LATERALUS

TOOL are a 'Post Metal' band (a branch of Prog of which I'm no expert.....) who thrive on playing heavy, violent themes, crunching riffs, lots of jagged, odd-time sigs and atmospheric interludes. These contrasts actually flow along perfectly together - nothing sounds forced throughout this superb 'Lateralus' album. There's no doubt that these guys are well 'clued-in' on the concept of Progressive music and have amazing chops and compositional skills to back it up. It was 2002 when first I heard parts of this album when a friend of mine (Aussie Byrd Brother) had the disc in his car - the clear plastic-like CD booklet was instantly captivating, as were the selected tracks played. Years later(alus !), I finally obtained the double LP version. I just love the colourful, X-Ray type image on the cover too. Vocalist Maynard James Keenan possesses a dynamic voice suited to this type of music ; it can be bold and guttural, as well as soft and reflective (Hammill minus the theatrics ??), and he can hold his notes for an incredibly long time. The rhythm section is nothing short of amazing - incredibly tight and elaborate drumming of Danny Carey and crisp, intricate bass playing of Justin Chancellor. That leaves the suitably textural guitar work of Adam Jones, altogether forming a beautifully produced, ultra-modern sound which is somewhat accessible, appealing to the hip, 'Indie' kids as well as many proggers, no wonder they are quite successful. There's a lot to digest on this album - I sure admire the fact that the sequencing of the tracks has been carefully considered and well chosen, epic long tracks with occasional short instrumental links in between. My personal faves are the intense opener 'The Grudge', 'Lateralus' and 'Reflection', although I find no second-rate fillers here. A highly recommended 4 star album for those into the heavier end of Prog.