LATERALUS

Tool

Experimental/Post Metal

4.22 | 1747 ratings

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AtLossForWords
Prog Reviewer

Tool's Lateralus showcases their signature styled of rythymn oriented Progressive Metal, but does it better tha previous efforts.

The most noticeable element of this album is the rythymic prowess demonstrated not by one, but by all members of the band. Drummer Danny Carey puts in a phoenomenal performance where he continues his melodic style showcased more in Aenima. Bassist Justin Chancellor shows off his rythymic chops and has some real special playing on this album. Adam Jones' guitar playing has become more effects oriented and shows great creativity. The vocalist, Maynard James Keenan puts in a stronger performance on softer songs, but leaves quality to be desired in heavier compositions.

The longer tracks are what really makes this album a good piece of work by Tool. The album's quality is exceptionally strong at the beginning, but the musicality drops slightly towards the end. The Grudge is a catchy opener, and it leaves fans with the more familar side of Tool. The Paitient is an extraordinary composition by the band. It shows off the more progressive side of Tool. This is one of the tracks were Tool's creativity and atmosphere is clearly evident. It really sets the tone for the middle of the album. Parabola and Ticks and Leeches showcase another heavier side of Tool. Ticks and Leeches may well be Tool's heaviest track, at least on this album. The album's ending is not as high of quality as the beginning is, but it still has one very interesting compostion. Reflections, is a future Tool classic. I find it to have quite a different feel from the rest of the album.

The production is top class, and from a band like Tool, It's expected to be that way. The guitars have an excellent mix. The effects ring through clear, something vital to the survival of a band like Tool. The bass has great bottom end punch also vital to the survival of the band. The drums are extraordinary as usual. Danny Carey's melodic drum work is the very heart of Tool.

The album is amazing by Tool's standards, but it the grand scheme of the Progressive World, it is good but not a must have. Definately a must have for fans of Tool's style of Progressive Metal.

AtLossForWords | 3/5 | 2006-1-5

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