Tool "Sober" ANALYSIS + REACTION by Opera Singer/Vocal Coach

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com

[@correyadkins8887]

Don't do prison sex. You will learn more about Maynard and how dark his life has been!

[@kevinguziec3281]

You are rad @thecharismaticvoice

[@traceynmatful]

I believe this song is in regards to Kurt Cobain.

[@mikejohnson5185]

The 1st thought I 💯

[@alexanderbishop1200]

I really liked your take on this. also, keep in mind, kurt Cobain. him, and I, were addicts of heroin. and it had nothing to do with what we put out musically. but did, parallel with trying to cope with normality, i.e. anxiety, etc. I'm super interested in hearing your points of views. keep em going!

[@aaronlane5000]

"my husband made me go to a Tool concert" .... you have a good husband

[@W.edgewargames]

Facts,my wife bought tix for her and i to see Rammstein in 2010 at Madison Square Garden.

[@terriewatson8828]

I've taken my husband to see Rammstein, Iron Maiden, Slipknot and Tool.

[@victorsilva7793]

He's a keeper

[@barrymantz6026]

Maynard gave her more pleasure than her husband in one song!

[@paulrobinson3528]

@@barrymantz6026 And she will never go back lol

[@saint3614]

As a former heroin addict (14 years clean), the second verse of this song makes my skin crawl- Always has. It's what cemented Tool for me, the way they capture that self-loathing. It's precisely how I felt, I was disgusted by myself, and sought in the drug oblivion; a way to die. The high was a death, and oblivion, and one that I resented that I always came back from. Very powerful song for me, and a personal favourite.

[@Cai-Jo]

14 years clean!?! You're amazing! And you're right, that second verse hits hard.

[@mikehipps1015]

Congratulations brother. Or sister. Keeping clean is a burden we face every day.

[@flapjackson6077]

I’m always happy to see somebody kick that shit. I had a niece who was addicted for over ten years, in and out of jail, prostituting, stealing. A couple years ago she got out of jail in Virginia after a one year stint. She found a ride back to her stomping ground in Baltimore, and died of an overdose three days later. H, Fentanyl, and meth.

[@williamsifton6270]

❤stay clean my fellow human ❤

[@WhisperingWempe]

I feel you 😢❤️💜

[@bryanbokser0821]

If Maynard stood up straight, his voice would melt the faces off the first 60 rows of the audience

[@vincentwhitley1119]

His posture is horrible for singing but he makes it work brilliantly

[@theskincareskinny5006]

Thats what I have always thought too 😂😂😂

[@purplespudz4023]

hearing the standing straight up Maynard's voice is like looking to the face of god

[@davidgessin-mccully3919]

I just see the face melting scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark 😂😂😂

[@Debeers9838]

Couldn't said it better!

[@kingragnar8023]

An addict has 2 wishes 1. To stay high forever Or 2. Go back and start over and never touch the shit

[@booognish]

A lot of people don’t realize the reality of addiction. Just get clean and everything’s better, when in reality that’s actually the simplest part.. I’ve been good for awhile now, but I remember being months into sobriety and just like, wondering if I would ever feel ok again. Trying to balance the expectations of life in spite of that. I could go on forever. But yeah, I wish more than anything I could go back, not on drugs entirely, but opioids stole years of my life and dragged me into a deep dark pit that I barely crawled my way out of..

[@linusss8621]

True... So true...

[@Audard]

Nah bruz, a true addict never quits. They keep running for that finish line which surprisingly is always 13 steps away.

[@arcsnsparks76]

if you can beat drug addiction youfeel that you can beat anything. addiction and recovery has given me pride confidence and a sense of well being. wouldn't change my path if i could

[@bluhfer1445]

#2... Please.

[@unicornglitterfart5201]

The song is a conversation between the addict and the addiction, with Maynard portraying both. It's a very powerful piece of music and his performance is pure theater. This should go down in the annals of musical history.

[@kimchibenny2166]

I'm a little surprised this doesn't have more likes, it's a spot-on interpretation. But as a person who's dealt with opioid dependence I've lived this in a sort of way. I never searched for a high (just pain relief), but I was still a slave to the drugs. 13 years. Eventually got off them, went through a year of withdrawal. I still have symptoms once in a while. Opioids screw your brain chemistry something royal. And just FYI, I was hospitalized for something random, was in a good amount of pain, they pumped me full of morphine, and it didn't do jack. Take opioids long enough and you'll never be the same. Word to the wise.

[@MFingJSparks]

This is one of the most perfect comments on Tool I have ever read. Perfectly executed.

[@kraigorr1311]

Maynard has literally tackled an unwanted "fan" on stage, wrestled him to the ground and never stopped singing. He never missed a beat and sounded no different than if he was just performing

[@WraithWTF]

Nothing compares to watching Maynard throw a guy down onstage, put him into a rear-naked choke and leg-lock, and keep singing while lying there choking the guy out like it's nothing...then proceed to just ride the "fan" for the rest of the song (with a mic cord conveniently wrapped around the guy's throat). Probably the most unintentionally hilarious performance of Push It that they've ever done; though considering how Maynard can get, that "fan" better be glad he didn't get onstage during Prison Sex or things might've gotten weird....

[@quietlittlevirus]

It’s all the years of Brazilian Jujitsu

[@willleeds681]

I think it's called lip syncing... no? Ha

[@travisprugh6347]

@@willleeds681 no. they rearly use back tracks or clicks

[@Lemon-rk9hq]

I would have knocked the guy out like I’m trying to sing dude

[@mr.eastcoastgrow6132]

I was actually there. When he started singing this song the entire crowd went into his world like a trance. It was unlike anything I've ever experienced.

[@kimberlymorningstar8628]

@Mr.eastcoast Grow this has to be Lollapalooza '93. This is when I saw them. I was in Charlotte.

[@Timeijpe]

I believe this was Pinkpop?

[@86bische]

I wish I were there with you.

[@mr.eastcoastgrow6132]

@@zenhighwayman as opposed to pathetic youtube trolls that hate themselfs so much they have to comment negatively on everything they see to get some sense of power and self worth?

[@CleaningUpAmerica]

This was from the Reading festival 93' in England. Not Lollapalooza 93'.

[@lakejizzio7777]

How to sing this song properly: Step One: Have long hair. Step Two: Also be bald.

[@NewLevelAuto]

Most underrated comment ever 🤣😂

[@David-vf7if]

So good. 🤣🤣

[@rickeyeaster1176]

HahahahHahahahahahahahah

[@leroyjenkins6109]

number one youtube comment

[@puppyjones624]

What a f... great comment...

[@williamsifton6270]

25 years sober and this song is EXACTLY WHAT IT WAS LIKE! IT REALLY HITS MY HEART!

[@mirkozohren1139]

same here. the song most near to my heart

[@Dog6Romeo]

Wow! All the best to you! You have overcome something many never could.

[@terred999]

I feel sorry for that one poor soul he stared down the entire song .

[@brandonsharp1996]

This comment exists in some form for every live tool video from this era. True story.

[@rollinstoned6311]

Yours kinda staring me right now..

[@xenophagia]

At least he wasn't taken down with a jujitsu move and put into a headlock the whole song 🤣

[@mikevs.theworld]

I saw Tool twice that year including this show. It did seem like Maynard was staring you down no matter where you were, even in the mosh pit. However I think he was staring above and beyond the crowd as the rumor was he was afraid to perform in front of large crowds. Never heard this confirmed or denied.

[@slutbunwallah]

Haha!

[@PnlBtr]

Ah, Tool. This band is a rabbit hole of musical theory, adventuresome timing signatures, lyrical gymnastics and creative structuring. People either love or hate them. I'm on the love them side.

[@Morgowitch]

But someone who doesn't love TOOL is hardly human, is he?

[@angelic420x5]

@@Morgowitch that's the absolute truth

[@movietimeateds69]

I feel like everybody loves them, but hates their fans.

[@kimjongun5691]

Well said

[@carriechildress5032]

So very well described. I’m a lover, as well!

[@TheIcarusFalls]

As someone who used to be an opiate junky, this song hits home for me. It was always my personal lullaby when I was trying to get better and quit so I would lay in bed at night with this on while tossing and turning in my sweat-soaked sheets just wishing for a moment of sleep and peace. Even now, though I can say I'm sober, I still find myself wondering if I'll ever really be okay again. It's true what they say. Addicts only want one of two things: either to stay high forever or rewind time and never touch the stuff. Well, you can't control time and if you go back you're walking back into a deep, dark pit that you almost died climbing out of, but a recovered addict is lying if they say they never think about it. Addiction is a fight that is never truly over, it is only held at bay by your will. Amazing song and analysis! Thank you for this quality content!

[@doomtho42]

Yeah, you’re absolutely right on all counts. I’m not the same person I was prior to addiction - I can’t quite put my finger on it, but it’s as though a fundamental aspect of humanity is missing - and the more that time passes, the more certain it feels that I will never be a complete person again.

[@stevensimmons9456]

Held at bay by God's will

[@Wyoming307xx]

Stay strong and never go back. God bless you

[@ashleysanford8645]

I've had the same bottle of vodka in my fridge for 15 years..... unopened I think I understand a little bit of what you're talking about

[@andronomisneltron3231]

You wrestle it to the grave

[@zacstephens8106]

Love how she is an actual reaction channel that goes through the song and explains the talent of the artist and not just saying its good 👍 please keep posting !

[@ImYourOverlord]

Yes, refreshing to get a technical breakdown, and not just "Amazing! Amazing!" ;)

[@bluetoadbfg1887]

Couldn't agree more. Awesome channel

[@Hamburgler6.9]

Beth does that too. Beth is cool.

[@KlooKloo]

Every vocal coach reaction: 1: Oh no, that posture. 2: Oh.... Oh my...

[@ryanseme4959]

Oh.. that was on purpose. Starting point: Tortured and constructed.

[@brandonboyd2013]

Maynard was high on lsd during this show

[@Streeto_161]

@@brandonboyd2013 who isn’t...

[@brandonboyd2013]

@@Streeto_161 true

[@brandonboyd2013]

@Emma James and your point is?

[@Soothsayrtw]

Maynard usually is towards the back of the stage. He’s not very out there on stage but these moments when he is is really powerful. They literally did a whole concert with their backs to the audience.

[@kenm8506]

Similar experience when i saw them in Nh years back. They ignored the audience completely. no "Good evening" or "Thank you, goodnight", nothin'. They even took a five minute break onstage, chatting amongst themselves, then got up and finished the show. there was no encore of course. I loved it.

[@batsandbatsandbats]

Similar to when I saw them in the early 2000s, it was sooo hot outside and people held out for Tool anyway then get zero fucks back. It was beautiful. Wasn't a big fan at the time and left after a few songs, but saw A Perfect Circle there the year before and he showed his face lol

[@scarymsmary]

He did that in Dallas one time when I saw them. That, along with all the frat boy bros in the audience trying to mosh to every song, it was a horrible show. That being said, the next time I saw them, it was the opposite experience.

[@onlythatonetime]

Three of the five times I've seen them, he was wearing police riot gear, standing to the left (viewer's left) of Danny, behind Adam, in the shadows.

[@michaelmyers3205]

I love watching her eyes as she's listening. You can tell she's engaged on just so many different levels - really experiencing the music. Watching her listen through creshendo starting at 11:50, you can see how active her mind is. Freaking awesome.

[@chewchewtrain1841]

Sensory overload! 🤘 ..thx for the timestamp 🍻

[@1515cando]

She has beautiful eyes. Expressive.

[@codename495]

“My husband made me go to a tool concert”. Ah, so he loves you and wants you to be happy.

[@huggybear539]

The Tool claymation videos were insane! First time I heard Tool was on MTV and I was transfixed by the imagery and the music. It's like every song they make is an epic adventure.

[@mendimenefee9337]

that salmon onesie he’s wearing brings its own layer of torture

[@damianbird3948]

He stole it from Les Claypool lol.

[@damianbird3948]

I just meant the salmon color onesie or long underwear. Les Claypool wore some in Jerry was a racecar driver video. Primus But I was wrong anyways cuz Les's was white. Was thinking it was a salmon color like Tool.

[@Hokie200proof]

Lol, my vote for top comment

[@al-jo]

HAHAHAHAHH

[@DavidHinkin]

The last time I saw Tool, Maynard came out to the stage in a Colonel Sanders costume with a wig, he sang the lyrics to schism as he heald a Bible (making it look like the lyrics were coming from the Bible). Three quarters through the song he stripped down to his salmon onsie... I fucking love Tool!

[@dallasvienneau]

Maynard looks like he's channelling the clay animation figurine from the official music video, in this live version.

[@bradmoberly6164]

I agree

[@elcapitanjj]

Agreed

[@debbielaskee3027]

I think so too.

[@unicornrydr33]

Same

[@asylumslaves]

Exactly

[@ChilledGreeses]

This is the maybe the most genius performance I’ve ever seen. Maynard embodied his demons on stage. He became pure expression of a struggle many of us deal with. It’s beautiful and chilling, relatable. Those who struggle with addiction often feel inside as he outwardly presents. A twisted, broken, corrupted being.

[@plabon6060]

I'm so fascinated by the thing how she analyses it in depth.. Actually most of the reactors just being wondered how Maynard can sing that good with this kinda posture! But they forget to feel the message with the lyrics and his character development with the song to portray the experience.. That's why I think this is one of the best reactions to the song(mayb best). I loved the way she feel the song analyzing lyrically, tries to connect to the song and feels the words he delivers.. We believe that Tool isn’t just a band it’s an experience or more like a journey to the life.. And she experienced the journey by trying to go deep. Welcome to the world of Tool and the God Maynard dear Elizabeth.. You'll have million subscribers for sure.. Best of luck❤

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Wow, thanks!

[@mattscoggins]

Very well said and I agree!

[@Shake69ification]

I also love how she gave props to the band. I have heard it mentioned in the past, but especially on more recent performances where he’s lurking around in the background and barely being seen, that he’s treating his voice as just another piece of the band. I feel like if you begin to understand the depth of the music and lyrics, your appreciation of Tool will just continue to grow. _Ænima_ I can recall taking a few listens for me to fully appreciate. One thing I love about Tool is constantly finding new bits to love.

[@LordofSyn]

Welcome to the rabbit hole. While we don't have any more cookies, we do have mind boggling dense music that breaks your mind and soul without needing any substances... Welcome to gateway that is Tool.

[@MrMark2me]

It's a little know fact that Maynard suffered from crippling stage fright back then and still does today. That explains his posture and uneasy awkward look on stage. As as all know today he performs from the back of the stage with no spot light on him.

[@bobbydelamar606]

It's been said that if Maynard stood up to sing, the entire first rows of fans would die from to much awesomeness! 🤟🏻

[@Spudz76]

I always thought of the stalking and finger pointing and everything else in this song as being more internal, standing in for shame and guilt, and the lyrics bring in the anger from frustration. "The butler" sees all and says nothing, but certainly silently judges -- which is what unresolved shame does. Finger pointing is obviously more accusatory so that is explicitly guilt, but a self-guilt rather than angry external forces like other band members' accusations. But the external failures end up as self-immolation fuel just the same. They give the butler and the fingers more supplies to do their jobs. And to make those stop bothering you for a short while, you use again. Shame combined with an inability (unwillingness? ineptitude?) to process emotions leads to rumination about past wrongs, Jesus and Mary in the lyrics are sleight-of-hand for the speakers own conscience, so "whistle something but the past and done" is asking for it to stop replaying old misdeeds and feeding back into that endless shame. So that they don't have to use any more to get a reprieve. Most of why addiction is so tough is how it has so many feedback loops, it's tough to break them all at once and endure the feelings especially if you never properly learned how to ground intense emotion so it dissipates instead of stuffing it down and wanting to numb out. Probably in a musician context this would lead to someone who needed to be just right on the knife edge of too wasted to perform but numb enough to let some emotion out but not have the whole containment tank rupture (can't perform in the midst of a existential crisis or panic attack, either). Your average tortured artist savant type probably. Excellent when all the things are in "balance", but very unpredictable any other time. Unable to be scheduled, more on a whim. And you don't even always need a substance to be caught up in shame and not know how to get out. I think usually the shame has already begun before the drinking or etc, but it takes strong effect as a way to escape once one finds it. And society loves to pile on the shame and expects everyone to know how to process it, rather than just add it to the shame tank to deal with later. But this song could easily be about any self-repeating source of satisfaction and shame.

[@jenh7417]

Great interpretation!

[@jeffreybarrett1910]

Yup

[@adrianmiles7678]

You are close, it’s like they found the resonant frequency of trauma. Imagine something so aggregious that the only way you can cope is to feel nothing but it keeps bubbling up in different ways, then your analogy kicks in. You can’t describe a horror like that because language isn’t how you experience it, that’s what I mean by they have found the resonant frequency that illicit this feeling in others that haven’t even experienced trauma. You can see them glimpse into the abyss but shy away…

[@karinnathompson5836]

@@adrianmiles7678 Yes. I wasn't ever an addict, but this song describes PERFECTLY my relationship with my narcissistic mother. The psychological abuse that was my entire teenage life is right here in this song.

[@kimswanson2950]

The butler is not real. He says "waiting like a stalking butler", meaning it is always there, the addiction. And it really is, in every way.

[@Mr59Kenzo]

what it reminds me of is the way some alcoholics feel like the addiction is like a monkey on your back , Maynard looks like he's carrying that beast physically on his back. this song always brings tears , so deep. wonderful analysis Maynard is so amazing with the band fits like a glove.

[@Man-vs-Metal]

Had a shitty day? Good excuse for a drink. Had a great day? Good excuse for a drink. I could have just driven past the store after work today . . . . .

[@HarveyMeadowlark]

@@Man-vs-Metal all of the sudden u can make an excuse out of anything and everything. All the sudden u can rationalize and validate it no matter what happens. And for the rest of your life u subconsciously realize that there’s a gas station right there. They will sell me all the booze I can buy with the money in my pocket. It’s right there, and no one would stop me. I want what I want.

[@gunsfan4ever]

I like that and I agree

[@bellakliese3032]

@@HarveyMeadowlark exactly, but not just booze! im goin thru it, RIGHT.NOW with Kratom..kratom got me off alcohol pretty much..its a lot of shit to deal with..its def what this song is

[@HarveyMeadowlark]

@@bellakliese3032 I have used kratom many times over the years. I’m 28 now, and have learned over time that Kratom is dangerous, partly because of its availability. We only truly “get better” when we stop using any of it at all. But that invalidates less permanent stretches of sober success. Based on that definition, the end goal is complete sobriety for life…but damn that’s a scary idea. “Will I never fail again?” God I hope not

[@UtilemUnus]

As a recovering alcoholic and addict this song can be terrifying even when my eyes are watering from sadness.

[@peterschuenke4274]

As a recovering alcoholic, I have to agree conpletely

[@MelbourneMatty]

I’m with you, brother!

[@JohnJohnson-dg5yg]

As a person in recovery,the 1st time I heard this I understood. I wanted to SCREAM!!!

[@Skabanis]

As a guy who has never been addicted to anything I have sympathy for u

[@fpdomain]

That's what is disturbingly perfect about his performance.

[@jeremyj2550]

Tool’s sound is always so primal and hypnotic to me. I love to listen to all their albums front to back. Seams like I hear something new and twisted every time I do.

[@matthewconner5545]

“You can take it from this point of view, or that point of view, or even these other points of view.” Tool: Yes.

[@GreatCanadianGuy]

Just another voice in the crowd here, but I want you to know that of the dozen or so of these I've seen for this song, your analysis was the most fully realized and insightful. I've never seen someone approach a reaction video like this and it's extremely appreciated. The respect and empathy you display for addicts and their struggle also deserves praise. I'm coming at things from a psychology background, and it's very rare that someone who isn't doing the same, or hasn't themselves experienced addiction, really seems to get it. Cheers.

[@RCAvhstape]

This was the first Tool song I ever heard, on the radio back in the 90s. I remember thinking, "Well, this band is better than the average stuff we've been hearing lately." 25 years later (god, I'm old!) I am a giant Tool fan.

[@hso-ym4pv]

“the song changed to the perspective of the drug” she actually gets it . . .

[@Hellraiser988]

It's actually one of the most fascinating bits it's beautiful but brutal gets real and breaks down both sides of the story the atmosphere just brings it all together along with him playing it out

[@Dorrenificationify]

To me, the way he shouts, "Why" has always sounded as if it would be screamed through tears during an emotionally painful outcry. That's my personal interpretation, anyway

[@bigboichance3586]

I agree. First thing I felt when I first heard it

[@Doncr4nk]

This made me year up. Good observation.

[@stevescuba1978]

I have sung this a couple times with a friend's band. When I do my best (painfully incomparable) Maynard impression, I hit that phrase and tears well up. Its like my lungs and diaphragm have depression!

[@evhwolfgang2003]

I"ve watched a bunch of reactions to this performance and had to come find yours. You're the only person to give the drummer any props.

[@andoryuu74]

Special memories of this one, I was there 18 years old and standing right in the area of audience Maynard was staring at.

[@stevescuba1978]

Jealousy rages....

[@WillJM81280]

Ah, you were the one...

[@MrEazyE357]

You literally got to see one of the best performances of all time. I'm so jealous! I can remember wanting to go so bad but alas, I was 12 so that wasn't gonna happen. I don't know if you've ever read the comments on this actual video of this performance on KZbin, but "I wonder who he's staring at?" or "I'd hate to be the one he's staring at" are running jokes so you ought to go over there and be like, "It was me!" Lol

[@phrack420]

@@MrEazyE357 Same🤘

[@MrLieka]

Seeing this at 18 must have stamped a red mark on your soul forever, so fuckin lucky

[@alexgibbs356]

Maynard doesn't try to sing, he just performs. Same with Claypool. You said it perfectly, they're committed.

[@GymmyS]

Saw Tool around this era at a very small venue near Sacramento. Maynard's posture was the same at that show, just more menacing. He would hunch down and lock on to one person in the crowd and stare them down while singing, at a break he would shift and lock onto another person in the crowd, over and over. It's was wild. Great show. He makes some nice wines nowadays.

[@fullbodyunibrow7383]

He looks like hes staring at a horrifying cosmic entity hanging 2 feet above the crowd.

[@howarddavis6894]

I always wondered if this was the event that him and the bassist drank the acid/alcohol drink that a bandmember of another band gave them. I can't remember all the details, but it's worth looking into.

[@rumandbass]

@@howarddavis6894 He had debilitating anxiety/stage fright. He did some shows with his back to the audience in their early days.

[@jima6545]

If you stare into the Void long enough, the Void stares back.

[@cuttingedgecomix]

I've been known to be rather deep as a realist/pessimistic artist with a huge imagination...but even I think that was pretty deep...wonder which he's looking at ~ Moloch or Cthulhu. ;)

[@NormalizeNotBeingaVictim]

@@howarddavis6894 I think he was suppose to be showing you the discomfort of being an addict. Like he was trying to embody addiction and show it thru physical expression. Something like that. That’s what my boyfriend said because I was like...”hunny why’s he acting all fucked up? “ lol and that was, in a nutshell, the answer I got. It makes sense given the music videos IMO

[@danielbutcher5836]

You're my favorite vocal coach/reactor on here because you don't seem to need to demonstrate that you can do what they do, you just show understanding of/appreciation for what they're doing. Thanks!

[@AaronLittle77]

You should do Passenger by the Deftones featuring Maynard on vocals.

[@michaelbeelby1995]

Bored, 7 words, Lifter, Engine No.9..... Hell anything off that first album....Aww hell...ANY Deftones song... Chino is the man....Saw him half front flip off a speaker stack, land flat on his back and never miss a beat singing.

[@lizpreston1068]

Seconding this

[@payla8308]

God yes

[@DollarJudo]

Well, I should have scrolled down, because I just suggested this song too. lol

[@payla8308]

@@DollarJudo the more recommendations the better chance of her seeing it 😁

[@flyingardilla143]

Tool - Pushit Salival - It's audio only but a great live performance

[@BuratiinoXZ]

Really the best version of the song

[@adamtereska8734]

I love the original version, but the Saliva version is in fact even better.

[@jordanhaliday295]

Can confirm this is top tier suggestion, I was going to recommend it as well

[@JackedBlack88]

Yes yes yes yes yes

[@Misutoslope]

Yes please

[@SaltyBagfries]

This probably started a little wave of subs increasing quickly over little duration. Tool is iconic. No matter who you are, if you know Tool, we're family. \m/ rock on, opera sister.

[@barrymantz6026]

During the first verse, Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan sings from the perspective of the aforementioned friend. And the symbolism he uses alludes to the idea of his addiction actually stalking him. And in that regard it is not only ever-present but also has the effect of preventing said individual from fulfilling his dreams as well as lowering his self-esteem, as in having an inner, self-accusatory relationship with him. In the second verse, Maynard takes on the role of the intoxicant itself, as in if the drug were to speak. And basically, what he is saying is that he himself is no good and will destroy the person whom is the subject of the first verse, i.e. the aforementioned addict. This brings us to the choruses, which at first allude to the idea that this individual is someone who is not enjoyable to be around. The reason being that due to his insobriety he has a tendency to monotonously babble. And the chorus concludes by introducing the idea, via a question, that sobriety may actually be the better option, even insinuating that partaking of such would be tantamount to him beginning a new life. But ultimately, via its outro, “Sober” ends on an alarming note if you will. The phrase “I want what I want” is repeated throughout. Within the overall context of the song this would insinuate that its addressee, the person whom Tool feels needs drug intervention, will instead shun such an idea, instead opting to fulfill his cravings. So this song basically deals with the toxic effects of becoming dependent on hard drugs while simultaneously acknowledging that an individual who is subject to such is faced with a challenge, albeit internally, in trying to overcome it.

[@dissraps]

I think you heard that wrong or the double negative confused you, the chorus isn't saying being sober is better, he says "why can't we NOT be sober" not "why can't we be sober?" asking why it's not ok to just be a junkie. The first chorus is "why can't we not be sober, just want to start this over, why can't we drink forever" which is the complete opposite of contemplating sobriety, if anything it's begrudging people suggesting that. And then in the next chorus "drink forever" changes to "sleep forever" as he'd rather die than be sober

[@slamindorf5478]

I feel like his posture is helping him deliver the lines as he is, even though it technically makes it harder for him, his voice sounds pained and wavers on purpose. When he pulls at his shirt he's physically forcing his muscles to tense and sound pained, fantastic performance

[@grogueQ]

I agree. The posture restricts his voice, delivering the desired effect. Someone said earlier that Maynard doesn't try to sing, but that's just nuts. He's been mastering his craft for 30 plus years.

[@jamesmuncy1396]

@@grogueQ oh facts, I couldn't agree more. He doesn't try and sing you a song. He try's to make you feel an experience

[@Rhiawiz]

It’s almost frightening. Very captivating. Love Maynard.

[@909mineman]

I almost feel like he is also doing it to help show the substance abuse. I live in a area with lots of drug addicts and for some reason standing like that seems really popular with people absolutely smacked out of their minds.

[@Paul-ow9gj]

This is fast becoming one of my favorite "reaction" shows. This clip is probably one of the best live male rock performances out there. The only one I would rank better would be the late great Layne Staley of Alice in Chains doing "Love, Hate, Love" live at the Moore.

[@Lunarmech]

Oh man, I would love to see Love Hate Love live on this channel!

[@Redline-99]

Yeah and some of Layne's Mad Season shows, beautiful songs or something from his MTV Unplugged appearance.

[@alejandromoya7]

Síiiiii... junto con en el de Nirvana, los dos mejores MTV UNPLUGGED de la historia.-

[@MsTruebi]

Ever listened to Freddy Mercury @ Live Aid? Even if you don´t like the style of music, it´s hard to overlook the sheer craft he had, in about anything in terms of being a rock singer, front man and live show perfomer.

[@redsven7624]

Yeah Layne (and Jerry harmonising) would be great for a reaction

[@toxications]

5:30 The lyrics is about how the singer experiences being addicted, the addiction itself is a "butler waiting in the shadow": the addiction will never leave you alone; "pointing every finger at me"; the addiction will point every finger at you so you keep using. "making every promise empty": the addiction is more important than any promise you made to anyone... ever.

[@jeffreytackett3922]

Her: "The music sounds particularly tortured." Me: "Hold that thought for a second, and press play."

[@koolnem1008]

Yeah

[@mattcossel29]

Glad I wasn't the only one.

[@charlz369]

It's torturing my ears that's for sure.

[@leewalker101172]

This was at the Reading Festival back in 1993. I was there and Tool was incredible. Maynard became the embodiment of every song he sang but this one in particular we were just stunned... stopped dancing and watched.. couldn't look away.

[@ScaryPoppins]

His voice gives me chills every single time I listen to him.

[@gaberodriguez4533]

Zechariah 10:8 " When I whistle to them, they will come running, for I have redeemed them"

[@jasonchristy3391]

exactly. Even though hes is pretty much a atheist he is well read and his mother had a big influence on him because she was deeply religious.

[@mattcossel29]

Thank you for that, that helps bring even more to the song.

[@salampapi]

Her moments of awe give me goosebumps the same as the first time I heard this performance. Thank you, youtube algorithim.

[@SM_AsheZ]

Omg Mrs. I'm so impressed with you. I have always loved sober and all 6 times I've seen tool live they opened with sober. I always felt connected to the song and it wasn't until your breakdown that I understood why. I think you nailed the explanation of the lyrics perfect. Makes me wanna cry. Much love. Peace love and understanding

[@finalbreath15]

Dude that double meaning on "Jesus won't you fucking whistle" I never caught that. And that is the true work of poetic mastermind. It's a song about frustration with the other, the self not being able to get by without the analogue of drugs, and the drugs themselves "convincing" the affected that they need it. I'm glad you made me actually look more deeply into it lol. So much more appreciation for Maynard now.

[@ThomasLundyRealtor]

46 & 2 is another great song. Lol into those lyrics.

[@kittenblossom2794]

First time I've ever shed a tear for a tool reaction video. It's amazing how she tapped into the desperation Maynard is communicating here. Such an honest an insightful reaction.

[@chrishostetler3576]

It brings tears to my eyes, and chills to my spine everytime I hear this performance. Such dread, beauty and brilliant strength. What art...its astonishing

[@j.lahtinen7525]

The song is not about depression, but having gone through a long period in my life when I was severely, debilitatingly depressed, this song's lyrics really fit that state as well - the feeling of worthlessness, the wish that you could turn back the clock and start all over again, the feeling that anyone who had the misfortune of having contact with you would be drawn down as well, the feeling of being deceitful, as you tried to keep up a facade of being ok. I'm glad, and somewhat surprised that I survived that, and eventually got help, and recovered.

[@oObs4paOo]

So glad for you. I hope I would say the same things someday.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I empathize, J. Depression is not something easily thwarted, and can see how the lyrics of Sober can correlate to that kind of illness. I am so happy you were able to recover. Thank you for sharing! :-)

[@ysinvangulik1004]

Well said, i know and feel your pain.

[@Morgowitch]

The 'why can't we sleep forever' part really speaks to me in my situation.

[@j.lahtinen7525]

@@Morgowitch Yes, I connected with that too. When I was depressed, the worst for me were the mornings. I didn't want to wake up to the dismal reality I was living. I often wished I could just sleep forever.

[@JoeBlow_4]

You suggesting he's not afraid to make an ugly sound is maybe the most accurate thing I've ever heard from a reactor. So perceptive.

[@tonymark2709]

The shift in perspective from user to drug is pretty spot on, I think. Enjoyed hearing your take on this performance! 🤘

[@pastrana120]

Wherever a Tool reaction is, Tool army is too cheers :)

[@MrEazyE357]

Yup

[@basklootwijk5724]

Tool shed.

[@achilles1541]

Cringe

[@LordofSyn]

Hell, son; wearing my fly 501s. o7 tool shed.

[@josep9564]

Total cringe.. stop

[@jamieburnette2438]

Another band Maynard is in . A Perfect Circle - Judith. This song is about his mother.

[@MDestron2282]

Possibly one of my most favorite songs of all time.

[@s.sullivan5299]

I was going to say the exact same thing

[@adamtereska8734]

And Tool's Wings for Marie, also about his mother.

[@s.sullivan5299]

@@adamtereska8734 several songs on 10,000 days are about his mom. And they're all fantastic!

[@pokerusfreak8194]

Puscifer!!!

[@timsullivan67]

This may be the most powerful live performance I've seen. You feel the addicts grief and despair. That's a true artist singing!

[@theatomicpirategirl]

this song is such an emotional gut punch. As someone who has seen friends struggle with addiction, I think this song is a pretty accurate description. Performance wise, I have heard that Maynard suffers from extreme stage fright. I always interpreted this performance as a result of that. However, perhaps rather than his body reacting to his fear, by him slipping into the character of the addict is a way to deal with his stage fright? Just a thought. I always felt as well that Maynard’s vocals were treated as another instrument with how they are mixed in the album. They are never truly prominent, just kinda hanging out right on the middle. Tool is definitely one of those bands that I grew up with and none of their albums sound dated. Sure, you can hear growth and change the older they get, but this song still sounds so new. It’s amazing. Great video! Have a great day!

[@jakemallory1093]

Maynard has addressed this. The rumor came out because Maynard so often stands in the back of the stage. He insists it's not stage fright. Tool is about the composition and music, not so much the performance. Maynard wants to prevent as much as he can audio other than his voice coming through his microphone to ensure a top quality auditory experience for the audience.

[@theatomicpirategirl]

@Jake Mallory ahhh. Thanks for the information. That definitely makes sense based on the mixing of their albums. Thanks for the correction and knowledge. 😊

[@RyanMurray]

I always thought he was kind of mimicking the movement of the characters in the videos.

[@HormanOmorman]

I always felt the same about how he uses his vocals as another instrument in the band. His vocal range and emotional expression is unreal and evocative.

[@RyanMurray]

@@HormanOmorman It seems like with every album they put out, the vocals were further back into the mix. Like, as you said, he's just another instrument. I love it, but its nice to see and hear him as a front man. This is a perfect example of the the difference between performing a song, rather then just playing/singing it.

[@mattfleming2287]

This is my favorite video to watch reactions to....everyone gets wide eyed watching how intense Maynard is. Gives me chills every time I see it. Great analysis-you’ve added something to a song I listened to for over 20 years. Nice job!

[@jamesharris4775]

These guys definitely aced music theory, an incredible band that is so underrated, they belong up there with the very best

[@andrewlast1535]

I can’t imagine my wife having this much excitement over a Tool concert.

[@Mxulin]

Both my parents do lol I got them into tool it should have been the other way around I feel like

[@williamsporing1500]

Lol…my wife is 62. We’ve been to godsmack, tool, incubus, saw shine down with 10 people in the audience and almost 20 times since….we’re both rock and rollers!!!! Yea, I have a great wife lol

[@davebeerman911]

i can't imagine my wife

[@lucky_lola]

I'm a wife who absolutely loves Tool. We exist!

[@SuperNoseFace]

I’m a woman and took my dad to a Tool concert when I won some on the radio! We were both pumped!

[@samshq9977]

I’ve listened to Tool for 20 years. I’ve heard that song a million times yet listening to you brings yet another new perspective! Can’t wait to watch you analyse more! My picks would be The Grudge from ‘Lateralus’ and Thomas from Maynard’s other band ‘A perfect circle’ Thanks for your video!

[@lindsayj7907]

Yes! I'd like her to listen to Thomas by APC, as well!

[@drewburchett2824]

I'd have to go with Judith. You can hear so much pain and torture in that song.

[@djjaysky9071]

that album suck. Ænima was their last good album after that they made mtv sell out rock

[@optimusprimus89]

Yeah that's how it is for me too on the ones she's done so far I freaking love it

[@tristanmcdowell9242]

@@djjaysky9071 you realize Aenima came out after this album right?

[@techmarine83]

The thing I love about Maynard is that he pours every ounce of energy and soul into his songs. I don't think I've seen anyone sing so hard before.

[@2009mechanic]

Once you have heard TOOL for the first time , you can never hear them for the first time ever again. A great band to say the least.

[@ProcyonChild]

I remember the first time I heard them, everything about that moment, my buddy set the mood to my first encounter with tool, it was a fond memory I've shared with many of my musician and music lover friends

[@threeminuteshate]

It’s a lot like that first time using a drug. You always wanna go back to that first high.

[@kirbys1370]

Hi Elizabeth! This will be my first time watching/listening to this band. This was really interesting as I enjoyed the Guitar, Bass Guitar and Danny Carey on Drums. I was mesmerized by Maynard's performance as he had this pensive stare while looking at the audience. He also held an interesting posture (hunched over) throughout the performance along w/ body contortions...I guess this was his way of conveying the anguish and pain of addiction (hence the title, "Sober."). Thank You, Elizabeth, for broadening my musical tastes!!!

[@GopherGuts2000]

This is going to sound weird but let’s see if I can clearly articulate my thoughts on these reactions. It’s a very cathartic and vindicating experience to watch these reaction videos to music that I’ve appreciated and been moved by since I was in grade school. Seeing others be open minded and finding value in what was for so long been dismissed as “not real music” is delightful. It really brings me a true sense of joy to watch people’s eyes light up when they finally get it. Like, it’s not “ just screaming and bashing on instruments”. I’m generalizing here and drawing from past experiences and comments from my youth but for so long metal and heavy music was disregarded as just noise. Thank you for your openness to experience new and different things. I love these reactions as well as the breakdowns of the Operatic and classical arias. Very well done. This channel is definitely my favorite reaction/breakdown channel by far. You really give the music the time, thought and respect it deserves. Bravo 👏🏼 👏🏼👏🏼

[@chrishostetler3576]

I feel the same!

[@Kaisieann1]

I grew up listening to tool, I'm 35 now. .... my dad was a huge fan and tool was a huge part of my upbringing hands down will always be my favorite band.

[@Ratbiker48]

I’d love to see Wings For Marie Part 1 &2 reaction next

[@miklotube]

Actually, you have to start at the beginning with Judith (is Maynards mother's name). for the lazy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roXKfIV5jd6Via8

[@crankyanker2682]

@@miklotube actually, you don’t HAVE to start there at all.

[@Terminationdust]

Yes!

[@Jarhead6541]

Wings for Marie is the perfect example of rabid fans fucking things up for everyone else. Maynard put himself out there with that song and it's wonderful. The hate he got for it guaranteed that we will never get anything deep and raw like that from him again. Maynard's summarized words, not mine.

[@lumbeemamacimaglia9850]

That song (both parts) is one of my absolute favorite songs. Especially when. You have a good system with good bass😊 I definitely think she should do a reaction.

[@katewellings3254]

I was lucky enough to be at this concert (Reading Festival in the UK) & this performance made me fall in love with Tool. His vocal and physical performance was mesmerising!

[@harleyadam4813]

The lyrics speak to the paranoia, loneliness and guilt of someone who is a slave to substance abuse.

[@christurner3945]

I'm going through that shit right now. This is crazy. Love this song and this band

[@jumper1294]

The paranoia 😔

[@austinlincoln3414]

escape!

[@jmack4275]

This was the most informative and broken down video of tool I've seen in a long time. I would love to watch more tool reactions from you!

[@dcooper6142]

I’ve seen Tool 8-10 times. Once he was painted blue, once completely in the dark, another as a shadow behind a screen. I have taken pure hip-hop fans to their shows, they blow your mind away. It is like seeing Beethoven’s 9th live!

[@badkatrising3918]

Now I have to see them live and I hate crowds but this is a must

[@WindowLickingDeer]

My dad has seen Tool live 4 times, the most recent being in Cleveland with me on March 20th this year. He told me that one time Maynard was dressed only in a Speedo and Christmas lights. Another time he sang hunched forward, back toward the crowd almost the whole time. During the Cleveland venue Maynard sat down for dinner in the middle of Descending. It's awesome hearing and seeing how weird Maynard, and in such a specifically interesting way. Also, got to see Sober live. My dad lost his shit when they played Hooker with a Penis, and may have also thrown out his back during the song.

[@ChicagoTRS]

I would like to see you react to Pearl Jam Black - MTV Unplugged.

[@Kolifeeee]

Yeee like this suggestion !

[@Metallnsanity87]

I thought she did that already

[@brandonaverette708]

Awesome pull well written one of my favorite pearl songs

[@brandonaverette708]

Even flow

[@mattclark5861]

This one will be good, for sure. The trance that Maynard is in while singing this one is insane

[@serdavezilla6494]

He embodies the though process of alcoholism (at least my experience in it) in this performance. So powerful

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

"trance" is a great description of it!

[@markusnaher56]

I'm not so sure if it was solely "trance". I remember an interview with JMK where he said he's not good ad doing more than one thing at a time. Although the topic of this song is ideal for a trance-like state, his singletasking approach probably has made the "trance" appearance more intense. Thinking it over again ... maybe he felt the added intensity himself through this concentration. I must admit I've never been at a Tool concert, and I've only seen a few of their live videos, but AFAIR he's mostly *not* very agile on stage.

[@alejandromoya7]

Maynard no canta simplemente, sino siente e interpreta las letras de sus canciones increíblemente. Tanto Tool, como APC son expresiones musicales que dentro de unas décadas van a ser consideradas obras maestras de la música como son consideradas en la actualidad bandas como Pink Floyd ó Genesis en la etapa que Peter Gabriel era el líder.

[@Jouipan]

88 8å 8åå 8åå åå⁸8 8 8 8⁸8 8å 88⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸88⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸88⁸⁸⁸⁸⁸888⁸8⁸⁸⁸8⁸⁸6

[@hyde8118]

It's amazing how you post videos for almost all of my favourite songs, making me listen to them different way, it helps to enjoy music more. Thank you so much =)

[@xx5341]

Tool is raw emotion a lot of the time. They match that emotion with such talent! I'm so happy I was introduced to them early in my life.

[@jkthewonderguy]

It's because you've never been trapped in addiction. Addiction is a cruel master

[@pauliverson6005]

Who is “you”?

[@jkthewonderguy]

@@pauliverson6005 Her. She was commenting on the feeling in the song

[@feliciapalumbo9688]

I love how you recognize he is in character, so many miss that important point

[@jasoncoffman1592]

And a suggestion of artists for you would be "Type-O Negative"... Peter Steel's unearthly works coupled with his metaphysical vocal abilities will straight blow your mind !!!

[@MrCashewkitty]

Coke is it....

[@ThePiscesmMended]

would like to see her reaction to cinnamon girl.

[@TheReeegs]

Loved your reaction. Huge TOOL fan. If you like his voice, I highly recommend his other band - A Perfect Circle. You will not be disappointed. Even if you don’t do any reactions to them, i think you’ll enjoy them.

[@imarock.7662]

I love how she analyzing the lyrics, and not just the vocals.

[@Gxie]

Maynard ALWAYS finds the center in you! ❤️ Kudos to the hubby for taking you to TOOL! 😉✌️

[@shasmi93]

Damn! Your beautiful Tracy! If you’re interested in a 30 year old guy and a date let me know! Lol it’s hard to find a beauty like you who appreciates good music. 👍 🎶

[@Lucifri]

Maynard embodies his music in this performance. It's one of my favorites.

[@Mjones8383]

I love her eyes and mouth, the way they move and just tell her feelings. That tounge also tells us the story

[@ChicagoTRS]

yay looking forward to this one! I enjoy all of Elizabeth's reactions but long for more rock and metal reactions.

[@samanthathick6724]

Lots of a perfect circle suggestions. He also is in puscifer, i recommend The Remedy. Very beautiful and meaningful

[@curtislamarre8580]

“Jesus won’t you fucking whistle” is the first course. During the second course “Mother Mary won’t you whisper ”. The amazing realism of Tool’s lyrics can be read and taken so many different ways to each individual. For me I take them as a guide that gets me through life’s life’s unique moments and secrets that seem unanswerable, I read each album like a Bible. Tool is on a higher level of understanding and I don’t know what I would do without them. For this particular song I think he is speaking about the feelings that we feel once you are lost in your own addiction and how alone one sees himself screaming out to anyone that has the “answer” and anyone who will listen. But being so vulnerable and having such a different view that an addict has learned so selfish and not caring about the consequences, an addict eventually become two different personalities. There are many different things people can become dependent on it’s when we become aware and have the courage to take responsibility over our own lives that we can start to be honest with our selves.

[@jeffmclearen1421]

I saw Tool in 1993 at Lollapalooza where I discovered them. Maynard was so awkward in his movements and Adam was head hung low just like this video! I was immediately drawn in. HUGE fan to this day as they have evolved.

[@Stumpy1991]

I saw them also, in St Paul Minnesota. They were on the small stage while Alice in Chains and others were on the main stage. The original venue, Harriet Island was flooded so the event moved to St Paul Civic Center. Main stage indoors, the rest outdoors.

[@jeffmclearen1421]

@@Stumpy1991 That was Lollapalooza 93!

[@Kisamaism]

Second comment: also, listen to Lateralus - though for *you*, not as a reaction. Listen once. Then walk away. Then come back a day later and listen again. You will go places.

[@Bruh-yc9xs]

Bruh

[@justinbrooks6807]

"It's about every band member being exemplary at their instrument" is exactly how I have felt about Tool from day one, I just didn't know how to explain it until you said it. Edit: Maynard humanizes vocals; I.E. you hear where he's going with the vocals but he lets emotions play a part in where the vocals go as well.

[@keitht2455]

Very few singers commit to their stage presence like Maynard (hence his posture here). He's the musical equivalent of a method actor. Being so deep in character also helps with his overwhelming social anxiety and stage fright. As a side note, Tatiana from Jinjer suffers from the same issues and addresses them in much the same way. Another side note, you look like an amazing combination of Claire Danes and Emilia Clarke. Definitely a good thing.

[@wewillsurviveone]

I'm an addict and this song is about the drug constantly being on your back,bring around every corner,because every second of every day you're constantly worrying about when you'll be sick,getting it,will it be good and all that. It's a hard life where you always have to worry about being well and this song betrays that life great. Is like a constant shadow on your back

[@jessesheehan225]

TRUTH...RESPECT...keep up the fight!

[@nickstoddard8]

How you analyze the technicals as well as the vocals is so awesome. After I watch you break down my favorite music I always watch the video again in its pure form and it makes me revisit the time I first heard it with a better understanding. Love your work.

[@EvelyntMild]

Maynard is an eccentric with stage fright. He often shrouds himself in character and tries to not even look at the crowd. Such an amazing human though.

[@leventeszaffenauer4142]

But that wasn't the case here 😂😂😂

[@MrKrabs-mb4eg]

@@leventeszaffenauer4142 that's exactly what he did here, what do you mean?

[@namarupa3015]

He actually said in an interview that he stands sidestage or rear stage in a lot of performances because it allows him a better representation of the stereo mix in the monitors and also puts him at eye level with the other members to alert him to cues may have slipped his mind. I saw a video where he stood front stage and came in early on Third Eye, and the rest of the band looked at each other like, 'WTF?'

[@chenille28]

I have been watching a few of those reactions, and well.. Tool... I love the band, and I just think you are awesome. I am totally under your spell. You enthusiasm is so obviously not faked (which can often be the case on KZbin reactions), I just love watching you react so genuinely to a lot of different styles (going from Jinjer to Lara Fabian then Tool is quite a leap). You look amazing, but not only because you are a very good looking woman, but because your love for music is exuding from every pore of your face. Every feature telling us what is going through your head. And you obviously really know what you are talking about and your analysis are always on point. Keep on rocking, Elizabeth. You are awesome ! And come on... you know the name of Tool's drummer... If you were not taken, I would propose right away ! :D

[@benhusmann6521]

You are a beautiful soul. I hope you continue to write and perform. All the best.