Words and Photos by Jose Serrato
While a storm was starting to brew over the Dallas sky, music enthusiasts from all walks of life congregated at the American Airlines Center to witness the highly anticipated performance of the iconic progressive metal band, Tool. With a career spanning over three decades, Tool has garnered a devoted cult following with their intricate compositions, thought-provoking lyrics, and enigmatic stage presence. As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, anticipation filled the air for what would undoubtedly be a concert experience like no other.
Now, I’ve never personally tripped on acid, but I can only imagine a Tool concert being pretty close to it. With music that can take you into another world is accompanied by stunning visuals projections. As intricate animations and mesmerizing light displays interplayed with the music, the audience was transported to ethereal realms, mirroring the depth and complexity of Tool’s musical compositions. The flawless and intricate time signatures from drummer Danny Carey can send you into a hypnotic coma. Weave in Adam Jones’ guitar and Justin Chancellor pulsating bass lines and you’re in prog heaven. Coming in and out from the back corner of the stage is Maynard James Keenan with his hauntingly melodic vocals and intense growls. The crowd hung onto his every word and transported deeper into the depths of Tool’s intricate world.
There really is no easy way to describe a Tool show. The only thing I can think of when walking out the venue is, what did we just see? The best way to review a Tool show is by saying, go to a Tool show and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.
