"Maynard was very angry in his first album, in this one he's been kinda getting out of that" This song: "About that..."

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.

This song brings me joy. Watching this song bring joy to others brings me joy. I am joyous.

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 💯

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.

No bad song in their discography ;-) Just a few strange intermissions between extremely well written masterpieces.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What can I say? Skullz + Tool = Epic reactions! #ToolArmy #Spiralout

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.

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)

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.

Amazing intro to the song (and outro). These are the types of conversations I wish I were able to have with my buddies.

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.

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.

I love the recap you do. It’s something that holds you apart from other reaction channels. Very well done. 🤘

Keeping coming Skullz another great one I’m getting excited the grudge is around the corner.

Man, I love your Tool reactions. I am waiting for them as a birthday present!

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!!

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

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😂

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!!!

I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this one.

I like to think of the outro to this song as a rain dance, with the drums and the chanting. So good. ⛈️

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!

Greatest band EVER! Keep spiraling out young man. 🌀👆🇺🇲🤘

The fact that Adam and Justin can keep up with Danny is truly amazing.

Tool songs are deep 😩

I've learned a lot about my favorite band (T👀L) from your reactions, interpretations and reading of the lyrics 💁‍♂️ Thank you, Brother 🤝

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!

This song never gets old for me. Every time I hear it I get amped!

Maynard is your SPIRIT ANIMAL. Can't wait for your TAKES on PUSCIFER and A PERFECT CIRCLE. ✌️

Killed it again, brother. You're going to take-off, it's only a matter of time. You've got my support!

Wait for it....7 years...Maynard is also behind his own bubble

Toxic sludge! is spot on bro. Perfect!!

Enjoying the reactions through your TOOL experience. Thank you for sharing, I get to go through it again with you.

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!

This album and the next album were such a part of my teenage life. Spiral Out and Keep Going!

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!

enjoying watching you take this approach to experiencing Tool. and that's what Tool is, not just music, but an experience. much love bro.

If you look at the CD case when you tilt it you see California break off into the ocean hence Arizona Bay

"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!

Love your interpretations. There’s so much to explore with Tool.

Love your incredible outstanding breakdowns you rock love this thanku so much love and God bless always x

Love watching your analysis and journey so much. It honestly only gets better. 🤘🏻

Third Eye is phenomenal. don't skip the Salival album. it was a live DVD they released but you can get audio

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

Loving the intros! The way the songs marinate and make you explore different thinking is the best with Tool.

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 🥰

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!!

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 :)

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!

One of those songs you wish wasn’t still relevant but here we are maybe even more so

Sup bro! Let's goooo 🤘😎

Excited for your videos of tool as they come out, I’ve been watching since prison sex, I think youre prying it open..

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.

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!

Lookin' fresh, Skullz. :)

Ya nailed it bro, always look forward to your take on Tool. Very insightful🤙✌️

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.

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.

This song is just Tool flexing, making sure you remember they are a fantastic rock band. Not every song needs deep meaning and purpose. Sometimes the purpose is just the energy it brings.

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.

Another great reaction!

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.

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!

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...

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.

They are all my favorite

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

@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

Great observations here. Looking at the perspective of the whole album as much as the context within an individual track is powerful

This has certainly been my favorite Tool song for long stretches of time.

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!!!!

#ToolArmy #SpiralOut #Tool

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.

#Tool #SpiralOut #ToolArmy #Aenema

Yes this song is more relevant today than ever with silicon valley included.

Again great breakdown, Just a note there is no Bay in Arizona unless LA is flushed asway :)

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

BY FAR.....best tool reactions out there.....keep up the great work dude

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.

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!!

Awesome reactions dude. Here for the ride. “Keep going”

Dude you're in for quite a ride with third eye! Really sets tone for their next album lateralus

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.

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!

Just another amazing song by Tool 💯🔥🚒💪👿

Ironic you mentioned being enlightened on this one! What a segue to the rest of their catalog!

I hope the 10,000 Days album is next !!

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. 😁

Great, intelligent review of a great, intelligent song.

Peace 🤘🇨🇦✌️

someone probably told you, but this is based on a bill hicks bit where he talks about how la is sinking and that when it finally breaks off, all that will be left is nice peaceful Arizona bay. he also mixed it with the Egyptian endtimes story of the earth returning to water.

Been waiting for this all day may man!! Now I’m wondering if the straight forward message sits the same as HWAP?

Wow at the end already. Another great incisive reaction, love the association of anxiety and our Third Eye. You bring nuggets of thought for us. Buckle up Third eye is a sonic swamp. ✌️