How to Fully Experience the Music of Tool

Tool is an alternative band that plays intense music with an emphasis on the lyrics. To fully experience their music, you may have to broaden your tastes and learn how to listen in what might be a whole new way.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Gather your favorite Tool music; "Ænima" and "Lateralus" are recommended. Find a location where you can concentrate on the music without interruption from outside sounds or people. Turn down the lights and burn some candles. Turn the volume up to a reasonable level and close your eyes.

2. View some artwork by Alex Gray. Compose poetry, draw or engage in other creative activities while listening to Tool. See what kind of medium the music inspires. Some great Tool songs to listen to while being creative are "Hush," "Parabola" and "Sober."

3. Listen to the music before and after reading the lyrics. Listening to the music before reading the lyrics allows your mind to interpret the song according to your own experiences. Listening to the album after reading the lyrics allows you to put the tone and purpose of the song into perspective.

4. Attend a Tool concert. Experiencing the music live exposes you to better sounds and improvisations you won't here on recordings. You also might go backstage to meet the band.

5. Download Tool ringtones to your phone. This can be done through your cell phone Internet access account or online at a variety of ringtone sites, like Music Tools, MP3.com or iMusic.com.