ÆNIMA

Tool is probably among the best prog rock/metal groups of the past 20 years. Aenima is an impressive CD from this truly unique hypno-metal outfit. Some of Tool's best songs are off this album (i.e. Stinkfist, Eulogy, and the title track). The music videos that accompany some the tracks on Aenima reflect its dark, creepy mood. Aenima is certainly not the best showcase of Tool's talent--Lateralus is the album that displays Tool's members' virtuosity. Although in terms of emotional effect Aenima is number one in Tool's discography. Its (almost) perfect balance between heavy and soft, reflective and angry, polished and raw makes Aenima a truly captivating listen. Adam Jones (who is usually not the featured musician on most Tool discs) is in top form here and uses various kinds of distortion and feedback to complement Maynard James Keenan's dynamic and emotional vocal performances while Danny Carrey--a true great in the world of prog rock drumming--and bassist Justin Chancellor hold down the hypnotic and ever-shifting grooves that provide the foundation to the songs. If you are a fan of bands like Porcupine Tree, The Mars Volta, and King Crimson (Red-era to now) you should give Aenima a thorough listen