Review: Tool 'Fear Inoculum'
Hannah Montana, Borat, the inception of Facebook, and the death of a zoological legend, Steve Irwin. All newsworthy topics in 2006. That year was also the last year that we would hear a new album from the band Tool... until now.
Fear Inoculum is here, and over the last decade, there hasn't been an album more mystifying, perplexing or divisive. The music world has been on pins and needles anticipating this release and if any band can live up to the hype of such a long hiatus, I would bet all of the limited money in my bank account on Maynard and the boys, and I believe that millions of others would follow suit.
At the beginning of August 2019, the band made history by releasing their entire catalogue to streaming services: every one of their albums shot into the Top 10 on iTunes, and their hit song ‘Sober’ became the highest charting song, knocking off pop superstar Ariana Grande. This is truly a sign of dedication from the rock/metal community, and it’s proof that the wait was worth it.
We’ve been chasing our tails for over a decade waiting for new material. As stated before, mystifying, perplexing, and decisive are all perfect words to summarize this new set of tracks. The album itself is nothing short of everything lifelong fans could’ve asked for. The record contains 10 songs and nearly 90 minutes of music. No song other than the interludes clocks in at less than 10 minutes in length. Although it could take 13 more years to digest everything and form a cohesive opinion, here are some of my thoughts;
‘Pneuma’ - This track could’ve been included on the bands’ third album, 2001’s Lateralus. Complete with a huge opening riff, and lyrics about human connectivity, it’s the perfect reintroduction to the band.
‘Descending’ - A song that was debuted at festivals this spring, it is very similar to a lot of songs from the album “10,000 days”. Be prepared to be put into a dreamlike trance with a bass line that’ll carry you throughout the whole 14 minutes.
‘7emptest’ - My personal favorite. This is the most metal song on the record, nearing 15 minutes in length, and boasting a few “Mesuggah”-style riffs. This track will be an instant classic and fan favorite for years to come.
One last standout moment from this album;
It is probably the most “loose” and “jammy” the band have ever been. On top of all of the progressive and experimental moments, there are huge rock/funk moments that lend themselves to this band’s constant progression and ever-changing sound. Guitarist Adam Jones is taking the opportunity to solo more than before, and drummer Danny Carey is continuing to show why he’s one of the best drummers of all time.
Admittedly, I’ve never been as committed to this band as I probably should’ve been. I was 14 years old when I got into Tool, on the heels of their most successful, and previous album 10,000 Days. Perhaps that title was a tease as to how long we would have to wait for new music. I love hindsight. Being a teenager with little to no patience, getting into songs built around mathematical equations that could take up the entire side of a record wasn’t for me. With that being said, having a new album to dissect at 26 is truly a gift.
The world is different now, and it’s ready for Tool. During the age of distraction and instant gratification, and societal discord the band makes a case for immersion, commitment, and escape. Fear Inoculum is a perfect Tool album. As I’m writing this, we are preparing for a potential category 4 hurricane here in Central Florida, and I’m thrilled to have this included in the soundtrack.