What’s up Skullz Maynard actually went to live with his real father in Michigan after his mother suffered her stroke! That is in reference to Jimmy as well he was 11 years old when he left
Lateralus and Aenima are both on the same level. There are a number of Tool songs like this that are about as close to perfect as you can possibly get.
Dude…. Your breakdowns on these songs are among the very best of reaction videos ! I’ve heard all these songs many times over but to re-live the first reaction to them through you have made the listens fresh again and I’m digging it. Good job sir
Maynard moved in with his real father in Michigan shortly after what happened to his mom. His dad was a high school wrestling coach there. Just FYI, all in his book. And like you said the song is pretty self explanatory, his disdain for the petty, and shallow. His disgust for the superficial world we have created especially in LA. He talks a lot these days about people fighting themselves, and the disconnect we have created with nature, the gap between living in harmony with it and the discord of the way we treat it. We destroy it instead of being caretakers. We worry about the ridiculous and have lost the ability to see the place we have in it. His dad taught him to grow food and be self sufficient in the woods of Michigan and the importance of how you effect your surroundings. It's ironic but important after listening to that song today to talk about how he ended up in Arizona growing grapes for wine. Like he bought himself a front row seat to watch it (fingers crossed lol) go down, "learn to swim, I'll see you down in Arizona Bay." He got back to his roots as well starting a farm. Finding harmony in his surroundings and himself again. He recently purchased land here in Michigan and is going to start another winery/cider place not too far from where he grew up in the woods. Working together with locals to support and source honey, etc. Sorta putting his money where his mouth is. He's not just talking about reconnecting he's doing it. When listening to albums when I was younger I would go over the lyrics, look up words I didn't understand and early on I recognized Maynard likes to combine words to mix meaning. He does this in all of his bands. I found that anima and animus are from Yung. Male and female unconscious, or the collective unconscious. And Ae on its own was a suffix of "soul." And enema is well we all know, a cleansing of the bowels with water. So together it's like a soul cleansing, a reset of the collective unconscious. He wants to set our minds to factory default, take us back to a place where we appreciate what's important again and get rid of the shit. -Spoiler- I was struck by the imagery in a Puscifer video, "Grand Canyon" and how it relates to Aenema. The video is all time lapse of nature. Things growing, rivers carving valleys, sweeping shots of the grand canyon and the stars...infinite beauty. At the very end there are 2 humans, one young boy, one older man in luchador outfits. The older looks like a priest, the kid is shadow boxing the air itself and waves to the camera to bring it on and the priest has a slingshot he fires at the drone taking video. They look like they were ready to fight it, the camera being the everything/the universe. I think that was his way to say look at how ridiculous we look in all of this beauty, how out of place we've become. We are a joke, always looking for conflict and destroying one another and encouraging destruction in this place. The opening lyrics are telling: "Lost as I may be Oh, in the fog of my own noise and triviality Grand Holy Mother (planet), grant me clarity I am standing on the edge of forever, Forever." It becomes a common theme in a lot that he writes as you'll see in the future. Another great reaction.
One of my faves. Learn to swim is in reference to his line, "See you down in Arizona Bay." Arizona Bay was a reference to his friend, late great comedian Bill Hicks. When California falls into the ocean, taking the festering neon distraction with it, there will be an Arizona Bay. So Learn to Swim in preparation for that inevitable time that mom (Mother Nature) flushes it all down. Great reaction Skullz. See you next week.
Just to add a bit, Bill Hicks actually has an entire album titled Arizona Bay, some of it is directly tracked on the Aenima album. Hicks died at 33 of pancreatic cancer, it was very sudden. He was close friends with Maynard. And this whole album is dedicated to him... a love letter to Hicks. You will find references to him all over the place if you look. Many of Maynard's lyrics are direct Bill Hicks quotes, and in third eye coming up that's Bill you hear in the beginning
This song gets me every time. The way Adam paints with his guitar. I used to work at a music store back in 2002 and all the rock heads would always talk about the "best" guitarists." I was the warehouse dude who would chime in "what about adam j?" and i would always get weird looks and hear "he's not even that good of a guitarist." Maybe its just me. But Aenema tells me otherwise. He is a visionary guitarist because instead of trying to fill a tab sheet with as many notes and chords as possible, he goes out and creates sounds and visual landscapes that no one had ever heard. Greatly underappreciated IMO.
I agree... Adam is in my top 3 guitarists of all time... Not because of the chords he plays.. but the harmonies and tones he creates from those chords... It's freaking amazing the sounds he creates and how they perfectly fit the songs... His playing style is definitely a perfect example of Less is More in my opinion.. I know so many guitarists, myself included who find his playing totally mesmerizing... He's an artist with a brush.. with sculpture and definitely with a Gibson solid body guitar... True art to me💯
@@07gregster he's ok but Adam is an artist in more ways than that... Slash sounds amazing but he definitely can't get the same mesmerizing tones Adam Jones gets from basically the same guitar... A Gibson Les Paul for Slash and A Gibson Custom Les Paul Silverburst ... Adam also occasionally plays a Gibson Flying V live in concert
This is still my favorite album. This used to be my favorite song. But after 30 years of listening to tool there are to many great songs to have a favorite.
Waiting with bated breath for the finale of Ænema! The title track speaks so much to where the band has been and is, and the finale speaks so much to where they're going. I'm on with you for the ride going forward! (Found you on H or Pushit)
In the late 80's and early 90's there was a lot of pop-culture references to California falling into the ocean, San Andreas Fault Line, etc. that you don't hear much about today. I think there were even some cheesy made-for-tv-movies about it. Part of Bill Hicks comedy routine referenced this and, obviously, that's what this song is about. Learn to swim.
I live in AZ. We're still talking about it. I'm hyped for it. The fault has been getting wider much fast with more frequent seismic activity between Mexico and the Southwestern US. Cali, AZ, and New Mexico felt the recent big clockwork quake in Mexico. Death Valley's dancing waves synced with hotel pools in Mexico. The videos are crazy.
This is a classic for everyone bcs it probably got the most radio play. That all keeps it out of everyone's favorite spot. But it only gets better from here. Every album. Every song just gets better.
I love reactions to Tools songs...even people who are not rock fans...get blown away by the entire experience. Its not listening to a song, its a whole trip into the center of your soul. Rock on Skullz!!
Honestly when I first started noticing your vids was H and then I went back and watched the rest it was super cool and exciting to hear some takes and a perspective that I hadn’t personally seen the songs from before which had me listening to them again lol thanks man!
Arizona Bay/Learn to swim is that he “wants” the big one go off on the San Andreas & most of California to fall into the ocean…ya know, get flushed away
Really enjoying your reactions, Skullz! You are approaching my favorite Tool song, Third Eye. If someone asked me to play one Tool song that encapsulated what the band is about, Third Eye would be it and I've been listening to them since '93 so yeah yeah I'm OGT :) #SpiralOut #ToolArmy
I've been enjoying your reactions to this album so much, it's one of my favorites ever and I reconnecting with it through truthful reactions full of authenticity and emotions give me a place to feel safe and endure difficult times as well. I feel you in a deep level, man. My father passed away 2 months ago and it's been hard af but music always helps and here I am enjoying this songs all over again and feeling so happy that new people can find out the magic of this spectacular band. Hope everything's on the right path even tho sometimes we feel lost. Stoked for Third Eye!!!
So sorry for your loss. I lost my father awhile back and we connected deeply through music. I know how hard it is 💯 Happy to have you here on the channel my friend! 🔥 I'll see you at Third Eye 👁
As someone from LA, this song hit so hard for me when I first heard it. Live elsewhere now, but always listen to it when flying home as the plane makes its final approach to LAX. In LA's defense though, all the worst parts of entertainment industry culture are primarily perpetuated by people who move to the city for the industry. Native-born Angelenos are, by and large, great people who distain that fake Hollywood shit.
Agreed, @recurrentTopology! I live in LA now, moved here for school after living all over the country - east coast, south, midwest, southwest. I love it here, but that's because I avoid the Hollywood bullshit like the plague. The weather, the multitude of cultures that call LA home and bring their amazing food here, the bright minds at UCLA and the other local institutions of higher learning, the tech and science industries that live here as a result, and the access to all sorts of outdoor activities nearby really set it apart, IMO. The regular people who aren't obsessed with rubbing elbows with celebrities are as normal as anywhere else, even if they work (as crew members and support staff) in the movie/TV/music industry or adjacent to it. The ones who turn their obsession w/fame and celebrity into their identity - they are extremely annoying and just sad as fuck. To be honest though, the people I know that are most obsessed with Hollywood and all the celebrity trappings happen to live outside of the state altogether, like certain family members of mine. They ask me about celebrity bullshit as if I am going out of my way to meet them or crash their parties. Celebrity worship has always been a thing in the US, and not just localized to Los Angeles, and obsessing over that stuff certainly can cause anxiety and an overall sense of low self-esteem. If anything, most people from here see behind the curtain and just don't give a shit and live their lives. All that to say, this is one of my favorite Tool songs, and it brings back a ton of nostalgia as it is the first one I ever heard back in high school. Skullz, your reactions are so great because you follow Maynard's advice - "don't just call me pessimist, try and read between the lines." Deep analysis on multiple levels, well done and cheers man!
Nope seriously disagree. Was born and raised in L.A. and I’ve never met an entire diaspora of people as douchey and arrogant as those who reside in that bullshit 3-ring circus sideshow
Hey man thanks for taking the intensity of the Tool Army in stride. I've always tried to be super positive cuz reactions are mana from heaven to me, honestly if i ever have a negative comment I just don't leave it, but I haven't had one yet (on reaction videos that is). Been a great journey so far.
I'm the same way with negative comments. I try to practice "don't interact with things you don't like." Any engagement helps out whoever made the content at the end of the day 💯 Appreciate the comment!
There is a live version of this track somewhere where Maynard says before the song begins "This song is about better living through irrigation" which is a medical term for an enema. Its comparing LA to the arse hole of Mother Earth and pleading with her to give herself an enema in order to rid herself of LA, leaving behind Arizona Bay in the wake.
It’s funny, whenever I hear “learn to swim” in this song, I can’t help but get a visual of all these characters he dislikes throughout the song, just been flushed down the toilet like….. never mind, I won’t go there 🤢😁
Your mind will be blown after Third Eye.Also cannot wait for you to start Lateralus...seriously, I think you'll love it way more than Ænima, it's just so good it isn't fair😂
I feel like people who started listening to Tool on Lateralus have that opinion lol. As someone who started listening to Tool when only Undertow existed --- Aenima is and will forever be my favorite :P But that's music, eh? 🥰
@@valarya Via RUclips, I started with Fear Inoculum from a RUclips reactor. Then I found one that was doing the whole discography. The EP Opiate was okay, but Undertow came next, which became my first favorite with FI. As each album was reacted to, Aenima was always my least favorite. I found Lateralus to be less distorted sound wise, which I appreciated. Naturally, there are a few on each album I'm less enthused about, but won't mention since Skullz hasn't heard yet. Tool is most definitely though, masters at their craft.
I know I say this everytime, but I absolutely loved your reaction and experiencing this with you has made me realize I definitely need to do things different in my life, I have struggled for the past 12 years with anxiety, drugs, etc. I have 14 months clean now and life is definitely looking so much better for me, anyways thanks for this!
@@nathanielhorrigan9085 thanks it's definitely the hardest thing I have had to overcome by far! But I'm stronger and know I can accomplish anything as a result!
This is my favourite Tool song to dance to, it has such a drive to it, and, unlike a lot of others the structure and time signatures make it easier for this. I can't wait for the rest of your journey into Lataralus, 10,000 Days and Fear Inoculum, this has been a great series in watching someone dive deep into the rabbit hole!
Another thing, your reactions and insights are great! I can't wait for Tuesdays just to see your vid! I watch a lot, I mean a lot, of reactor channels for Tool. I put your reaction videos in my top 3!!! Great job, sir!! Keep em coming! I am here for the ride!
Awesome reaction! I was introduced to Bill Hicks with this album. So I go down the Bill Hicks rabbit hole and find the comedy album Arizona Bay, where he is describing the same cleansing of LA being flushed away. What makes it even more humorous to me is that Maynard lives in Arizona now lol! I just picture him waiting for any survivors that learned to swim making it to shore, and saying I warned you 😂. You should react to Maynard doc The Art of Hard Work 1-4. Dude is the ultimate multitasker. So motivational and inspiring.
you couldn't have said it better dude when you said '...yeah I can't even imagine how this album is going to end at this point...' correct! But we look forward to watching it :)
Great reaction. I took my kids to their first concert just before covid hit. Tool at Rod Laver arena in Melbourne. My eldest hadn't heard this song before and it was her favourite of the night. There's a reason this isn't mentioned as a favourite much and you're right - it only gets better. Killer track though 🤘 Thanks again Skullz, see you in a few days...
Just found you! Love your reactions.. watching people experience Tool for the first time is a hobby for me 😉 thank you for this! Also, you're adorable 🥰
Man. Every album is great. Lateralus, the album, is another chapter in the Tool Journey that progresses the story excellently! Can't wait for that. Then 10,000 days! Omg. So much good shit to come!!
@skullz Arizona Bay is a reference to Bill Hicks. The comedian, He talks of California crumbling by fault line into the sea leaving it to be "Arizona Bay" And MOM is mother nature. Learn to swim in hopes as you say mother nature floods it all away. This song is my favorite and it took me 10years to really truly discover it. I never knew the lyrics always drown myself in the music only. Its the most epic diss track. Its amazing
I've been listening to these songs for years and you've consistently made observations that never occured to me. Often they're healthier ways to view them than I do through my glass so darkly. I guess I just wanna say that you are very insightful, my dude. Thank you for these.
Loving the voyage so far, you have very good insight and watching you feel the same things I did when I first dove into Tool is very nostalgic and entertaining. Keep up the great work my man!
hah Dude!! i think this is the best reaction from u ive ever seen!!! I love it! exactly, disdain for a particular city...I get flippin chills listening to this!!
As a 42yo drummer that found tool in the early 90’s because my older brother’s band was the local band that opened when bigger heavy acts came through the clubs. This album has the best sounding tool drums imo.
Regarding skullz “how does Danny come up with this?” I taught myself how to play drums. My band in 00-05 had many drum bits where my learned colleagues would come to me and ask how I came up with certain parts. These are drummers I looked up to in my peer group. In hindsight I know why they asked, but in the moment I just felt that’s what was needed. I got about 7 drumming offers from that band. Feeling matters way more for original music.
I think you're catching on pretty well to the album themes being a journey. Not just Maynard's journey, but a fundamentally archetypal human journey. I think that is what makes them so relatable, that even though the lyrics might have a specific origin, they are universal enough that most people can connect.
@@Skullzrapper Not to influence your perception of the album themes but my personal theory is this: Opiate (ep): the drug, the false beliefs, the toxic elements of your youth for that false high. Undertow: the drug/addiction/behavior drags you down and your drowning and angry Aenima: confirmed as the merging of "Anima" aka the primal soul, and "Enema" cleaning the shit out. So a soul cleansing, after your 'optiate' induced undertow. Salival (live CD with covers, you should do this): salivating for more, wanting more from life (or just Tool fans wanting more music) Lateralus: lateral (line) + us = line us up, straighten us out, find that deeper meaning that isn't a fake high. 10,000 Days: the 10,000 days Maynard's mom suffered after her aneurysm before her death, but keeping faith. So the struggle and trials you have as a person to maintain after "lining yourself up" Fear Inoculum: you found a higher meaning and purpose, you made it through the trials and tribulations, now you are immune to fear and are strong enough to confront the world and your own mortality
I don't think they/Maynard sought to do this intentionally, I just think it's like a fundamental journey some go through. It is similar to many Jungian/universal archetypes but to me most closely resembles "The Hero" journey.
Third Eye is gonna blow your mind. For me, it’s the song that begins to up the ante on how progressive they can actually get on through their Fear Inoculum album. Just over the top masterpieces in continuous succession from here on out.
Wonderful job again , glad your definitely in on this experience. Not to spoil anything but the last track is always the foreshadow of what is coming. Hoping to hear your prospective on that aspect alone between the closing tracks ( the gapping lotus experience to third eye ) Keeping your on your journey and hope your family continues to heal and grow
Please know, I thoroughly enjoy watching your experience and take on this bands music. I've been a Tool fan since late 90's, and the music instantly grabbed me. Im glad your finding it as pleasing as i do, and keep making reaction video's brother. You articulate some rather complex thoughts in such an easy to understand and clear manner. Very Kool!! Cheers!
DUDE. Watching the expression on your face on your first listen of AENEMA.... I'm almost jealous of you getting to hear it for the first time. I'm pretty sure I had the same look on my 16 year old face when this CD came out and I cranked it up in my shitty Pioneer car stereo. This song has always had a place in my heart. When I was an angsty teen, it was obviously a great song. Then in my frustrated paycheck-to-paycheck life as a young adult, it was a great song to crank and sing away some anger. Now I'm in my early 40s and watching my country tear itself apart - and this song stays relevant. Just timeless songwriting.
You have some very interesting insights on not only the current song you're reviewing, but your thoughts on the overall narrative in the catalog. Can't wait to see your mind be blown by, Third Eye! 👍🏽😏 BTW, when you get to it the trick to pronouncing Lateralus is the primary emphasis on the third syllable and the secondary emphasis on the first. 😁
@Diesel Baits It's definitely been growing! Not as much as I'd like lol but I'm grateful! But watching the videos, liking, commenting, and subscribing all adds up to boosting me in the algorithm so just keep doing your part, i'll keep making the reactions, and the channel will keep growing. Much love!
Yep you nailed it! Every song, even the 'not as great' ones are so engaging and rewarding that while I'm listening to it, it might as well be my favorite. Also I love that you mentioned these albums so far relating to growth with in yourself and them being a really helpful aid because YES! And the Lateralus album has easily been the most "therapeutic" one for me as I've struggled in life and worked to mature myself these last 20 years. Now for the song you just reacted to... I don't have a very visual imagination but when the guitars lift around the 5 minute mark I see in my mind grey clouds gently clearing to show a beautiful new dawn full of color and hope... until 5 minutes 30 when the darkest clouds imaginable quickly pull in and swirl as a tornado rips everything from the land as the song closes out. Its wicked!
Very cool visual! Yeah Tool has been a great aid for me! Helping me, as Maynard put it in speech he gave, "work with the friction." They are true artists 💯🤘
Aenima is one of my favourite Tool tracks, and while you could say this about most of their body of work, but this is one of the most unique songs from their discrography. It feels to me like such a straight forward song lyrics-wise, but the musicality of it all coming together is something that I have never heard in any other Tool song. There is many songs that I hold closer to my heart than this, but Aenima always hold a special place in it.
One more thing I wanted to shine on - Justin’s bass sounding like dark waters. Then Adam was sort of the water movement like swells and whitecaps. Totally paints that atmosphere for me. What was Danny’s percussion? Waves? Rocks? The Kraken? And THEN the lyrics.
The main thing of "learn to swim" of course is to die drowning when LA slides into the ocean, which will hopefully happen soon, and serves as a metaphor for a larger reckoning which will also hopefully happen soon. Virtually all of modern society needs to "learn to swim."
As you progress on your TOOL journey, you will certainly realize that each album has its own personality of sorts. The angsty, frustrated, hopeless tone of Undertow brought a lot of anger, but it wasn't focused. It was pure rage. This gave way to a still pissed off, but much more directed anger in Aenima. Consumerism, hypocrisy, and scars from the past are all targets. Eventually you will journey into a more philosophic, contemplative tone in Lateralus, and an even more reflective, personal vibe in 10,000 days. Finally, Fear Inoculum brings something we haven't really heard from TOOL, hope. Hope in a better life and way of living. I'm excited to see what you bring as you continue this ride. Great job as always.
"fuck these dysfunctional insecure actresses" is the meanest and funniest lyric line from Tool, at least for me. He's like "fuck everything", building a fat list of things and he still adds that at the very end, like the cherry on top. So mean, so unnecessary, so funny at the same time. I saw Tool live only once and AEnema was the highlight of the show for me. I wish they kept more of that dark humor as years passed. AEnima is my favorite album for that reason, it's Tool but with a tongue in cheek attitude, it's a very nice balance. You still have my favorite Tool track to listen to next, so see you after that. Enjoy the ride!
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This song brings me joy. Watching this song bring joy to others brings me joy. I am joyous.
Watching my watchers become joyous from watching me watch Tool makes me joyous 😵💫
@@Skullzrapper We are the snake eating itself. One might even call it a... Perfect Circle 🤯
(sorry, couldn't help myself 😂)
What’s up Skullz Maynard actually went to live with his real father in Michigan after his mother suffered her stroke! That is in reference to Jimmy as well he was 11 years old when he left
Toxic sludge! is spot on bro. Perfect!!
Oh my God, Lateralus is absolutely gonna blow your freaking head off!! I can't wait! I love Aenima, but Lateralus is one step up imo 💯
Can't wait my dude! 🔥
And then 10K Days...dude you aren't even halfway through it :)
Wait till you get to lateralus and 10,000 days bru
Lateralus and Aenima are both on the same level. There are a number of Tool songs like this that are about as close to perfect as you can possibly get.
No bad song in their discography ;-) Just a few strange intermissions between extremely well written masterpieces.
Dude…. Your breakdowns on these songs are among the very best of reaction videos ! I’ve heard all these songs many times over but to re-live the first reaction to them through you have made the listens fresh again and I’m digging it. Good job sir
I appreciate that man! I'm glad I could breathe some new life into these for you! 🤘
Get Off the guys nutts dude🥴 Seriously!!
Wait for it....7 years...Maynard is also behind his own bubble
Maynard moved in with his real father in Michigan shortly after what happened to his mom. His dad was a high school wrestling coach there. Just FYI, all in his book.
And like you said the song is pretty self explanatory, his disdain for the petty, and shallow. His disgust for the superficial world we have created especially in LA.
He talks a lot these days about people fighting themselves, and the disconnect we have created with nature, the gap between living in harmony with it and the discord of the way we treat it. We destroy it instead of being caretakers. We worry about the ridiculous and have lost the ability to see the place we have in it. His dad taught him to grow food and be self sufficient in the woods of Michigan and the importance of how you effect your surroundings.
It's ironic but important after listening to that song today to talk about how he ended up in Arizona growing grapes for wine. Like he bought himself a front row seat to watch it (fingers crossed lol) go down, "learn to swim, I'll see you down in Arizona Bay." He got back to his roots as well starting a farm. Finding harmony in his surroundings and himself again.
He recently purchased land here in Michigan and is going to start another winery/cider place not too far from where he grew up in the woods. Working together with locals to support and source honey, etc. Sorta putting his money where his mouth is. He's not just talking about reconnecting he's doing it.
When listening to albums when I was younger I would go over the lyrics, look up words I didn't understand and early on I recognized Maynard likes to combine words to mix meaning. He does this in all of his bands. I found that anima and animus are from Yung. Male and female unconscious, or the collective unconscious. And Ae on its own was a suffix of "soul." And enema is well we all know, a cleansing of the bowels with water. So together it's like a soul cleansing, a reset of the collective unconscious. He wants to set our minds to factory default, take us back to a place where we appreciate what's important again and get rid of the shit.
-Spoiler-
I was struck by the imagery in a Puscifer video, "Grand Canyon" and how it relates to Aenema. The video is all time lapse of nature. Things growing, rivers carving valleys, sweeping shots of the grand canyon and the stars...infinite beauty. At the very end there are 2 humans, one young boy, one older man in luchador outfits. The older looks like a priest, the kid is shadow boxing the air itself and waves to the camera to bring it on and the priest has a slingshot he fires at the drone taking video. They look like they were ready to fight it, the camera being the everything/the universe. I think that was his way to say look at how ridiculous we look in all of this beauty, how out of place we've become. We are a joke, always looking for conflict and destroying one another and encouraging destruction in this place. The opening lyrics are telling: "Lost as I may be
Oh, in the fog of my own noise and triviality
Grand Holy Mother (planet), grant me clarity
I am standing on the edge of forever,
Forever."
It becomes a common theme in a lot that he writes as you'll see in the future. Another great reaction.
One of my faves. Learn to swim is in reference to his line, "See you down in Arizona Bay." Arizona Bay was a reference to his friend, late great comedian Bill Hicks. When California falls into the ocean, taking the festering neon distraction with it, there will be an Arizona Bay. So Learn to Swim in preparation for that inevitable time that mom (Mother Nature) flushes it all down.
Great reaction Skullz. See you next week.
See you then my friend! 🤘
And Maynard does own a little bit of land or something in Arizona lol
Just to add a bit, Bill Hicks actually has an entire album titled Arizona Bay, some of it is directly tracked on the Aenima album. Hicks died at 33 of pancreatic cancer, it was very sudden. He was close friends with Maynard. And this whole album is dedicated to him... a love letter to Hicks. You will find references to him all over the place if you look. Many of Maynard's lyrics are direct Bill Hicks quotes, and in third eye coming up that's Bill you hear in the beginning
@@ks5553 yup. I was a fan of Bill. Before I'd ever heard Tool.
@@paull1438 I honestly don't remember which was first for me...so long ago 😂
This song gets me every time. The way Adam paints with his guitar. I used to work at a music store back in 2002 and all the rock heads would always talk about the "best" guitarists." I was the warehouse dude who would chime in "what about adam j?" and i would always get weird looks and hear "he's not even that good of a guitarist."
Maybe its just me. But Aenema tells me otherwise. He is a visionary guitarist because instead of trying to fill a tab sheet with as many notes and chords as possible, he goes out and creates sounds and visual landscapes that no one had ever heard. Greatly underappreciated IMO.
The best guitarist is Slash, Bar none.
I agree... Adam is in my top 3 guitarists of all time... Not because of the chords he plays.. but the harmonies and tones he creates from those chords... It's freaking amazing the sounds he creates and how they perfectly fit the songs... His playing style is definitely a perfect example of Less is More in my opinion.. I know so many guitarists, myself included who find his playing totally mesmerizing... He's an artist with a brush.. with sculpture and definitely with a Gibson solid body guitar... True art to me💯
@@07gregster he's ok but Adam is an artist in more ways than that... Slash sounds amazing but he definitely can't get the same mesmerizing tones Adam Jones gets from basically the same guitar... A Gibson Les Paul for Slash and A Gibson Custom Les Paul Silverburst ... Adam also occasionally plays a Gibson Flying V live in concert
This is still my favorite album. This used to be my favorite song. But after 30 years of listening to tool there are to many great songs to have a favorite.
I feel that! It's too hard to pick a favorite lol
If you look at the CD case when you tilt it you see California break off into the ocean hence Arizona Bay
Waiting with bated breath for the finale of Ænema! The title track speaks so much to where the band has been and is, and the finale speaks so much to where they're going. I'm on with you for the ride going forward! (Found you on H or Pushit)
Perfectly stated!!
I Can't wait!!
So you’re saying Third Eye is the best track? You’d be right!
Same!!
Exactly, you nailed it. (♾, stay negative ✌👍)
Cesaro Summability is that track that wakes you up in the middle of the night when you have Tool on random repeat so you can sleep at night.
Ions
What's funny is the instrument they use I actually have. a tesla coil.
Faaip de oaid for me that shit freaks me out
Keeping coming Skullz another great one I’m getting excited the grudge is around the corner.
One of those songs you wish wasn’t still relevant but here we are maybe even more so
Yeah unfortunately. Mom needs to bring that enema already! 👀
"Maynard was very angry in his first album, in this one he's been kinda getting out of that"
This song: "About that..."
😂😂😂
💀
In the late 80's and early 90's there was a lot of pop-culture references to California falling into the ocean, San Andreas Fault Line, etc. that you don't hear much about today. I think there were even some cheesy made-for-tv-movies about it. Part of Bill Hicks comedy routine referenced this and, obviously, that's what this song is about. Learn to swim.
I live in AZ. We're still talking about it. I'm hyped for it. The fault has been getting wider much fast with more frequent seismic activity between Mexico and the Southwestern US. Cali, AZ, and New Mexico felt the recent big clockwork quake in Mexico. Death Valley's dancing waves synced with hotel pools in Mexico. The videos are crazy.
Excited for your videos of tool as they come out, I’ve been watching since prison sex, I think youre prying it open..
Appreciate it my friend 🔥🔥🔥
This is a classic for everyone bcs it probably got the most radio play. That all keeps it out of everyone's favorite spot. But it only gets better from here. Every album. Every song just gets better.
I find that hard to believe lol. But we will see! 🤘
@@Skullzrapper I know right?! I am so stoked for you to see the next albums :D
What can I say? Skullz + Tool = Epic reactions!
#ToolArmy #Spiralout
Thanks my friend! Glad you're still enjoying them! 🤘
@@Skullzrapper 🤘⭐👍
I love reactions to Tools songs...even people who are not rock fans...get blown away by the entire experience. Its not listening to a song, its a whole trip into the center of your soul. Rock on Skullz!!
I've always told people, you don't listen to TOOL, you experience TOOL. Great reaction videos. Glad to be a passenger on your TOOL journey.
Much love bro! 🤘
I love the recap you do. It’s something that holds you apart from other reaction channels. Very well done. 🤘
Appreciate it! Yeah these songs need time to marinate to do them any justice lol.
Honestly when I first started noticing your vids was H and then I went back and watched the rest it was super cool and exciting to hear some takes and a perspective that I hadn’t personally seen the songs from before which had me listening to them again lol thanks man!
That's awesome man! Glad you enjoyed them 🤘
Arizona Bay/Learn to swim is that he “wants” the big one go off on the San Andreas & most of California to fall into the ocean…ya know, get flushed away
It's also from Bill Hicks too, the album is dedicated to him I believe.
I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one.
Lookin' fresh, Skullz. :)
Appreciate it bro! Had to trim down the scruff 😆
Another great reaction!
Thanks bro! 🤘
Oh yeah!!! Your in for a trip for the next two albums!! The first track on Lateralus is a statement piece, and gets better with every listen
Man, I love your Tool reactions. I am waiting for them as a birthday present!
🤘🤘🤘
Really enjoying your reactions, Skullz! You are approaching my favorite Tool song, Third Eye. If someone asked me to play one Tool song that encapsulated what the band is about, Third Eye would be it and I've been listening to them since '93 so yeah yeah I'm OGT :) #SpiralOut #ToolArmy
Can't wait! 🤘
I've been enjoying your reactions to this album so much, it's one of my favorites ever and I reconnecting with it through truthful reactions full of authenticity and emotions give me a place to feel safe and endure difficult times as well. I feel you in a deep level, man. My father passed away 2 months ago and it's been hard af but music always helps and here I am enjoying this songs all over again and feeling so happy that new people can find out the magic of this spectacular band. Hope everything's on the right path even tho sometimes we feel lost. Stoked for Third Eye!!!
So sorry for your loss. I lost my father awhile back and we connected deeply through music. I know how hard it is 💯 Happy to have you here on the channel my friend! 🔥 I'll see you at Third Eye 👁
As someone from LA, this song hit so hard for me when I first heard it. Live elsewhere now, but always listen to it when flying home as the plane makes its final approach to LAX. In LA's defense though, all the worst parts of entertainment industry culture are primarily perpetuated by people who move to the city for the industry. Native-born Angelenos are, by and large, great people who distain that fake Hollywood shit.
True! I wish all the damn transplants would get the hell out! 😁
I've never lived in CA so I appreciate the insight. I know its a very split state as a whole. Just most people only talk about LA it seems lol.
Agreed, @recurrentTopology! I live in LA now, moved here for school after living all over the country - east coast, south, midwest, southwest. I love it here, but that's because I avoid the Hollywood bullshit like the plague. The weather, the multitude of cultures that call LA home and bring their amazing food here, the bright minds at UCLA and the other local institutions of higher learning, the tech and science industries that live here as a result, and the access to all sorts of outdoor activities nearby really set it apart, IMO.
The regular people who aren't obsessed with rubbing elbows with celebrities are as normal as anywhere else, even if they work (as crew members and support staff) in the movie/TV/music industry or adjacent to it. The ones who turn their obsession w/fame and celebrity into their identity - they are extremely annoying and just sad as fuck. To be honest though, the people I know that are most obsessed with Hollywood and all the celebrity trappings happen to live outside of the state altogether, like certain family members of mine. They ask me about celebrity bullshit as if I am going out of my way to meet them or crash their parties. Celebrity worship has always been a thing in the US, and not just localized to Los Angeles, and obsessing over that stuff certainly can cause anxiety and an overall sense of low self-esteem. If anything, most people from here see behind the curtain and just don't give a shit and live their lives.
All that to say, this is one of my favorite Tool songs, and it brings back a ton of nostalgia as it is the first one I ever heard back in high school. Skullz, your reactions are so great because you follow Maynard's advice - "don't just call me pessimist, try and read between the lines." Deep analysis on multiple levels, well done and cheers man!
Nope seriously disagree. Was born and raised in L.A. and I’ve never met an entire diaspora of people as douchey and arrogant as those who reside in that bullshit 3-ring circus sideshow
Amazing intro to the song (and outro). These are the types of conversations I wish I were able to have with my buddies.
I hear that! I only have a couple "in person" friends that I can talk like that with 💯
Hey man thanks for taking the intensity of the Tool Army in stride. I've always tried to be super positive cuz reactions are mana from heaven to me, honestly if i ever have a negative comment I just don't leave it, but I haven't had one yet (on reaction videos that is). Been a great journey so far.
I'm the same way with negative comments. I try to practice "don't interact with things you don't like." Any engagement helps out whoever made the content at the end of the day 💯 Appreciate the comment!
I hope the 10,000 Days album is next !!
He's doing them in order, so it's Lateralus.
The next track THIRD EYE is good but that's gonna be the next song on SALIVAL album .. And it's way better on SALIVAL.
The fact that Adam and Justin can keep up with Danny is truly amazing.
There is a live version of this track somewhere where Maynard says before the song begins "This song is about better living through irrigation" which is a medical term for an enema. Its comparing LA to the arse hole of Mother Earth and pleading with her to give herself an enema in order to rid herself of LA, leaving behind Arizona Bay in the wake.
Awesome. I'd never made that connection!
Which is also a Bill Hicks album
It’s funny, whenever I hear “learn to swim” in this song, I can’t help but get a visual of all these characters he dislikes throughout the song, just been flushed down the toilet like….. never mind, I won’t go there 🤢😁
This song never gets old for me. Every time I hear it I get amped!
Enjoying the reactions through your TOOL experience. Thank you for sharing, I get to go through it again with you.
Glad to have you along for the ride 🤘
Your mind will be blown after Third Eye.Also cannot wait for you to start Lateralus...seriously, I think you'll love it way more than Ænima, it's just so good it isn't fair😂
💯 agree with you on Lateralus.
Truth
We'll see! I find that hard to believe but we'll see 👀 lol
I feel like people who started listening to Tool on Lateralus have that opinion lol. As someone who started listening to Tool when only Undertow existed --- Aenima is and will forever be my favorite :P But that's music, eh? 🥰
@@valarya Via RUclips, I started with Fear Inoculum from a RUclips reactor. Then I found one that was doing the whole discography. The EP Opiate was okay, but Undertow came next, which became my first favorite with FI. As each album was reacted to, Aenima was always my least favorite.
I found Lateralus to be less distorted sound wise, which I appreciated. Naturally, there are a few on each album I'm less enthused about, but won't mention since Skullz hasn't heard yet.
Tool is most definitely though, masters at their craft.
Killed it again, brother. You're going to take-off, it's only a matter of time. You've got my support!
Appreciate the vote of confidence bro! 🤘
Oh man third eye is fireee please don’t wait a week to post that up hahah. I love your insight. If you loved push it, you will love third eye!!!!
I like to think of the outro to this song as a rain dance, with the drums and the chanting. So good. ⛈️
😂😂😂 That's awesome!
I've learned a lot about my favorite band (T👀L) from your reactions, interpretations and reading of the lyrics 💁♂️
Thank you, Brother 🤝
Glad I could help bro! 🤝
Greatest band EVER! Keep spiraling out young man. 🌀👆🇺🇲🤘
🤘🤘🤘
Spiral out
Keep
Going
Oh man … crazy to think lateralus is just around the corner now
I know I say this everytime, but I absolutely loved your reaction and experiencing this with you has made me realize I definitely need to do things different in my life, I have struggled for the past 12 years with anxiety, drugs, etc. I have 14 months clean now and life is definitely looking so much better for me, anyways thanks for this!
Congrats man. Getting and staying sober is wicked hard to do. I know from experience.
@@nathanielhorrigan9085 thanks it's definitely the hardest thing I have had to overcome by far! But I'm stronger and know I can accomplish anything as a result!
Yes you are. Keep on the good path man.
That's amazing! So happy i could have a positive influence on your recovery! Keep pushing my friend! 🔥🔥🔥
This is my favourite Tool song to dance to, it has such a drive to it, and, unlike a lot of others the structure and time signatures make it easier for this. I can't wait for the rest of your journey into Lataralus, 10,000 Days and Fear Inoculum, this has been a great series in watching someone dive deep into the rabbit hole!
Loving the intros! The way the songs marinate and make you explore different thinking is the best with Tool.
Thanks bro! 🤘
enjoying watching you take this approach to experiencing Tool. and that's what Tool is, not just music, but an experience. much love bro.
Thanks bro! 🤘
The first time I saw them live, this was the encore/final song. Talk about ending it with a bang. Really enjoying your reactions, cheers from Canada!
Cheers 🤘
Another thing, your reactions and insights are great! I can't wait for Tuesdays just to see your vid! I watch a lot, I mean a lot, of reactor channels for Tool. I put your reaction videos in my top 3!!! Great job, sir!! Keep em coming! I am here for the ride!
Much love bro! Glad you're enjoying them! Yeah a lot for reactors kind of gloss over them, probably cause the lyrics are hard to hear in most songs.
Love your interpretations. There’s so much to explore with Tool.
Third Eye is phenomenal. don't skip the Salival album. it was a live DVD they released but you can get audio
Salival was dual disk, CD & DVD, the EP being the mix of live and rarities while the DVD was a collections of their videos to that point
Maynard is your SPIRIT ANIMAL. Can't wait for your TAKES on PUSCIFER and A PERFECT CIRCLE. ✌️
For real man! That's the truth!! 🤘
Love watching your analysis and journey so much. It honestly only gets better. 🤘🏻
🔥🔥🔥
This album and the next album were such a part of my teenage life. Spiral Out and Keep Going!
Won a Grammy ‘97
Well deserved!
Awesome reaction! I was introduced to Bill Hicks with this album. So I go down the Bill Hicks rabbit hole and find the comedy album Arizona Bay, where he is describing the same cleansing of LA being flushed away. What makes it even more humorous to me is that Maynard lives in Arizona now lol! I just picture him waiting for any survivors that learned to swim making it to shore, and saying I warned you 😂. You should react to Maynard doc The Art of Hard Work 1-4. Dude is the ultimate multitasker. So motivational and inspiring.
#Tool #SpiralOut #ToolArmy #Aenema
you couldn't have said it better dude when you said '...yeah I can't even imagine how this album is going to end at this point...' correct! But we look forward to watching it :)
I'll see you then bro! 🤘
Great reaction. I took my kids to their first concert just before covid hit. Tool at Rod Laver arena in Melbourne. My eldest hadn't heard this song before and it was her favourite of the night. There's a reason this isn't mentioned as a favourite much and you're right - it only gets better. Killer track though 🤘 Thanks again Skullz, see you in a few days...
Much love 🤘
Just found you! Love your reactions.. watching people experience Tool for the first time is a hobby for me 😉 thank you for this! Also, you're adorable 🥰
Appreciate you 🙏❤ Glad you're enjoying the reactions 🤘
Man. Every album is great. Lateralus, the album, is another chapter in the Tool Journey that progresses the story excellently! Can't wait for that. Then 10,000 days! Omg. So much good shit to come!!
#ToolArmy #SpiralOut #Tool
@skullz Arizona Bay is a reference to Bill Hicks. The comedian, He talks of California crumbling by fault line into the sea leaving it to be "Arizona Bay"
And MOM is mother nature. Learn to swim in hopes as you say mother nature floods it all away. This song is my favorite and it took me 10years to really truly discover it. I never knew the lyrics always drown myself in the music only. Its the most epic diss track. Its amazing
Love your incredible outstanding breakdowns you rock love this thanku so much love and God bless always x
I've been listening to these songs for years and you've consistently made observations that never occured to me. Often they're healthier ways to view them than I do through my glass so darkly. I guess I just wanna say that you are very insightful, my dude. Thank you for these.
Loving the voyage so far, you have very good insight and watching you feel the same things I did when I first dove into Tool is very nostalgic and entertaining. Keep up the great work my man!
That's awesome man! Glad you're enjoying the journey with me 🤘🔥
TOOL is indeed the most organic and rewarding band I've ever heard. Really always enjoy hearing your perspective, man. Take care! 👍
Thanks bro! 🤘
hah Dude!! i think this is the best reaction from u ive ever seen!!! I love it! exactly, disdain for a particular city...I get flippin chills listening to this!!
Any fucking time
Any fucking day! 😀🤘🤘
🤘🤘🤘
Tool songs are deep
😩
Peace 🤘🇨🇦✌️
Peace ✌️
As a 42yo drummer that found tool in the early 90’s because my older brother’s band was the local band that opened when bigger heavy acts came through the clubs. This album has the best sounding tool drums imo.
Regarding skullz “how does Danny come up with this?” I taught myself how to play drums. My band in 00-05 had many drum bits where my learned colleagues would come to me and ask how I came up with certain parts. These are drummers I looked up to in my peer group. In hindsight I know why they asked, but in the moment I just felt that’s what was needed. I got about 7 drumming offers from that band. Feeling matters way more for original music.
Yes this song is more relevant today than ever with silicon valley included.
I think you're catching on pretty well to the album themes being a journey. Not just Maynard's journey, but a fundamentally archetypal human journey. I think that is what makes them so relatable, that even though the lyrics might have a specific origin, they are universal enough that most people can connect.
Exactly! 🤘🔥💯
@@Skullzrapper Not to influence your perception of the album themes but my personal theory is this:
Opiate (ep): the drug, the false beliefs, the toxic elements of your youth for that false high.
Undertow: the drug/addiction/behavior drags you down and your drowning and angry
Aenima: confirmed as the merging of "Anima" aka the primal soul, and "Enema" cleaning the shit out. So a soul cleansing, after your 'optiate' induced undertow.
Salival (live CD with covers, you should do this): salivating for more, wanting more from life (or just Tool fans wanting more music)
Lateralus: lateral (line) + us = line us up, straighten us out, find that deeper meaning that isn't a fake high.
10,000 Days: the 10,000 days Maynard's mom suffered after her aneurysm before her death, but keeping faith. So the struggle and trials you have as a person to maintain after "lining yourself up"
Fear Inoculum: you found a higher meaning and purpose, you made it through the trials and tribulations, now you are immune to fear and are strong enough to confront the world and your own mortality
I don't think they/Maynard sought to do this intentionally, I just think it's like a fundamental journey some go through. It is similar to many Jungian/universal archetypes but to me most closely resembles "The Hero" journey.
@@ChaseVonnegut I love your take on their discography… so on point and definitely a life journey. Thank you for sharing 😊🙏🏻
Great observations here. Looking at the perspective of the whole album as much as the context within an individual track is powerful
Exactly! Makes the whole experience richer 💯 Appreciate the comment!
Ya nailed it bro, always look forward to your take on Tool. Very insightful🤙✌️
Thanks my friend 🤘
Third Eye is gonna blow your mind. For me, it’s the song that begins to up the ante on how progressive they can actually get on through their Fear Inoculum album. Just over the top masterpieces in continuous succession from here on out.
Humble words of advice….let the song be in the drivers seat, you’ll get more out of it. It’s gonna be a little “different”.
Wonderful job again , glad your definitely in on this experience. Not to spoil anything but the last track is always the foreshadow of what is coming. Hoping to hear your prospective on that aspect alone between the closing tracks ( the gapping lotus experience to third eye ) Keeping your on your journey and hope your family continues to heal and grow
Appreciate that 🙏❤ We're working through it.
Please know, I thoroughly enjoy watching your experience and take on this bands music. I've been a Tool fan since late 90's, and the music instantly grabbed me. Im glad your finding it as pleasing as i do, and keep making reaction video's brother. You articulate some rather complex thoughts in such an easy to understand and clear manner. Very Kool!! Cheers!
DUDE. Watching the expression on your face on your first listen of AENEMA.... I'm almost jealous of you getting to hear it for the first time. I'm pretty sure I had the same look on my 16 year old face when this CD came out and I cranked it up in my shitty Pioneer car stereo.
This song has always had a place in my heart. When I was an angsty teen, it was obviously a great song. Then in my frustrated paycheck-to-paycheck life as a young adult, it was a great song to crank and sing away some anger. Now I'm in my early 40s and watching my country tear itself apart - and this song stays relevant. Just timeless songwriting.
You have some very interesting insights on not only the current song you're reviewing, but your thoughts on the overall narrative in the catalog.
Can't wait to see your mind be blown by, Third Eye! 👍🏽😏
BTW, when you get to it the trick to pronouncing Lateralus is the primary emphasis on the third syllable and the secondary emphasis on the first. 😁
Appreciate it man! Glad to have you along for the ride 💯
Gosh I need to make another cassette copy of this album for my auto. After 26 years they always clense . Aenima is in my top 5 favorite songs.
This has certainly been my favorite Tool song for long stretches of time.
BY FAR.....best tool reactions out there.....keep up the great work dude
I really appreciate that man! 🤘
@@Skullzrapper absolutely....i hope to see your subscriber base grow...good luck to you my friend
@Diesel Baits It's definitely been growing! Not as much as I'd like lol but I'm grateful! But watching the videos, liking, commenting, and subscribing all adds up to boosting me in the algorithm so just keep doing your part, i'll keep making the reactions, and the channel will keep growing. Much love!
Just another amazing song by Tool 💯🔥🚒💪👿
They are all my favorite
Yep you nailed it! Every song, even the 'not as great' ones are so engaging and rewarding that while I'm listening to it, it might as well be my favorite.
Also I love that you mentioned these albums so far relating to growth with in yourself and them being a really helpful aid because YES! And the Lateralus album has easily been the most "therapeutic" one for me as I've struggled in life and worked to mature myself these last 20 years.
Now for the song you just reacted to... I don't have a very visual imagination but when the guitars lift around the 5 minute mark I see in my mind grey clouds gently clearing to show a beautiful new dawn full of color and hope... until 5 minutes 30 when the darkest clouds imaginable quickly pull in and swirl as a tornado rips everything from the land as the song closes out. Its wicked!
Very cool visual! Yeah Tool has been a great aid for me! Helping me, as Maynard put it in speech he gave, "work with the friction." They are true artists 💯🤘
Next one’s gonna be a long episode
Aenima is one of my favourite Tool tracks, and while you could say this about most of their body of work, but this is one of the most unique songs from their discrography. It feels to me like such a straight forward song lyrics-wise, but the musicality of it all coming together is something that I have never heard in any other Tool song. There is many songs that I hold closer to my heart than this, but Aenima always hold a special place in it.
One more thing I wanted to shine on - Justin’s bass sounding like dark waters. Then Adam was sort of the water movement like swells and whitecaps. Totally paints that atmosphere for me. What was Danny’s percussion? Waves? Rocks? The Kraken?
And THEN the lyrics.
The main thing of "learn to swim" of course is to die drowning when LA slides into the ocean, which will hopefully happen soon, and serves as a metaphor for a larger reckoning which will also hopefully happen soon. Virtually all of modern society needs to "learn to swim."
As you progress on your TOOL journey, you will certainly realize that each album has its own personality of sorts. The angsty, frustrated, hopeless tone of Undertow brought a lot of anger, but it wasn't focused. It was pure rage.
This gave way to a still pissed off, but much more directed anger in Aenima. Consumerism, hypocrisy, and scars from the past are all targets. Eventually you will journey into a more philosophic, contemplative tone in Lateralus, and an even more reflective, personal vibe in 10,000 days.
Finally, Fear Inoculum brings something we haven't really heard from TOOL, hope. Hope in a better life and way of living. I'm excited to see what you bring as you continue this ride. Great job as always.
"fuck these dysfunctional insecure actresses" is the meanest and funniest lyric line from Tool, at least for me.
He's like "fuck everything", building a fat list of things and he still adds that at the very end, like the cherry on top. So mean, so unnecessary, so funny at the same time. I saw Tool live only once and AEnema was the highlight of the show for me. I wish they kept more of that dark humor as years passed. AEnima is my favorite album for that reason, it's Tool but with a tongue in cheek attitude, it's a very nice balance.
You still have my favorite Tool track to listen to next, so see you after that. Enjoy the ride!
Yeah I was not expecting that from such a nuanced album but it somehow makes all the sense in the world! I was rolling! 😂😂😂