Disappointed, But Can Tool Really Lose? — 2 years ago
As a Tool fan, I have to say that I was underwhelmed by 10,000 Days. It’s clear that they put a ton of effort into every aspect of their work, but overall I did not find this musical experience as enjoyable as say Lateralus or Aenima. Many of the tracks I found a bit boring relatively speaking (keep in mind this is compared to their past works, not to music in general). However, that’s not to say there were not songs on this that I found innovative and engrossing.
“Vicarious” is insightful and stimulating, the perfect opening to the album. “Jambi” has some of the most interesting guitar work I’ve ever heard. “The Pot”, I would argue, had the most mainstream success (and that success was not undeserved). “Lipan Conjuring” has a tribal aspect to it that somehow manages to fit in with the rest of the album. “Rosetta Stoned” shows that Tool can have a sense of humor and still create that surreal experience they are known for. “Right in Two” is a scathing, but very true and unique social commentary. I appreciate the “Wings” series for what it is, but I don’t think I’ll be putting either song on my iPod anytime soon.
Let’s just face it though, really Tool can’t lose. They’re lyrics are amazing, the voice Maynard provides is versatile, and they create instrumentals that really absorb you into the experience they have created. Tool is miles better than most other artists out there, so “disappointing” for them earns 4 stars. I wouldn’t pick up this album before some of their others, but if anyone deserves a Grammy, it’s these guys.
