Anything I really need to hear? Personalized song & album reviews!👇🏼 ko-fi.com/musickingdom/commissions Agree or disagree? Drop your favorite Tool songs & other recs below!
The song Pneuma would suit you lyrics wise. They have a live version with the camera on the drummer only. It is awesome to see, and a great song too Sober Live is another great performance. It's about addiction. The guitar is haunting and the performance is brilliant
I think the outro within the song was designed as a death knell. Parabol feels very much like a womb and slide out the birth canal. And then the body of the song is the breadth of life experience, then the death knell or the struggle and fight to hold onto the material and the final outro where the soul slips back away into the infinite. At least that's the vibe I get.
I get that feeling. I don't think Tool song will do much better than this 7.5 with the expert here. He values complex and varied chordal structure. Tool just doesn't craft songs that way. We've all heard Adam's guitar solos with 3 or maybe 4 notes, and the variance is all in the tone. Nothing wrong with the judging either. If judging was purely objective, it would be handled by robots. Sorry for the ramble. Your comment made me think on it a bit.
Our expert appreciates anything from Genesis to Joe Hisaishi. He respects the hell out of Tool as well. A song requires some insane mastery (in various ways) to get a super high score from him. And if it makes you guys feel any better… I can’t even play an instrument. 😂
I think I struggle to wrap my head around rating songs this way given every song made tries to accomplish something different. Based more on feeling and intent, I ask "do I feel this song did or didn't what it set out to do, and did it make me feel it?" Still, your reviews are superb, even if I do not enjoy music in the same way. In my ears, I like both pop and metal because they specifically go for different things
@@TheMusicKingdom Makes sense. The attempt at quantifying qualitative observations will always have challenge, and you certainly have a great way of doing so
Another fantastic review of Tool! Personally, I would love to hear you review the first track from the same album, The Grudge. Amazing vocal range and the drumming is off the charts (your expert will go crazy listening to the last 2 minutes…lol). Keep up the great work! ❤
If you're taking more Tool requests, PLEASE do Wings for Marie Parts 1 and 2. It's a song Maynard wrote for his mother after her death. Soooo powerful.
Vicarious, H, The Patient, The Grudge. There's a few songs from them I prefer over these but I think these songs would really vibe with you. An interesting in depth way to review their music. Enjoyed it.
Parabola is my absolute favorite Tool song, with the combination of Parabol being absolutely sublime! No, it may not have the odd time signatures or insane vocals the band's known for, but, for me, this is the pinnacle of Tool's perfection. I'm analytical by nature, so I appreciate a good dissection and analysis, but the combination becomes something that you feel spiritually more than think about. I can empathize with those who say breaking down Tool songs ruin the magic because, me being COMPLETELY biased ( 😅), it did hurt a bit to hear that there "wasn't much going on." Still, though, I appreciate the honest appraisal, and look forward to more Tool breakdowns!
'Ticks & Leeches' is a song tool made when the record label wanted something heavy, not the “floaty” songs Lateralus is known for. This is what they got. I hope it’s what they wanted.
You mentioned "holy" as a Christian term. Maynard has voiced his displeasure with Christianity in the past in several songs. However, his mom was a very strong Christian who maintained her faith through much adversity. I like to believe that Maynard is changing his mind and starting to understand faith in a different way. Parabol/Parabola is clearly about our soul. The song Pneuma off their last album is another about our soul, yet another Christian belief.
Believing in a soul or anything that this song and Pneuma is about aren't strictly limited to Christianity you know. Christianity is only 2000 years old, but ancient Indian vedic teachings, and other more ancient East Asian beliefs are much older and hold the same beliefs. One can believe what Maynard writes but have no interest in any organised Faith at all. It's simply about believing that there is more to life than the physical, that we are all God/spirit in physical form with the sole purpose of relationship and experience. If Christianity would just stick to those basic teachings rather than stating that the only way to be saved is to accept jesus, and that all who don't accept jesus are condemned to eternal damnarion, then it would be more widely accepted. The fact that Maynard mother was a devout Christian and probably held those same beliefs, will be the reason that he speaks out against Christianity. He'll never be a Christian, he'll never see that faith in a different way. But he WILL carry on believing that we are spiritual beings having a physical experience.
I would be interested to hear your thoughts on both versions of Pushit by TOOL. The original Ænima release from 1996 and the Salival version from 2000. There’s lots of lyrical and musical changes between the two. I’d be curious to see which version you prefer
Ok I've watched a few of your reviews and I appreciate your content. I'm gonna suggest Heilung, it isn't metal or rock but it will absolutely blow you away.... spiritually. I'm subbing now in hopes I see that review later.
Another solid review, even if it's tough to review Tool, and from an initial listen. Basically nailed it just like Lateralus. Can't wait for some more. I think the only real accurate way would be to record the initial reaction, then listen 99 more times while in some different sets and settings, and then do the review. haha you have unlimited time, right?
Bah don’t listen to those Tool fans that talk about Tool as their own genre. They are metal. They are progressive. They are whatever anyone thinks they are. Who cares cause they are an amazing band regardless. Love your reactions brother. Please keep the Tool content coming. Spiral out my friend 🌀
Great Q! “Listenable”, for me, means how easy a song is to get into. For example with the song Lateralus, its composition is so crazy & complex that it’s less accessible (until you’re used to it). Parabola is what I would call more easily “listenable” in comparison 👍🏼 both amazing songs!
TOOL'S albums show the growth of the band. Each progressed from the last. Over 30years of mastering the mindset they were in at the time. I'd suggest starting at the beginning of the Undertow album and move through their whole catalog. It will take time but literally every song is It's own. TOOL doesn't compromise.
I would love to see you branch out to other "Maynard" bands. I would recommend the Humbling River by Puscifer. It is both haunting and enlightening. I would try to explain what the meaning is to me but it deserves a fresh listen so you can get out of it what you see.
As a whole, this album had such a profound effect on me that, on purpose, I didn't fully invest in 10,000 Days for the better part of 3 years following it's release, simply because I didn't think the band could out do Lateralus (of course, I had PLENTY of time do digest that one in the interim between it and Fear Inoculum...😂). Parabol>Parabola remains my (if I had a gun to my head) favorite Tool track; I don't outright disagree with anything from the reaction, because much of the effect Tool has on it's listeners is borne out of what each individual brings to the experience. Solid reaction, Francis...Spiral Out, Keep Going!!
46 & 2 Right in Two The Grudge The Pot My dude, you’ve only scratched the surface. You’re literally going to be awestruck, with every song by them that you listen to. They’re transcendent, as artists. …oh, and the ones I’ve listed have the vocals you’re looking for.
Ok. So since you’re already getting the “comments” I feel it is imperative that I give you a fair warning: A certain segment of the “Tool Army” can be quite….well…insufferable. Now, it is a minority, but it is an extremely VOCAL minority. Most tool aficionados reflect the music and are quite open-minded and decent folk. BUT! That vocal minority can get under your skin and push you away from tools music and I wouldn’t blame you. It’s usually within the first few songs that make or break whether someone even wants to react to tool because of arrogant and snide comments. These people are their own worst enemy because the mission is to expose the music to as many people as possible and keep it alive, yet they turn many people off of tool. I feel safe saying that band would probably not “be cool” with these peoples behavior. As a matter a fact I’m positive because band members, primarily Maynard, have said as much. Of course these are generally not “bad” people; they’re just a little much. The problem is that tool fans love tool so much and get either a little over-enthusiastic or too aggressive. They just want everyone to experience it the way they do, no matter how impossible that is. But, unfortunately, some get nasty. They get a little too convinced that because they happen to like brilliant music, that it somehow means that they themselves are brilliant or all-knowing; as if they are the ones that created it or something. They start talking down to people, which is not cool. Please don’t let them ruin it for you. Tool is a rare band as they have extraordinary depth not only musically but artistically/visually and especially lyrically and have so much to offer; especially to people who like to experience music a little more deeply and intellectually than average music listeners. The band are all amazing artists and masters of their craft. They do not have a “bad” song. Some are better but they all sound good. I’d hate for you to miss out because a few nematodes. You have barely tested these waters as they say: it’s a rabbit hole. So as an OG tool fan circa the 1990’’s, Please allow me to apologize in advance for their insolence and juvenile behavior.
The insects the frogs at the end of parabola always teleports me away somewhere near a small lake at dawn where you can just barely see the sun anymore over the horizon Also at the end of parabola where Adam Jones is just going ham on the guitar and Danny Carey exorcising our soul reminds me of life's hardships and how hard life can be sometimes For some reason this is how I personally interpret the end
The ratings for each section are spot on and I like the way you approach grading songs. However, I find the end result of this to be relatively bland as music is an art form that cannot be easily broken down into its component parts. It's just more than adding up individual areas.
When you say less listenable, do you mean catchy? If so I couldn't agree more, and I want it that way. When I hear a song for the 1st time and I instantly like it and it's stuck in my head I will hate that song within a week, When I listen to any music that takes a listen or 2 to catch on what's happening it never gets old
"You know what..... fuck it..... I just wanna keep listening." Exactly. You guys do a really solid job of dividing up the song into digestible bits. I agree with nearly all of the commentary. For me, TOOL is somehow greater than the sum of its parts...... and that is it's brilliance. It makes me feel. I almost always walk away from a listen ...... satisfied in its totality. Just some thoughts :)
I think Tool fans are very diverse in our beliefs and mindset. I myself am a baptist Christian & US citizen and I love their whole discography. Keep up the content sir 💯
Listening to all his songs is a chronological journey through his life and mindset. It's a key example of how the mind evolves.. from anger to forgiveness, from religious aversion to seeking/finding a strong form of spirituality, from being young and seeking the limits that seem endless to being old and limited.. it's all in there and it's perfect
Thoroughly enjoyed your breakdown. I bet you'd give Vicarious a similar rating on the lyrics and I bet the Expert would love Danny Carey's live drum cam of Pneuma.
In my younger years I listened to tool for the music…for their sound. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve rediscovered tool for their lyrics. For me, it’s what makes listening to tool more of a journey.
Just spot on. Totally agree with your judgements apart from vocal score which I would give 8/10 as he goes from softness and calmness to the rage and executed it flawlessly. If you notices their drummer :) Pneuma Live by Vic Firth is must to see!
I’m a satanist, cause I’ve seen the devil when I died and came back to life but at the same time I believe there’s a god but I think I’m going to hell so lol, same as aliens... I’ve seen some weird sh!t
@@mycity7590 maybe you don’t know many atheists then. I am an atheist and I resonate with Tools lyrics and I have read books and works from most of the main religions, from the bible to the Tao Te King. As an atheist I can find beauty anywhere without being restrained by dogma, although I can also be critic when it is deserved. Most atheists I know are the most open minded and willing to experience the world than anyone else.
Great review! Lately I've been digging Maynard's choices in singing/composing. I think holding and extending notes on, "Holy" "Alive" and "Be" is supposed to get across the eternal life theme within the song. Glad you're having fun with Tool. My next choice would be "Jambi." Can't wait to hear whatever's next!
Thanks so much for the shout out, Francis! And thank you for critiquing one of my favorite songs from one of my favorite bands. Your videos provide so much value, insight, and entertainment, keep up the great work! Music Kingdom is more than a reaction channel; it's truly something special where I feel like we're celebrating not only music, but life itself. I'm excited to get back to this video now, been waiting until I got off work to watch. Cheers and have a great weekend!
@@TheMusicKingdom Oh man, after finishing the video...what a great analysis! I think you were right on the money, as was John Paul. You nailed the grading in each category IMO. For me personally, since the song came out during a particularly exciting time in my life, and since I was turned on to it by my best friend, there's a nostalgia factor where I'd probably give it a 9. As I've gotten older, I'm becoming more of a sucker for nostalgic stuff from my teens and early adulthood lol. I can't speak for other Tool fans, but I'd say they are diverse in their beliefs and value the lyrics as much as the music. I'm a Christian, and although I don't think the Tool guys are, I greatly value Maynard's lyrics and learn a lot from them. Parabola is obviously not aligned with any one religion, but the overall message is taught and valued in most (all?) religions. Even non-religious people who are just spiritual can appreciate these lyrics, I'd imagine. The fact that it's not preachy, yet philosophical and spiritual is my favorite part. If I hear a song that's overtly preachy, even if I agree with the lyrics, it's a huge turn off because of the tactless, narrow-minded delivery.
Much appreciated! Well said, once again. Agreed about nostalgia, it’s a beautiful thing that definitely hits harder as we grow older. I also appreciate that Tool pulls from knowledge unspecific to any one creed or religion. 🌀
Next TOOL song should definitely be 46 and 2 off their album before this one. I haven’t seen anybody recommend it but it’s one of their best! Very deep lyrics and musically amazing!
While you're on this album, you really should do reflection. That to me is their best song on this album... Just absolutely magical. I don't listen intently to the lyrics and try to analyse what they mean. For me it is best to just experience the lyrics as part of the music. Even if they were sung in Danish or Portugese, I'd still appreciate the feeling they impart.
I'm an atheist and skeptical about all of metaphysics, but I love Tool to the point that I call them my favorite current band. I could write paragraphs about that, but they do go into solid science and get philosophical from that - but it's merely a bonus, as the music is simply insanely good.
A 24-year sound engineer here. When talking about a song "production," I understand where you are coming from. However, rock/metal has a bit of a different use for the term "production." When using this term when describing rock/metal production on a record, it comes down to how a track/album is "mixed." Can you hear each individual instrument and vocal. How are.they "ballanced". In the song, does each instrument have a place. Are the drums drowning every other aspect of the song out. Are the vocals clear? Can you understand them (not to include the diction and enunciation of the particular singer). Is the audio composition letting you enjoy each part of the band, or is one part of the song over driving other parts. This is a very simplistic explanation, but its a good general rule of thumb. Keep up the good work...
I very much respect your scoring of those songs. I enjoy seeing your reactions when parts of the song resonates with you. Looking forward to when you react to the song Pneuma! I am definitely one who enjoys Tool now because of the spiritual meanings in their lyrics. However, it wasn't like that at first. It's amazing how a lot of little things such as meditation, Tool, etc. came together as one huge understanding during my spiritual enlightenment.💫✨ I'm also curious if their choice of chords has to do with certain chakra frequencies because I think their music goes far deeper than most modern music. Please listen to Pneuma.
Guys, both of you would really appreciate The Grudge from TOOL, out of this album. Great drums, great lyrics, epic ending! I'm afraid you won't find much melodic changes in TOOL songs when speaking about the guitar and the bass, but you'll see a lot of rythm and time signature changes, and overall tonal change on the bass and the guitar. Actually, this might be the only one that's not in D minor. LOL
I’ve been a fan of tool since 2000. They’ve been part of my life since then and have been fortunate to see them perform 17 times. Recently I discovered Alan watts…. “I was wrong……This changes everything”…..
This is ME! I feel like as I've listened to TOOL, since the late 90s, I've slowly started to "understand" until I had a major breakthrough. I think my life experiences, coupled with the message that TOOL brings, slowly brought me into this point where I eventually had an epiphany about life... And yes, Alan Watts, Carl Jung, and many others started influencing my life more and more.
Hey, this might be my favorite presentation for a reaction video. You have all the elements. Lyrics, album art, and your reaction. All in a well balanced format. Keep this up and continue on your Tool journey. It will change you. I will be here as well. Thank you
For your next song on your Tool journey I recommend one of these two songs: 46&2 or Right in Two. Neither song is on the Lateralus album. One is on the album before and one is on the album after.
Too many comments to know if my Comrades have bestowed the hidden jewel yet but... If you think this album is nuts... Look up the "Holy Gift" playlist for this album. I will not ruin your initiation but trust me... As "they" say... Milk for babes and Meat for Men. You will not be disappointed. Btw you got my like, sub and 🔔. Spiral Out Brother!
Hiya! Love your analysis of the official ‘Tool Nation’ music 🤙 PLEASE check out ‘A PERFECT CIRCLE, song; ‘Judith’. Maynard from Tool is the lead singer of the band. ….Anyway, I think that you’ll like it ❤ Also, PLEASE check out Tool’s , ‘The POT’ If you don’t end up enjoying it (and of course understanding the lyrics)--I will literally STOP listening to Tool. 😢 I’ve only been listening to them for 24 years but hey…. Take care 🤙
Well done for doing the WELL DONE version from the album. It's one of TOOL's bestest tunes. The thing is, however; Maynard doesn't take it too seriously, either. So I appreciate your take, Music Kingdom. For what it's worth; it's okay for us TOOL nerds to geek out, too. Even if we take it entirely too seriously. The original artists (being geniuses) are themselves obligated to relinquish control of their art. Why? Because I said so. As a consumer. Dungeons and Dragons, for instance; got way away from Gary Gygax's initial vision. To the point people are playing Elden Ring in 2023. If that makes any sense.
Have you and your expert ever heard BLOODLETTING: THE VAMPIRE SONG? I know it "sounds" goofy, but as far as rock songs go, I think y'all might find it interesting. I dunno. If a song could actually garner a 10 outta 10 (according to your scale) the only one I can think of is AMERICAN PIE.
You’ve got to check out The Pot! I think you’d love breaking down the lyrics. A brilliant point I saw someone mention about this song is how it’s very possibly directed at Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. Jimmy Page made mention of Tool ripping off Led Zeppelin’s MO in the use of sacred symbolism (like Zep IV). So in this song there is a lashing out at Page’s hypocrisy as it is commonly believed that Zeppelin ripped off (“cozened” meaning stolen) the blues (“weeping shades of cozened indigo”) of Muddy Waters. “Lemon juice,” an otherwise oddly placed lyric, is mentioned in more than one Zeppelin song. If you follow this train of thought it’s evident who the kettle is and who The Pot is - a scathing indictment of Page, and an admission by Tool that there is truly nothing new under the sun, only variations on a theme. I personally find that to be a brilliant observation and it’s hard for me to think the song meant anything else to Maynard when he wrote the lyrics. Still, they are written in such a way that you can interpret the song a thousand different ways, as with everything in Tool’s archive, and I think that’s the intention.
Again I would recommend you look at the live at Wembley version of "The Greatest Show On Earth" by a band called Nightwish. there are only a few bands that I love and listen to everything they make...Pink Floyd, Rush, Tool and Nightwish. You can throw Primus in there as well but there music is truly mind altering and somewhat of an inquired tase. The subject matter of the song I recommended is the planet earth, its creation and how life and man came to be. It has spoken phrases in the song that are not the other than Richard Dawkins and the album that it comes of "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" are from Charles Darwin.
Very fair critique. I hope you guys react to Reflection & The Patient off this album. Personally, I rate them higher than Lateralus, & Parabola. I’m fortunate enough to own a killer sound system, & I know that literally every song ever written sounds better on a great system. But Reflection & The Patient hit different on a good system. Brilliant songs, the both of em. Adams last few chords during the ending of Reflection are insanely tasteful, & simplistic at the same time. How does he do that?
Lol. Welcome to the Tool army. Member since 94. You have a tremendous catalog to work through. I really enjoy you going in depth about the song...its meaning...and its meaning to you.
Music Kingdom Horizons by Puscifer (one of Maynard's other bands) Lateralus by Tool Mad As a Hatter by Larkin Poe When they record the songs, Maynard never listens to them before all the instrumental tracks are finished and ready. After the band makes and records all the music, then Maynard listens to the track and writes/adds the vocals. This fact alone is amazing to me
I agree, the outro is too long and repetitive. If they shaved about a minute off that part, I think the song would really benefit from it! Great song otherwise though!!
Hard personal disagree. After the climax, the ending is the perfect pacing to slowly come down off the goosebumps high. Between Parabol and parabola, it's like a roller coaster, starting and ending slow to ease off. As mentioned in the video of the parabola shape in mathematics, it rises and falls to the same place, which is some beautiful auteurship. I get not caring for it, but its place is in my opinion, perfectly worth being included. Years of listening over and over, still get goosebumps and never skip the ending. I think it's interesting how more willing people are to accept a long intro and buildup, but the inverse is is looked at more negatively like a waste of the listener's time
The drawn-out outro hits much better when they play it live. Blended with the visuals of their live performances is where it’s at. I enjoy your presentation. Based on the thumbnail of your videos I figured you would annoy me….. I’ve been pleasantly surprised thus far. I dig what you do. 🌀
I love Tool but, I can't join their army. I'm a soldier in the armies of Heaven, led by Jesus Christ. Tool makes great music but remember, Lucifer led all the music in Heaven. I love this song, tho. It was my regular mantra for a few years
Recommendations: holy wars, hangar 18 and tornado of souls by megadeth, cemetery gates and cowboys from hell by pantera, painkiller by judas priest, fade to black by metallica, pull me under, take the time and metropolis pt. 1 by dream theater
Anything I really need to hear? Personalized song & album reviews!👇🏼
ko-fi.com/musickingdom/commissions
Agree or disagree? Drop your favorite Tool songs & other recs below!
The song Pneuma would suit you lyrics wise. They have a live version with the camera on the drummer only. It is awesome to see, and a great song too
Sober Live is another great performance. It's about addiction. The guitar is haunting and the performance is brilliant
Noted!
My favorite has to be Schism or 46 & 2. Both lyrically deep. Schism is more compositionally deep but 46 & 2 has that raw power and groove.
Yes! Pneuma and forty-six & 2!
Lateralus, the patient. Right in two.
I think the outro within the song was designed as a death knell. Parabol feels very much like a womb and slide out the birth canal. And then the body of the song is the breadth of life experience, then the death knell or the struggle and fight to hold onto the material and the final outro where the soul slips back away into the infinite. At least that's the vibe I get.
These guys can't be touched. "Embrace this moment remember we are eternal all this pain is an illusion" 💯🔥❤️
I play in a rock band myself, and when I hear that Parabola deserves a 7.5/10 I feel like selling my instruments and buying a fishing rod...
🤣
Lol. I felt that.
I feel you, bro! I'm a drummer myself and felt positively gut punched 😅
I get that feeling. I don't think Tool song will do much better than this 7.5 with the expert here. He values complex and varied chordal structure. Tool just doesn't craft songs that way. We've all heard Adam's guitar solos with 3 or maybe 4 notes, and the variance is all in the tone. Nothing wrong with the judging either. If judging was purely objective, it would be handled by robots. Sorry for the ramble. Your comment made me think on it a bit.
Our expert appreciates anything from Genesis to Joe Hisaishi. He respects the hell out of Tool as well. A song requires some insane mastery (in various ways) to get a super high score from him. And if it makes you guys feel any better… I can’t even play an instrument. 😂
I think I struggle to wrap my head around rating songs this way given every song made tries to accomplish something different. Based more on feeling and intent, I ask "do I feel this song did or didn't what it set out to do, and did it make me feel it?"
Still, your reviews are superb, even if I do not enjoy music in the same way. In my ears, I like both pop and metal because they specifically go for different things
I hear ya. To be fair - this is how I listen to music on this review channel, not in my own day-to-day life. 😂
@@TheMusicKingdom Makes sense. The attempt at quantifying qualitative observations will always have challenge, and you certainly have a great way of doing so
Much appreciated!
Another fantastic review of Tool! Personally, I would love to hear you review the first track from the same album, The Grudge. Amazing vocal range and the drumming is off the charts (your expert will go crazy listening to the last 2 minutes…lol). Keep up the great work! ❤
Noted! 🙏🏼🌀
If you're taking more Tool requests, PLEASE do Wings for Marie Parts 1 and 2. It's a song Maynard wrote for his mother after her death. Soooo powerful.
thank god someone not suggesting pneuma drum cam. I HATE THOSE SUGGESTIONS, at least yours is valid, really valid actually
Would love for you to react to The Grudge from the same album or Right in Two or Vicarious from their album 10,000 Days.
Vicarious, H, The Patient, The Grudge. There's a few songs from them I prefer over these but I think these songs would really vibe with you.
An interesting in depth way to review their music. Enjoyed it.
I hit the sub!! And it’s cuz TOOL out here making people famous. And I love seeing people discover TOOL for the first time
Here for all things Tool. Commenting for that algo love ❤ Keep em’ comin!
Parabola is my absolute favorite Tool song, with the combination of Parabol being absolutely sublime! No, it may not have the odd time signatures or insane vocals the band's known for, but, for me, this is the pinnacle of Tool's perfection. I'm analytical by nature, so I appreciate a good dissection and analysis, but the combination becomes something that you feel spiritually more than think about. I can empathize with those who say breaking down Tool songs ruin the magic because, me being COMPLETELY biased ( 😅), it did hurt a bit to hear that there "wasn't much going on." Still, though, I appreciate the honest appraisal, and look forward to more Tool breakdowns!
Rest assured - when I’m not making a TH-cam video, I prefer to experience music the same way as you. 🌀
'Ticks & Leeches' is a song tool made when the record label wanted something heavy, not the “floaty” songs Lateralus is known for.
This is what they got. I hope it’s what they wanted.
Lovin the content my man. Keep’em coming.
Much appreciated Jake!
You mentioned "holy" as a Christian term. Maynard has voiced his displeasure with Christianity in the past in several songs.
However, his mom was a very strong Christian who maintained her faith through much adversity. I like to believe that Maynard is changing his mind and starting to understand faith in a different way. Parabol/Parabola is clearly about our soul. The song Pneuma off their last album is another about our soul, yet another Christian belief.
Believing in a soul or anything that this song and Pneuma is about aren't strictly limited to Christianity you know. Christianity is only 2000 years old, but ancient Indian vedic teachings, and other more ancient East Asian beliefs are much older and hold the same beliefs. One can believe what Maynard writes but have no interest in any organised Faith at all. It's simply about believing that there is more to life than the physical, that we are all God/spirit in physical form with the sole purpose of relationship and experience.
If Christianity would just stick to those basic teachings rather than stating that the only way to be saved is to accept jesus, and that all who don't accept jesus are condemned to eternal damnarion, then it would be more widely accepted. The fact that Maynard mother was a devout Christian and probably held those same beliefs, will be the reason that he speaks out against Christianity. He'll never be a Christian, he'll never see that faith in a different way. But he WILL carry on believing that we are spiritual beings having a physical experience.
10,000% agree. Religion & dogma vs metaphysics & spirituality
One of us
One of us
I would be interested to hear your thoughts on both versions of Pushit by TOOL. The original Ænima release from 1996 and the Salival version from 2000. There’s lots of lyrical and musical changes between the two. I’d be curious to see which version you prefer
I love Pushit. That is one of my top 5's. All of their songs are amazing but Pushit is just beautiful.
He did write a book; “A Perfect Union of Contrary Things”
The Wheels on the Bus, go round and round, while TOOL takes me to School.
Ok I've watched a few of your reviews and I appreciate your content. I'm gonna suggest Heilung, it isn't metal or rock but it will absolutely blow you away.... spiritually. I'm subbing now in hopes I see that review later.
Edit to previous post: Aeona or Traust for Heilung. Also any song you choose is acceptable too lol
Venturing into the greatness that is Tool. Enjoy dude!
Another solid review, even if it's tough to review Tool, and from an initial listen. Basically nailed it just like Lateralus. Can't wait for some more.
I think the only real accurate way would be to record the initial reaction, then listen 99 more times while in some different sets and settings, and then do the review. haha you have unlimited time, right?
Actualy MJK wrote a book an it's called A perfect union of contrary things.
Oh snap!
Bah don’t listen to those Tool fans that talk about Tool as their own genre. They are metal. They are progressive. They are whatever anyone thinks they are. Who cares cause they are an amazing band regardless. Love your reactions brother. Please keep the Tool content coming. Spiral out my friend 🌀
Much appreciated! This is the way.
Wasn't a fan of the song till I heard Danny Carey's drum solo in the outro live, then it became one of my faves.
My apologies if you have explained this but what do you mean by "Listenable" Thank you and keep them coming love it 🤘❤🤘💯
Great Q! “Listenable”, for me, means how easy a song is to get into. For example with the song Lateralus, its composition is so crazy & complex that it’s less accessible (until you’re used to it). Parabola is what I would call more easily “listenable” in comparison 👍🏼 both amazing songs!
TOOL'S albums show the growth of the band. Each progressed from the last. Over 30years of mastering the mindset they were in at the time. I'd suggest starting at the beginning of the Undertow album and move through their whole catalog. It will take time but literally every song is It's own. TOOL doesn't compromise.
I would love to see you branch out to other "Maynard" bands. I would recommend the Humbling River by Puscifer. It is both haunting and enlightening. I would try to explain what the meaning is to me but it deserves a fresh listen so you can get out of it what you see.
As a whole, this album had such a profound effect on me that, on purpose, I didn't fully invest in 10,000 Days for the better part of 3 years following it's release, simply because I didn't think the band could out do Lateralus (of course, I had PLENTY of time do digest that one in the interim between it and Fear Inoculum...😂).
Parabol>Parabola remains my (if I had a gun to my head) favorite Tool track; I don't outright disagree with anything from the reaction, because much of the effect Tool has on it's listeners is borne out of what each individual brings to the experience. Solid reaction, Francis...Spiral Out, Keep Going!!
did you accidentally leave the speakers on per chance? haha I can hear the flanging from the interference.
📖 A Perfect Union of Contrary Things. ~ Sarah Jensen / Maynard James Keenan. You’ll definitely enjoy it. 🤝
46 & 2
Right in Two
The Grudge
The Pot
My dude, you’ve only scratched the surface. You’re literally going to be awestruck, with every song by them that you listen to. They’re transcendent, as artists.
…oh, and the ones I’ve listed have the vocals you’re looking for.
Please do other Tool tracks. Love em all.
Would like you to do Descending from their latest album.
παραβολή is the Greek word that gives the english word parabola
"Almost" lol
I give you a Stinkfist shoulder deep beyond the borderline on the rating of this song.
Ok. So since you’re already getting the “comments” I feel it is imperative that I give you a fair warning:
A certain segment of the “Tool Army” can be quite….well…insufferable. Now, it is a minority, but it is an extremely VOCAL minority. Most tool aficionados reflect the music and are quite open-minded and decent folk. BUT! That vocal minority can get under your skin and push you away from tools music and I wouldn’t blame you. It’s usually within the first few songs that make or break whether someone even wants to react to tool because of arrogant and snide comments. These people are their own worst enemy because the mission is to expose the music to as many people as possible and keep it alive, yet they turn many people off of tool. I feel safe saying that band would probably not “be cool” with these peoples behavior. As a matter a fact I’m positive because band members, primarily Maynard, have said as much. Of course these are generally not “bad” people; they’re just a little much. The problem is that tool fans love tool so much and get either a little over-enthusiastic or too aggressive. They just want everyone to experience it the way they do, no matter how impossible that is. But, unfortunately, some get nasty. They get a little too convinced that because they happen to like brilliant music, that it somehow means that they themselves are brilliant or all-knowing; as if they are the ones that created it or something. They start talking down to people, which is not cool. Please don’t let them ruin it for you. Tool is a rare band as they have extraordinary depth not only musically but artistically/visually and especially lyrically and have so much to offer; especially to people who like to experience music a little more deeply and intellectually than average music listeners. The band are all amazing artists and masters of their craft. They do not have a “bad” song. Some are better but they all sound good. I’d hate for you to miss out because a few nematodes. You have barely tested these waters as they say: it’s a rabbit hole. So as an OG tool fan circa the 1990’’s, Please allow me to apologize in advance for their insolence and juvenile behavior.
😂 I wasn’t gonna say it! Glad you did. Great explanation too. 🌀
@@TheMusicKingdom I could see it in your eyes…😉
Nice vid. You should do a video on Earth Song by MJ or Adore by Prince.
You're in luck. He wrote a book. Read it.
The insects the frogs at the end of parabola always teleports me away somewhere near a small lake at dawn where you can just barely see the sun anymore over the horizon
Also at the end of parabola where Adam Jones is just going ham on the guitar and Danny Carey exorcising our soul reminds me of life's hardships and how hard life can be sometimes
For some reason this is how I personally interpret the end
He has a book lol
He has a few books.
Oh…. You want mind blowing brilliance musically? Check out Avenged Sevenfold, their song A little piece of Heaven is just that.
Can you do Bleak by Opeth?
Maynard James keenan.. The art of work. It's on TH-cam.. well worth a look..
You're meticulous and tough. All good, well done again. ✌️
The ratings for each section are spot on and I like the way you approach grading songs. However, I find the end result of this to be relatively bland as music is an art form that cannot be easily broken down into its component parts. It's just more than adding up individual areas.
Agreed. We’re just nerdy & passionate. 🌀
you should try Megadeth next.
Badassury
Sorry dude, you made me cry
Tool is the best band that can ever exist, because they are merely a Tool for God himself.
Overrated
When you say less listenable, do you mean catchy? If so I couldn't agree more, and I want it that way. When I hear a song for the 1st time and I instantly like it and it's stuck in my head I will hate that song within a week, When I listen to any music that takes a listen or 2 to catch on what's happening it never gets old
"You know what..... fuck it..... I just wanna keep listening."
Exactly.
You guys do a really solid job of dividing up the song into digestible bits. I agree with nearly all of the commentary.
For me, TOOL is somehow greater than the sum of its parts...... and that is it's brilliance. It makes me feel. I almost always walk away from a listen ...... satisfied in its totality.
Just some thoughts :)
Very well said!
I think your tool reactions/ reviews are great! Can’t wait for the next one. The tool army will come!
I think Tool fans are very diverse in our beliefs and mindset. I myself am a baptist Christian & US citizen and I love their whole discography. Keep up the content sir 💯
Heck yeah! 🌀
Let's just not talk about opiate (I'm protestant Christian Australian)
I’m an atheist that despise modern religion. Tool brings me as close as I can get to religiosity. Cheers to you!
Listening to all his songs is a chronological journey through his life and mindset. It's a key example of how the mind evolves.. from anger to forgiveness, from religious aversion to seeking/finding a strong form of spirituality, from being young and seeking the limits that seem endless to being old and limited.. it's all in there and it's perfect
@@shannontreiber1070Religion in general should be abolished. Religion is cancer and we need more anti-theists instead of atheists.
Thoroughly enjoyed your breakdown. I bet you'd give Vicarious a similar rating on the lyrics and I bet the Expert would love Danny Carey's live drum cam of Pneuma.
In my younger years I listened to tool for the music…for their sound. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve rediscovered tool for their lyrics. For me, it’s what makes listening to tool more of a journey.
Just spot on. Totally agree with your judgements apart from vocal score which I would give 8/10 as he goes from softness and calmness to the rage and executed it flawlessly.
If you notices their drummer :) Pneuma Live by Vic Firth is must to see!
Well said!
I’m an atheist from the US and I don’t Judge anyone for their beliefs and the Tool Army doesn’t judge me. We are all one collective ❤
I only worry about the cries of the carrots.
Man i wish they're was more people like you. Most atheist i see are hateful to religious people for no fucking reason. Good day to you sir ❤
The power of music 🥹
I’m a satanist, cause I’ve seen the devil when I died and came back to life but at the same time I believe there’s a god but I think I’m going to hell so lol, same as aliens... I’ve seen some weird sh!t
@@mycity7590 maybe you don’t know many atheists then. I am an atheist and I resonate with Tools lyrics and I have read books and works from most of the main religions, from the bible to the Tao Te King.
As an atheist I can find beauty anywhere without being restrained by dogma, although I can also be critic when it is deserved.
Most atheists I know are the most open minded and willing to experience the world than anyone else.
Great review! Lately I've been digging Maynard's choices in singing/composing. I think holding and extending notes on, "Holy" "Alive" and "Be" is supposed to get across the eternal life theme within the song.
Glad you're having fun with Tool. My next choice would be "Jambi." Can't wait to hear whatever's next!
Much appreciated!
Once in a lifetime band.
I fell in love with Tool's music first...then I came to appreciate the lyrics and messaging.
Thanks so much for the shout out, Francis! And thank you for critiquing one of my favorite songs from one of my favorite bands. Your videos provide so much value, insight, and entertainment, keep up the great work! Music Kingdom is more than a reaction channel; it's truly something special where I feel like we're celebrating not only music, but life itself. I'm excited to get back to this video now, been waiting until I got off work to watch. Cheers and have a great weekend!
The legend himself! Thanks Anthony! 🙏🏼
@@TheMusicKingdom Oh man, after finishing the video...what a great analysis! I think you were right on the money, as was John Paul. You nailed the grading in each category IMO. For me personally, since the song came out during a particularly exciting time in my life, and since I was turned on to it by my best friend, there's a nostalgia factor where I'd probably give it a 9. As I've gotten older, I'm becoming more of a sucker for nostalgic stuff from my teens and early adulthood lol. I can't speak for other Tool fans, but I'd say they are diverse in their beliefs and value the lyrics as much as the music. I'm a Christian, and although I don't think the Tool guys are, I greatly value Maynard's lyrics and learn a lot from them. Parabola is obviously not aligned with any one religion, but the overall message is taught and valued in most (all?) religions. Even non-religious people who are just spiritual can appreciate these lyrics, I'd imagine. The fact that it's not preachy, yet philosophical and spiritual is my favorite part. If I hear a song that's overtly preachy, even if I agree with the lyrics, it's a huge turn off because of the tactless, narrow-minded delivery.
Much appreciated! Well said, once again. Agreed about nostalgia, it’s a beautiful thing that definitely hits harder as we grow older. I also appreciate that Tool pulls from knowledge unspecific to any one creed or religion. 🌀
Next TOOL song should definitely be 46 and 2 off their album before this one. I haven’t seen anybody recommend it but it’s one of their best! Very deep lyrics and musically amazing!
H. is the best song.
While you're on this album, you really should do reflection. That to me is their best song on this album... Just absolutely magical.
I don't listen intently to the lyrics and try to analyse what they mean. For me it is best to just experience the lyrics as part of the music. Even if they were sung in Danish or Portugese, I'd still appreciate the feeling they impart.
Correct sir. Reflection & The Patient are the bomb tracks on the album; 👍.
I had forgotten about that track. Thanks for reminding me to obsess over it for the next few months 😅
I'm an atheist and skeptical about all of metaphysics, but I love Tool to the point that I call them my favorite current band. I could write paragraphs about that, but they do go into solid science and get philosophical from that - but it's merely a bonus, as the music is simply insanely good.
Love that! Great music transcends beliefs (or lack thereof).
YESSS KEEP THE TOOL COMING. I highly recommend fear inoculum H. Pushit. Stinkfist
A 24-year sound engineer here. When talking about a song "production," I understand where you are coming from. However, rock/metal has a bit of a different use for the term "production." When using this term when describing rock/metal production on a record, it comes down to how a track/album is "mixed." Can you hear each individual instrument and vocal. How are.they "ballanced". In the song, does each instrument have a place. Are the drums drowning every other aspect of the song out. Are the vocals clear? Can you understand them (not to include the diction and enunciation of the particular singer). Is the audio composition letting you enjoy each part of the band, or is one part of the song over driving other parts. This is a very simplistic explanation, but its a good general rule of thumb. Keep up the good work...
Agreed! Well said.
Check out their other song about life. Listen to the Grudge. Holding grudges will destroy you. It is INTENSE!
I very much respect your scoring of those songs. I enjoy seeing your reactions when parts of the song resonates with you. Looking forward to when you react to the song Pneuma!
I am definitely one who enjoys Tool now because of the spiritual meanings in their lyrics. However, it wasn't like that at first. It's amazing how a lot of little things such as meditation, Tool, etc. came together as one huge understanding during my spiritual enlightenment.💫✨ I'm also curious if their choice of chords has to do with certain chakra frequencies because I think their music goes far deeper than most modern music.
Please listen to Pneuma.
Well said Toni!
Guys, both of you would really appreciate The Grudge from TOOL, out of this album. Great drums, great lyrics, epic ending!
I'm afraid you won't find much melodic changes in TOOL songs when speaking about the guitar and the bass, but you'll see a lot of rythm and time signature changes, and overall tonal change on the bass and the guitar. Actually, this might be the only one that's not in D minor. LOL
I’ve been a fan of tool since 2000. They’ve been part of my life since then and have been fortunate to see them perform 17 times. Recently I discovered Alan watts…. “I was wrong……This changes everything”…..
Alan watts and Tool are a perfect combination.
This is ME! I feel like as I've listened to TOOL, since the late 90s, I've slowly started to "understand" until I had a major breakthrough. I think my life experiences, coupled with the message that TOOL brings, slowly brought me into this point where I eventually had an epiphany about life... And yes, Alan Watts, Carl Jung, and many others started influencing my life more and more.
Hey, this might be my favorite presentation for a reaction video. You have all the elements. Lyrics, album art, and your reaction. All in a well balanced format. Keep this up and continue on your Tool journey. It will change you. I will be here as well. Thank you
Much appreciated!
Anybody else hear that weird fazer-y sound while he’s listening to Parabola? What’s that about…
Check out MAYNARD'S EASTER STORY. Mind blowing.
New sub here, keep the TOOL reactions coming! Intension & Right in Two from the 10,000 days album is a great combo song too. Enjoy the journey
Forty six & 2 by Tool is probably also right up your ally.
Funny, it doesn't matter how many times I see the accepted lyric "Alive", I still hear it as "..an illusion, a lie!"
Interesting!
For your next song on your Tool journey I recommend one of these two songs: 46&2 or Right in Two. Neither song is on the Lateralus album. One is on the album before and one is on the album after.
I agree with your comment about the outro. But, when I watch the music video, the outro goes really, really well with the video.
So I’ve heard. I’ll have to check it out!
Time for the Grudge! Peace
That sums up my whole tool experience " My thoughts on the lyrics are... naw fuck it I just want to keep listening"
Instant follow. Nice work. Your journey down the rabbit hole has begun!
SPIRAL OUT,
SPIRAL OUT !!!!
Too many comments to know if my Comrades have bestowed the hidden jewel yet but... If you think this album is nuts... Look up the "Holy Gift" playlist for this album. I will not ruin your initiation but trust me... As "they" say... Milk for babes and Meat for Men. You will not be disappointed. Btw you got my like, sub and 🔔. Spiral Out Brother!
Hiya! Love your analysis of the official ‘Tool Nation’ music 🤙
PLEASE check out ‘A PERFECT CIRCLE, song; ‘Judith’. Maynard from Tool is the lead singer of the band. ….Anyway, I think that you’ll like it ❤
Also, PLEASE check out Tool’s , ‘The POT’ If you don’t end up enjoying it (and of course understanding the lyrics)--I will literally STOP listening to Tool. 😢
I’ve only been listening to them for 24 years but hey….
Take care 🤙
Well done for doing the WELL DONE version from the album. It's one of TOOL's bestest tunes. The thing is, however; Maynard doesn't take it too seriously, either. So I appreciate your take, Music Kingdom. For what it's worth; it's okay for us TOOL nerds to geek out, too. Even if we take it entirely too seriously. The original artists (being geniuses) are themselves obligated to relinquish control of their art. Why? Because I said so. As a consumer. Dungeons and Dragons, for instance; got way away from Gary Gygax's initial vision. To the point people are playing Elden Ring in 2023. If that makes any sense.
Have you and your expert ever heard BLOODLETTING: THE VAMPIRE SONG? I know it "sounds" goofy, but as far as rock songs go, I think y'all might find it interesting. I dunno. If a song could actually garner a 10 outta 10 (according to your scale) the only one I can think of is AMERICAN PIE.
You’ve got to check out The Pot! I think you’d love breaking down the lyrics. A brilliant point I saw someone mention about this song is how it’s very possibly directed at Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. Jimmy Page made mention of Tool ripping off Led Zeppelin’s MO in the use of sacred symbolism (like Zep IV). So in this song there is a lashing out at Page’s hypocrisy as it is commonly believed that Zeppelin ripped off (“cozened” meaning stolen) the blues (“weeping shades of cozened indigo”) of Muddy Waters. “Lemon juice,” an otherwise oddly placed lyric, is mentioned in more than one Zeppelin song. If you follow this train of thought it’s evident who the kettle is and who The Pot is - a scathing indictment of Page, and an admission by Tool that there is truly nothing new under the sun, only variations on a theme. I personally find that to be a brilliant observation and it’s hard for me to think the song meant anything else to Maynard when he wrote the lyrics. Still, they are written in such a way that you can interpret the song a thousand different ways, as with everything in Tool’s archive, and I think that’s the intention.
Honestly the outro works way better while watching the video for it, otherwise it's kinda confusing.
Again I would recommend you look at the live at Wembley version of "The Greatest Show On Earth" by a band called Nightwish. there are only a few bands that I love and listen to everything they make...Pink Floyd, Rush, Tool and Nightwish. You can throw Primus in there as well but there music is truly mind altering and somewhat of an inquired tase. The subject matter of the song I recommended is the planet earth, its creation and how life and man came to be. It has spoken phrases in the song that are not the other than Richard Dawkins and the album that it comes of "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" are from Charles Darwin.
Very fair critique. I hope you guys react to Reflection & The Patient off this album. Personally, I rate them higher than Lateralus, & Parabola. I’m fortunate enough to own a killer sound system, & I know that literally every song ever written sounds better on a great system. But Reflection & The Patient hit different on a good system. Brilliant songs, the both of em. Adams last few chords during the ending of Reflection are insanely tasteful, & simplistic at the same time. How does he do that?
Lol. Welcome to the Tool army. Member since 94. You have a tremendous catalog to work through. I really enjoy you going in depth about the song...its meaning...and its meaning to you.
Music Kingdom Horizons by Puscifer (one of Maynard's other bands)
Lateralus by Tool
Mad As a Hatter by Larkin Poe
When they record the songs, Maynard never listens to them before all the instrumental tracks are finished and ready. After the band makes and records all the music, then Maynard listens to the track and writes/adds the vocals. This fact alone is amazing to me
I agree, the outro is too long and repetitive. If they shaved about a minute off that part, I think the song would really benefit from it! Great song otherwise though!!
Agreed!
Hard personal disagree. After the climax, the ending is the perfect pacing to slowly come down off the goosebumps high. Between Parabol and parabola, it's like a roller coaster, starting and ending slow to ease off. As mentioned in the video of the parabola shape in mathematics, it rises and falls to the same place, which is some beautiful auteurship. I get not caring for it, but its place is in my opinion, perfectly worth being included. Years of listening over and over, still get goosebumps and never skip the ending. I think it's interesting how more willing people are to accept a long intro and buildup, but the inverse is is looked at more negatively like a waste of the listener's time
I like the slow ending as well, as mentioned. However I’m a bit less of a fan of the pre-outro leading up to it.
The drawn-out outro hits much better when they play it live. Blended with the visuals of their live performances is where it’s at.
I enjoy your presentation. Based on the thumbnail of your videos I figured you would annoy me….. I’ve been pleasantly surprised thus far. I dig what you do. 🌀
The outro you didn’t like is wayyyy better live. Drummer Danny goes off
I love Tool but, I can't join their army. I'm a soldier in the armies of Heaven, led by Jesus Christ. Tool makes great music but remember, Lucifer led all the music in Heaven.
I love this song, tho. It was my regular mantra for a few years
Recommendations: holy wars, hangar 18 and tornado of souls by megadeth, cemetery gates and cowboys from hell by pantera, painkiller by judas priest, fade to black by metallica, pull me under, take the time and metropolis pt. 1 by dream theater