UNDERTOW

When I went to a cd store this week I really wondered about the alternative rock section. Why are bands like "Die Happy", "Green Day" or "NOFX" alternative? They belong in the normal rock zone.

But what is alternative then?

Bands like The Mars Volta, I fortunately saw there and Tool! With their strong, diverse and complex rhythm section, their artistic arrangements and the impressive, progressive vocals by Maynard James Keenan, they can be doubtlessly counted as alternative and as progressive as well. Danny Carey's drum work is simply amazing and definitely a reason why Tool is so addictive and interesting. In tracks like "Prison Sex", the rhythm creates a fantastic feeling, while tracks like "Sober" create a fantastic atmosphere. Those 2 tracks are my favourite tracks on this album and also belong to my favourite tracks of Tool's discography.

But how to describe Tool's music?

A heavy guitar (still rock, but on the edge to metal), great vocals and complex drums. The only track which is really disappointing. Nice drum work, very loud and heavy, some guitar tones in the background and some whispered vocals and afterwards, the last 10 minutes, there is simply a sough. While I respect the first part and the sense behind the lyrics this last part is totally brazen. Another point I have to criticize is the partly monotony in the album. I found it really interesting after hearing it the first times, but afterwards, I noticed that the tracks are kind of similar and the excitement decreased. I don't know if there is another phase where you really discover the album or if that is all. After all my prog experience, my ears are quite trained now and I think that was it. Maybe I'm too greedy and hard to content, better make your own experience, this is a really nice album and a fantastic piece of art. But it is really nothing compared to "Aenima" and "Laterlaus". Better start with those 2 albums, if you have those, get this one. You shouldn't miss tracks like "Prison Sex" and "Sober"!

3,5/5