The Official Tool Thread

[KMS]

Originally Posted by Freebase Dali

Apart from the fact that bassists are almost always overlooked when they're not a focal point either musically or otherwise, I'd say the only significantly overrated person in Tool is Maynard, and that's just because a lot of people can't see past a lead singer by default. It's Adam's band in more ways than one and he's probably underrated by people who don't know that, but that's to be expected.

Me personally, if I absolutely had to rate on individual merit, I'd go:
Adam > Danny > Maynard > Justin.... but I wouldn't. Because I know that there's only one person in that group who could be replaced without destroying the band. He's on the end.

They're all essential, but you're correct. Tool with another frontman could be nearly as great, possibly even better if the guy fit perfectly like Maynard, but had more ability.

Danny is irreplaceable, there isn't a drummer that plays with his power and creativity around... at least not that I've heard. I've heard faster and more technical drummers(though that's picking at straws, as Danny's nearly a virtuoso technically), but none with that grooving, powerful feel that he produces and certainly none who are as brilliant creatively. Tool's percussion segments are out of this world.

Adam's riffmastery and art direction is right up there. Justin is one of the cleanest bassists around as well.

Unbelievable band, best in the last 20 years IMO.