down lately and for me it does not flow anymore.
Tool makes you feel like you’re on drugs
Without being on drugs 🔥
Drugs make you feel like you’re on Tool, without being on Tool 🔧
That’s called “psychedelia”.
Tool structures their songs different than most. Adam (guitarist), Justin (Bass) & Danny (Drums) composes the music first. Then Maynard the lead singer will come in and add the lyrics after the composition . All 4 members are legitimate A+ musicians at what they do. Danny could very well be the best drummer alive. Check out Danny Carey drum cam Pneuma it's incredible. Always use lyrics and don't watch any music videos they will just distract you.
This comment is good.
Yes.
Also, the beauty of tool is that each instrument (including vocals) are doing their own thing, that can be listened to on its own, but when combined, it is supreme.
@@Mephiston absolute truth.
best drummer alive
Maynard is arguably one of the best lyricists of all time. The words do matter.
Not to all.
Maynard is great but mike patton eats him for breakfast.
@@crankfastle8138
apples to oranges it feels like
Angels on the sideline
Puzzled and amused
Why did Father give these humans free will?
Now they're all confused
Don't these talking monkeys know that Eden has enough to go around?
Plenty in this holy garden, silly old monkeys
Where there's one you're bound to divide it
Right in two
Angels on the sideline
Baffled and confused
Father blessed them all with reason
And this is what they choose
Monkey killing monkey killing monkey over pieces of the ground
Silly monkeys give them thumbs
They forge a blade, and where there's one they're bound to divide it
Right in two
Right in two
Monkey killing monkey killing monkey over pieces of the ground
Silly monkeys give them thumbs, they make a club
And beat their brother down
How they survive so misguided is a mystery
Repugnant is a Creature who would squander the ability
To lift an eye to heaven, conscious of his fleeting time here
Cut and divide it all right in two
Cut and divide it all right in two
Cut and divide it all right in two
Cut and divide it all right in two
Fight over the clouds, over wind, over sky and
Fight over life, over blood, over air and light
Over love, over sun, over another
Fight for the time, for the one, for the rise and
Angels on the sideline again
Been so long with patience and reason
Angels on the sideline again
Wondering when this tug of war will end
Cut and divide it all right in two
Cut and divide it all right in two
Cut and divide it all right in two
Right in two
Right in two
@@crankfastle8138 I’m a huge mike Patton fan but a lot of his lyrics are complete gibberish, he’s admitted it himself he cares more about the sound of the words than what they mean, he wipes the floor with Maynard as a singer though
The fact you guys know about timing signatures already tells me you’re going to end up loving this band. Every music nerd from every genre I’ve ever met ends up loving this band
Big Facts
Also Dream Theater... their heads will 🤯
Yes that's what made me respect them instantly
Lyrics in Tool songs are important....That is why Tool hits so hard. The more You listen the better.
The first time I heard Right in Two it blew my mind. So on point with society and human greed on top of the amazing musicianship.
Brace yourself, Tool is a whole vibe no matter what song you listen too. It’s all brilliant
I’m so pissed I waited until I was almost 50 to discover them. I have to be careful because I find myself closing my eyes and vibing while driving.
This isn't just rock music. This is tool and when you listen to tool you're going down a rabbit hole. My friends welcome to the rabbit hole of tool. Singers name is Maynard James Keenan. It's drummer. Is Danny Carey? Their time signatures are very difficult to identify, but I love that you appreciate their talent and the way that they put their music together. It's so amazing. I've been a fan since the '90s
Danny is the probably one of the best drummers ever
I only discovered Tool in 2022. I’m into Psy trance and techno. But they are awesome. Rabbit hole here I come.
@@belldracka Bro if you like psytrance i understand where you come from, tool is very synonymous to psychedelics in general. Right in Two is a great song if you havent heard it yet. The tabla solo is insane
Not only is tool just rock it's just grunge power cords.
@@Randomfliper speaking of tabla... everything danny carey knows of the tabla (to extent he does at least) can be attributed to his lessons from tabla master ALOKE DUTTA featured on salival (tool boxset, 2000)'s version of "pushit" (live). that's aloke. go ahead, youtube the alien. oh yeah, duh! ...yeah, he's an alien. (considered "fifth member of the band" - likely due to touring that version of "pushit" at the time)
actually. "pushit (live)" ...is a good recommendation for reaction video i haven't seen much of
TOOL is meant to be listened to multiple times, the lyrics and other intricacies become clearer every time you listen to it again.
Yea I don’t worry about lyrics for a while when I hear a new Tool song… the music is soo complex and layered it’s all I can do to try to drink from that firehose for a while…
yes man,yes ! its the only way to get the all "packet" when you listen TOOL
i concur
That's what makes these "first-looks" into Tool so fun as an audience member. Watching the S4S guys (and so many others) completely convert by the seventh minute of this vid (th-cam.com/video/4oJXNyup-KY/w-d-xo.html) to the sheer genius of what they're seeing is so fun. Damn right they're smarter than everyone else. Us TOOL fans have known it for years.
6mins in and we get a Led Zeppelin Reference.. how good Led Zep??
In regards to the question, “are you meant to understand the lyrics?”
Yes, but not always easily at first. This song came out when you still bought the CD and had the lyrics printed off in the cover art to follow along.
Tool is a great band to follow in that their music hits different depending on your mood. Sometimes you only need the vibe, like when you’re working out. Other times the lyrics really cut deep and you need them from of you until you have them seared in your mind.
Very well put, and so true.
This song came out when you still bought the CD and had the lyrics printed off in the cover art to follow along.
also stereoscopic glasses built into the album case. i still have that one in a box somewhere. i also had the aenima one with the lenticular cover, but sadly that one got stolen.
My friends. This is such a great an obviously candid experience. We love you. And yes - the lyrics matter. But the groove reigns supreme:)
Couldn't say it better while staying this concise!
Woa, what a crossover
I dont love then. Bastards called maynard a woman.
Palmisano? Damn, my favorite reactor.
TOOL is a band with a lead drummer and a rhythmic vocalist, IMO. The interesting part too is the band creates the music first then the singer comes in and writes the lyrics.
Incredible description. Danny Carey is a mastermind on the kit.
Hence the 13 year hiatus between '10,000 Days' and Fear Inoculum...... These dudes reviewing this video have yet to comprehend the depth of TOOL. THEY'RE the MOST well-thought-out-satisfying band of all time. It takes A LOT of time ⏲️ to appreciate this band..... It's "EYE BALLS 👁 DEEP IN MUDDY WATERS" BTW...... Maynard is a lyrical genius not only with what he says but how he sings it. Please show me another band that doesn't have one bad (skipable) song! I've listened to their every song at least 90 times and every song, every time, it gets better.... No other band has a fan that can say that so suck it Megadeath!
Coming from a drummers perspective, I couldn’t agree more, and I have the utmost respect and love for MJK, as well as Adam and Justin! His lyrics are truly incredible, especially considering they are done after the music is completed by the rest of the band, but to have a master like Danny behind that unbelievable kit, he will always be the main reason I go see them every time they are in the Philly area. There is a reason they call him the human octopus!
If I were ever to write music, I'd definitely have my band mates create the instrumentals first and then come up with lyrics but that's just how my mind works most effectively
I honestly think, especially when you see Tool in concert, the whole band works off of Justin Chancellor's bass.
throw a dart at any Tool song and you'll never be dissapointed
When I have a bad day at work or just am feeling a little off, I always check new tool reaction videos. Seeing people vibe to tool for the first time cheers me up immediately
Would love to see you guys react to Tool - Pneuma, specifically the live performance, from the drummer's view (Danny Carey). It's so goddamn good.
omg the vic firth danny carey is just............ dudes a hero
So much this!!
Absolutely. Saw them live back in feb at TD Garden. What an amazing show in person...
I agree
Totally agree 👍
Danny gets called the octopus for a freaking reason. He is THE G.O.A.T. for sure!
Maynard is probably one of the most gifted lyricist in a generation. Very intelligent, and intentional. The great thing about Tool is that they are 4 uniquely talented guys, all doing their thing, and coming together. Where the sum is greater than the parts.
Excellent summary
So many don't know he only writes the lyrics once he has the music before him. This band has no comparison..
Perfectly said.
Yeah it's surprising how independent they are.. I mean Adam, Justin and Danny put the composition together and then Maynard comes in with lyrics later. But it all sounds and flows like it was meant to be. If it works for them, who are we to wave out fingers 😂
Tool is a band formed by extremely precise musicians that focus on unique time signatures and riffs blended with extraordinary solo performances from the rhythm and percussion sections. The lyrical ability and creativeness from the vocalists is the icing on the cake.
Wrote a paper in college about Tool and I had a section dedicated to their unique time signatures. How they change them up throughout the song and how different instruments are doing different time signatures at the same time. My professor didn't like that, said "that's not how music works" and insisted I change it. I didn't and got marked off. I'm convinced he never even attempted to listen to Tool before grading my paper.
@@meganwoehl5277
I lended a copy of a Porcupine Tree CD to my sister once. She had it playing in her car when she picked up her choir director and immediately she picked up on the tempo changes and odd time signatures. It’s not her genre but she recognized the difficulty and the talent it takes. Tool is in the same vein. Your instructor just doesn’t understand music.
Yes absolutely, but not so much so in the beginning of their career though. They definitely grew into the extremely precise complex creatures that they became. I mean they had it in the beginning, just not as much
“I can almost understand what the guitar is saying!”
Welcome to TOOL.
When it comes to Tool, the rhythm is the meat, and the lyrics are the seasoning. You can’t truly appreciate the taste of the song without both aspects. It’s so damn good.
i love the singer's voice also. perfect for the music he makes
That's a great way to put it. Meat without seasoning is meh. Seasoning without meat is eh.
One of the best ways of describing the bands music as a band and individual artists!!! I might have to borrow that. Bravo!!
Tool is a stand alone band; truly one of a kind. Their time signatures are insane and Danny Carey, the drummer, is a MASTER at his craft. Tool composes the instrumental first, give it to Maynard to add his vocals to it. Maynard is also the lead singer in Pucsifer and A Perfect Circle if you want to check them out too. ❤️
You single? Vibing your words
Danny Carey is something else. It’s like wailing on those drums is as natural as breathing to him. And Justin chancellor is such a master on the bass and Adam with the guitar… sheesh… have you ever tried to play a tool song? The tabs are nuts. Nothing about that band is simple. MJK has a vocal range and writing skills that are just unreal. May as well try to play Dragonforce. 😂
LOL!!! same thing i thought, being a bass player, but you beat me to it!! :)
Should check out clutch, one of my buddies said it's like a country/blues rock version of tool 😂😂😂 ironically it's kinda accurate
The singer is Maynard James Keenan. He also created A perfect Circle and Puscifer. He is a musical genius.
Billy Howerdel founded A Perfect Circle; he wrote all the music for it and when Maynard heard his friend's demos, he envisioned himself singing to it
@@JohnnyBNerdy Never knew that. Anything I have ever read said they created it together. Interesting.
Every member of tool is a genius.. that four men can play over 30 instruments which is insane.. everything they write is insane and i could never get enough of tool
@@randymiller3918 No, Maynard was definitely brought in later. They were actually looking for a female singer and Maynard had to convince them to go with him.
@@Dondingo4 Interesting
Something I will always remember,
When your happy you feel the music.
When your unhappy you feel the lyrics
"I could almost understand what the guitar is saying!"
My dude, that is the BASS solo. Tool has the best rhythm section of any rock band not named Rush. :D
As much as Tool is incredible musically tho, Maynards lyrics is equally fantastic. This album is mostly dedicated to his mother's passing after 10,000 days of illness and paralysis, with Wings for Marie pts 1 & 2 being the culmination of that theme. I recommend checking it out, but maybe bring tissue.
Don't forget "Judith" from A Perfect Circle.
You can listen to any band you want to in this van……..as long as it’s Rush…..
Wings of Marie part 2 is so fucking beautiful
@@CentralFloridaBowHunting lol nice reference
Rush? 🤔🙄🤦♂️
Oh also, I recommend always listening to tool headphones (so many little details you miss otherwise) and always read lyrics to get the full affect. Enjoy guys!
Ive heard this song a million times and i still get goosebumps. I love Maynards voice and i love that yall are being so open minded about different genres
Maynard is fucking amazing on this album. He has so much raw energy.
Every Tool song gives me goosebumps. The synchronicity is sublime.
Oh my God!!! Me too! That's why I'll watch these reactions to it. Just to see other people with no clue about Maynard...
Every single member of this band is a genius at what they play and Maynard is a poet. The lyrics are important. As important as every perfect note they play.
I wanted to stand and applaud like six times during this reaction. You guys picked up on everything and had so much insight into the track just on your first listen. This is what music reactions should be! Keep it up!
They are clearly fellow musicians/ artists . This band is tailor made for music needs to geek out on lol
@@mookiestewart3776 hell yeah. And here we are haha
“I think they’re doing completely different things”
Exactly that. Tool use a lot of polyrhythms and polymeters in their songs. You’ll often find that the drums are playing one time signature, whilst the guitar, bass and vocals are alternating in other time signatures.
Pneuma is a stunning example of this, from their latest album. Especially towards the end, when the guitar, bass, and drums all drift in an out of sync with one another. It’s honestly hypnotic to tune into.
The Pot is one of my all time favourite tunes though. Such a great choice for an entry into the world of Tool.
Pneuma is amazingly hypnotic, Right In Two is another one IMO
Best thing about Tool with their polyrhythms is how many "time signatures" you can hear in a song like this while the entire thing is actually in 4/4.
Watching the video of Danny Carey playing Pneuma live gave me a whole new respect for his skill, and I already thought he was one of the best drummers alive today.
"Pot" the gateway drug.
Tool songs are my favorite Tool songs.
Even the ones that don't hit on the first listen. I just need that song to hit in a different moment on a playlist.
I've never found a genuinely skippable Tool song.
Watching people hear Tool for the first time, and get it!! Brings me so much joy. I've been following this band since the early 90s. Thanks guys. Keep up the good work
lifelong tool fan and just stumbled on this video. I love this video so much and I love seeing you guys encounter this song and this band. It is so amazing to see. Will be watching y’all more
I absolutely LOVE watching videos of non TOOL fans reacting and interpreting their music and lyrics. Perspective and experience is everything. Welcome to the rabbit hole that is TOOL.
Remember this was before Internet, we bought into the music, the artistry, and lyrics. Buying a CD and pulling out the sleeve with all the lyrics and looking at all the art was like opening a super cool present. Sitting in my room with headphones on just looking over the sleeve over and over again! 😊❤️
Amen. I can remember when audioslave came out with that badass flame album and my dad bought it. We all sat down and took it out the case. Played it on surround sound. I'm building my cd collection up. Imagine what it will be like in 25 years. I'll be about 52. Probably not cds
🎯💯
This was released in 2006. We had the internet then.
@@jimidave6281 UUUGH BUT THEY DIDNT RELEASE ON ITUNES.
I remember being a kid wanting to download this album so bad- because I heard it on the radio. But it WASNT AVAILABLE ONLINE.
TOOL ended up being the first CD I set out to buy as a kid.
This comment took me right back.
Miss that!!!
This is one of my favorite Tool songs! The song is about hypocrisy, All the little sayings about the pot calling the kettle black. Also the Kangaroo court is like your guilty before the facts are giving out or at all. All Tool songs have a deep meaning thats why I love them so much
You can literally hear a kangaroo hop in the guitar, you can fucking see it
This whole album is about Maynard’s mother suffering for 10,000 days before her illness took her life
I thought Kangaroo Court was a jail/prison style of judgment and justice.
@@scapito A kangaroo court is basically when a group arbitrarily judged people with little to no actual evidence and typically one that doesn't apply the law correctly (ie All Stoners are Lazy, Metal Heads are all devil worshippers ect)
Tool is and has always been one of my all time FAVORITE! Bands they're pure Talent!!!
Tool's lyrics are always important. Always lol. Just as complex as the music itself. These guys can't be compared to other bands. They are their own genre
Agree, but I firmly believe they have to come after a few listens...Real listens... not being distracted multi-tasking listens!
Its fantastic to see people experiencing Tool for the first time. Tool is something ya don't see often. Its music as art.
Schism, Lateralus, Jambi, Right in Two... tbh, you can just listen to their whole discography and not be disappointed!
Right in two is my go to when I need a tool fix. Ridiculously amazing
Love your guys energy and your analysis. I think the understanding of the lyrics comes from listening multiple times, like you picked out parts in one listsen, and all it takes is 20 listens before you can follow along! Got a sub from me.
Tool is at a level that few artists achieve in any genre. To be so technically amazing and yet be accessible to the average rock fan is astounding.
You just nailed their magic
Correct. Most bands today using off Rhythm, polyrhythm, and multiple time signatures sometimes at the same time 10 to lose many audiences.
Can't wait for them to find some Dream Theater. 😂
This is by far, one of the most intelligent discussions about this track. Nice job fellas.
There's a reason it takes years for a new Tool album. Top notch TALENT and perfectionism!
And Maynard has at least 3 projects going on all the time!
It's all Danny's fault really that fucker is just too damn technical, all Jokes aside you are right they have so much going on and Maynard said on JRE that working on Tool projects is exhausting as fuck
Definitely perfected alchemy
Been listening to Tool since 92 . These reactions from ordinary people to vocal coaches makes me chuckle . Finally they understand why Tool is one of the best if not the best band for the past 30 something years .
I especially like Dre's comment about how before, he assumed that anyone could play rock. As someone that grew up with rock/metal, I always thought the same about rap. Once I opened my mind the world of music opened up. Now, it's not uncomon for me to have Tool, Pharcyde, J5, and Iron Maiden all queued up. Continue using music to connect us as people. Respect.
I’ve tried liking Tool since they came out, but there was always something about them that was elusive; I recognized the genius I was hearing but I couldn’t feel it.
Then, about a month ago for some obscure reason, my brain decided that what was hidden is now visible, and it all came together for me. I watched the reaction compilation for Lateralus, and the collective stunned silence afterward was in sync with my own.
@@jburt779 they activated your kundalini ✌️
To me as a fan of rap and metal there's still a huge difference in difficulty.
If only because Rap artists often have many many people working on lyrics and the beat and all that.
Most metal bands I'm into basically write 95-100% of the lyrics and music and play the instruments.
Both have unique skill sets for sure.
Jurassic 5 is sick, can't believe you mentioned that. Apologies if you mean Jackson 5 haha
❤
Do their whole discography please. It never gets old living vicariously through others the first time.
"vicariously I..."
truly lmao
Truly a sobering experience.
@@ravex24 we'll just have to be patient
@@warspyder7406 You can wait but I demand content soon! Looks like we got quite the schism developing.
You guys are gonna like Tool. Not only is Maynard one of the best lyricists, they'll do crazy things like base a song around the Fibonacci sequence.
According to Maynard that was not planned. The song just came out that way which if true makes you wonder how special they really are to naturally input the most natural sequence found in the world.
I loved seeing you guys agree so much on this reaction. I think that is some of the magic of Tool. Even if you're a lyrics guy you cannot help but feel the music. And Maynard uses so many carefully chosen deep metaphors that it takes a few listens to even start to catch everything he is saying. The replayability of this music is infinite. Thanks guys.
There's few songs that have been created over the last 60 years that are perfect, where the the sum of the parts are creatively unique, technically sound, soulful, emotional and when they come together to form a whole, nothing can be added or taken out to make it better. This song is an example of perfection.
Each member of Tool is a composer in their own right. There will never be another tool!
Thakfully there's lots more than a few. Some bands have entire albums where that's the case.
Their live performance of Sober is absolutely incredible.
Indeed.
On god
One of the best ever
Top bands I’ve seen live. 95 at the shrine.. they sound just like they do live as you do from a cd. And they had a shemale strip on stage while we laying one song lol
I don't know if I could cry like that Infront of that many people
You’ve hit the jackpot with Tool. Legendary, iconic, award winning amazing band.
Also, read up on their guitarist Adam Jones. He has done cool film work too!
Film work
Jones was offered a film scholarship but declined and chose to move to Los Angeles to study art and sculpture. His interest shifted to film, and he began to work as a sculptor and special effects designer, where he learned the stop motion camera techniques he would later apply in Tool's music videos, such as "Sober", "Prison Sex", "Stinkfist", "Ænema", "Schism", "Parabola", and "Vicarious". He graduated in 1987.
After graduation, he went to work at Rick Lazzarini's Character Shop. During the next couple of years, he worked the TV show Monsters. He designed and fabricated a Grim Reaper makeup and a zombie head on a spike (later used in Ghostbusters II) among others. After that, he went to Stan Winston's special effects workshop, where he worked on Predator 2, sculpting a unique-looking skull for the Predator's spaceship interior.
Jones worked on several other films in Hollywood doing makeup and set design, including Jurassic Park, Batman Returns, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Dances with Wolves, and Ghostbusters II. He did the "Freddy Krueger in the womb" makeup for A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child, as well as work for A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master.
He also worked on commercials for salad dressing (never aired), Olympic Paints & Stains (Albert Einstein makeup), and Duracell (boxers and taxicabs).
You gave me such joy with your reaction. Thank you. Yes, you get it.
There’s no band like Tool.. the lyrics.. the timing… everything is different than ANY band you will ever hear
Which is irritating as fuck, tbh. It's brutal wanting to find something similar but knowing you just never will. And I've been looking for, what, 25 years?
They sound amazing live as well. Just saw them for the first time in Manchester, NH on 11/13/23. Been a fan since the mid 90s.
@@TR-ut3yhoh yeah. And after hearing them live you can hear how these recordings can fill a huge arena. The bass and intensity reverberates like nothing else you'll ever hear. Still have vivid memories of Sober on their '02 tour
They don't usually post the lyrics until the record has been out for a bit because they want you to focus on how the music makes you feel first. Maynard is an incredible vocalist and lyricist. The music and the lyrics are fantastic independent of each other.
As a musician, my favorite thing is watching other musicians, discover Tool, they always, eventually, start counting.
I'm an old guy who was in my late teens and early 20's when Tool was a big part of my life's 'soundtrack.' I love to see the young ones of today rediscover our music and react to it for the first time. It brings me back to the time in my life when I had the same reaction, and for just a split second, I am young once again, with you.
Subbed for Tool and Rage Against the machine! Your journey into these two bands will surely be fun to see. You two are in for one hell of a ride! Spiral out 🌀
And "Keep Going." \m/
Not to mention that Adam Jones went to school with Tom Morello. I seem to remember Tom's mother was Adam's teacher.
They switch their time signitures constantly. They do odd things like match the Fibonacci sequence for weird math within their album. They are incredibly talented musicians who luckily found each other. Amazing live shows
Hey fellas, first time seeing your reactions and I was so impressed w your willingness to really open both your ears and your mind to grapple w one of the most incredible rock bands of our generation. Tool's ability to play with time signatures, ambiance, mood, dynamics, layered lyrics, etc is second to none. These guys are fucking apex predators on their respective instruments and have an uncanny knack for blending intellectual AND emotional potency. I loved hearing what you had to say and I can't recommend digging into Tool's catalogue enough. Great job!
Apex predators on their instruments is the best way I've heard to describe them. Hell yeah.
You guys have good humor - i like that. And thank you for highlighting these great songs - you make me like them even more.
TOOL ARMY RISE UP!!! Keep doing tool man I can tell you guys love them already… I know it’s your first reaction to them I can’t wait for the other songs! I recommend “SCHISM” one of their favorite singles!! You guys are about to travel down the TOOL rabbit hole and I can’t wait!!
Schism is one of my favorites. I want to get a tattoo of the line “Finding beauty in the dissonance”
Means everything to me.
Tool is an epic level so don’t expect that with all rock. Try Right In Two from the same album.
If you want something rock from more musicians, try System of a Down too.
right... Tool is on a completely different level than most rock bands,
SOAD is super good
If you want to be mind f’d by time signatures listen to Lateralus, it’s a song with timing written based off the Fibonacci sequence, and it’s just a great song.
Pnuema has some incredible time changes too, very wild the signature swaps that Danny Carey makes during the song. At times, he's playing one time signature with his left hand, and another with his right. Incredible drummer, top 5 all time in my book.
I love that Maynard says that was a long time ago and he could make the song much better today. Like, think about that lol.
@@PlagueKing_LordFalix Just like fine wine, they get better with age.
whats even more over looked is Wings and Wings part II ( 10,000 days) Apparently they dont even like to do this live as its so dam hard and can be messed up really easily as I seen in an interview with them. Not to mention the emotional toll it takes on MJK
Yes!!!!
I subscribed before this was half way through! Yall cool as shit! Tool is so great! Love when folks find them for the first time! Good sh!t
Watching musicians' first-time reactions to Tool is always amazing when they try to figure out the time signature.
I'm kinda addicted to watching first time TOOL listeners. I just love watching minds explode in real time
Did it to a DJ at a Caribbean party. Sucker asked me to pick any song. 🤷🏽 I knew he'd want to count the beat to transition to his next song. He looked at me for a life raft.😂
@@admiralthex He triggered your trap card...
Tool is amazing, glad to see you guys getting into some rock and metal. I bet you'd dig Schism, Lateralus, Forty Six & 2, or H.
th-cam.com/video/GIuZUCpm9hc/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/bg8vTSyHFkQ/w-d-xo.html
I vote forty six & 2 for they lyrics alone but H is my favorite tool song of all time that part where MJK says "The snake is drowned, I can see the look your eyes. My fear beings to fade recalling all of the times." Still to this day sends a chill up my spine.
Glad you guys liked it, lots more where that came from. Forty Six and 2 or the grudge by them would be a good place to go from here!
Just watched this and adore your reactions! Tool are amazing! Love from Australia!
If you do Tool again, I recommend The Grudge. It has something for both y'all: musically perfect and a tremendous message in the lyrics.
EDIT: A note about understanding the lyrics. It just takes time and practice. I fully understand all these songs where there's screaming and such, because I listen to it everyday. But if I flip on the radio and listen to a pop song, I have no clue what they are singing.
TOOL is definitely well known for using unusual and changing time signatures. Glad you appreciated this!
Also, if you appreciated that scream, listen to The Grudge by TOOL.
or Ticks and Leeches
NIN an TOOL are my 2 bands that I grew up with. Rock comes from the heart a lot of times. Its all a state of mind and the songs can get very deep.
Those are my two favorite bands too! I go back and forth which is #1 because I can't ever make up my mind.
Good choice. Glad to see your reaction. With TOOL, there are no coincidences. Everything has meaning, with multiple layers of hidden meaning sometimes.
New sub. I'm a huge Tool fan, and I really like that you guys break it down. Too many reaction channels just nod along and end the video. I like that you're pausing and breaking it down and really appreciating the song.
I highly recommend more Tool, and a good one to go to next to really hear their complexity is the song Lateralus.
I'd also love to see you guys check out Gojira, they are quite a bit heavier than Tool and RATM but they win over most non-metalheads or new metalheads. Stranded is a good song to start with for Gojira if you end up checking them out.
I can safely say as a fan of both Tool and Gojira that we love watching new fans of the bands discovering the music the same way we did
Also From the Sky is great
Gojira 🤘
my two favorite bands alongside deftones and my two favorite groups to see people experience for the first time, especially musicians. Danny and Mario are your favorite drummer's favorite drummers.
This is one of the best and most honest reactions to this song. You both had astute ways of expressing yourselves about what you were experiencing, more so than most other reactors. Tool is a GENIUS band. They utilize mathematics in their timing and lyrical content at times (so good luck keeping tempo), and present a perspective on art and human life in a masterful way. I really enjoyed watching you both experience this, and hearing your take on rock music. More Tool please (check out their drummer, considered one of the GOATs, on Pneuma live). Subscribed.
agree 100%
Tool is a whole other level of technical skill and composition when it comes to any genre of music. The lead vocalist is also a lyrical genius. They do not take any song off. They go hard every song
Wait until you hear disgustipated.
Just found your channel with this reaction, loved the respect you guys gave the experience, we can never have a first experience again so bands like this gain a cult following as people live vicariously through you guys and your journey. I don’t know if any one will see this, but I’d love to recommend another band that is a very incredible experience.
Would you be willing to react to a band called “Sleep Token?”
All of their songs are react worthy, but if I could recommend a starting point I love to see the song “Ascensionism”.
PS. They are fantastic lyricists, I would recommend having lyrics available. There’s a lot of built-in lore to their songs so don’t get caught up on lines until you decide that you’re ready to venture down the Sleep Token Rabit hole, thank you guys, I will keep an eye out on your channel!
Tool is addictive yall. Be careful. Ya gonna listen to it, hear something different every time and listen again. The layers and depth are unmatched.
Danny is the metronome and it’s almost a religious experience for real. He’s so tall and has such i range of reach…wow. DUDE. Tool albums are meant to be listened to straight through beginning to end. And the musics is what sets the mood and let’s the lyrics pull you into the story. At the beginning of this song the chill entrance so that the message of the song pulls you into it.
Tool concert is like no other! Do Not pass w/o seeing TOOL live. They are meant to be seen. Audio is a teaser.
Time is running out they are only going to do so many shows absolutely a must for a bucket list if u have never seen them live
This is the truth. The song is only complete and full when heard live & in person.
Keep on rocking bros. I appreciate y’all’s willingness to keep an open mind. Enjoy the journey
First time viewer of your channel, and Tool is my favorite band. I love seeing emotionally intelligent people discovering new stuff. You have a new subscriber. Cheers!
Great, insightful reaction. Since you both know what you're talking about, I look forward seeing your reaction to "Pneuma" (Danny Carey Drum Cam), " Invincible", "Lateralus", "The Grudge".....Thank you! I promise, you won't be disappointed.
The grudge has one of the longest held screams in the history of music.
I actually think you will love this one on particular.
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You have no idea the world that you just found with TOOL. Intellectual and soul changing music.
The Pot” is meticulously written to criticize hypocrisy, mainly targeting the church (Christianity) and the government.
This song comes on the heels of the titular “10,000 Days”, a song in which Maynard calls out hypocrisy in the congregations of the church his mother attended. This song, “The Pot”, can be seen to, in this context, be a response to his own calling out of hypocrisy as hypocrisy - in the words of the common idiom, “The pot calling the kettle black.” The black kettle is also referenced here to show how the so called God-men killed innocent natives and Chief Black Kettle in the Cheyenne tribe.
On the track, Maynard also changes his vocal style dramatically from that of the prior track “10,000 Days (Wings Pt. 2)”, suggesting the appearance of another narrator.