Opera Singer/Vocal Coach tries Maynard James Keenan 25 SECOND SCREAM in "The Grudge"

[@pablerry]

Try Tool - Pushit, Maynard shines in that song. You have an amazing voice btw, and actually you did the same time as Maynard 24.5 seconds.

[@FrancoUnAmericano]

She even referenced watching that one, so if you go back in her videos you might find it there. :)

[@cristinamrusso]

yep I have done a reaction and analysis to Pushit!

[@bigmike-]

Jesus christ -.- This is why we can't have nice things lol

[@cristinamrusso]

@@bigmike- 🤣

[@pablerry]

@@namesurname7172 nahhh I´m too lazy, but thanks for checking out for me.

[@cobloaf1]

Something I've noticed over the years is most Tool fans really enjoy seeing people listen to them for the first time. There's like a collective, "Welcome."

[@animal1439]

Sometimes being a tool fan feels like being a part of a cult🤣 "One of us, one of us, one of us!"

[@christopherlansky]

True but I would say this about every passionate fanbase...

[@ragingzim]

We’re happy for them, because now they know.

[@Mary-had-a-lil-farm]

Well said 🔧

[@ryanseme4959]

So true!

[@laramiegrinde9246]

For all you diehard tool fans, I really only got into Tool yesterday and I'm 100% in awe. I don't know how else to deacribe it. It's like nothing I've ever experienced and I'm in a mission to listen to everything I can find. They're so incredible I get goosebumps during every song.

[@TheSilverGate]

Lucky you for being able to experience those beautiful songs for the first time

[@pedromanuelmoreira10]

Welcome to the journey :)

[@MotoFamMayhem]

Wow strong statement.... Brings me back 20 years 😉

[@JoeManuola]

Maynard is in A Perfect Circle and Puscifer as well. If you enjoy Tool, the other bands might click with you. Each one is different.

[@josoffat7649]

Welcome. Enjoy the trip down the rabbit hole. I have been listening to them since the 90's and they still blow me away.

[@UnspecifiedHandle]

Maynard has said there are concerts he'll choose to do the more demanding vocals, like this one, and take it easy on the following ones. If you find this live, he can actually hold that scream around 20 seconds and sometimes longer. They tend to sound nearly studio quality live, which is pretty amazing. Also, most of the strange sounds come from Danny Carey's drum kit, where he's got a whole host of percussion instruments, but also sounds keyed up on electronic pads. His kit is massive. And he also doesn't play with a click in his ear. The timing comes natural to him. He's a freak of nature when it comes to drumming.

[@rolanddeshain8983]

May The Octopus live forever🤘🤘🤘

[@crowdrctrl]

It's almost annoying how perfect they are live

[@greenmtngirl4883]

I have seen him do this one live and he does, in fact, hold that scream for more than 20 seconds live.

[@cm9241]

Timing comes natural to most trained percussionists

[@Red-we2bs]

​@@cm9241they still use clickers tho

[@bertmacklinfbi915]

"An angry heartbeat" might be the best description of TOOL tempo that I've heard. Good stuff.

[@jamescastle3056]

I love that you've realized that Maynard IS an instrument, not just a voice.

[@BigBonelessJerk]

One of the things that initially drew me into the band is that Maynard treats himself as an instrument, usually in the shadows off to the side. There was an interview where one of them was talking about usually leaving center stage empty and lit with a spotlight and letting the music take center stage.

[@slowhands1424]

Every time I see one of these reaction videos about tool I always hope to hear them say it because I feel it is the most important part of understanding tool as a band

[@bmFbr]

Yeah, even their approach to the composition reflects that. MJK usually waits until the music is done by the other guys to only then jump in and write his parts.

[@monroethecat5882]

a tool

[@Scott-ir5eg]

That's what voices are.

[@jamesmay1349]

The "wowww" sound is a synthesizer that Adam plays with his foot on a one octave controller

[@brandoncunningham263]

Yeah, the virus B

[@FunHog69]

Sounds like a didgeridoo. Cool effect.

[@thelightshineth8848]

All the references to Saturn are talking about what in astrology is called the "Saturn return." Saturn's orbit takes about 29 years to return to the location it was at at the time of your birth. When it returns to this point it's often thought to be a point of major changes or challenges in a person's life. Saturn as a planet can be thought of as (very simply) representing "hard lessons" so this is like saying, Saturn is coming around, and is gonna make you deal with this shit one way or another. EDIT: Additionally the lines "lift you up like a child", "drag you down like a stone", "consume you", "spits you out like a child" are all referencing the mythology behind Saturn, or more specifically the Greek god Kronos, who ate his own children in fear they would rise up and overthrow him, as he had to do to his own father. He was tricked into eating a stone instead of his son Zeus, and later was poisoned by Zeus forcing him to spit back out all the ones previously eaten. EDIT 2: More info from "Micah Shellhamer" in comments below! Well there is the Saturn Return but he's also referencing alchemy. Saturn in alchemy refers to lead, like a lead weight, and at the end when he says give the stone away and let the water change and trans-mutate these leaden grudges into gold. Also he's referencing it when he says choose 1 or 10. Gold in alchemy is represented by the number 1 and the sun. Lead is 10 and Saturn. This video by max derrat explains it much clearer and the rest of the songs meanings on Lateralus. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKLIY2ydqJ2fbq8

[@E1775O]

I wonder if the length of his scream in seconds has anything to do with 27-29.

[@JoeN-S]

🤯 Everything Maynard does is so intentional and multilayered. This is a brilliant insight.

[@Iamanate83]

Also kind of explains 27 club. Some can’t make it through their trials. Also. 10000 days is 27 1/3 years. Huh

[@Nycon64]

@@E1775O yes! 😯

[@chriskline5159]

Thanx! That is some very interesting background

[@shanereese6427]

Wings for Marie 1 + 2 he wrote about the passing of his mother is by far the most touching heartfelt song he's ever written it's an opera by itself

[@sshza2143]

possibly the greatest ever eulogy written to a mother.🙏 heartbreakingly beautiful😌😤🏆🙋‍♂✌😎

[@lolipoli3931]

I dont usually cry, but when I do its to Wings of Marie pt 2. And my mother is still alive. trully a masterpiece

[@nickmagrick7702]

trying to give her depression or something?

[@ronaldviens7862]

Not to mention that any trace of disillusionment in Maynard's mind has played itself out and his soliloquy is a testament of his own character in full self-judgement of his unworthiness of his mother's concern about his mindset and not her own as she lay dying for 30 years. Until the point where she was no longer lucid, we didn't hear much about her from this band. But A Perfect Circle is a different story, with a different cast. Letting his Mom go was probably the hardest and most loving thing he ever had to contemplate and follow through with.

[@martingjaldbk4525]

Ever critical of the church and skeptical of Christianity, and yet he pleads with a god he doesn't believe in on his mother's behalf - if there is a heaven, and such a thing as earning your place there, surely she must have done so with her selfless love? "I don't believe in you, but if you're real, let her in you bastards!" A love that transcended their differences in faith - in both directions.

[@LuckykidA]

The fact that you broke out into your own scream is pretty epic. Well played.

[@cristinamrusso]

Haha thanks! 💛

[@Mazecraft]

I'm really upset that we aren't talking more about that sustained belt Cristina just casually dropped along with my jaw! 😮❤

[@cristinamrusso]

@@Mazecraft 🥰 thankyou!

[@craigtuohy]

@@cristinamrusso It was beautiful

[@shoe7ess2]

That sound at the beginning is a saw blade. When this album released the CD had a saw blade printed on the disc and The Grudge was track one. So if you started the album, the CD would spool up while that sound effect played and look like a saw starting up 🙂. Makes you miss the days of album art and CD booklets...

[@jasonwatson1412]

There are two types of people, those who are Tool fans and those who aren’t yet. You remind me of so many I’ve seen exposed to Tool music. Impressed, intrigued and then it happens..Bam, another fan and soldier of the Tool Army.

[@JASONMONT76]

Their album Undertow is a true gem and, in my opinion, one of the most underrated in the TOOL catalog. 4 degrees is my personal favorite

[@longaugust]

Undertow is one of the best rock albums ever recorded and I think will stand the test of time. The title track is one of the most emotional, deep, heavy rock songs I've ever heard but the whole album is just a master class. Their sound got a little more refined after that but you still get inklings of it in their later work. The bridge between the raw sound of "Opiate" and the complexity of "Lateralus".

[@kwc_bluff]

Ima swamp song man my self.

[@Damaged247]

Bottom & Crawl away helped me get thru my divorce. Such incredible music!!

[@jacobhewitt8540]

I agree about the Undertow album. After aemina they went with a more mythical, biblical, celestial direction. Which is absolutely phenomenal. But, I do hope the will do an album Undertowesque. I do would have LOVED to be at the recording of Opiate. That would have been amazing.

[@eeleye733]

the first cd i ever bought with my very own money as a child

[@Creepy_Lorax]

The opening sound is the tape machine starting in a recording studio. To anyone who has heard it is unmistakable.

[@fuselpeter5393]

Tool is psycho-therapy-metal. Absolutely incredible.

[@josoffat7649]

Took me 20 years to understand the band name is referring to them as a tool of inner reflection.

[@rafanj824]

@@josoffat7649 When talk about reflection, "Reflection" comes to mind. No jokes, it's just because this song makes you feel like reflecting something without been reflecting.

[@soth1sol]

i've always said, "guided meditation, but like you know, the prog/math-rock/metal version of it"

[@thegoatchild3545]

Really enjoyed the reaction, Cristina. I'm glad this amazing music is resonating with you. TOOL are truly a one of a kind band. They put more ideas in a single song than most bands in their entire discography. Next I suggest Schism or Parabol/Parabola.👍

[@justinlovince8816]

Agreed!!!

[@TheBurdenOfHope]

Yes! Lateralus is their Magnum Opus, to me.

[@TheBurdenOfHope]

“Wear the grudge like a crown” - you nailed it in your first pause and bits of analysis of the song. Tool are a such powerful band.

[@andreawheatley5528]

I love Tool and I am almost 58, Maynard is a genius

[@violet04nunya98]

Cristina, you are incredibly well spoken. I love how you describe what you’re experiencing with words that make us want to know what else you’re going to say. You use very expressive and educated words. It’s very nice to hear you talking about one of my favorite bands in the way you do.

[@Gideonite]

Saturn comes back around is referring to the planet Saturns rough orbit of 29 years to circle the sun. In Astrology it is a sign of change and the lyric is “Saturn comes back around to show you everything, Let’s you choose what you will not see you then, drags you down like a stone or lift you up again, spit you out like a child light and innocent.” Meaning let go of the Grudge that’s holding you back, if you don’t it will by an actor holding you back from living your life fully.

[@BjornWithASlash]

When I saw him in Eugene OR in 2022 he did the scream at the end and he did so fucking good. It was literally one of the coolest experiences of my life. Every time I have the chance I go see tool. It’s a feast for all the senses, and it’s like an art exhibit brought to you by the masters of the art

[@BjornWithASlash]

Looking at all the visuals, the lighting, all at the perfect center reveals perfect symmetry and a flawlessly executed show. Literally anything to make you not look at Maynard.

[@TheNavajo0]

Lateralus, Decending, No Quarter, Right In Two, Invincible, Stinkfist, The Pot. Their music is totally like classical in the different waves of emotion.

[@zuzusuperfly8363]

Yea, I'd be very excited if she went over any one of those tracks. Less so No Quarter because they didn't write it, but it's still a great cover.

[@andreawheatley5528]

Fear Inoculum too

[@Jonathan-zh4rg]

Invincible is one of my favorite songs ever

[@michelleliberman5493]

​@@andreawheatley5528Fear Inoculum is pure brilliance

[@cambranson]

Got to say No Quarter is by Led Zeppelin, it's a cover 😉

[@gibran5000]

tool is music and theatre in its purest form imo. they are genius.

[@heyskipj]

@26:29 was the best part of the vid. Whenever I think they hit the climax of the song Tool keeps digging. Relentless pursuit of awesomeness. Love the reaction. I'd say rewind 5-10 sec after pausing to regain the builds, transitions, and flow. Otherwise it's like being thrown in the deep end of a tsunami.

[@Warriormedic68]

I've seen so many tool videos lately. Like A LOT of people are just discovering tool for the first time. Welcome. I honestly am jealous, I wish I could hear them for the first time again. They will never not be one of my top bands of all time.

[@Gideonite]

Seeing Maynard sing the more intense songs he uses his whole body, he is able to build up a lot of lung and diaphragm support. He moves a lot and is able to hit long notes even bent over.

[@carltextor8184]

Just like the live recording of "sober" he hits some CRAZY solid notes with horrendous posture

[@MrZZsharka]

It was probably well within his range during his prime and he can change the shape of his moth, face, placement and resonance to make up for it. But yes super impressive!

[@RealJohnnyG]

It's fascinating how much you compliment Maynard's control of his voice when you have an impressive control of your voice as well. It's like real ones just know. You're a real one.

[@keithmaurer1864]

I watch these tool reactions to hopefully hear/see their songs through a different set of ears/eyes. I've been a fan since 93 and love to and still do learn new things about their music when I watch different people react. Love your take on this song. Can't wait for the next reaction....my vote is for the holy trinity. Please don't wait a month between reactions 😅

[@mauimeowee21]

Trinity is the best and made to listen in order..

[@jacobhewitt8540]

Keith I'm with you my brother. I'm also a loonnng time fan. I bought Opiate the day it came out and I was hooked.

[@JeramieW]

Tool live is an out of body experience. You can't express or explain Tool. You absolutely must Experience Tool 🔧 live to understand the gift of their brilliance .

[@devandiemidio7704]

These reactions are so good I love the input and love watching people become metal heads lol. Another amazing band to check out is system of a down the lead singer serj was trained in opera and even has a career in opera but he puts his skills into his metal songs which are just amazing and the rest of the band is insanely talented. Songs I would recommend would be question or BYOB

[@ltrudd]

If you ever have a chance go see them live. Do it. I promise it will change your life. Ive seen them 12 times since 97 and they keep getting better. To be honest its such an emotional experience for me that i always cry happy tears. And you can also add that you've see the best drummer ever in person.

[@annaprana8004]

Tool & APC are INCREDIBLE live!🎉

[@johnseward2934]

This song is the sonic equivalent of a self help lesson on improving your life by learning how to address and let go of the grudges which hold you down. It’s the perfect intro to the rest of the album. The drone approach used applies to a lot of their music but not all. As you go thru their catalogue, you’ll come across quite a lot of different ways they approach their sound scaping.

[@carlosb6205]

Seen Maynard 3 times now. Each time I'm just shocked and amazed. They'll always be my favorite band. I'm 32, I'll check back at 42 and 52 and 62 and 72 etc. years of age.

[@AlphanumericCharacters]

Became my favorite band at 13 when Undertow was released. Saturn has come back around and I’m 43…still my favorite band.

[@itsayswithoutgoing9571]

Great reaction and amazing belt by you!🤯 I had my doubts around 10sec that you were going to make it to 20 but, wow…you killed it🙌. Your vocal and musical expertise is such a welcome treat when it comes to Tool reacting. Just please don’t make us wait another month for the next one. My suggestion is Eulogy, Aenema, or Wings for Marie part 1 and 2.

[@ComicalHealing]

The Scarlet Lettermen is a person who has betrayed your trust, the one you hold the grudge against. The name Tool was chosen because the music is meant to fix what's broken, like therapy by music. So many of the songs are about a psychological trauma or existential crisis since those are the things humans tend to feel the most anxiety over.

[@stevewyman6848]

Well put.

[@LyleAllbritton]

They're called tool because it's a dick joke.... Maynard (or Danny) was bullshitting when he said that about their name

[@richardbaily967]

I thought it was just a dick reference.

[@shane2296]

the name was actually chosen from maynards early days when he was in the army........often they were known as tools....grunts. they have so many double meanings in their lyrics and musical composition. this is why they are still one of my all time favorites ever.....so clever....so talented....so under appreciated by todays "standards".....check out anachronistic dynasty, maynards 1st band in college some really good stuff a lot of people dont know, but tool fans might appreciate....end of my rant

[@11ELeVeNthiRtYFouR34]

I heard they were going to call it theramin toolbelt and we’re talked out of it and landed on “tool”

[@jdmcnugent8818]

I’ve listened to tool for so long now, it’s so great to see people experiencing it for the first time. Watching your face and a smile build shows me how much you enjoy the band and appreciate the music. Great scream by the way…do more tool!

[@edrueter9]

The sound at the start is a circular saw turning on. On the cd's outer edge there was a design that looked like a saw blade that obviously spins as the cd plays.

[@MikeOstrowski-iq8wf]

Wow…. ❤ your reaction….. really ❤️ how you broke down MJK vocal effects & layers. Your 26 second note was amazing !!! Please continue Tool journey……”Keep Going Spiral Out” 🌀🌀🌀🌀

[@williamknox7612]

Tool is on tour. I think everyone would love to see your reaction after a real life experience. I got a ticket for you in L.A. or Vegas it would be my honor. None the less please catch a show sooner than later. Thank you for your fresh insight and authentic rections.

[@brandonfreeman1472]

I've been a TooL fan all my life. Nothing will ever change that. TooL practically raised me.... 🤘

[@worldeater161]

Best reaction videos Ive ever seen

[@atlarsenal]

That sound was Adam on a foot petal synth. The scream was 29 seconds on purpose to go along with the reference to Saturn’s orbital period. Maynard is very clever with his lyrics throughout their whole catalog. I enjoy your reactions/ analysis. I subbed for the Tool. Keep them coming. You won’t be disappointed.

[@Kapauhawaii]

Generally, when you speak softer or deeper, in the mix, it’s hypnotic, and or it makes you want to listen harder like when I talk softly, people wanna listen more. When I speak loudly, they get closed down he plays with this fact.

[@OfficialArmstead]

I love Maynard's scream in this song. Gives me chills almost every time I hear it even to this day. That said...Shheeeit.... that was an impressive show case of your own vocal ability and prowess! Especially considering you did that from a seated position? Idk much about vocal mechanics and all that but well done either way! Great reaction!

[@delugesofgrandeur]

Such a great analysis. Not just the technical stuff but following along and understanding the lyrics and how they affect the accompanying music and the song. Very, very cool.

[@raytr4100]

There are so many reaction videos to Tool, and even more to this song. I have seen a lot of them, and i think this here is one of the best reactions there is. I had the pleasure of seeing them 2 times, some years ago in Vienna, and last year in Cologne. Their concerts are just mindblowing. Regarding Songs to React: "Lateralus" has to be Nr. 1, its on some lists the "best metal song ever". The Pot, Pneuma, Parabola, Right in Two, Invincible, Vicarious, Jambi, Wings for Mary

[@xxloki713xx]

Great list here

[@crystaledwards8854]

Jambi is my all time favourite

[@jimfleming4955]

Would you please review two songs from Tool that go together (Wings for Marie and 10,000 days (Wings for Marie Part 2)) that deal with the passing of Maynard's mother Judith Marie. Those songs have everything: emotion, deep meaning, incredible lyrics, spectacular delivery, etc. The emotion Maynard conveys in the lyrics and in the way that he delivers them brings grown men to tears. I would truly love to hear your reaction to them. It's the ultimate tribute from a child to their mother. It's best to know some of the context beforehand, like what 10,000 days means. Also, pay attention to the difference in how he deals with the grief between the two songs. The first song is somber and centered around how he is handling it "its time for us to let you go". While the second song is a celebration of her life where his tone lifts and builds throughout the song ending with (from his mother's perspective speaking to God) "is time for you to bring me home". His mother was highly religious and Maynard was not, but he gets her faith in the end. Maybe the most powerful lines I have ever heard in a song are: "Set as I am in my ways and my arrogance Burden of proof tossed upon non-believers You were my witness My eyes, my evidence Judith Marie, unconditional one" He's saying he always needed proof and she only ever needed faith, but in the end her faith was his proof. She was his "eyes" his "evidence". POWERFUL!!!

[@itz_premium]

Can confirm... Have heard the song hundreds of times.. I can't ever sing along or get to 'the part' without choking up and trying to stop a tear. In fact I always fail, I always lose one. It just comes screaming out of you. If every man had a mother they loved that they could write a song for, they would write this song 6 days a week and twice on Sunday. If every man wanted to rent a mansion for a week for their mother, Maynard built the mansion single handedly with rocks and sticks, and it took him nearly 10,000 days to do it.

[@TvrkishOutlaw]

My fav album 🤟

[@laramiegrinde9246]

Your review of this song was one of the best I've ever seen. I loved your enthusiasm and how much you appreciate their talent and skill.

[@jimfleming4955]

@laramiegrinde9246 Thank you. When you spend the time and fully "experience" their music, you are rewarded with the incredible depth of their songwriting genius. This is not hyperbole. Many of their songs have deeper levels that you can't get from a casual listen. That's not to say that they aren't good for the casual listener. When I was younger, I loved them for the driving beat and power of their songs. I was oblivious to the mastery until I started listening on good headphones and spent the time they deserved.

[@callmealex69]

Beautiful live.

[@chasm9557]

This song is one of my favorite opening tracks of any album. It sets the mood and pace for Lateralus well and it's easily recognizable. I remember when I was a kid getting into metal and my buddy came over to my place with this cd. It fucking blew my mind and I've been a fan since.

[@J_sLaXx]

the look on your face during Maynard's scream.. worth every minute of viewing this reaction. nice.

[@corey6393]

The pause face at 23:49 is excellent! Thanks for doing this, we enjoy your perspective. Nice belt, too!

[@Andy-nl8uq]

I'd love to see your take on parabol/parabola, but to be honest, the whole lateralus album in particular is something special. Seeing it as an opera with different movements is something I'd never thought of, but actually makes sense. If you listen to the the holy trinity (disposition/reflection/triad) I think you'll really get that sense. Great analysis, youve made me look at the album a different way, and ive listened to it for a good 20 years now 😂

[@soth1sol]

album's 13 tracks correlate 1 to 1 with 13 chakra system. we are meant to listen to album as if ascending thru new energy centers reiterated by lift/elevator sound at the very beginning of album parabol/parabola lands at heart chakra reiterated by music video end sequence "so familiar and overwhelmingly... warm"

[@soth1sol]

tenacious d's "tribute" is their tool's "lateralus" including fibonnaci, phi ratio, purple chakras, sunmoonearth alchemical wedding & trinity "look into my eyes and it's easy to see 1 and 1 make 2 , 2 and 1 make 3, it was destiny once every hundred-thousand years or so when the sun doth shine (triad) and the moon doth glow (reflection) and the grass doth grow-ho (disposition)"

[@soth1sol]

triad marks the crown chakra before the godhead (faaip de oiad) listen to triad's solo. and remember album disc shows cosmic eye SAWBLADE design ...adam's solo is using that SAWBLADE action to perform a "(golden) disSECTION" (hence name of tool's record label, dissectional) ...right across your forehead, right in two, not at all unlike "vicarious" music video! so yeah, if you haven't yet, enjoy that new exp!

[@danielwade1978]

It’s so cool to watch others during their engagement with Tool. Really liked her interpretation of the sound at the beginning. Strap in, off you go!!

[@BurkhardBoogieVierth]

Your analysis of the song was brilliant! Plus you can back it up with a beautiful voice of yourself… Pause as much as you like because you actually have something insightful to say. To not lose any transitions or build ups from the pause you can use the left arrow key to jump back 5 sec or the J key to jump back 10 sec, before restarting. Looking forward to the next tool song.

[@BPFDesigns]

I've seen Tool live several times in the past few decades, and every time I have seen them, Maynard has been in the BACK of the stage. Sometimes you can't even see him, but you can very much see the rest of the band. I really think you described it best, in that the band considers the vocals, to be another instrument: no more important than anyone else on stage. I really enjoy watching videos like these, and I see you have done several with Tool. Thanks for taking the times to record, analyze and upload all of this, it's great to watch.

[@meaghancolman8319]

I’ve seen them 21 times and the last tour (Nov 2023 in Toronto, ON) was the only time Maynard was really out front. He’s always maintained that he isn’t tool, he is a part of tool. I love that.

[@robertstokes3696]

Loved your reaction. Thank you. At the beginning you mentioned a voice in the background. I’d never heard that before in this song. It actually sounded like the cameraman. Lol. It did make me think of one of my favourites from Tool, 46 & 2 where Maynard actually talks/sings way low in volume in two sections of the song. The song itself is very deep in meaning using Carl Jung’s theory of the shadow plus the thought of 2 extra chromosomes added to our regular 44 & 2.

[@juandiego1993]

"Reflections" my favorite song in music as a whole

[@christafart4202]

One of the best opening tracks of a album ever.....

[@antileft6776]

Tool. Keenan. Pure power. Pure genius. Masculine rage. Cathartic and beautiful.

[@dplunk13]

I always find Maynard's vocals to be at most right in line with the instruments, if not a little lower. I saw them live last year and often times I could barely hear him. And I think it's very deliberate since you can also barely see Maynard a lot of the time. He's always positioned back and off to the side. I love that he doesn't have to be the center of attention and lets the whole band shine.

[@5piral0ut]

What an awesome review! Loved the insight in every comment you made and your singing was beautiful and added another unique dimension ❤

[@horoldo77]

Loving the Tool Reactions. Would love to see "Right in Two" next, I think it's right up there with Pushit and "H" and "Eulogy" are really good too.

[@jeffreicher]

The best, most informative, most observant reaction I have ever seen…well done!

[@liammcandrew3269]

The Grudge live is incredible..... he nails it

[@fishdude666ify]

Saw them on the first Lateralis tour and they opened with this. Lights out, then that machine noise, and I was just like ohhhhhh shiiiit and DUHDUHD-DUH DUH D-DUH... Needless to say, it was amazing. And trip on this- I always just assumed that the songs were built around the lyrics because they go with the music dynamics so perfectly. But no; the songs were 100% finished before Maynard even heard them. And EVERY SONG is like that, it's almost beyond comprehension.

[@Bthelick]

I love the lyric "give away the stone, let the waters kiss and turn these leaden grudges into gold" Let the water erode the stone weighing you down, it's lead and the lessons therein will turn it to gold.

[@Patrick-857]

Tool are into some really esoteric stuff. That's alchemy, which comes up a lot in their music, as well as astrology, sacred numerology, all kinds of gnostic and hermetic stuff. Eastern spirituality to make a big generalisation comes up a lot too. Then there's the Jungian psychology, and a ton of other stuff.

[@pheeler42]

Re: meter - I feel it in 5/4 but you could argue it's 10/8. First time on your channel and you absolutely nailed it. Liked/subscribed - you rock!

[@ddiejr]

Thank you for this great reaction. So glad you are back with more Tool and believe me, you will be surprised with all the songs you hear. If you want my humble opinion, try Jimmy. It is one of my favorites, well my favorite for this point in my life. Each Tool fan has a favorite song depending where they are at in their lives. Please keep up with Tool reactions. The Tool army will love you and your opinions. One tip, I love that you pause a lot. Don’t stop pausing and breaking down the sections. Just rewind 5-10 seconds every stop. Tool has quick drops that you will miss, not if, but when you will skip a drop you won’t know till the second/third review. Other then that, make a Tool reaction playlist and people (like me) will watch them on repeat.

[@mikebunner3498]

Another tool song that shocked me is "Sober". How the hell can you be crunched up like that and still sing? You're the expert perhaps you know. James is a good singer!!! This band is fairly new to me. I'm from the '50, 60's and the 70's musically speaking. BUT I am trying to expand my base. I just noticed the album cover. They were so great back in the day!!!! On a side note, my youngest daughter has seen Tool. I know I am an old fogy!! Hey I am just happy I made it this far!!! Music is so important to me!!! I do enjoy your insight and knowledge. Thank you for sharing. You are wonderful.......... I want to wish you a safe, happy, and productive 2024! Thanks

[@bradysimpson]

What I love about Maynard being low in the mix is after you get to know the song, all the music sounds that much louder around him.

[@palmerlp]

That scream fades out so actually it never ends. He’s still screaming.

[@j260hernandez1]

A Perfect Circle - Orestes is a great one you should check.

[@KristenR-d6z]

I think the reason he seems like another instrument is because the band composes the instrumentals before Maynard composes the lyrics. It's a formula that works amazingly well for Tool.

[@macgonzo]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us - I really enjoyed your reaction. I would greatly appreciate it if you could react to a song by Carina Round, who sings with Maynard in one of his side project bands, Puscifer. She is an incredibly talented singer, and I feel her solo stuff doesn't get the recognition it deserves. If you could react to her song 'Into My Blood', as it's live, I would love to hear your thoughts.

[@joshalvarez780]

Which one? There's a few live versions..

[@macgonzo]

@@joshalvarez780 this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGLblqyiZZVqosU

[@nateroscoe8012]

I am so amazed to see how much enjoyment people are now feeling from a band that a few of us found over 30 years ago. . . .it's emotional to watch her explain

[@chriswebb7822]

The transitions are paramount to the emotion of their compositions, something you lose entirely if you don't let it play out a little...It will greatly increase the impact of the song for you, which will help us the subscribers enjoy it more.

[@scottw5253]

yep, let the art speak to you before speaking to it

[@t10claytempered16]

Maynard would love your spirit and voice. Duet of screams and more? Yes! He's in Napa making great wine. Call him. Seriously. BTW, great review, Great eyes.🤤😜 Cheers!

[@ItsReallyJackBlack]

The musicality of Tool is so underappreciated. They had a level of inspiration to younger musicians that Rush had on my generation.

[@schlurosaurusrex2827]

It is special, I could not appreciate Tool more, and I don't care what "they" do.

[@MichaelMoore497]

Rush and Tool, my top 2.

[@whatdothlife4660]

People praise and discuss every aspect of TOOL including their musicality ad nauseum. I adore this band but TOOL is anything but underrated.

[@ItsReallyJackBlack]

@@whatdothlife4660 Underappreciated and underrated are two different things.

[@whatdothlife4660]

@@ItsReallyJackBlack They have Grammys.

[@davidstoleson792]

I like other songs from Tool because of their technical content / musicianship, but this one always gets hits the emotions. After the scream, there is this slight pause musically and then it's complete chaos until the end. My favorite part of watching well-trained and knowledgeable musicians react to Tool is that they can often explain the technical what's and how's and how they relate to the emotional response. Thank you.

[@travisSimon365]

Christina, I really enjoyed your reaction. It's very gratifying when someone that is not from 'this world' gets tool. In addition, you were able to add a few new (to me, at least) insights into one of the most studied rock bands in history, so kudos. I feel like singers, when they discover tool (and its rabid fan base), want to do more reaction videos, but are also worried about doing too many Tool songs. Please allow me to allay that fear - you can do as many Tool songs as you like and we will continue to love them. Finally, one piece of constructive criticism - you do a great job of choosing when to pause the video. You sense that you are about to loose a musical moment and pause it appropriately. However, often that change will be to a powerful moment. The absolute worst thing you could do (which you don't do) is to pause right on the downbeat of the change. But, even pausing before it, you loose some of the impact of the change that we, as fans who know the song, look forward to. So, this is all a long way of saying, keep pausing exactly like you are, but before you resume the music, hit the left arrow and jump back 5 seconds, and THEN resume the music. Just make it a habit. Anyway, look forward to more 🙂

[@clalo4]

You got a standing ovation from me for that belt!! Holy smokes, that was awesome!!! :)

[@medieval._]

I would love to see your analysis of Maria Brinks voice and screams from the band In This Moment. she’s one of the best female metal screamers out there

[@newa0nn]

The line "Saturn comes back around" refers to the Saturn Return cycle in astrology. It's a point that comes in your birth chart around age 29 if I remember correctly. It's often accompanied by a big shift in lifestyle, is symbolized as a sort of rebirth into a new stage of life, often with more responsibility. The shift can be accompanied by a lot of chaos, rapid change, and tough decisions, hence "Saturn comes back around to show you everything Lets you choose what you will and will not see and then Drags you down like a stone or lifts you up again Spits you out like a child, light and innocent". The "choose 1 or 10" refers to Sefirot on the Tree of Life in mystical Kabbalah. choosing 10 can be seen as ascending or evolving to a higher cycle ("lifts you up again"), whereas 1 can be seen as descending to a lower one and repeating old habits that are actively holding back your growth ("drags you down like a stone"). It's all just astrological and/or mathematical symbolism for the growth and maturation of the individual. Letting go of grudges that you've built your personality upon can be a very difficult and painful, but necessary and rewarding step in moving forward and growing in your life. Hence the overall theme of the song, and it's poignance as the first song on the album as a whole. This initial acceptance of this anger you've built up and held onto for so long, and eventually letting go of it enables all of the beautiful revelations to come later on in the album.

[@BenGreen1980]

If you're not already familiar with them, reacting to Mike Patton would be fantastic. He is one of the most virtuosic vocalists alive. Here's some of his performances: Mr Bungle, My Ass Is On Fire (live): kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnSWqGWHiJtnack Mr. Bungle, Ars Moriendi: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpS0o4J9bKd9p5o Mr Bungle, Carousel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5-vf4unqq51jNU Faith No More, Midlife Crisis (live): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWLSgpqifpyKfsU

[@CrystalCat24]

I love Mike Patton. Just a Man is one of my all time favorites. ❤❤

[@ghefley]

Fun watching you (23:51) go from awareness to amusement to interest to surprised to shocked to wowed to concerned finishing in respectful awe. Beautiful reaction; an appropriate response.

[@el-violador]

First of all great look at the lyrics. For a first time you caught a lot. The scarlet letter is indeed in reference to the punishment of branding people with their sin. Someone has hurt the character and they hold this up as a part of themselves. It's a defining characteristic. Saturns return I never fully remember. But it has to do with Saturns year being equivalent to 27 or so years and that it's seen as an important cycle of a human life. Something missed is that MJK likens the grudge to lead. Lead historically is said to be to heavy and soft to be useful. But a theory around alchemy circles was that if you found the right formula it could be transmutated into gold. MJK is saying that if we throw our leaden grudge away and expect nothing back (closure, vindication... A medal) we can transmute it into a golden life lesson. I love that this song isn't really the end of the journey with this grudge. The abrupt end doesn't really feel like closure but the song (first track on Lateralus) is the beginning of the healing process Very well done with the reaction. The observation of the singing through gritted teeth was great For the next song you may as well just go to the beginning of their first EP.... We'll all watch it. If that's not what you want to do "H.", "Forty Six and 2", "Parabol/Parabola" and "Right in Two" are all stunning choices

[@salvatorescarfone9358]

Thanks a lot for this reaction, you have a lot to give with your knowledge and understanding of complex music. Loved the comments about the lyrics and their relation to the musical themes. Keep it up! ❤

[@carlosportillo2781]

Wow, you have a beautiful voice! Should do a cover of the song. 😊

[@TheHeadown]

Great job. The good thing is that when you´re done with all the insanely good songs of Tool, you have 2 absolutely bangers in A Perfect Circle (Mer de noms, and Thirteenth Step) where Maynard is absolutely god-tier on vocals. I just have to add that you´re stunning.

[@vincegedeon6583]

This whole album is incredible 💯🔥🚒

[@RevTyler]

Im glad you appreciate Maynard and you can understand him. So many reacters say they cant hear him 😅

[@johncarpenter3751]

Best Album Opener of all time ever.

[@DVBandDad8]

IMHO, Vicarious takes that award. :)

[@jimdukeproject]

One thing to hold a note and control it (like you demonstrated) but he held it strong with distortion in it which is unreal.

[@vascobroma8907]

I'm a huge Tool fan. A friend introduced me to the band in '00 when I was only 13. I was so excited to get my hands on this album when it came out a year later. I lived within walking distance of a music shop, so I stopped by after school one day to buy the CD, hurried home to an empty house and cranked it. I remember the first time I heard this song. I damaged my stereo and scared the hell out of my dog with the scream / post-scream percussion sequence.

[@MichaelMoore497]

Most Tool songs are in the Key of D. This is because of the Guitar's tuning which in this case is Drop-D. The drone on D is for the trance inducing characteristics and therapeutic properties; hence, a Tool for your mind. (Or so the story goes)

[@mamajagrekab2964]

I love this reaction. You’re analysis mirrors mine on this song. Great to see yunguns discover the best band that has ever existed ❤🎉

[@LupusSanguis]

Maynard is amazing. Check out his other projects Puscifier and particularly A Perfect Circle. Danny's drums are beyond belief. I swear he's an octopus on his kit!

[@wjc6]

For me, Tool is the complete painting for a painter, the finished sculpture for a sculptor, the perfectly held note for a singer, and a wonderful combination a ingredients for a cook. When all things converge to make a beautiful stir, it's tough to beat. Just my opinion. I could be wrong. 😊

[@keithhutchins8803]

If you like Maynard's singing you should listen to Puscifer.

[@joeyanez9338]

Carina Round is a goddess

[@michelleliberman5493]

I have always loved TOOL but, it wasnt until i took a Music Appreciation class that i realized how much classical composition is used in their music. I wish i knew more about music theory to rrally be able to put it all into words. They are just so layered and intricate. I saw them live once about 20 yrs ago and was so different from other concerts. They did very little of their catalog.... it was more just an extedned jam session, but structured. Ugh, i dont have the words.

[@robfrawley]

Danny has almost an equal amount of electronic drum pads augmenting his "real" drum pieces. The song is composed almost entirely of phrases of 5/8 or 5/4, depending on how you count it (aside from a few sections of various time signatures over 8). Drummer here, if you have any other percussion-related questions. ;-) Here is an active drum transcription of The Grudge: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpqZdainr6ebfrM Descending is one of my favorite Tool songs; you should check it out. (Edit: The song "The Pot" is likely a better candidate for vocal analysis.)

[@callmealex69]

His kit is made from Amazon rainforest wood, or at least it used to be.