Tool - 10,000 Days (as posted on 10000-days.com forum)

I take every new album as a package. While I always greatly anticipate every new album, I try not to form expectations for it. By the time Lateralus was released, I was convinced that one must not expect anything from Tool. You bascially never know what's coming anyway, and any specific expectations will surely be disappointed. Every album is different.

I never download Tool songs, I always buy the CD. And when I get it, I listen to it straight through once while looking at the artwork. I take it in and let it settle. Then I come back and listen more. I appreciate -- but do not dwell on -- the lyrics because they are not my own words, thoughts, feelings.

My initial reaction to this album was the same as every one previously released. I liked some of it, I didn't care for other parts, and I absolutely revelled in the genius of still other parts. I don't think I've ever been instantly taken by a Tool album.

It always happens later, sometimes much later. For months, I've had Lateralus in my car on loop, all the time. I expect I'll do the same with 10,000 Days. But before Lateralus became my driving soundtrack, I hadn't listened to it for a couple years. Then, after letting it settle in, I fell in love with it. 10K Days is going to be no different.

The beauty of this band, for me anyway, is that it is NOT pop. Tool's music seeps into my mind. I find I enjoy it most in my "music cage" (windows up in the car, played loudly) as I travel down the expressway, lost in thought, and I realize that I haven't been "listening" to the music. It's been there, surrounding me, wrapping me in its unique and complex rhythms, resonating with my being. That's what the music does.

Sometimes, such as to Forty-Six & 2, or soon Vicarious, I'll sing along and rock out. But usually, it's best to absorb Tool slowly over time with repeated listenings.

I might have liked to hear more vocals on this album, or more beats to jam to, but that's why there are other Tool songs. This album is a complement, an extension to previous albums. It stands alone and is still part of a collection that could be played in random order and still sound great.

Tool offers something few bands ever could or even attempt to offer -- music with no 3:30 radio formula, no reverence for "the Man" in charge of the industry. Truly art.

Originally posted here.