Lateralus

by Tool

Overview

After an exhaustive five-year litigation battle between the band and their label management, Tool offer up the latest chapter in their musical self-discovery in Lateralus. Make no mistake, this is a prog rock record, reminiscent of King Crimson and Meddle-era Pink Floyd, with a hint of Rush mutated with Tool's signature sonic assault on the ears. Lateralus demands close listening from the first piece onward, as it becomes quickly apparent that this is not going to be an album one can listen to and accept at face value. Complex rhythm changes, haunting vocals, and an onslaught of changes in dynamics make this an album other so-called metal groups could learn from. While some compositions seem out of place, others fit together seamlessly, such as the 23-minute song cycle serving as the climax and resolution of the album. However, the album's most disturbing moment arrives at the end, with dissonant electronic noises placed randomly with a drum solo over a phone call to a talk show discussing the secrets behind Area 51, once again serving as a symbolic gesture from the band encouraging people not to take things at face value and to think for themselves. Overall, a solid, well-produced album from a band that never fails to deliver with each release. ~ Rob Theakston

Product Details

Release Date:	08/23/2005
Label:	Volcano Records
UPC:	0614223116013
Rank:	23462

Tracks

Disc 1

1. The Grudge
2. Eon Blue Apocalypse
3. The Patient
4. Mantra
5. Schism
6. Parabol
7. Parabola
8. Disposition

Disc 2

9. Ticks & Leeches
10. Lateralus
11. Reflection
12. Triad
13. Faaip De Oiad

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Tool   Primary Artist

Technical Credits

Tool   Producer
Vince DeFranco   Engineer
Justin Chancellor   Composer
Maynard James Keenan   Composer
David Bottrill   Mixing,Engineer,Producer
Danny Carey   Composer
Adam Jones   Composer,Art Direction
Alex Grey   Illustrations
Mackie Osborne   Design