2006/05/16 - Toronto, CAN - Hummingbird Centre

[swaps]

SETLIST --

Lost Keys
Rosetta Stoned
Stinkfist
Forty Six & 2
Jambi
Schism
Right in Two
Sober
Lateralus
Vicarious
Ænema


*DO NOT POST IF YOU WERE NOT AT THE SHOW!

[Alexkos]

Jesus christ. Sitting in the balcony I expected mediocrity but boy was I surprised. Despite all the people who got busted for smoking up, and the damn ushers and their flashlights, the show was intense and amazing.

I would have to say the highlight was the fact that for pretty much the entire show everyone sang along, aenima lateralus and god, it was just such an amazing venue, sound, and experience. Great way to pop my tool cherry.

Alex

Oh and the fact they kept teasing us with varying intros made everything so much more amazing. I really am in awe.

[jayde]

My first Tool concert...it was great. to me what seperated it frombeing amazing was about 2 songs.

I kind of feel short changed when past concerts got The Pot and The patient....why replace it with just 1 instead of 2 songs?

Oh well..it WAS great and I had a great time...
Enjoyed my first perfect Circle concert better

[thepatient_10k]

did anyone else notice that fuck-up in lateralus?

[jayde]

Also...the people all around me were all very nice. Something I don't often see....usually there's a bunch of macho guys who just give dirty looks, was nice to have some conversations. I felt ready to explode before Tool started from the anticipation.

[thepatient_10k]

was anyone around row c in the orchestra 8?

[thepatient_10k]

lol it was a fuckup, you could see them laughing about it. Maynard came in too early or something.

[mrhand]

Having seen both the Seattle and Denver shows, Toronto was by far the worst of the three. I expected the acoustics to be great, but they were average at best. Very bass-heavy and the vocals were often drowned out. Overall volume was definitely much, much lower than it was in Seattle or Denver. After each of those shows, my ears were ringing for days. After this one, nothing. Not even a faint ring. It was like being at a slightly loud movie theater. Danny's drums blew the lights out in Seattle/Denver...you could feel it in your bones...at Humminbird they were noticeably weaker and had nothing close to the impact. Of course he was still a monster on the kit, but it just didn't reverberate as it did in previous shows. And yes, I had similar seats for all 3 shows...Orhcestra center about halfway back...so it was easy to compare.

The Toronto crowd was very mellow and rarely made any noise except in between songs. 90% of the fans had their hands in their pockets, bobbing their heads a little, and that was about it. Again, this is in comparison to the Seattle and Denver crowds, which were both out of control. Maybe it's a Canadian thing...I know they consider themselves to be the "polite" country, but it doesn't translate well to a Tool concert.

I fully expect that those who saw this show as their first and only will fill this thread with stories of being blown away, and I'm sure they were because they have nothing to compare it to. But the atmosphere, sound, and energy were unbelievably weak in comparison...at least to Seattle and Denver.

Overall, a big disappointment from someone who was absolutely blown away by two previous shows.

[rubbertoe]

SETLIST --

[tba]




*DO NOT POST IF YOU WERE NOT AT THE SHOW!
i think i was at the show. well at least i waited outside like the 40 other people who would not pay 300 a ticket. (except for the 4 guys who bought fake tix for $800 (200 each), they left really really pissed. gotta take pictures of your scalpers nowadays, or at least make them come up to the door with you and watch the ticket get zapped properly. so anyway about 40 of us waited out front for latecomers for over an hour after it started. it actually felt cool just hanging out front..... august will be here soon.

[thepatient_10k]

i could see him perfectly tonight. He was in the back, but not like hidden or anything. Theres some screens in the background that play some animations. I saw some stuff from the album art turned into an animation which is pretty cool. The screens were kind of fucking around a bit, one screen stopped working in the middle of the set, but it was still amazing.

[thepatient_10k]

and yea it was my first and i have nothing to compare it to.

[10000days9999nights]

-

[thepatient_10k]

whats wrong with standing during a concert?

[thepatient_10k]

hahah and i loved when he was talking about america becoming beachfront property. And then they kicked into aenima...it was excellance.

[thepatient_10k]

What? Nothing.

lol sry that wasnt to you, someone up there complained about the orchestra rows standing.

[10000days9999nights]

-

[thepatient_10k]

i guess we have differing opinions of what a concert should be like.

[thepatient_10k]

but i probably looked like a tool bobbing my head away.

[fourtysix3]

Great show. My 10th time seeing them and best since small venue at the Warehouse in '95. Acoustics unreal given the volume added to recent songs that I had only heard live in arenas. I'm sure many people will post the set-list so I will let that be...

Fav part was definitely the change up in Schism, unreal. The build up before sober was intense. Loved the 'encore' where they all just chilled out on the stage while the crowd cheered them on -- so obvious but entertaining.

New songs sounded incredible live and will make for an entertaining stadium show in the fall. This was by far the best I have seen Tool play live in years -- UNREAL (despite how good Seattle & Denver were). Contemplating a NYC trip...

[zamolxe]

My first tool show and it was amazing! Much better than other bands that i've seen so far. Uneventful, except for maynards jokes, but they kicked ass big time. I cant wait to see them again in autum or whenever.

[jayde]

I was thinking more about it...
I think as much energy as the crowd had...it seemed a bit lacking.
I tried chanting "welcome back" during the intermission to no avail.

This concert was great...maybe it was the atmosphere that toned down the crowd's insanity

[zamolxe]

Right before Schism they played the first note of Wings for Marie...FOCK I got pretty excited....but alas...no dice.
Yea i thought it was wings too! i got so excited... oh well, i hope they play it next tour.

[10000days9999nights]

-

[Rex Mundi]

The show itself was fantastic. Now I don't have any other recent dates to compare it with...but I did enjoy the sound a lot better than the other five times I've seen them!!

As for the crowd, I admit they were laid back and it was due to the atmosphere. I mean, as nice as it was to have the 'golden ticket' at the beautiful Hummingbird center...the crowd was lacking. Maybe it was the grand marnier at the bar, or bottles of red wine, or the girl opening and closing doors for you. Who knows. In the end, there were no need for the seats!

Still, as I said....they rocked....too bad about Wings for Marie though! I think all 2,999 other attendees were hoping for it.

[forty two]

Amazing. Simply amazing. Definitely one of the best concerts I've been to, if not the best (still need to fully digest the moment). I appreciate Jambi more now that I've heard the mid-song breakdown live. Incredible. The end of Vicarious, the drum solo in Forty Six & 2, the jam addition to Schism... Honestly, there were too many highlights to list them all here. Even though I was in row T, I could see the stage really well, but I'm not exactly short (not tall either, but not short), so maybe that was why.

I do wish they hadn't taken out 2 songs just for Right In Two, but that's really because I wanted to hear The Pot. Oh well, by the time they come back, The Pot will have reached #1 on the charts, so they'll have to play it (hehehe).

And the security was a buzz-kill. I'm not annoyed or distracted when people take pictures at a show (without the flash, because the flash is useless in a large space), but I am distracted and annoyed when security shines their flashlights all over the place and berates the guy with the camera in the middle of a song. Buzz-kills...

Still, amazing show. Can't wait to see them again in the fall.

(Usually I'd have something to say to that guy who's been to 3 shows and was complaining about this one, but I'm still too buzzed from the show. Anyway, he's probably just pissed off because we're going to buy his country with our strong dollar, right everyone? :D )

[Kapper]

WOW.....is all I have to say. The crowd was wicked, TOOL was above wicked.......unbelievable night..... will post my true thoughts tommorrow...when I have truly absorbed this eve.

[forty two]

Oh, I almost forgot: I got a poster and a shirt. Paying 70 bucks for them was like buying another ticket, but they're both so awesome, it was worth it in my mind.

The poster is so huge! Who else got one?

[knowledgeiskey]

i thoguht the show was fantastic. there were major audio/visual problems coming on and off during the show, but they would only be for like a second (except for the video problems: the #4 screen went out, then the #2 went out as soon as that one came back. and during aenema, the video went out of frame and was shifted one down.)

i dont know what complaints people had about the sound, i felt all the bass thumping inside my chest for the whole show. perhaps you were sitting in a seat where the sound wasnt reaching you properly.

finally, did anyone else hear the opening notes of eulogy during stinkfist?? i got really excited. overall a worthy experience. i cant wait for the next go-around.

[Paolo]

Dear Mrhand,

This was my 19th TOOL show and my friend it just get's better. I agree wth the vocals being drowned but Danny Carey was and sounded the best I've ever seen him. I know what your talking about when you / people are mentioning the bass drowning but I have come to the conclusion that this is suppose to be. I like it.
Maynard is definitly in fine form and boy does he love the new stuff.
I also enjoyed how Adam and Danny would acknowledge eachother with new parts making sure they were in tune within songs.

You'll hate me for this but I think the drumming in Right In Two has beat out the 46 & 2 solo.

As I watched the drumming of Danny I thought to myself, HOW THE FUCK DOES HE REMEMBER ALL THAT? He honestly stands alone. I can now understand why it would take you 5 years to make parts to these songs. Agreed people?

I have read that people see the same visuals. Schism yes and other than that I don't see what else was the same. Oh, Aenima. ok, but that's all I seen.

I go to shows steady and for some reason when I see TOOL again & again there is always a sense of relief. Anyone else feel that?

Justin showed me much bass tonight. There are parts that are bass i think are guitar. It's truly the best instrument unless I could find a latern somewhere which would grant me the strenght to drum like Carey.

Adam soloing with his voice and mouth. The other reviews have yet to mention that. Fuckers but it was a nice surprise. hehe.

I had one negative thought of the show and it was the distortion jamming. I thought to myself after the show that Part Of Me or Jerk Off could be perfect songs to fit in there but that only comes from being spoiled by TOOL on previous occasions.

Maynard mentoned that Detroit is finshed as a city. Is it that bad there? Unfortunate. There are no jobs, is there?

Well, my tool army tickets were handed to me free of charge with ease.
(WIILCALL was not prepared for TOOL fans thats for sure)
My seat were eight rows back.
Maynard is still the shortest member and I'm off to get my beauty sleep.

Peace out and I hope I'll share an experience with you on the next tour MrHand and we can debate acoustics before and after the show.

Beers on me.

[transcend187]

Holy fucking shit holy fucking shit holy fucking shit holy fucking shit.

This was my first Tool concert, so yeah, I don't have much else to compare it to. But I had the time of my life. The music was incredible. They're all brilliant musicians and they work together so well. I heard Adam "screw up" twice, but it wasn't an issue and didn't really disrupt the listening experience. Maynard did start in too early at one point in Lateralus, but they covered it amazingly well.

I thought the sound was excellent, though there were a couple of times when Maynard's vocals weren't quite mixed right. The bass was great, I could feel it in my whole body but it didn't disrupt the rest of the music. The drums were coming through sharp and clear, and Danny aced his part. I am still reeling in amazement, I've never seen anything so incredible.

The vibe of the crowd was amazing. Only a band such as Tool could inspire such incredible, tangible, positive energy. I also met some very cool people, smoked some very good herb, and drank some very good beer.

Had an AWESOME time. AMAZING experience. And it was great to meet so many TDNers. Thanks for making it even more memorable!

[Chosen One]

[QUOTE=mrhand]...I don't know what exactly happened in Denver and Seattle but I'm sure the boys are real upset about disappointing you and thanks for making it clear that the rookies wasted their time and money at this show. You were a first-timer once, too...remember? You're obviously a Tool connoisseur (OGT) so you may want to share your constructive criticism directly with the band. Sure, that's your opinion yadda-yadda but I've seen them before too (irrelevant) and they brought the roof down tonight...I mean with the equipment they still had because obviously they melted most of their gear in Seattle. My delicate Canadian ears are still ringing and on the way out I heard dozens of fans loudly proclaiming their approval of the performance. Maybe by seeing 3 shows in a short span you've just OT'd, you better take some time off, try 10,000 days. Anyways, opening with Lost Keys sent chills down my spine, great choice guys. Maynard's vocals didn't seem like they were mixed loud enough, a little murky but still good. Visuals were killer, band did some amazing things, glad they tinkered slightly with a couple parts. Great set, great effort. If you guys are reading this, thanks it was worth every Canadian penny.

[kwijibo]

FUCKIN AWESOME!!!! it was great!!!!

the guys came out after too.... well maynard was hidden and ran by! but the others were around! they rock!!!!!

[Claytanic]

Right before Schism they played the first note of Wings for Marie...FOCK I got pretty excited....but alas...no dice.


I'm glad that other people noticed that

That's a terrible thing to tease us with!

[mystictigress]

I'm still extremely energized from the show, so hopefully this comes out coherent.

It was my first Tool concert and I was not disappointed in any way, shape, or form. Setlist was amazing, with a great balance of old and new. Since it was my first show I was extremely ecstatic to hear Lateralus and Aenema. The energy the band gives off is just absolutely amazing. I thought everything was right on point, and I was impressed with Maynard's ability to have such an amazing tone throughout. All the boys were amazing, and amazing is really a word I could use constantly because it was unbelievable. I didn't notice the faults with the visuals that some speak of, but I did notice when the second screen blew. Minor distraction, but no biggie for me. As someone mentioned, I did find the flashlights and people running around to be a bigger distraction than the phones.

I'm somewhat of a Maynard fangirl, so I adored his cowboy thrusts (haha). I would have liked to see a little more Maynard dancing, but the more subtle moves? allowed me to focus on all the guys individually without Maynard holding my attention the whole time and I appreciated this opportunity. My favourite moment has to be when Maynard mentioned us buying the U.S., and it being all beach soon, and in perfect time a guy behind me in the balcony yelled "LEARN TO SWIM" and then the band broke into Aenema. Amazing.

I thought the crowd was perfect!! There was enough screaming/yelling so that we could show we appreciated the band, but we didn't drown out Adam and Justin while they were playing on their own. Maybe in the American shows they screamed over their parts? I don't really like that idea. I had no problems with sound, I felt that bass and it was very hot.

Awesome time meeting fellow TDNers both before and after the show :D

[mrhand]

Look, I realize that the last thing any of you want to hear is criticism of an experience that has been built up and anticipated for months, and then delivered at a level that you believe was as high as its going to get. I'm not trying to rain on your parade. If you'd like to believe the Hummingbird show was the penultimate Tool experience, commence with covering your eyes, quit reading, and ignorance can be your bliss.

I'm simply giving an objective comparison to other shows I've seen, and across the board, Toronto didn't measure up. Doesn't mean Tool gave anything less than a phenomenal performance. Doesn't mean the show blew goats.

It does mean that on a scale of 1 to 10, Toronto was a 10. And Denver was a 14. And Seattle was a 16. If your own personal cognitive dissonance prevents you from even considering the possibililty of superior sound, venue, crowd, and atmosphere at a concert that (gasp!) you didn't witness...then you're beyond help.

Yes, Tool was great tonight. For the halfwits like Chosen One, try re-reading my original post. Not once did I say anything negative about the band or its performance. My problem was with the venue, the sound, and the crowd. Not a single negative word to be heard about Tool. I've seen them multiple times on every tour going back to 93, and not once have I seen a show at which I thought they gave anything less than 110%. Their effort and ability are not in question, and never will be.

It's always the variables (which Tool does not control) that either amplify and heighten the performance and make it an overall phenomenal show (a la Seattle/Denver)....or muddle it, drag it down, and make it what it was tonight. Which was a great fucking band playing a great fucking show in a crap venue with crap sound with a crap crowd.

If you've got more than one point of reference on THIS tour from which to draw, I'd be interested to hear your comparison. And if you're a halfwit flag-on-your-backpack type who's only interested in tossing up a knee-jerk defense because Tool played in your hometown and you won't hear anyone denigrate that sacred cow....then save yourself the time and effort....it's a waste of space.

[transcend187]

I was personally quite satisfied with the volume. Any louder and I'd be in a lot of pain right now - though much of that comes from the screaming girls who were immediately behind me. That was unpleasant.

I wouldn't be surprised if other performances earlier in the tour were superior in some way - the Hummingbird Centre isn't exactly the premier entertainment venue in Toronto. I would have loved to see them at the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed theatre in Tempe, AZ. But hey, this was what was available to me, and I loved it for what it was. I also look forward to seeing Tool at least once more in the future (hopefully more!).

[chicoz]

did anyone else notice that fuck-up in lateralus?


I noticed the fuckup too but wasn't it great to be surprised ?

[juncopartner]

Anyone who says the show was lacking whatever, shut the f*ck up. It was awesome, your head is just in the wrong place. My ears are ringing. I got Danny's autograph after the show! Lucky my friend brought a purple sharpie. :)

[ALDARAIA]

Look, I realize that the last thing any of you want to hear is criticism of an experience that has been built up and anticipated for months, and then delivered at a level that you believe was as high as its going to get. I'm not trying to rain on your parade. If you'd like to believe the Hummingbird show was the penultimate Tool experience, commence with covering your eyes, quit reading, and ignorance can be your bliss.

I'm simply giving an objective comparison to other shows I've seen, and across the board, Toronto didn't measure up. Doesn't mean Tool gave anything less than a phenomenal performance. Doesn't mean the show blew goats.

It does mean that on a scale of 1 to 10, Toronto was a 10. And Denver was a 14. And Seattle was a 16. If your own personal cognitive dissonance prevents you from even considering the possibililty of superior sound, venue, crowd, and atmosphere at a concert that (gasp!) you didn't witness...then you're beyond help.

Yes, Tool was great tonight. For the halfwits like Chosen One, try re-reading my original post. Not once did I say anything negative about the band or its performance. My problem was with the venue, the sound, and the crowd. Not a single negative word to be heard about Tool. I've seen them multiple times on every tour going back to 93, and not once have I seen a show at which I thought they gave anything less than 110%. Their effort and ability are not in question, and never will be.

It's always the variables (which Tool does not control) that either amplify and heighten the performance and make it an overall phenomenal show (a la Seattle/Denver)....or muddle it, drag it down, and make it what it was tonight. Which was a great fucking band playing a great fucking show in a crap venue with crap sound with a crap crowd.

If you've got more than one point of reference on THIS tour from which to draw, I'd be interested to hear your comparison. And if you're a halfwit flag-on-your-backpack type who's only interested in tossing up a knee-jerk defense because Tool played in your hometown and you won't hear anyone denigrate that sacred cow....then save yourself the time and effort....it's a waste of space.

well this is my second tool show, and this was 10,000 times better the the first one, i can't say that toronto was better then the past 2 shows or whatever you said, however i do believe that they put on a beautiful show i was in shock the whole time, i loved every note they played and just their stage presence was unbelievable. It just seems like mrhand is hating on toronto because we aren't loud enough; i thought the acoustics where fine, where i was sitting i could hear maynard just fine and i was on the mez. In reviews i read people where saying how they didn't understand what maynard was saying when he was talking to the crowd i was worried about that but i could hear him just fine from where i was. It was an amazing show i don't care if toronto fans aren't as loud as american fans because in a tool interview danny said that american fans are knuckleheads, so why should we listen to you saying how we should be louder and all that. Blah whatever, it was a great show and i can't wait to see them in the fall

[UndertowCon46]

Overall volume was definitely much, much lower than it was in Seattle or Denver. After each of those shows, my ears were ringing for days. After this one, nothing. Not even a faint ring. It was like being at a slightly loud movie theater

I went to the Detroit concert on Monday expecting to be deaf for a long time after reading reviews to the two shows you were at (Seattle and Denver). I was in the the 3rd row in front of Danny and Justin and barely left with a ringing. No complaint on the sound, because it was crystal clear and I heard every thing Maynard said/sang, but I left wondering if they decided to tone down the volume for these last few shows. Your post makes me think they did.

[Capt. Sith Park]

I do believe the ONLY waste of space mr.'morethanone' is #10 & #40 (of course this is just my opinion) Much like your opinion/criticism (entitlement to said opinion) of the venue/sound/crowd (mayb u should have stayed home (BTW, u r awfully far from it - I'll bet u didn't add to the energy in any way) They (the elitist's out there r infiltrating our thread guys, knew it wouldn't b long)

- I wouldn't have really wanted the overall sound to be any louder, but that's just my opinion (comparing one venue to another is like comparing apples & oranges mr.foot), (see, those 2 US dates completely blew-out u'r ear drums and all u could hear was that dreaded underwater bass-ring-muffle, u must consult a doctor right away)

- Sorry mr.positive, I do remember hearing screaming all night long & significant applauses 4 each member who may have had certain 'spotlights' in any given song (don't worry, it's that selective-hearing thing. By the way, have u heard of tinnitus - due dilligence is required mr.'OutofControl' )

mr.negative - I've read quite a few comments COMPARABLE to your's about your own show (and every other date in this mini-tour) so obviously mr.'soundguy' u may b a tad immature in your observancy/reading skillz of said shows (of course that's just my opinion - Oh yeah! that opinion thing yet again ... yes, they r like A _ _ _ _ _ _ _!)

All ready 2 much time spent on mr.'touringw/theband', pleez do something positive 4 us 2 chillin' canadians - take u'r hands, put them over your mouth - that way we won't have 2 read YOUR negative non-sense and the ppl around u won't have 2 listen 2 it.

On 2 much better thoughts/reflections L8r

[evil agent]

Just got back from the show (5 hour drive from Montreal, and 5 hours back). It was my 5th Tool show, and 2nd small venue show. I can't say it was my best Tool concert ever, but it was definitely awesome.

The band sounded excellent. Danny definitely sounded better than ever before. I can't believe he's 45 and still getting better! His solo in 46&2, and Right in Two, were jaw dropping. His drumming in Vicarious was so wicked. Justin and Adam sounded great. I DID notice the fuck up in Lateralus, it was definitely Maynard coming in too early, during Adam's solo. I watched nervously to see if they'd get out of it, and they did..beautifully! They didn't all change to suit Maynard, but they let him sing his part.. then they just sort of jammed for another few bars, randomly, then brought it to the quiet part. It was awesome, and to me it added character to the song!

The only complaints I have: I think it COULD have been a touch louder. It sounded really loud at first, but halfway through the show I felt it could have used another notch (turn it to 11 next time!). I also thought the security sucked total ass... I couldn't smoke my joint, for probably the first time in over 50 big concerts. They were standing right behind us (we had aisle seats at the back of the floor). I think the no-drugs plus the somewhat far seats made me feel a little disconnected with the band. At the small venue in Portland 2001, when I was tripping on strong mushrooms, I was 100% connected with the band. This show was great, but didn't quite reach that peak. I think its true that the crowd may have been a little reserved, and I always appreciate a lively crowd, but it wasn't really a big deal. I was there to see the band, not the crowd.

Highlights: Stinkfist, 46&2, Lateralus, Aenima (fuck yeah!). I loved Right in Two, but I'm still sad I didn't hear The Pot. But we also got the extended parts in Stinkfist and Schism, which I don't think the other shows got.

Anyway, out of my 5 Tool shows.. I'd probably rank this as the 3rd best. Hope to see them in Vancouver in the fall, or possibly Seattle or Portland.

[pushthenvelope]

This was my third Tool show and although it was very good I think there was room for improvement as well. I hope I don't get flamed for saying that. Some people on this board have a nasty way of attacking those who have a slight criticism of the band or their show's. Take it easy it is just another person's opinion.
Although I like Lost Keys/Rosetta Stoned, I thought they could have made a better choice for the opening number. It just seemed a little flat and the crowd was a little subdued during this. The sound was muddied (vocals) at this point but they had that fixed by the time they kicked into Stinkfist. Stinkfist,46&2 or Vicarious would have been better opening choices IMO,because it would have whipped the crowd into a frenzy right from the opening note.
Schism & Sober are great tunes, but I can't help but wish they had played something a little less popular. Perhaps I've heard them too much.
Highlights for me were ,46&2,Jambi, Right in Two ( Danny,just awesome).
Lateralus, Vicarious,and Aenima made for a killer finish to the show. The show seemed a little short too. One or two more songs (the pot, for instance) would have pushed the show over the edge for me.
All in all I give it an 8 outta 10. With some minor tweaking (which they will do before they come back) it will be a great Tour in the fall/winter.

[Avail]

This was my seventh show, all in the Toronto area, and I have to say it was noticably the worst of the seven. I was sitting centre balcony and I found the sound very muddy, the bass didn't punch through and maynards vocals were washed out.

I also felt the band themselves to be a little 'loose'. I have always found the to be amazingly tight live but last night I could hear a lot of timing mistakes, especially from Adam. He DID mess up the beginning of Lateralus, as well as the beginning of Right in Two. It looked to me like he was fighting his guitar tuning all night.

I think they started to fix some of the level problems towards the end of the show though because for Vicarious and Aenima the vocals were quite clear, although I think Maynard is still feeling his cold, the climactic chorus for Vicarious sounded pretty rough imo.

Still a good show on the whole, but myself (and the other three people I was there with) agreed it was definately not up to par for past performances.

[Eighteenth Eye]

I was down front in what was originally the 2nd row (EE) but became the 4th row with the front 2/3 rows being filled with contest winners and The Hummingbird Centre staff's best friends or something. And trust me it showed!

I was in the aisle in the front left section(near the centre) with a Tool #3 shirt on and was rockin' out the entire show! The first 2 rows in my section were sitting the whole f'n time! And them, along with a bunch of other losers that filled the entire centre aisle of row DD just stood there like statues and didn't even bob their head or sing the words to songs that everyone in the building should know like Sober or Schism. There were a few others moving around but for the most part the crowd was lame!

The band frickin' rocked and it was my fourth TOOL show and it was very memorable and was a different experience than the last times I have seen them. It was amazing and I am still buzzing but nothing will beat the atmosphere that was created in the ACC. They made the "Hangar" feel smaller than the Hummingbird Centre and Push It (Salival version) was by far the greatest Tool moment that I will ever experience!

Highlights for me tonight was the teaser ending when they played Lateralus just like at the end of the other shows from the last tour and then sat on the stage and blew us away with an incredible encore (I avoided all spoilers before the show so this was a nice surprise). Adam's solo in Jambi with his Peter Frampton "Talk Box" was incredible!

The only complaint I have from tonight was the lame crowd (maybe it was just up in my area). Contest winners should not be in the front few rows. Period!. The boys blew everyone away and if I had nothing to compare it to it would be the best show I had ever seen and I am happy for all the first time Tool fans that finally got to experience the best band in the world do what they do best!

[J A G]

I thoroughly enjoyed myself last night. It was exactly what I needed and I can’t wait for them to come back in the fall. It’s kind of unrealistic when you think about how high our expectations are of the band and sound quality etc… We revel in their music and put these 4 guys on such a high pedestal that only Demi-Gods could meet some of our expectations. I confess that I too am guilty of this at times, but I just have to remind myself that these 4 guys are incredible musicians and have most certainly enhanced my life throughout the years, and for that I am grateful. Who I am to criticize them when I can’t even play 2 successive chords on a guitar without fucking up.

Last night wasn’t the best Tool show I’ve seen, but I think it’s counterproductive to list all the reasons why the show wasn’t the greatest of all time. I’d rather contemplate the aspects of the show that sent chills up my spine and gave me goose bumps. I believe that for the most part everyone in this forum is open-minded and willing to hear criticisms, but one must also consider that we have waited in great anticipation for this show, paid good money for the tickets, and ultimately just want to immerse ourselves in the Tool experience. No one is perfect and to expect the show to be perfect is absurd. So how about instead of coming into this forum with negativity, humour us and tell us what you liked about the show, as none of us have any interest in acquiring a negative spin on the show or the band. It’s just getting so tiring hearing all these criticisms of 10,000 days and now we have to hear it about the live show.

I love Tool and always will. I’m just thankful that I was afforded the opportunity to see my favourite band live. What a treat to see my hero’s less than 15 feet away from me. Danny totally stole the show in my opinion. I almost teared up at the end when he bowed to the crowd and you can see it in his face how happy he was with his performance and the appreciation the crowd was showing him. Adam seems like a rather clandestine character. Very mild mannered and subdued on stage. I was really impressed with his play and seeing him up close helped me realize the intricacies and complexity that goes into his song writing. I felt myself tense up a few times wondering if he’s going to hit that ever so subtle note that I hear on the albums. And he did; every time. Wow. Vicarious was really impressive live.

Anyway, last nights performance only served to corroborate my feeling that Tool may be the best band around these days.

It was very nice meeting all the TDN people at the Hot House. Looking forward to seeing you all in the fall.

[Chosen One]

mr hand is at the forefront again, however, no hate here (let me explain), in defence of mr hand...i think you simply hit us a little too quick with your objective critique, we're all still in la-la land and you've seen so many shows that you're lucid enough to make such astute observations. i do appreciate everybody's remarks but it was a cold point to make and difficult to understand considering we had our last comparable show some years ago now. regardless, i thought the show was plenty loud and enjoyed the overall sound and atmosphere of the venue (mistakes, shortcomings and all) but it's difficult to 'rock out' physically at a seated venue without causing problems with your neighbours, i know your peoples aren't concerned with that. btw, i'm no blind patriot of the locale...maybe i'm too starved for tool to know any better but i just loved the show! anyways, all the best to you on your adventures w the band (i am jealous) nuf said about that, seriously...now when reflecting on the show, aside from the show totally kicking ass, i agree w some others that although right in two was performed really well it's my least fav tool song, some of my bros love it and it's growing on me and has some great parts but i would've preferred the pot or the grudge (can't get everything), but it did give us a moment to collect our brain bits and prepare for the remainder. during one of the feedback intros/seques did anyone else feel like they were hinting at the art bell song? have they ever played the eggs of satan live? although, not a great display of their many talents (maybe boring for them to perform) i think it would be a devastating (not to mention hilarious) live song. thanks again to the band for dropping by and kicking our asses.

[Pud]

Having seen both the Seattle and Denver shows, Toronto was by far the worst of the three. I expected the acoustics to be great, but they were average at best. Very bass-heavy and the vocals were often drowned out. Overall volume was definitely much, much lower than it was in Seattle or Denver. After each of those shows, my ears were ringing for days. After this one, nothing. Not even a faint ring. It was like being at a slightly loud movie theater. Danny's drums blew the lights out in Seattle/Denver...you could feel it in your bones...at Humminbird they were noticeably weaker and had nothing close to the impact. Of course he was still a monster on the kit, but it just didn't reverberate as it did in previous shows. And yes, I had similar seats for all 3 shows...Orhcestra center about halfway back...so it was easy to compare.

The Toronto crowd was very mellow and rarely made any noise except in between songs. 90% of the fans had their hands in their pockets, bobbing their heads a little, and that was about it. Again, this is in comparison to the Seattle and Denver crowds, which were both out of control. Maybe it's a Canadian thing...I know they consider themselves to be the "polite" country, but it doesn't translate well to a Tool concert.

I fully expect that those who saw this show as their first and only will fill this thread with stories of being blown away, and I'm sure they were because they have nothing to compare it to. But the atmosphere, sound, and energy were unbelievably weak in comparison...at least to Seattle and Denver.

Overall, a big disappointment from someone who was absolutely blown away by two previous shows.

Amusing,
A very good show, but the crowd was not entertaining? That is your review?
Well I saw them 4 times and Seattle and Denver shows fail in comparison to the other shows I saw!!!!! You guys don't know what a real Tool show is like!!
"I, the Tool concert expert will correct your misguided ideas. I have been to the mountain and seen god, you cannot recognize him!!!"

I often wonder what purpose a post like this serves other than to bolster your own self image.
Really..please...just stay in Seattle.
Pud.

[cadmonka]

The only complaint I have from tonight was the lame crowd (maybe it was just up in my area). Contest winners should not be in the front few rows. Period!.

Sitting down?! In the first few rows?! That just can't be, there's some mistake. What a travesty. Something needs to be done about this. Can you even imagine the kind of vibe that could have been achieved if you stuck all the toolarmy/tdn fans in the first few rows?! Maybe next time....

I was rocking out in Row m, on the left/ctr aisle, and the crowd around me was (1) on its feet, and (2) screaming loudly for many parts of the show. So I have no complaints. (other than that i'm deaf and hoarse today - but that was expected)

This was certainly not my first tool show, but it was my first trip to the Hummingbird. I kid you not, one of the highlights of the night for me was when we first entered the venue, and i saw the stage through the open doors at the back of the auditorium -- all i could think was 'i'm at the back of the room, and THAT's how close the stage is?! Fuck ya!" From that point on, the rest was all gravy.

As for what they did/didn't play -- what does it matter? We know the boys are coming around again soon, and we know that set list will change.

did anyone else almost pass out in the middle of schism? I mean, really, that song knocked me on my ass.

setting all comparisons aside, this was a phenomenal show in its own right -- there's no question that they blew the roof off.

I'm not sure when I'll get this cheshire cat grin off my face ~

[wolvie111]

Great show, the energy was kind of lacking. A lot of people that stood around not knowing what was going on and the drunk old man next to me that yelled "PLAY THE POT!!" while they were starting up Right in Two. I am sad that I didn't get a chance to meet the people at the Hot House, I walked by with my girlfriend but she wasn't feeling 100% after I got into a confrontation with a scalper. I did however meet two of the guys from the forums when i saw them in the venue with the seating chart (I think it was Fathom and Systematic). Anyways, my hightlight was Rosetta Stoned, translates well live.

[dave_nyc]

I also saw them in Seattle and last night, and have to agree that the sound was much more subdued in Toronto. As was the crowd, which is something I love - it gave me less distraction and more time to focus on the band. They didn't play RI2 in Seattle, so it was great to see it live - Carey was off the charts. For those who didn't see The Pot on this tour, you are missing out, it was epic. I too, would love to see the Grudge, but hey, I'll take what I can get, and this being my 8th Tool Show dating back to 93, I've seen pretty much everything they have (except for maybe Flood...what a shame).

Anyway, go easy on what's his name - it's just a bad review. Movies, books, etc get them all the time, and critics aren't generally bombarded with personal attacks. And no, I have no idea who that dude is.

All in all, I thought it was a great show. I am seeing them Friday, and am hoping/praying for a slight set change, but who am I to bitch about the decisions of the best band on the planet. My personal favorites from Toronto were Rosetta (which I didn't love on the album, now I'm obsessed with it), Jambi, and of course Lateralus - such a perfect song, despite the slight fuck up.

Speaking of which, I've been reading these reviews daily, and there is almost always a criticism of Adam's playing - anyone know what's going on here? We all know how talented he is, so I'd think it's technical issues, but you'd think they'd be worked out by now...any guesses?

D

[forty two]

It's always the variables (which Tool does not control) that either amplify and heighten the performance and make it an overall phenomenal show (a la Seattle/Denver)....or muddle it, drag it down, and make it what it was tonight. Which was a great fucking band playing a great fucking show in a crap venue with crap sound with a crap crowd..

So... you're not trying to rain on our parade, but then you say things like "crap crowd"? It seemed to me like Tool had no problems with the crowd. If they did, they certainly fooled me. Heck, if I was them and I was playing to a crowd I thought was crap, I would go backstage before the encore (if I was going to give them an encore at all).

Personally, I don't need everyone else to be jumping up and down and trying to mosh in the seats while shouting "TOOOOOOOOOOOOL" like they are the lead singer of some hardcore/screamo band to enjoy a show. I only say that because that's really the only thing I can think of when you talk about the crowd not being as "good" as the ones in Seattle and Denver. Everyone around me was enjoying the show in their own way, and that's all I would ever want or expect from fellow fans. I did the same (with some singing, bouncing, fist pumps, horns, and headbangning thrown in), and I didn't really care how other people chose to listen. I do feel sorry for you if you need to have everyone in the crowd acting a certain way in order to fully enjoy a show. It's... well, it's kind of pathetic.

One more thing about the crowd: you could feel the anticipation in the air before the show started, and it was amplified by the random bouts of cheering that would ripple across the theatre until everyone was clapping. I'm scared to think of what people were doing pre-show at those other two you went to...

if you're a halfwit flag-on-your-backpack type who's only interested in tossing up a knee-jerk defense because Tool played in your hometown and you won't hear anyone denigrate that sacred cow....then save yourself the time and effort....it's a waste of space.

Hey, you can't use the "flag-on-your-backpack" line against us... We don't buy flags from your country to sew onto our bags when we go overseas; it's the other way around. ;)

[Bino]

My two cents…

1.Venue: Pretty good. Intimate. I was in row P, seat 44 – basically in the middle – and the sound was great. The high-end was a bit high, the low end a bit powerful, but it worked fine. No complaints. Having only seen them in large arenas before, this was perfect.

2.Crowd: Kinda lame. OK, that's a bit harsh, but I was, as far as I could tell, the only person within a few rows of me that was fucking givin’er. Oh yeah, I fucking gave’r. My neck kills and it was so worth it. I can’t not convulse, ya know? Don't get me wrong, I didn't enter anyone else's space or anything, but there were just too many standing still types. All the power to them, I suppose, but that's not how I roll when I've waited 4 years to see them again. Funny little couple in front of me – before the show, they were both on their Blackberry’s. Real normal, square looking couple, but once the music started, the chick didn’t stop grooving. An eclectic mix of freaks, geeks and norms. Good times. Wish they’d been louder, but whatever. Everyone seemed happy, so that’s all that matters.

3.Band: Tore shit up. Yeah, Maynard butchered some lyrics, held back on some notes and there was some over-all rust. Big fucking deal. I could care less. 98% of it was spot on. My highlight was Vicarious. I dropped a wad at that 6:40 mark. Money. Would have preferred The Patient and The Pot to Right in Two, but who the fuck am I to whine? Nobody. It was awesome so fuck complaints. Anyone lame enough to not find a million positives in this show can chug pickle.

4.TDNers: Awesome. Nice to meet some of you cats. The lil’ gift was wicked, and I managed to get mine home intact. Hope some of you had a chance to hang after the show. I had to bail. I basically floated out to the HBC.

5.FUCK: So Danny whips his drum head, and as it’s midair I think “Holyfuckingshit it is coming *right* fucking at me!” so I lurch forward – it’s 3 feet in front of me and heading straight for my melon! Then…the fuckstick in front of me gets a fucking stupid, fat finger on it and it deflects directly in to the guy beside me’s lap. FUCK! I look right at him and say “$100 right now for that” and he says “No chance”. FUCKITYFUCKFUCK! Danny had written on it. It was the only downer of the night. I’m not dwelling on it, because that would be lamer than Mrhand’s review, but still…it stings a bit. FUCK!

Best Maynardism: After they sat down, basked in our love, and returned to their places, Maynard said "Thanks. Now that's what I'm talking aboot". Aboot? Awesome. I LOL'd at that shit.

Final thought - having read reviews from all the shows so far, you'll find cretins here and there who complain that "Maynard made the same joke in Detroit that he did in Minny" or "I wish they'd move around more on stage". All I can do is laugh at those poor, pitiful douchetards.

[EssPea]

Right before Schism they played the first note of Wings for Marie...FOCK I got pretty excited....but alas...no dice.

I had just enough time to say "Oh shit... Wings" to my buddy before schism broke out.

I was balcony back row and it was perfect. The past times I have seen tool it was from in a pit, so being able to see each and every little thing that they were doing from above was a great change.

And to all those complaining about the crowd not being into it, get over yourselves. Just because you like to rock out heavy to Tool and others like to sit back and enjoy doesn't mean one is better than the other. Aenima was amazing, I think everyone in the crowd was singing along.

[MINDDEVIL]

I was in KK far back left and thought the crowd was all standing up for the entire show, from what I could see. Of course they were great; vocals did seem a little off. I hear this is just a warm up tour, well we can hope. I was at the 1991 'epic' in Toronto and well this was a much more intimate show by far. If you can call 120 decibels quiet. It was nice Maynard was a little chattier.

It was pretty cool that they threw out that stuff at the end of the concert. I don’t remember that for APC.

I would have liked to hear "Intolerance" or "H" myself.... I don’t usually bring out my TOOLARMY t-shirt but it was great to have a good reason to wear it.

It seemed even they got tired of standing for so long, with that little sit down with the 4 of them. I would have thought it would make a great picture for you know inside a Live DVD concert TOOL disk. Hint Hint Nudge nudge. In 5.1 or DTS wouldn’t hurt either.

Cheers!

[zapata_36]

All in all, an amazing night. Security was pretty lame, I couldn't smoke my joint either, but I'm also happy they made sure I wasn't trampled by any crowd surges (being in the orchestra as I was) so I suppose we're even.

I'm loving the heavy dance-like breakdowns they're adding to their songs live -- really made me wish there weren't seats in the way.

[MINDDEVIL]

Oh, I almost forgot: I got a poster and a shirt. Paying 70 bucks for them was like buying another ticket, but they're both so awesome, it was worth it in my mind.

The poster is so huge! Who else got one?

I picked up a shirt and poster... I have not opened it yet... still waiting for the hearing to return..... the hot pants though were where I had to draw the line... "not that there is anything wrong with that" I like maynrad and the boys... but i dont "like" them

[nicky_numbuz]

Last night, I was one of the lucky ones who was able to get tickets to see Tool live at the Hummingbird Centre, and the band did not disappoint. In fact… they were everything I expected, and more! I’ve only seen them once before back on the Lateralus Tour at the Air Canada Centre, and this show had a distinctly different feel to it. Standing there watching them in this small, classy venue and being so close to them really made you feel special. It’s as if I almost knew I’d never get to see them this closely ever again. The show had a “warm up” feel, as if we were being treated to some sort of small, intimate jam session. The jokes from Maynard and the bands’ constant smiles really made you feel like you were experiencing something different – something special.

Some notes on the show overall:

From where I was standing, the sound was great. At some points it was a little tough to hear Maynard’s voice, but for the majority of the show he came across strong and clear. He seemed on his game – no signs of being sick, if he still is. And I love the mohawk and cowboy hat look. Danny looked so calm on drums, but damn he was amazing to watch! Adam looked very emotionless, but his strong guitar playing made the show rock as hard as it did. Justin was the one who was moving around and rocking out the most. His bass work, along with Danny’s drumming, was the “balls” of the show! Tool’s rhythm section is what makes them a powerful, monster band.

Security at the Hummingbird Centre was a bitch! As the show started, I attempted to take a picture with my cell phone and a guard closed my phone and told me if he caught me again he would kick me out. Alright, fuck you too buddy. Those fuckers with their flashlights constantly broke my attention from the show, and that’s one thing I hated.

The show had a “spectator” feel to it. Because of the fixed seating, there was obviously no moshing. For the most part, the fans stood in awe of the trippy stage presence and aura that Tool created with their visuals, lighting, and music. I was perfectly happy standing and just taking everything in. This band doesn’t tour often… so when I am lucky enough to see them, I won’t be wasting my time moshing… that’s for sure.

Maynard was in comedian mode, which is cool considering the last time I saw him (the week of the September 11th tragedy) he only said one thing all night. He told us to enjoy our strong Canadian dollar, and to buy the United States. The crowd ate that up. And he also blurted out “I love Canada” which was hilarious, seeing as you can never tell when the guy is serious or joking. I’m sure he appreciates his fans, regardless. In a classic line, Maynard said something along the lines of “We just came out with a new record, and it has gone platinum in Canada.” After the crowds ovation died down, MJK said, “What the fuck guys? What about triple platinum? I want to put a new wing on the winery!” Funny stuff! Don’t quote me word-for-word, of course.

The video screens behind the band members were wicked! I loved how they used clips of videos throughout the night. Not many bands these days create visuals like Tool.

Now to the setlist, and comments on the songs:

Lost Keys (Blame Hoffman) / Rosetta Stoned: Lost Keys had no Nurse/Doctor voiceovers… it was just music. As the curtain went up, Adam and Justin were on stage starting it up. They were joined after a few minutes by Danny who was greeted as if he were God. Maynard then came out and the place exploded. He had some sort of voice distortion box (with something strapped onto his back?), and I got chills when I heard “Alrighty then. Picture this if you will…” followed by the band ripping right into Rosetta Stoned. This song absolutely kicked our asses live! An awesome opening song!

Stinkfist: The place went nuts at the start! Going from new Tool to old Tool pulls everything together and makes you realize how good these guys really are! Midway through the song, they performed a different variation of the song which I’ve heard on other live bootlegs. Amazing!

Forty-Six & 2: More classic Tool kept us on our feet.

Jambi: I think everyone was waiting for this one! One of the hardest rocking Tool songs ever… and it came across as such! I’m glad to know 10,000 Days has so many “Heavy Metal” aspects to it. Adam’s talkbox solo came across flawlessly! And everyone loved it from the sound of things!

Schism: The crowd went nuts at the intro. The coolest part of this song was midway through when the band changed up the instrumentals and basically turned it into a very heavy jam session. It was wild! Maynard was on keyboards, so it seemed.

Right in Two: Instantly, I heard someone scream “Play The Pot” a couple of times. This is where the internet ruins the surprises, I guess. But, what can you do? This is one of my favorites on 10,000 Days and while I probably would have rather heard The Pot and The Patient… it was still awesome! Silly monkeys…

Sober: More older Tool… it rocked live! Hearing this song made me wish they had played at least another song or two off of Opiate and Undertow.

Lateralus: This was my favorite song of the night, hands down! I always loved this song, but I swear I have a new appreciation for it now!

The band then stepped away from their areas and sat on the mini stage Maynard stood on for the whole show. They sat there and soaked up a good ovation for a few minutes, and then went back to their posts.

Vicarious: As much as this song rocks on the radio… it’s even better live. Good to hear the crowd singing along.

Ænema: Before the start of this song, Maynard said “I was serious about you guys buying the States, ya know? It’s all going to be a bunch of beachfront property soon anyway.” And he went straight into the “Hey hey hey…” intro! This sent chills up my spine! Everyone lost it! This song was another highlight for me. No matter how many times I hear it, it constantly reminds me of the world’s problems and how easy it would be to flush it all away. Awesome way to end the show!

After the show, the band hugged and threw guitar picks, drum sticks, water bottles and pieces of Danny’s drum kit (I think??) like frisbees into the crowd. They waved goodbye and left the stage.

I can’t wait to see them again in August/September! I bought a $30 poster and a $40 t-shirt… yeah, I’m a huge tool… but I wouldn’t want it any other way! I can honestly say that this band brings me so much friggin’ happiness it’s hard to translate into words!

Thanks for the unbelievable show, guys! In my eyes, there is no greater band than Tool!

[sneak]

I've been a fan for ten years but I've never had the chance to see them live. What an amazing show! The crowd was on their feet the entire time but a tad on the reserved side - I guess they didn't want to miss anything :D I didn't mind the slight tech probs though the vocals were drowned out for a few of the songs from where I was sitting.

I agree that it would have been awesome to hear The Pot and The Patient over Right in Two (though the drums were awesome!). I loved them punking us with intros to other songs, and the extended Schism was fucking kickass!

Hopefully I can catch them again when they return later this year!

[Maken]

My first tool show and it was as good as I had hoped. Easily the best concert I've ever attended. From where I was standing, I could hear everything perfectly, great balance between instruments. I actually thought the crowd was quite loud, especially during the "sit-down". As for during the music, so what if everyone doesn't like to rock out, it isn't fucking slayer. Also, I have no idea what people are talking about with the security, I smoked two joints with my buddy, and a bunch of others around us were getting stoned w/ no issues. Didn't even see a flashlight. Highlight was definitely Lateralus, a completely enveloping experience. I also would have chosen Patient/Pot over Right in Two, but fuck it, RIT kicked ass anyways. Amazing experience that I will remember always, and I feel privileged to have shared it with you all.

[evil agent]

The ability to smoke joints at the show completely depended on where you were seated. I could see that people in the center floor were merrily smoking away. But I was at the back of the floor, on the aisle.. right next to two ushers. There is no way I could have smoked for more than 10 seconds, without them catching on, and they kept shinging their fucking stupid little lights the whole show. Pissed me right off... The joint might have been the one thing I needed to get me TOTALLY in the mood. It would have made the concert a 95% instead of an 85%.

Anyway, it was still great. I just think the intimate venues need some stimulation (ie. drugs or something) otherwise you kind of just stand there, and start to get a bit tired (at least that's how I felt). I'd rather be really high so I can get COMPLETELY zoned in, or just standing on a general admission floor so I can get closer to the band.

Anyway, it was pretty good. But I can't deny that I feel a tad disappointed.. maybe because it was my 5th show, I'm becoming desensitized to Tool?

[nicky_numbuz]

Did anyone else buy a poster at the show?

I did... and I just opened it up. Wow! It looks unbelievable! The colours are wild! It's totally worth the $30 I paid! Lucky for me, I work at a framing company... so I'm going to have it laminated and framed with a 5" black frame. But we also do standard framing with glass as well. If anyone is interested in having yours done too, let me know. I'll cut you a good deal. E-Mail me... [email protected]

[jayde]

my rocking out was somewhat restricted. To my right was a guy who was sitting the whole time smoking up. And if my arms went a bit too far in that direction I either hit his head or got burned by his joint. On my right, was a guy plugging his ears when i was screaming lyrics making my self conscious.

When I thought I heard a tiny hint of Eulogy I completely lost it as it is my favourite song.
Great show all in all...didn't live up to my "best concert ever" expectations, but so what. I'll see you all at hopefully all the Ontario Fall stops

[Bino]

As for during the music, so what if everyone doesn't like to rock out, it isn't fucking slayer.

You don’t think that looking out in to a sea of statuesque zombies has an impact? You get what you give. Just my humble opinion. You feed off the music, they feed off your energy.

[zenkinet]

Great show...
Any ideas what was playing prior to Tool hitting the stage?
I heard some Skinny Puppy and some Autechre, anyone else have an idea what that other stuff was?

[Rogue Diabetic]

Right before Schism they played the first note of Wings for Marie...FOCK I got pretty excited....but alas...no dice.

Yes I thought maybe someone else would have picked up on that to. For a split second I was thinking we might get to hear it.

However, it seems plausible that this was merely a coincidence. But who knows.

[Kyndig]

This was my seventh show, all in the Toronto area, and I have to say it was noticably the worst of the seven. I was sitting centre balcony and I found the sound very muddy, the bass didn't punch through and maynards vocals were washed out.

I also felt the band themselves to be a little 'loose'. I have always found the to be amazingly tight live but last night I could hear a lot of timing mistakes, especially from Adam. He DID mess up the beginning of Lateralus, as well as the beginning of Right in Two. It looked to me like he was fighting his guitar tuning all night.

I think they started to fix some of the level problems towards the end of the show though because for Vicarious and Aenima the vocals were quite clear, although I think Maynard is still feeling his cold, the climactic chorus for Vicarious sounded pretty rough imo.

Still a good show on the whole, but myself (and the other three people I was there with) agreed it was definately not up to par for past performances.

I agree with this post pretty much as is - summed it up well.

Danny Carey carried this show - its the first time I have seen Tool in which I was able to watch him whenever I wanted (previous shows obscured in darkness).

To anyone who thinks that the band jammed to cover up maynard in Lateralus - they did not - they just played the song out as if nothing happened. Good discipline to just keep it going and not let it fall apart, but it wasn't some sort of miraculous spontaneous jam session.

About the crowd - there was a lot less fist pumping / horns / waving etc going on then one might expect, but anyone who expected the crowd to be going apeshit at a seated venue is deluding themselves. The crowd was definitely loud, but not annoyingly so. From where I was the crowd seemed to be on their feet for the whole show, so thats good - were there seriously people sitting in the first few rows?
Then again, I probably would sit if I was that close (nobody obscuring my view) ;)
Overall I would say the crowd was great (better than I expected for sure - I have found most concert crowds around southern ontario to be too tame).

The ushers however had a major impact on the atmosphere. Although I was kind of glad they got the 15 illuminating cellphones out of my view. I wish the people in the middle of the crowd did a better job at hiding their joints, because every time an usher spotted one they ended up shining their lights in 15-20 peoples faces.

Maynard definitely not sounding great (relatively speaking) - probably still fighting off (or succumbing to) a cold.

Some people mentioned technical glitches with the screens - I don't think any descriptions have done this justice - all four were off pretty much the entire RI2 song - 2 of the screens crapped out for long periods - and when they got the one backlighting maynard back on, the color was off and the projection aspect ratio was wrong - but it was funny seeing a tech's shadow as he tried to fix it.

As described above, the sound was "Muddy" - might have had something to do with my seats - I think the mezzanine overhang might have messed with the acoustics of the place for people standing under it like myself. For example - I had a lot of trouble hearing exactly what Maynard was saying when he talked occasionally between songs - caught the gist of most - but I'm glad some people on this board were nice enough to recap.

I LOVED the small change ups in Stinkfist and Sober. Vicarious and Aenema were virtually flawless (aside from Maynards voice) and rocked HARD. Jambi was definitely a highlight for me as well.

Once again I have to give props to Danny - he nailed everything just right - especially the solo in RI2 - that was unbelievable!

[thepatient_10k]

haha and yea i laughed when i saw the tech in the background of that screen. Those screens were fucking around.

[Avail]

Kyndig, glad to see someone heard the same as me. I also noticed the omni-present bouncers, unfortunately one jerk in front of me kept lighting up so they were ALWAYS there. To be honest I find smoking at concerts annoying... I developed mild asthma and an allergy to tobacco in my late teens (never smoked, but grew up in house of smokers) and I find myself much less tolerant of smoke than i used to..

I look forward to hearing them when they come through with a proper tour, proper light-show and a more diverse setlist (this one kind of felt like a Greatest Hits package).

I'd give my left ball to hear them play Swamp Song again some day though.

[KenshoDojo]

Such an awesome show, brilliant in every aspect. Had no complaints and I thought the crowd was perfect.

For anybody who thought the crowd sucked: A good show is a show that creates the atmosphere for people to be themselves while feeling an intimate and respectful bond to one another and this show did exactly that. We all have our own standards as to how a crowd should behave at a Tool show, or at any show in general, none of them are universal so there is no point in arguing about it.

I bet the guys in the band come out of every tour amazed at the differentiating crowds between cities and how they all create such positive atmospheres.

[Eighteenth Eye]

And to all those complaining about the crowd not being into it, get over yourselves. Just because you like to rock out heavy to Tool and others like to sit back and enjoy doesn't mean one is better than the other. Aenima was amazing, I think everyone in the crowd was singing along.

Everyone was definately not singing along! The front centre DD row did not know the words to anything and the contest winnners were completely lame in the front 3 rows!

[Chosen One]

it's all coming back now...I'm pretty sure that was a bullhorn strapped to maynard's back but i don't remember him using it...did anyone else see him use it? also, i believe during vicarious there was a visual of a tongue licking an eye...could that be a clip from a new vid (some of you guys are pretty in tune w the band, any insight)? what about the symbol on the stage floor (i had an aerial advantage over some), does it help them focus? i heard there is more to the cd artwork than meets the eye? "tell me everything" i'll stop asking questions, now.
i really loved the venue, i never expected to see tool in such an intimate environ (pop 3,200) and i don't expect i ever will have the chance again. first time in a forum, i like it, lots of different angles on the show, keep it up...cheers

[orbit survey]

It was also cool to see Leafs Bryan McCabe & Darcy Tucker rockin' out on the floors....priceless!!
cheers

[iamtheiconoclast]

I don't know what all you people are complaining about mellow crowds for. Hands in pockets and light head bobbing is ideal, so far as I'm concerned. I don't go to shows to see a bunch of fans thrash around like morons. I go to experience the damn good music that Tool have to offer. Sure, it's heavy music, and I love it that way, but that doesn't mean there's some golden rule saying it has to be interrupted by the crowd. I don't need camaraderie and noise, and I don't need to feed off the energy of a room to get me riled up; Tool can do that all by themselves. What I really want is for everyone else to sit down and shut up and stay the fuck out of my way, and I'm truly glad that's what's been happening.

[wolvie111]

Honestly the worst part of the crowds were the people that were drunk off their asses yelling retarded things at the band. My girlfriend sat next to a guy with a BO problem and I didnt want to switch with her because the guy next to me was far worse than a BO problem. I thought the sound in the venue was the best I have heard from any of the shows I have been to. It really was an amazing show. And someone in here mentioned something about the scalper yelling at the box office people, yes I heard that "I DIDN'T GET ANY FUCKING TICKETS!! WHAT THE FUCK!!!". As a matter of fact it was worse around 3:30 when the box office was releasing standing room only tickets and all the scalpers yelling at each other and cutting in front of people that actually WANTED TO SEE THE CONCERT. I actually had some words with one of them when he tried to grope my girlfriend on our way to the Hot House. Another Tool fan stepped in to tell me its not worth laying the guy out and then missing the show because I had to go to jail. Good looking out!

[Alexkos]

I was in the left side of the balcony and really didn't have an issue with the crowd at all. The 8 or so people around me were singing along and knew all the lyrics from what it seemed. Again, it may be my bias because it was my first show and I have nothing to compare it to but if it sucked I can only imagine what the other shows are like.

Alex

[imbackagain2]

I was sitting right side row W. The show was amazing, The band was amazing and the crowd considering the venue was great. I was pleased with the setlist they chose. The worst part of the show was the fucken security guards. What a bunch of dicks running around flashing their lights everywhere. Me and my buddy were standing out front before the show and two scalpers were yelling at each other. I look over and happen to make eye contact with the large black scalper to hear the words"what the fuck are you looking at?" I hated scalpers before and now I want them dead. FUcking assholes. Anyway the show ruled. Best tool show I have seen. I got t-shirt#4. kinda regreting not buying a poster now. To my surprise there were actually alot of good lookin ladies there. Even though I failed to hook up. Show was great though. I didn't see tucker or mccabe. I think your fibbing.

[m4yn4rd]

Fucking great show. Thanks to the little 12 year old girl infront of me so I could see much clearer. I rather enjoyed the crowd, they seamed lively enough for me. That could be because I went to actually listen to the music, instead of bobbing around like a tool. Danny fucking went all out, everyone around me was just in awe during the 46 & 2 solo.

I almost shit myself during the extension to Schism, they rocked out harder than I've ever seen any band rock out.

and during aenema, the video went out of frame and was shifted one down.
Watch the video, that's how it is.

Aenima was definitely the highlight for me, infact the whole ending (Lateralus - Vicarious - Aenima) was incredible.

Great playing, great visuals, singing coulda been mixed better, but it sounded better than a lot of concerts I've been to so no complaints.

There were many times where I was completley still with my jaw dropped.
Props to the two middle aged asian women, they looked so lost.

[silence33]

Those crowd complainers who put a sharp pain in my skull like someone scratching a chalk board!:

How can the same person who critiques the music while offering opinions on the G-riffs and drum rolls also make valid points while also "rockin out" and jumpin up and down?

I'm sorry, well actually I guess I'm not, but I enjoyed sitting back and watching the moment....tool is a band that offers both things, rockin out, and enlightenment....I'm surprise an OGT would not understand this and be closed minded to those there for something different then yourselves, oh wait no I'm not!....If you need people to jump around and run into you to enjoy a concert, then hey, go watch gwar. (remember Gwar?....wow) When I was 16-18 and an "angry teenager" I remember hitting the mosh-pit, but, I must say that as Tool's music has grown it definitely has way more to offer then just freaking out and yelling at everything. In fact, it really always has but the Neanderthals that Tool even makes fun of can't see it cause they haven't grown...also, smoking up at a concert to be a part of it, give me strength if that is a justified complaint.

Agreed Tool's aggression is brilliant in its transference through the music, but check the slope on your forehead, it's the intelligence of the music that makes it the awesome force it is. I'd like to know if the people who are pissed at the "sitters" if they jump around like MONKEYS while they read books, oh wait, scratch that comment for obvious reasons.

I enjoy how people like me sitting back relishing in the moment ruined the show for the likes of you enough to write about it because it proves something - you need others around you to make the moment and you can't rely simple on the music alone. That's a shame because those jumping around didn't ruin the show for me. I was too busy enjoying the moment to even notice. Who drives all over the place to see one band anyway? Kill me. Don't you have a job or something? If this is your job then granted that's impressive, but probably not. I understand driving local but from Denver, slit my eye lids cause I can't seem to feel anymore. By all the comments I have read about the crowd interaction I wonder if people paid attention to the fact Tool was playing there first concert in T.O. in like forever......half of you probably thought you came to see Zwan.

The concert was brilliant and the best thing always about seeing Tool live is how they mix things up and don't regurgitate the album.

And fav moment:...some "die-hard" tool fan with a shirt and poster, wearing all black of course because that's what makes a hard core fan, walked by me after the show and told someone on his cell phone in an angry voice "Ya, it totally sucked cause they only played one off of Aenema!" ........ Isn't that refreshing? :)

[jayde]

isn't Aenima and Stinkfist Both off Aenima?
yikes

I don't like contests for who the biggest Tool fan is.
We were all lucky to get such hard to get tickets. People behind me had lined up and didnt get any and had been seeing Tool for 10 years. The guys two seats to my left had just heard the new single and knew sober....

[searing]

Tool has such a wide fan base of people of various ages and musically tastes. Most shows are loud enough with enough seating choice that you can choose your experience, whether it be where you sit, whether you sit, and what you smoke/drink.

In this case, there was less of this but we should all have known that - we were getting a treat with the small venue so sacrificing sitting versus standing, moshing (not for me, but for an arena, I wouldn't sit on the floor because of this) and being hassled about smoking and cameras. The security people were just following orders and they almost seemed apoligetic in our area. The Hummingbird Centre is to blame - you don't invite Tool and 3000 of their friends to your house and expect them to take off their shoes and smoke out back.

I am partial to prog rock and classic rock and I was there for the music and the show. I thought the crowd was first class. Tool could see that, I think they could get that the crowd gets them and appreciated the art and music.

A great show, my second Tool show, much better then the last and an experience I will never forget.

[Toneman]

This show was AMAZING! This was my second time seeing them, the first time was in Montreal for the Lateralus tour. I absolutely LOVED both shows equally but for different reasons. The visuals were better in Montreal, and there were even trapeze artist swinging around on ropes. This TO show was much more intimate, the sound was asbolutely perfect all night. Maynard is sometimes hard to hear right on the albums, and I believe it is intentional when they do it live. Of course depending on where are sitting, it can be annoying. I was in the front row of the Mezanine, and I have no complaints about the sound. This show was much brigther than the Laterals tour, which means you really got to see all they guys whaling on their instruments. I think this is privilege for us fortunate enough to get tickets to a small venue show.

They nailed every song perfectly. Jambi was my favorite song, it is great live.
I didn't notice one mistake from Adam or anyone else except for Maynard coming in too early on Lateralus, but they really covered that well. I was really impressed by the heavy drumming on the new songs, it is very intense to watch Danny pull them off perfectly. And the extended parts were awesome.

I thought the crowd was very loud, especially at the end... and I am glad they were respectful during the soft parts of some of the songs. Anybody who pays 70+ dollars for a ticket can rockout however they want. I agree that bands feed off the crowds' energy, but TOOL doesn't exactly run around on stage like some other bands do.

Excellent show, can't wait to see them again!

To ChosenOne: the tongue licking an eye animation is from Chet Zar, and I think I saw it at the Montreal show in 2001.

http://www.chetzar.com/eyelick.html

[1 lucky dog]

I was one of the luckiest people fortunate enough to get a seat in the front! Since tickets sold out in only seconds after going on sale I resorted to other ways of obtaining a ticket. I surfed the web and ebay but, ultimately risked dealing with street scalpers since online prices were extremely HIGH! I was prepared to pay at least $300.00 CA. for decent floor seats since I heard about people paying as much as $500.00 US for a similar seat. I arrived at the Hummingbird Centre around 7:00 pm and found shit seats for $300.00 CA from the 1st scalper. Needless to say I passed until I found 2nd row, center Orchestra BB, seat 47. UNFU**ING REAL!!! I couldn't believe it! $500.00CA. and worth every cent! Sure I would have loved to pay cost, BUT what are the chances of getting a seat like this that way? FYI Darcy Tucker and Bryan McCabe sat directly behind me, 3rd row CC seats 50 & 51. The other people around me paid an average of $300.00CA. Yes there were also lucky people who won tickets complimentary to radio phone-ins. Good for them, I wished it were me. None the less I felt like a VIP.

IMO no one around me was sitting! My neck is still killing me me from head-banging. I was greatful there was no moshing. I feel like I was wasted on TOOL and today am feeling it. I never even noticed that the videos were breaking up like someone mentioned. I was too involved with the show.

From my perspective I could see the entire stage from 10' away. One of the best seats available! I 'm TOTALLY impressed! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute! I'll remember this night forever! TOOL ROCKS T.O.!!!

BTW: Bryan McCabe caught one of Danny's drumsticks. That would have been the icing on my cake! Still worth the price I paid. Thanks TOOL!

[EssPea]

it's all coming back now...I'm pretty sure that was a bullhorn strapped to maynard's back but i don't remember him using it...did anyone else see him use it?

It had a wireless microphone attached to it. It was used all through out Rosetta Stoned when he was doing the patients voice.

[Capt. Sith Park]

IMO C'ing TOOL (PROG bands such as DT, RUSH Etc.) in a smaller, more intimate-type of Environment/Atmosphere is the way their cerebral music is best transferred - tighter sound n' all, now this will not make the ppl who want to freak/mosh happy but for this gig there were so many types of ppl in differing situations all bound in one small area that it was hard to see one wave of the same emotional level, kind of scattered

It was enjoyable meeting up w/ those TDN'ers at HH and Eighteenth Eye inside! (Keep in touch)
My Apologeez 4 not hookin' up w/ any other of the usual suspects that may have wanted a seating treat (PM me and I'll get one 2 u) Here's a link 4 the final 'TOOLSDAY' seating pic:

http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/6926/toolseatingfinal3ie.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

- 2 the dude in the second row (slight left) w/ the red-spiked mohawk that wasn't having any trouble givn'r (cheerz!)

- The eazy-feedback build intro to 'Sober' put me on edge (in a very good way)

- When they were chillin' on MJK's stage it totally flipped the roles and put the emphasis on the crowd to then, impress them

- Was that a Red 'Clippers' jersey Danny was wearing? #42

Evil agent - love the avatar (did u draw that?)
jag1364 - Post # 53, Nicely put!

- They nailed 'Vicarious' to the wall

- Adam's opening notes 4 'Lost keys' nevr seemed to end

Avail - This mini-tour is a warm-up to become comparable 4 their tour (their shakin' the rust off) Read the concert review in Wednesday's Toronto Star

Sorry pushthenvelope - ("a slight criticism") My last post was Necessary!
Silence33 - nice post! # 92
Forty two - (Bottom of # 30) I'm fully in agreeance, how much do u think it's worth?

zenkinet - I believe I heard some Meshuggah

[transcend187]

Was that Meshuggah playing on the PA before the concert started?

[Capt. Sith Park]

I believe so, they hang out, u can hear the influence Tomas Haake has had on Danny recently, on the 10,000 days album (kick patterns)

[evil agent]

Thanks, I agree this avatar is awesome - but I can't take credit for drawing it. I found it when I did a google image search of "maynard james keenan"!

Back to the concert...its funny, the day after the concert I find myself remembering more and more awesome parts. I think I felt a tad let down initially, just as I feel whenever a new Tool album comes out, because there is always SO much expectation. But now that the show sunk in, I find myself wishing I could see them again on this small tour! Slightly better seats, and the freedom to smoke my joint would have made the show perfect.

I keep replaying Rosetta Stoned in my mind, and seeing Maynard thrashing around whenever he said "Can't breathe, right now!" and Justin going mental on the last few bars of Aenima, and Danny all through the show; Even though I wasn't that close, the setup this time around gave me the best view of Danny I've ever had.

[Eighteenth Eye]

It was enjoyable meeting up w/ those TDN'ers at HH and Eighteenth Eye inside! (Keep in touch)

- The eazy-feedback build intro to 'Sober' put me on edge (in a very good way)

- Was that a Red 'Clippers' jersey Danny was wearing? #42


We should all keep in touch....to make sure we all keep in touch we can stay in touch using the thread that i have posted a link to in my signature! We can start making plans for the next show in the fall!

The feedback for Sober was amazing....the way they were able to control it and make it work as a musical "tool" was amazing!

Yes, the Clippers jersey was an Elton Brand Jersey.

[Eighteenth Eye]

Even though I wasn't that close, the setup this time around gave me the best view of Danny I've ever had.


I have seen Danny's drum kit many times and it seemingly evolves every time I see it! He was f'n amazing!

If anyone couldn't see he actually has a touch screen PC hooked up to his drum kit which he played with a couple of times to change up the sounds of the electric drums! He would make the adjustments during the long feedback segments or when Adam or Justin were just doing crazy shit with their instruments.

[Chosen One]

cheers to toneman for the great link and esspea...how did i not see that? maybe i did...i was overwhelmed w the intro and was obviously still trying to absorb the moment

[Capt. Sith Park]

4 those interested Danny is the cover story in the next issue of 'Modern Drummer' magazine, I'm sure they will go in depth about his new electronics
- Would have nevr known he does the chime voices at the beginning of 'Vicarious' w/o seeing them live. It's very cool how they contribute in other ways outside of their own particular instrument (busy ppl they r)

[pushthenvelope]

Quote "Back to the concert...its funny, the day after the concert I find myself remembering more and more awesome parts. I think I felt a tad let down initially, just as I feel whenever a new Tool album comes out, because there is always SO much expectation. But now that the show sunk in, I find myself wishing I could see them again on this small tour! Slightly better seats, and the freedom to smoke my joint would have made the show perfect. "

It's a couple day's after the show now and I find myself echoing these thoughts
( although I was able to smoke a joint during 46 &2 !!! ) My intial criticism's of the show have now faded and dismissed as over- expectations on my part. After all they were only " shaking the rust off " as Sith puts it. I will fondly remember all TOOL concerts that I get to see, but this one in a small venue will have a special meaning. I now feel priviledged that I was able to see it. It does make you want to follow their Tour Buses and catch them again in the next city. BTW did anybody get to see (autographs) the boys after the show? I saw alot of people lined up out back by their tour buses.
Sith and Co. sorry we missed meeting you at the HH. My buddy and I stuck our head in there around 5:30 or so , but it seemed a bit of a trendy lookin place with a fair number of "suits". In other words, not conducive to TOOL heads (i'm probably wrong on that). We ended up at an english pub type place on the other side of Front ( can't remember the name). There were plenty of fan's there grabbin eats and ale's and discussing TOOL. Thats another thing I like about this band.... you see someone else wearin a T and it's real easy to get a conversation going. Lookin forward to the next time already.

[forty two]

Forty two - (Bottom of # 30) I'm fully in agreeance, how much do u think it's worth?
I'm not sure yet, but I think if we wait a couple more years we'll get a great deal, and like Maynard said, a lot of it will be beachfront by then too. hehehe


EDIT: It's too bad I didn't have time to make it down to the HH before the show (and I couldn't do anything after the show because I had an interview to get to first thing next morning). It would have been nice to put some faces to the usernames here. Even though I'm still fairly new to the board, I can see that the Toronto-area contingent is quite a cool and friendly one. Oh well, when they come back... :)

[Bino]

2 the dude in the second row (slight left) w/ the red-spiked mohawk that wasn't having any trouble givn'r (cheerz!)

I could clearly see that individual during the show from where I was - about 20 rows back of him. I was a bit troubled, however, as his hands were not in pocket during the show and the nodding he exhibited was *clearly* more than the preferred "light" variety. He apparently didn't get the memo to sit down and shut up and stay the fuck out of Imtheiconoclast's way. I hope he feels great shame for enjoying himself so completely and being swept up in the experience to the point of medium to hard bobbing, if not full on banging. I mean, it isn’t fucking Slayer, you know?

[J A G]

Enough about the crowd. Too be honest, I was so fixated on the band that I barely noticed anyone else. No offense to anyone, but let's see more band reviews and less crowd reviews.

[Spoon]

Howdy all. I'll just put in my two cents in point form (good and bad)

1) Crowd - thought they were perfect, loud as fuck at the end.

2) Lateralus - The band did NOT cover this well, the intro sucked, and the screw up during the guitar solo almost ruined the song for me. Adam eventually just rang out an open D chord and stared at Danny like "what do I do?" Considering they ended every show for two years with this song, I'm amazed they screwed it up.

3) Vocals - RUSTY...Maynard is not young anymore and it shows. That and he might still be affected by a cold. 46&2, he was hitting lower octaves, ex: "See my shadow changing" where changing should be way up, he would dim it down. Also, the peak of vicarious was a little flat.

4) Venue - awesome.

5) Sound - awesome. As someone else said, the vocals will always be 'hiding' a bit in a tool mix.

6) 46&2 - I shit you not, my eyes teared up during the drum solo.

Those are my specifics. I'm a huge tool fan, and I absolutely loved the show, the sound was perfect, guitars a little loud maybe, but not bad. Seeing Danny from front row MEZZ was amazing, and Maynard was great too - chatting, dancing, commenting, etc.

I'm not ragging on the band, and of course this is a warm up tour, but there were some mistakes that I was not expecting. Of course I figured there would be screw ups on the new stuff (and there was, Adam seems like the weakest link in the band to me, often looking to Danny to determine when he is to come in or where they are in the song, etc.) but on the whole - fucking amazing. Loved the setlist, would have loved the Pot, but the drumming in Right in Two is absolutely insane. My girlfriend was with me, new to Tool, and she turned to me and said "How the fuck does he do that?" which felt good to hear :)

Can't wait for the fall....

[extentions]

This is my second time seeing them live. Last time being edgefest where they played only 6 songs. This show was awesome. It doesn't matter what happens when they play, its the sound that really drives me crazy. Hearing familiar tunes like Sober, 46&2 and lateralus washes the slate clean for me....the crowd goes nuts and so do I. IMO Sober was the best song of the night not sure why, but there's a substance to Undertow thats irreplacebale and uncomparable to anything else.

Loved the drumming changes in schism and the improv part in stinkfist.
Someone else posted that he always has a hard time listening to new Tool Albums because of the expectation, and I agree. Its gonna take time for the new stuff to grow on me like Undertow and Aenima did. But I know once it does, it will be like every other Tool experience.

I didn't think the crowd sucked at all....They all sang and some people chose to Bob their heads while other chose to do a little dancing like me :) ....can't help it ,I so wanted to run up on stage and just dance like a moron!

I bought my ticks on ebay and shared them with this awesome guy from Cambridge.

I saw Tool...waiting for them to return in the fall and all is right with the world.

[Spoon]

Oh yeah - regarding the crowd singing along and not doing so being a bad thing - I so disagree. I paid good money to see TOOL do what they do, I want to hear Maynard singing, not the buttfuck next to me who thinks he's the next american idol.

How would you feel if someone brough a guitar and amp and played the guitar parts along to the songs?

"Who sings this song?"
"Tool does"
"Right, let's keep it that way"

Nothing against people getting into it, but I don't believe the crowd NOT singing along makes them a bad crowdy. I preferred to zone in and just take it all in, and I got teary eyed several times and couldn't stop smiling.

[imbackagain2]

yeah i had some drunk douche bag behind me who thought he was maynard. He ruined a couple parts but thats what happens when beers were only 5 bucks. I pounded like 6 before we went in. What was the deal with drinking in there? Some people were allowed but others wernt. All in and all the worst part for me was the security guards shining their lights on some people a few rows ahead of me cause the kept trying to smoke a joint. Pretty funny considering the floor was carpet and the walls are made of wood. The fire triangle was complete. Anyways I loved that show and can't wait to see them again.

[mystictigress]

Oh yeah - regarding the crowd singing along and not doing so being a bad thing - I so disagree. I paid good money to see TOOL do what they do, I want to hear Maynard singing, not the buttfuck next to me who thinks he's the next american idol.

How would you feel if someone brough a guitar and amp and played the guitar parts along to the songs?

"Who sings this song?"
"Tool does"
"Right, let's keep it that way"

Nothing against people getting into it, but I don't believe the crowd NOT singing along makes them a bad crowdy. I preferred to zone in and just take it all in, and I got teary eyed several times and couldn't stop smiling.

I must admit I LOL'd at that one.

I like your first breakdown of the concert. I think for a first-timer I barely noticed the fuckups because I was so engrossed by the whole experience and vibe. As must as I love Maynard to bits and pieces, Danny was the star for me. Still loved them all though and I'm still damn hyper/energized from the show.

I know the crowd talk has kinda gone out of hand, but I must say, the guy with the mohawk is somewhat of a celebrity. I saw him going nuts from way up in the balcony.

Meetup before next Tool sounds like a good plan to me. Maybe I can finally meet some female TDNers :D

As for merch, I got the white tour tee. I would have liked the chicks shirt but didn't want to pay that extra five bucks, and I wanted the tour info on it. The long sleeve shirt was pretty sweet.

[Toneman]

Yeah, mohawk dude was cool... especially before the show started. He was getting the crowd going.

[Spoon]

It's so true - you don't go to a Tool show to watch Adam, or watch Justin, or watch Maynard - Danny puts on the fucking show, the guy is an absolute monster and watching him do the drumming in Right in Two blew my mind, he was doing something like 5 different beats with 2 hands, plus the off-beat bass rythm, just incredible. Fun to watch Maynard stretch too though..heh

[zapata_36]

http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/Artists/T/Tool/ConcertReviews/2006/05/17/1583771.html

[evil agent]

Weird review. It sounds like he's trying to give it a bad review, but doesn't have anything actually bad to say about the band. It also sounds like he wants to insult the fans, but he comes off almost praising them (calling them smart, etc.).

[bullet proof]

I guess I'll throw my thoughts out there..

Ended up in the 6th row, right in front of Justin. I scoped out my seats for Radiohead too (row B) and Circle of Friends was a great investment.

Very good show overall, I expected it to be a bit rough after reading some reviews and listening to some of the other shows. Adam did blow a few parts but it wasn't too bad. Maynard also came in early during Adam's solo on Lateralus which threw Adam off.

You could definitely tell Maynard was sick, though he didn't mention it. His vocals were a bit off in spots.

With that said it was an amazing experience seeing the band in that venue and especially being so close. I thought the crowd up front was rocking out pretty good. Not sure what was going on through the rest of the crowd.

I was surprised they let people stand in the aisles, it bugged me at first (I was on the aisle) but wasn't so bad.

I'm also surprised no one's mentioned Adam making the rooster noise at the end of his talkbox solo in Jambi. That was hilarious.

After Aenema, as the band was throwing stuff out and leaving the stage, Adam picked up a joint that had been thrown on stage, waved his finger at the crowd and threw it back.

All in all it was a great night. I would have liked a longer and more varied setlist, but I really enjoyed it and can't wait for the full set in the fall.

[systematic]

Ok so this was my first Tool concert ever. I have to say it was best musical experience I have ever been a part of. The whole evening was excellent. I had a great time meeting with all the TDN'ers at Hot House before the show(we should keep in touch). Now to the concert. I couldn't believe how amazing they were. Sound quality was perfect. I thought the volume was just right, personally I dont need to have my ears blown out to enjoy a concert. I really like the heavy bass at the show. The opening of the show was the best. I just loved how first Justin came on then Adam, then Danny an then finally Maynard. In my opinion, every song they play was 10 times better then the CD's. I, like a few others, didnt notice any mistakes in their setlist or any visual mix ups on the screens. Probably because I completely immersed myself in the show. Overall this concert was incredable. This concert once again proved why Tool is the best band ever. I cannot wait untill the fall concert!!!!!(Fingers Crossed for multiple Ontario Dates)

[Capt. Sith Park]

Besides the fact that MJK was struggling w/ a cold (apparently It became worse 4 the Philadelphia show) Seems alot of ppl r put-off about not being able to hear MJK's vocals clearly/loudly/up-front. There are alot of times (in studio) when MJK's voice sits low in the mix (this happens on purpose), it then happens Live also (no big deal really), we were on the left side, row V, could hear him fine, all depends (with so many variables) on where u were located.

Adam has commented on this issue: "I'll talk to people from other bands, they'll say 'Your sound is so huge! How do you get that?' Then I hear their stuff, and the vocals are way out front and the band's in the back, and that just makes the band sound little. It's a fine line. Maynard is an instrument."

At certain times they don't want u 2 b distracted by the story line or the vox. They r truely artists and have respect for all parts of their work, if anything it makes u listen/investigate harder to decipher the lyrics, you will always hear the music up in the mix

Each song is like a mini-drum clinic - '46 & 2' solo (spot on) 'Ri2' - killer, The rhythms (outside of the main beat) for the new songs (and voices) Danny uses are intricate, (can b heavy if needed) but always groove - As a drummer myself, I find his playing extremely inspirational!

When they're back in the fall, I bet we'll hear: 'The Grudge', 'Parabola', 'Prison Sex', 'The Pot' Etc. - It never ends (they had to leave some 4 L8r)

I didn't realize it was Justin at the 3:45-4:05 riff on bass in 'Vicarious', thought it was an over-dub on guitar

[evil agent]

I was at the back of the floor, and I could hear him just fine. I understood all his speaking, and could make out most of his lyrics and singing perfectly. I actually thought he sounded excellent, considering the cold. I couldn't tell he was sick except for a couple very small moments.

[Mook8]

I like how "superfan" (mrhand) just takes Tool lyrics and passes them off as his own thoughts and musings. Also, if I wanted to jump around like an asshole while Tool was playing, I could easily (and more cost effectively) do that in front of my mom's stereo turned up to 11 in my basement apartment (yes, a crack at you--and a Spinal Tap reference). Anyhoo, I agree that the show was good. I have a job, so I can't follow Tool to every show to offer perspective. Sorry.

Brain candy: Mr. Hand has been to so many shows, but only finds a desire to post now, for the first time, after this show. Thanks. We thank you for this.

I don't know why this bugged me so much...maybe it was the fact that Hand deliberately dumped all over everyone for being honest about the good time they had. OR maybe it was how he had to remind everyone that their experience could only be appreciated (at his/her "higher level") with more points of reference.

meh. you're too cool for me.

[fetisha]

From where I was standing I thought the sound was incredible. I could hear Maynard perfectly, both when he was speaking and singing. He did strain a few times due to his cold but he still sounded excellent. Every word and all the instruments were crystal clear to my ears. I guess it really does depend on where you're located in a venue. I also appreciated the fact that the sound wasn't too loud, it was just right in my opinion.

Danny Carey blew me away of course, but that's a given. The man is a machine.

Although I was disappointed in not hearing the Pot and the Patient I was happy to hear Right In Two. It's one of my favourites from the new album and Danny's drumming was sweet as all hell. The whole song was done impressively well.

I was lucky to have some really cool people around me. No one was screaming the lyrics to drown out Maynard, which I really appreciated.

Vicarious performed live impressed the hell out of me. It was perfect. The new songs are excellent live. And of course I freaked out when hearing 46&2, Schism, Lateralus and Aenema.

To me the whole venue was buzzing with excitment. Many times before the show even started there was random yelling and frequent clapping. The roaring of the crowd was awesome to hear, especially when the guys sat down near the front of the stage for their breather and Maynard was cupping his ear as if to say "let me hear you guys." As soon as he did that it seemed like everyone in the entire venue was screaming their lungs out. And of course at the end of Aenema it felt like the exact same thing, especially when Danny stepped out from behind his kit and on to the stage.

It was cool to see the band smiling at the end, especially Danny and Adam. Needless to say I think they like Toronto.

Anyway, my brother and I had an excellent time and I can't wait for them to come back in the fall.

Were any Hamilton people from here at the show?

[GoLoBuLouS]

Muahaha!

My first TooL show!!!

I had waited a long time to catch them and traveled from Montreal to see it.

I proudly admit; the music TOOLed me!!!

Just like it is supposed too.

I could not sit passively and for that, my captive neighbours, I apologize... Or maybe... it is YOU who should apologize.

Muahaha!

Starting with Lost Keys and Rosetta Stoned was genious..

The climax was definately at the end of Lateralus when the crowd just exploded into cheer and continued for what seemed like 5 minutes of roaring sea comming to engulf the coastline.

I loved the show, the venue was class, would not have missed it for anything.

T.O is a pretty city too bad I didn't have too much time to visit.


@TooL: Don't forget Montreal the second time around!

[troutmask]

Were any Hamilton people from here at the show?
I was there with a few people who took the GO bus up from Hamilton. Had a great time at the show. Seeing Tool an entirely seated venue certainly made for a much different experience than seeing them from the pit at Copps in 2002.

People were a little more subdued than I would have imagined, but it was all very respectful of the band. MJK was obviously struggling due to his cold, but the mixing seemed to compensate for that and the rest of the band was in fine form. Having been seated about four people from the right stack the volume was fine by me, and the view of Danny's drumming was absolutely incredible.

After show quote from two guys walking down Front Street just east of the venue: "Hey guys, do you know where we can find a bar?"
We uh, pointed out the wide selection right across the street.

It was a good time, definitely worth the $100 paid for tickets & C.O.F. membership. Even my friends seated in YY agreed.

[blood_wh0re]

an epiphany
a manifestation of great importane
a psychedlic feast celebrating the revelation to humans of the spirit in an observable form
of, characterized by, or generating hallucinations, distortions of perception, altered states of awareness, and occasionally resembling psychosis

$66.66

[dmochow]

A few things that have not been mentioned above.

They played the intro to "Intension" before breaking into "Right In Two".

There was an extended keyboard intro (Adam and Maynard) leading into "Vicarious".

Danny is a Clippers fan.

Bryan McCabe and Darcy Tucker apparently attended the show.

Maynard's quotes:{
"Apparently the album is triple platinum in Canada... what the fuck, man; What happened to triple platinum? I need a new wing on my winery / (vineyard?)".

"I hope you're all enjoying your very, very strong Canadian dollar. Why don't you do us all a favor and buy our country?"

"I wasn't kidding about buying our country soon. It's all going to be beachfront soon."

A young (20's) man brought his middle-aged mother to the show. Props to that guy, and also to his mom, who did not mind him smoking weed throughout the entire show.
}

Musically, the problem with Tool is never quality, just quantity. I would personally have preferred to hear "The Pot / The Patient" as opposed to "Right In Two", mostly because it took off a good seven minutes from the show. Justin and Adam did an excellent job on "Lost Keys" - the anticipation was almost as good as the actual show.

And to the guy who wrote that the Toronto show was weak compared to the Denver/ Seattle shows.... "you must have been so high."

[transcend187]

After Aenema, as the band was throwing stuff out and leaving the stage, Adam picked up a joint that had been thrown on stage, waved his finger at the crowd and threw it back.

Intentional reference? The Pot: "Who are you to wave your finger?"

[Capt. Sith Park]

Hmmmm .... those cryptic guyz

Justin walked on to the stage 8:13, then Adam, Danny & MJK - Band finished at 9:53

Any TDN'er out there catch the Drum head Danny launched?

Mook8 - I usually don't lose it (online) but the way he attacked the crowd (us), the venue, so blatantly - I had an awesome time (the whole day, other than the rain) I just gave it back 2 him
I can accept constructive criticism, nobody-thing/venue/show is perfect (well, except Danny LOL!) but his posts were not that

[Capt. Sith Park]

4 anyone not close enough to see what Danny was messin' w/ on his left side of his kit. I believe it's a touch screen Mac to handle all of his trigger voices (a new ad for Paiste cymbals) He has a very unique set-up (Hi-Hat in the middle)

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/733/carey31xw.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Bino - (not to rub it in, but this 4 u) - TDN'er pseudostratified (from the KC show) - 'Last night (the 11th) ... ended up being one of the coolest experiences of mys life ... I was the lucky fucker who ended up with Danny's AUTOGRAPHED DRUM HEAD after he made an impossible fucking throw deep into the lower balcony. That shit seemed like I had a homing beacon the way it curved right to me - and the four other people who had a hand on it until I emerged victorious!!

He uses the pic as his avatar:

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/2908/kcdrumhead3gh.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[HADA 11]

This was my 3rd Tool concert ACC, Copps, Hummingbird.

I'm not sure this was the best performance I've seen from them. It's not that there where any short comings with this show, but they've all been so good it's hard to pick.

ACC was memorable because it was the first Tool concert I'd attended. I didn't know what to expect and it exceeded any expectations I may have had anyway. By far the out side of the whole Tool thing Meshuggah opened for them and that f**ked me right over. Can't say enough good stuff about those Sweedes!

Oh, and there were dancing eunichs.

COPPS had Meshuggah again. That's worth the price of admission right there! Their performance of TRIAD is my favorite concert experience EVER. It simply won't be out done. I think the Copps show wuold be my favorite due to the TRIAD/Meshuggah combo.

I wasn't really that pumped going into the show. I had a lot of career and personal stuff going on and the show wasn't really on the radar that week. I got pumped the minute I realized where I'd be sitting. Stage right, 2 rows back from Adam. CC 1. I'd be able to see him work from less then 20 ft away. Holy shite! Did anyone else notice he wasn't wearing shoes?

As I said, the show wasn't really on my mind that much and I forgot to bring ear plugs. Wouldn't have been a problem has I not been the closest person to speakers in the entire venue. Fortunatly the security guard in my section had a spare pair he gave me. That dude saved my ass, well ears anyway.

Before the guys hit the stage they played a few tracks off Meshuggahs Catch 33, I noticed a few guys rocking out a bit to those tracks.

I can't much in terms of a review other than the fact that I NEED to experience The Patient performed live. I haven't yet, I won't be satisfied until I do. I have to admit I'm dissappointed they didn't play it in TO. I hope they play it next time they come around.

The last thing worth mentioning is my brother-in-law caught one of Maynards water bottles. I bet my mother-in-law drinks it while doing laundry!

[Spoon]

Did anyone else notice he wasn't wearing shoes?

Easier to use the synth and pedals.

[fetisha]

Something I noticed was that Maynard did not substitute "fuck L. Ron Hubbard" with "fuck Rupert Murdoch"

And was it just me or was Danny's drum kit riser way over to the far right at the beginning of the show and then later it seemed to be more centered near Maynard? Either it was moved or I was on crack.

If anyone noticed a girl with red and black synthetic dread locks and black framed glasses, that was me.

My brother also pointed out that there weren't a lot of whores at the show. I commented that it was nice not to see the sluts out and about, thinking they can get backstage and fuck the band, haha.

[forty two]

Here's something I made today (I know, I'm such a tool nerd):

http://www.flickr.com/photos/fortytwo/150206610/

I figured some of you might enjoy it. Tell me what you think. It's definitely open for modification.

[encrusted]

Seen them about a dozen times across every tour since 92 both in Canada and the States and they always kill - irrespective of nuances about sound and crowd and visual and setlist, you know the music and playing is so fuckin strong that even on what some call a "bad night", you're in for an assault!!!

Anyway, here's my dissectional on the Hummingbird show for the historical record for whatever its worth:

I was up front in row "D" centre - and as always the closer you are the more intense the show - went to the head during Schism (say what you want but fans know if you've been drinking and have to piss you go to the can during Schism!), anyway I noticed on the way the sound and sights from the back were pretty good too - volume was loud and low-end was solid - I could always use more - but aside from an early washout or two - decibals were on.

Again, say what you want, but Toronto crowds tend to be conservative - we had a whole slew of folks losing their minds around us, but the Hummingbird's too sanitary for my liking for a Tool gig (wondered how they were going to get all of our burns out of the carpetting!) and security was a bit much - imagine General Adimission floors and you know your're dealing with a different vibe...bring back GA I say!!!!

Anyway, the only critique I can find and I'm stretching here - is that although some of the visuals had me losing my fucking mind, at times the flamimg flames seemed a bit too obligatory Windows cheesy digital if you know what I mean....that's about it

So fuck all that - watching Justin kick out the bass lines to Vicarious was alone worth being there - he is so underrated - fuckin loved it. Adam and Danny smoked - and Maynard, sick or not, can't go wrong can he? Other highlights were watching them kill Jambi - that was fuckin awesome - Right in Two pasted a million mile smile on my face, and as always the close out to Lateralus made me wet!

Would have loved to seen the Pot, and missed the Patient and Parabola - but fuck it, Tool's finally on tour motherfucker and I'll be all over the Northeast gigs in the fall... and you know they're going to come heavier and tighter....see you then!

[jayde]

Something I noticed was that Maynard did not substitute "fuck L. Ron Hubbard" with "fuck Rupert Murdoch"

And was it just me or was Danny's drum kit riser way over to the far right at the beginning of the show and then later it seemed to be more centered near Maynard? Either it was moved or I was on crack.

If anyone noticed a girl with red and black synthetic dread locks and black framed glasses, that was me.

My brother also pointed out that there weren't a lot of whores at the show. I commented that it was nice not to see the sluts out and about, thinking they can get backstage and fuck the band, haha.


Agreed...there were a lot more women at this show than i am used to, but the girls I usually see at concerts barely know the music, and just sashay (sp) their drunk ghetto booties around trolling for backstage access.
They usually make me itchy when they walk by.
I was the guy losing his mind in WW section for Aenima, 46x2, Vicarious, Jambi and Stinkfist

[Zyphris1]

Hey, i havnt beebn able to post i was busy for a while.. I was sitting in X on the Mez. It was my first ever concert, and it just blew me away. I know so many people that wanted to go to this concert, and didnt go. I bought 2 shirts, and the poster. $110, but money was no issue. I came all the way from Nova Scotia to see this concert. My favorite was either Schism, or Aenima, although i liked all of them.. Great Performance. When they come back i plan on going again aswell.

Someone stated they saw Darcy Tucker, and Bryan McKabe there?? Where were they seated? I also waited in the back for them to come out.. I was lucky enough to shake Justin's hand, and got Danny's autograph. Maynard came running out with a towel on his head.. and he walked right beside me.. i felt like pushin him.. heh..

Does ayone have any pics of the concert.. if so can u let me know.. thanx.