LATERALUS

I listened to this record all the way through again just a couple of days ago, and it is indescribably magnificent. I think that Tool has a way of creating songs that have this insanely masculine, tribal, and spiritual fury to them that is just magical. When I listen to The Grudge, I just can't help but thinking that it is the most masculine song that I have ever heard. It is full of rage, but is perfectly calculated and executed. Maynard's vocals are just so awesome, and can I say anything about the godly rhythm section of Danny Carey and Justin Chancellor that hasn't already been said? My only reason for giving this album four stars is because I don't think it's absolutely perfect. Ticks and Leeches, Reflection, and Triad, too to a lesser extent, tend to drag on a little too much. I really like Reflection and Triad, though, but Ticks and Leeches is probably the weakest track on the album in my opinion, however, the lyrics are pretty powerful, especially if you think about a tick or a leech when listening to the song. Overall, I had to give this a four because I think I am a pretty biased listener when it comes to Tool, and since I've never fallen in love with Ticks and Leeches, I don't think this album is perfect. I do, however, think that this album is absolutely brilliant. I highly recommend this album and 10,000 Days to anyone I meet.