Fear Inoculum
by Tool
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Aug 30, 2019
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 733 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 581 out of 733
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 733
  3. Negative: 109 out of 733
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  1. ServoPedes
    Sep 1, 2019
    9
    This is quintessential Tool, it feels like nothing yet everything we have heard from them.

    This album requires patience from listeners, since each composition is filled with intricacies and complexities, and lengths that borders on self-indulgence but doesn't quite go there. Each song is unique, which Invincible and Descending being the most alike (and that's a bit of a stretch), and I    This is quintessential Tool, it feels like nothing yet everything we have heard from them.

    This album requires patience from listeners, since each composition is filled with intricacies and complexities, and lengths that borders on self-indulgence but doesn't quite go there. Each song is unique, which Invincible and Descending being the most alike (and that's a bit of a stretch), and I find myself loving each track for very different reasons.

    The bonus tracks/interludes are alright, interesting at best but with no true replay value in my opinion, unless I'm listening to the whole album from start to finish again. (PS, CCT is not a bonus track.)

    The album itself moves forward naturally towards its gargantuan and jaw-dropping finale, 7empest, one of the tooliest Tool songs they have ever made. It feels like it encompasses every phase and aspect of their discography and sound since Opiate, all crammed up into one hell of a banger track.

    I am already seeing some people expressing deep dissapointment with this album, but it is my opinion that the more I read their reviews, the more it seems that it has more to do with their own expectations of it instead of taking it for what it is. Again, just my opinion. However, I remember when 10,000 Days was released and some fans were expressing similar dissatisfaction, same with Lateralus. Each album stands on its own, and in time Fear Inoculum will too.    … Expand
  2. rarefaction
    Sep 1, 2019
    9
    This is a prog album, by some certified masters of the genre. I don't think the detractors complaining about song length realize this. No one should be allowed to review a tool album before it has been out for at least a week since, much like the rest of their catalog, this music evolves in the ear and mind of the listener with each listen and takes time to fully evaluate. All that beingThis is a prog album, by some certified masters of the genre. I don't think the detractors complaining about song length realize this. No one should be allowed to review a tool album before it has been out for at least a week since, much like the rest of their catalog, this music evolves in the ear and mind of the listener with each listen and takes time to fully evaluate. All that being said this is an incredible album! The production is great and it takes some delightful, unexpected turns at times. Other times I hear strong echoes of Tool's previous material. give it 10 listens and then decide what you think.… Expand
  3. Pucrettub
    Sep 17, 2019
    3
    Let me start by saying that most of this album sounds like the softer songs in the 10,000 Days album. That's okay, figuring the band was probably considering their live tours & wanted a catalog that wouldn't require the energy of 20-year-olds. That's fine, but let me explain my low rating for this album:

    Plainly put, it's a tad bland. Not because it's slow; there are current bands    Let me start by saying that most of this album sounds like the softer songs in the 10,000 Days album. That's okay, figuring the band was probably considering their live tours & wanted a catalog that wouldn't require the energy of 20-year-olds. That's fine, but let me explain my low rating for this album:

    Plainly put, it's a tad bland. Not because it's slow; there are current bands like Mogwai that do it successfully for me. As others have said, the songs really do blend together. There's no energy, there's no experimentation, and the vocals really don't add anything to the songs. I've listened to it a dozen times as I just had a lone 32 hour road trip, and I've read the lyrics. Meh. Now, I wasn't a huge fan of 10,000 Days when compared to Lateralus and Aenima, but that was just based off how many songs I really loved. The Pot, Vicarious, and Right in Two were great. I "liked" Jambi, Rosetta Stoned, and 10,000 Days. They weren't great for me, but they stood out for several reasons. Lateralus had amazing songs and was probably the sharpest album for me. Aenima, on the other hand, also had amazing songs, but succeeded because it had some experimental songs that ended up being worth so much more than the sum of their parts.

    This album breaks no new ground, showcases no new skill that I assumed the band had been perfecting over the last 13 years, and lacks personality other than it being distinctly "Tool". But I argue that any distinct sounds here were already covered in 10K Days, and a tad bit in Lateralus. That means they failed to progress as a band in my ears. I know Keenan has two other bands, but listening to his last decade with those bands, I felt like he wasn't using up any of the same energy that he expends with Tool, so I was hopeful. I also read that Carey, Jones, and Chancellor had been working on this album long before Keenan jumped on, so I was expecting so much more variety and skill than what I am hearing.

    Sure, this may not be a "bad" album compared to anything else that has come out the last decade, but I can't help but feel disappointed. The trajectory Tool was headed to, from Opiate, to Undertow, to Aenima, and to Lateralus was something I still have yet to see from any other band in the world. They took a small dip with 10K Days, but I still hold it in high regard. Fear Inoculum took a deeper dip this time, and the fear that this will probably be the last Tool album we will ever get is absolutely heart breaking to me. I'm still a Tool fan and have their past catalog, but waiting 13 years for this is crushing in a way I can't put into words. I'm happy some people like it, and can understand some of the arguments against what I said here, but I dare some of the fans of this album to answer this:

    Is there a song on this album that can top Sober, Prison Sex, Stinkfist, Forty Six & 2, H., Pu5hit, Aenima, Third Eye, The Grudge, Schism, Parabola, Ticks & Leeches, Lateralus, Reflection, Vicarious, The Pot, or Right in Two? Because although I will keep listening to Fear Inoclum to see if I can pull anything more out of it, I can say with absolute certainly that I will not find a single song that can beat any on that list.

    My 3/10 rating is based off Tool the band, not as a standalone album

    *EDIT 9/16/19: After another ten days with this album, I think I have a clearer picture of why I don't really care for it compared to their previous works. Instrumental-wise, it is a very sharp showing, although lacking distinct variety on it's own. I think the issue, then, lies with Maynard. I think if Adam, Justin, and Danny knew how little Maynard was going to contribute, they may have shouldered the "variety" burden on themselves & would have given us some more variety in the songs. If you look at a song like Pu5hit, take out the vocals, then paste a vocal track from this album, I think it would be clearer on what happened. There are several previous Tool songs you could do this with & get the same results, like Reflection or The Pot. The latter song rocks on it's own, but Maynard's twist on it makes it stick out that much further in my ears.

    I don't normally read lyrics for any band, as I like to hear what I hear. But I decided to pull up the lyrics for Fear Inoculum & read them side-to-side with their previous three albums, & I can clearly see the lack of effort from Maynard. He is still a full on master in his field, so it's a little hard to offer criticism, but so much from the previous three albums has more depth & variety in them lyric-wise. Reading them out loud, I'm scratching my head as to how Maynard turned them into catchy hooks. I don't think very many singers alive today could churn out his melody with the lyrics from the previous three albums. With the lyrics from FI, they seem a bit flatter &, dare I say, easier. I think there are several singers alive today that could match his melodies with the FI lyrics presently.    … Expand
  4. Toondude10
    Aug 30, 2019
    5
    Not gonna lie, but this is really boring. There's just such a heavy emphasis and focus the the interludes, intros and outros that they completely overstay their welcome and make the album a complete chore to listen to. That being said, 7empest absolutely rules and might be one of Tool's best songs to date. Shame the rest of the album can't seem to follow suit, considering I was excitedNot gonna lie, but this is really boring. There's just such a heavy emphasis and focus the the interludes, intros and outros that they completely overstay their welcome and make the album a complete chore to listen to. That being said, 7empest absolutely rules and might be one of Tool's best songs to date. Shame the rest of the album can't seem to follow suit, considering I was excited to hear this.… Expand
  5. okc_rocker
    Sep 1, 2019
    7
    After listening to each track twenty times. Tool sounds just as amazing as ever. I feel that the goal of the album wasn't to really explore or try anything entirely different, but to focus on creating that typical transcending experience that you'd expect Tool to give us. I didn't hear any new or truly outstanding unique riffs by either Adam (guitar) or Justin (bass), and that's slightlyAfter listening to each track twenty times. Tool sounds just as amazing as ever. I feel that the goal of the album wasn't to really explore or try anything entirely different, but to focus on creating that typical transcending experience that you'd expect Tool to give us. I didn't hear any new or truly outstanding unique riffs by either Adam (guitar) or Justin (bass), and that's slightly disappointing. However Adam gets a chance to shine toward the end of Descending, which is great, because Adam is the weakest member of the band (just my opinion). But he works well with Tool, and that's what matters. Danny (drums) is clearly in the spotlight of the album. His odd and mathematical drumming style is just as prominent as ever. His work in Pneuma is phenomenal. He gets an entire track (Chocolate Chip Trip) to show off his talent. I'm not sure how I feel about the sounds chosen for that particular track. It's.... wildly different. Maynard gives a decent performance. He didn't have that many lyrics. Most of what he sang was just the same lines over and over. That's not a terrible thing, but it's a little disappointing. He uses his angelic like tone for what seems like the entire album. I didn't hear any rough sounds or screams that Maynard has given us in his previous work. 7empest is probably the closest he gets to that. In my opinion nothing in the album really stands out. Don't expect anything even close to the level of Vicarious, The Grudge, Lateralus, 10,000 Days, Ænema, Right in Two, Parabola, etc..

    As someone who loves Tool, I give the album, Fear Inoculum, a 7/10. My review is based on Tool's previous work, not comparing it to other artists. I've ordered 2 digital copies and a physical copy of the album. And I'll keep listening for years to come.    … Expand
  6. MartyG
    Aug 31, 2019
    9
  7. Phuckedison369
    Sep 10, 2019
    3
    I have a lot to say for one feeling so utterly speechless. I - like so many others - have been anticipating this album for far too many years. Tool is (was?) a band like no other, seeming to have been molded by some Cosmic Force and given the gift - in four parts to make the Whole - to reach beyond the confines of third dimensional illusion and into the limitless fabric of existence. And,I have a lot to say for one feeling so utterly speechless. I - like so many others - have been anticipating this album for far too many years. Tool is (was?) a band like no other, seeming to have been molded by some Cosmic Force and given the gift - in four parts to make the Whole - to reach beyond the confines of third dimensional illusion and into the limitless fabric of existence. And, from the Sacred Frequencies that are available to all yet accessed by so few, Tool brought to the world an extra-dimensional experience through a beautifully organic succession of albums that aptly reflect the Evolution of Journey: Undertow drops one off in the woods; Aenima is the road one finds after wandering for months through the density of Undertow. There is no light pollution on Aenima Road...there is only the flash of starlight and nebula above, and the SHINE in the distance that is Lateralus, when once reached, one finds an open door to all the potential and limitlessness that is Consciousness; Lateralus is the “dark matter” that waits just beyond the exit-point event horizon; Lateralus is the Sacred Geometry of music. Raw potential of manifestation. 10,000 Days begins back at ground-level, which is indeed a bit jarring after the spectacular view from Lateralus (to await the duplication of such heights is not fair to the band, nor to the fan’s own psyche and serves only to smother both with the gratuitous nature of expectation). So, 10,000 days is what it is: a return to “reality” and the mundane, the pain, the hypocrisy, and the healing that ensues. But, Fear Inoculum...this album is in VERY large part, the anti-Tool. While it seems that Justin and Danny are trying to establish the Sacred Frequencies that define Tool, it also seems that Adam Jones has completely lost his access to the inter and extra-dimensional molds from which his elemental contributions were once formed. Either that, or he chose to completely abandon them altogether in favor of...of what? Honestly, I’m unclear. I am saddened, perplexed, and unclear. Jones’ guitar sound (pre-Fear Inoculum) is so, so much of the extra-sensory vibrational construct that is Tool. The element belonging to Tool’s MJK is almost entirely absent on this album. (Btw, it’s incredibly hard not to feel like a garbage-troll’s slimy farts when leaving a review like this. … Expand
  8. MargotMan86
    Aug 30, 2019
    0
    The fact that Lateralus, 10,000 days, and Aenima have worse scores than this is pathetic and laughable. And please, fanboys, don't give me this 'If you don't like it, you don't understand it' crap. I challenge you to go back and listen to the rest of the catalog, then listen to this and tell me this is better. Spare me. SPARE ME! The riffs are repetitive. Maynard is boring, lacking anyThe fact that Lateralus, 10,000 days, and Aenima have worse scores than this is pathetic and laughable. And please, fanboys, don't give me this 'If you don't like it, you don't understand it' crap. I challenge you to go back and listen to the rest of the catalog, then listen to this and tell me this is better. Spare me. SPARE ME! The riffs are repetitive. Maynard is boring, lacking any energy or engagement. The lyrics try to hard, and fail to explore depths the way their other albums do. Okay, so this album is about growth, or expelling inner demons, or whatever you want to say about it. Grow up. It is boring. It is nothing special. It fails. Its a failure IT FAILS ITS A FAILURE. And having the courage to express this makes me a better Tool fan than you, because I don't settle for mediocrity and convince myself it's good because I am supposed to like it.… Expand
  9. Juneauz
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Another masterpiece from the gods of alt-prog. Rich, layered, profound, Tool is an esoteric experience that will stick with you for the rest of your life. The best to ever do it.
  10. Xaire
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    I'm a giant tool fanboy, so I was going to like this album no matter what. But, with music this good and the band being this tight. This became one of my favorites.
  11. zilt0id
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Magnificent! Incredible work, totally introspective and marvelous. Maybe the best metal album of the last 10 years.
  12. Anodynum
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    This album is an absolute masterpiece. Tool has never sounded better. Yet again, they have transcended any genre and made their music into something that must be experienced.
  13. Psychokrunk
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Only album I’ve ever cried to. Wasn’t anything specific that made me cry, just happened. It’s a masterpiece.
  14. t2dc
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    An incredible return by an incredible band. Building on their catalogue, it's all here but with even more depth, song after song. Will happily wait another 13 years for something this good. The most TOOL, TOOL has ever been.
  15. rarekly
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Masterful. Greatly rewards multiple listens. May not be to everyone’s individual taste, but the musicianship on display here cannot be denied. The world is a better place with this music in it.
  16. BreadCondiments
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Overall just fantastic album. Their progression as a band only gets better.
  17. JohnnyHercules
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    The ensemble of Tool is like Swiss clockwork: Every song is composed out little genius sonic ideas, whether it’s the drummer’s spastic tabla sound, the singer’s pizzicato chorus (reminiscent of The Scorpions somehow) or the guitarist and bass player echoing each others parts, just to name a few examples. All these sonic miniatures tightly alternate together, like the complications inside aThe ensemble of Tool is like Swiss clockwork: Every song is composed out little genius sonic ideas, whether it’s the drummer’s spastic tabla sound, the singer’s pizzicato chorus (reminiscent of The Scorpions somehow) or the guitarist and bass player echoing each others parts, just to name a few examples. All these sonic miniatures tightly alternate together, like the complications inside a Swiss clock. Tool has come to the point they simply have nothing to prove. All four of the musicians are on top of their craftsmanship and have full control of their music, channeling their imagination into sound.… Expand
  18. TheApostropheEx
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    The digital version is a 9 because all it adds is unnecessary filler tracks. The physical version is a 10. I wish I had heard the physical version first. The filler tracks put a somewhat bad taste in my mouth upon first listen.
  19. Thrawn997
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    The best Tool album yet! There isn't a weak song on the entire album - even the segues feel necessary.
  20. JOAODAEGA
    Aug 30, 2019
    6
    This album is great piece of sound for the ears, if you can stay in there... I cannot. Boring.
  21. Mr26point2
    Aug 31, 2019
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It twists and turns a lot of the old. The album sounds like a melting pot of all that came before it. Which is fine, just feels more like a "family reunion" than a new addition to the family. As with all family reunions its ok for a bit but eventually it can go on too long. This is very much a jam album.

    CONS
    - it lacks some oomph or feeling. There is not a lot of feeling in most of the songs. Invincible for instance, the way the vocals are delivered and how they sound "suppressed" doesnt match the tone of the song. The live recorded version on youtube with a million views gave me goosebumps because it had feeling. Studio version...not so much.

    - the songs can be a few mins too long, again very much a jam album.
    - it feels reserved, lacks a bit of identity.

    PROS- its TOOL

    songs in order of worst to best-(I agree with Proggroyper's ranking)

    7. CCTrip (6.5/10) (this is fairly irritating and have no problem skipping it, its noeon blue apocalypse)
    6. Fear Inoculum (7.5/10) (7.5 in its truest form, not good but not bad)
    5. Invinsible (8/10) (this could have been the best song on the album if it only had some life put into it, too weak to be "invincible")
    4. Descending (8.8/10) (very well done, adds more energy than invincible, but doesnt use its best sounds long enough and goes on for too long)
    3. Culling Voices (9/10) (beautiful and haunting, begging to be alive)
    2. 7empest (9.5/10) (la creme de la creme TOOL here, amazing)
    1. Pneuma (10/10) (HANDS DOWN THE BEST ON THE ALBUM, I would expect it to be the next single, I can see me listening to this for years to come)

    Love me some TOOL....but it's a 6    … Expand
  22. Kevinthewoods
    Aug 31, 2019
    6
    While it certainly has moments of genius, it just takes way too long to get to those moments. Incredibly self indulgent album. Tool needs to trim the fat badly.
  23. Alejandropa
    Aug 31, 2019
    6
    I was expecting so much more. Good to see this album has been doing great!..
  24. WAIYANLINHTET
    Aug 30, 2019
    5
    There is something missing in this album. I can say this is a pure art. However, the entire album is full of work what the artist wanted to describe. They probably created this without paying attention what the consumers (fans) want. If you love to listen raw music from any artist, this album is for you even though you're gonna feel boring in some songs. But for a fan, I honestly don'tThere is something missing in this album. I can say this is a pure art. However, the entire album is full of work what the artist wanted to describe. They probably created this without paying attention what the consumers (fans) want. If you love to listen raw music from any artist, this album is for you even though you're gonna feel boring in some songs. But for a fan, I honestly don't want to recommend this album. But I know you will listen. But it might be just once, or twice.… Expand
  25. inkblowout
    Sep 1, 2019
    3
    I feel that this album has been rated too high for it's hype and anticipation from Tool fans for 13 years. But had this been released 3-5 years after 10,000 Days.. people would be disappointed. This entire album feels like a regular Tool album.. you got your interlude fillers, 10+ minute songs, styles of playing remains the same and there are elements of Progressive Metal also there.I feel that this album has been rated too high for it's hype and anticipation from Tool fans for 13 years. But had this been released 3-5 years after 10,000 Days.. people would be disappointed. This entire album feels like a regular Tool album.. you got your interlude fillers, 10+ minute songs, styles of playing remains the same and there are elements of Progressive Metal also there.

    But quality over quantity, I feel that they made 10+ minute songs because "they can" in this album's case. Every song is over 10+ minutes long to draw out overextended instrumentals with little to no buildup, no climax or nothing. Other progressive rock/metal songs in the 70s to current times told a story within their songs or it felt like an adventure. Fear inoculum felt like nothing to me, it just droned on and on when I thought something good was going to come up. 10,000 Days was a much better album than this, 10,000 Days had flair, it had something to come back to. The only song I want to come back to is 7empest, which surprisingly it's the longest song in the album but it actually felt like an adventure because the instrumental composition was really good.

    I think if they cut a couple of unnecessary sections off and lowered it by 3-4 minutes, it would actually be more tolerable to listen to and it can still retain their complexity that the TOOL fanbase likes. (look at Aenima for example.) But with these 10+ min songs feels like a Tangerine Dream album but Metal. Also just remove the fillers for godsakes and ESPECIALLY "Chocolate Chip Trip." which is probably the worst song I've listened to. Sounds like Yoko Ono's terrible songs she's produced back then.

    For once Adam Jones' talent is finally showcased in a tool album. He's always been kinda there outshined by Danny, Justin and Maynard in the previous albums until this one and man he does kick ass in this album.    … Expand
  26. Jotak
    Aug 30, 2019
    6
    While I can appreciate the superb architecture and revolutionary engineering of the Si-o-se Pol and the Stari Most, eventually I want to get off the bloody bridge.
  27. Bazza
    Sep 1, 2019
    6
    I think anyone giving this a perfect 10 are lying to themselves. It's obviously a good album, but are you really going to put it in the same tier as Undertow or Ænima? It is probably as good as 10,000 days at very best, but definitely not better than Lateralus and certainly not close to the aforementioned two.

    Anyone who listened to Invincible or Descending live (I saw them in June)    I think anyone giving this a perfect 10 are lying to themselves. It's obviously a good album, but are you really going to put it in the same tier as Undertow or Ænima? It is probably as good as 10,000 days at very best, but definitely not better than Lateralus and certainly not close to the aforementioned two.

    Anyone who listened to Invincible or Descending live (I saw them in June) will surely think the studio versions are underwhelming, especially Descending which is absolutely tame in comparison to the live version. Live it's infinitely more powerful, louder and faster paced than on the album.

    The take outs from this album, for me, are the songs Fear Inoculum, Pneuma, Culling Voices and maybe 7empest, but I was disappointed with the rest. In any case 4 of the 10 tracks are actually filler (Litanie, Legion, CCT and Mocking Beat), which is a poor return for such an anticipated album. We may as well just class the album as an EP in the same vein as Opiate because that had 6 songs and so does this effectively.

    The instrumentals and production is top notch, although Descending and Invincible are bitterly disappointing when compared to the live versions. If you played both songs in live and then studio, any real Tool fan would find it difficult to disagree with me. Also, Maynard sounds like he's singing for APC more than Tool.

    Track ratings:

    1. Culling Voices
    2. Fear Inoculum
    3. Pneuma
    4. 7empest
    5. Descending (would be 1st if it sounded the same as the live versions)
    6. Invincible (would be 2nd if it sounded the same as the live versions)

    (not reviewing the filler)

    Overall decent, but no where near close to their prime (Undertow, Ænima).    … Expand
  28. renbern19
    Sep 8, 2019
    0
    This album is their worst. Such a let down. This album could go straight to the bin.
  29. Coastal2009
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Amazing album. I can’t say worth the wait because I never want to wait 13 years for another Tool album again.
  30. ThankYouCity
    Aug 31, 2019
    5
    With a sound that mixes the rhythms of 10,000 Days with styling of APC's Thirteenth Step Tools latest offering hits hard and will please long time fans but with song lengths of 11minutes on average it may be a hard sell for new listeners.
  31. Abbiepup44
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    This is maybe the album of the decade. From start to end it’s one hell of a journey. The talent level is unparalleled with the “rock” being put out today. Perfection, I have literally no clue how a tool fan gives this album a zero, it’s mind boggling.
  32. flametail23
    Sep 7, 2019
    7
    Far from the band's best work but still a solid effort with plenty of complex timings and interesting instrumentation for fans to gush at. Maynard's vocals are, as always, brilliant, but the three sound scape tracks that are included on one version of the album honestly ruin the flow of the project as a whole. These sound scapes are boring and unnecessary and the album would be much betterFar from the band's best work but still a solid effort with plenty of complex timings and interesting instrumentation for fans to gush at. Maynard's vocals are, as always, brilliant, but the three sound scape tracks that are included on one version of the album honestly ruin the flow of the project as a whole. These sound scapes are boring and unnecessary and the album would be much better with them removed.… Expand
  33. macq
    Sep 1, 2019
    9
    This is not better than Lateralus. But it is huge. Really one of their best. It’s a psychedelic beast. Cheers
  34. robomovies
    Sep 11, 2019
    10
    A true work of art, well worth the wait. Longtime Tool fans will get it and love it, while those just hopping on the bandwagon will complain about the length of the songs, the interludes, etc....same as it’s always been with Tool albums. Hoping for more new music relatively soon.
  35. kaspito
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    Initially, I wasn't very impressed. But because of the complexity, the differences in their sound and the way they use dynamics that's something that can be a seminar alone, I needed some time to synchronize with their universe. Oh boy, what a place to be. 10/10 they're driving music forward.
  36. Distortionist
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Absolute masterpiece of musicianship. Such a treat in this day and age of 10 second attention spans. TOOL are messengers. The music transcends and if you spent time with it you'll see this as well.
  37. 61jh
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Incredible album. 13 years in the making and real true artistry. Best album of the decade, by far. Take a listen and enjoy.
  38. MmTro
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Absolutely superb album. The compositions are masterfully constructed. This is a technical gem with all four members showcasing equally to create one of the best albums to come out in any genre in a number of years. This is a headphone album that requires patience and an open mind. It isn’t about radio friendly hooks and catchy lyrics it is a masterclass in technique and musical exploration.
  39. mmat8
    Sep 2, 2019
    9
    Not a fan of Tool but I listened to their previous albums and I think the hardcore Tool fans should be happy they put out this album after 13 years because I think they matured in that 13 years in lyrics matter. You should always listen to Tool's album thousands of times and dig deep into their lyrics to find deeper meaning. I enjoyed listening to this album but interludes makes the albumNot a fan of Tool but I listened to their previous albums and I think the hardcore Tool fans should be happy they put out this album after 13 years because I think they matured in that 13 years in lyrics matter. You should always listen to Tool's album thousands of times and dig deep into their lyrics to find deeper meaning. I enjoyed listening to this album but interludes makes the album weird :D Would listen to this 10/10… Expand
  40. virgilh
    Sep 1, 2019
    3
    I'm sorry but this sounds like a band trying to rip off the "Tool sound" in a cheap way, rather then Tool being themselves. It feels forced, not natural, like they had to fulfill a contract or something. To be honest I didn't expect it to be like this... they always went full force and expressed themselves 100% but now it seems they have no more juice. I feel bad because I'm a big fan :(
  41. MeeranQureshi
    Oct 5, 2019
    0
    One of the worst Metal albums I've ever heard.Painfully awful.Bland,boring and really painful to even finish one song.I don't mind lengthy songs but it was so boring. 13 years for this?Nah!
    Embarrassment to the metal music community.
  42. Mineral4
    Aug 31, 2019
    0
    Such a waste of time. I hope they comeback with better than this album, if they can
  43. Howard2k3k
    Sep 1, 2019
    0
    I love Tool and they're my favorite band, but this just doesn't do it for me. After listening through the album about 10 times I've come to terms with it. Very unfortunate.
    A lot of it has to do with the mixing. It sounds very flat and lifeless and lacks that "oomph". Also, the majority of the songs feel drawn out and lack cohesion. It's like the song should have ended at 6-7 minutes but    I love Tool and they're my favorite band, but this just doesn't do it for me. After listening through the album about 10 times I've come to terms with it. Very unfortunate.
    A lot of it has to do with the mixing. It sounds very flat and lifeless and lacks that "oomph". Also, the majority of the songs feel drawn out and lack cohesion. It's like the song should have ended at 6-7 minutes but the band keeps jamming for another 5. I don't mind long and progressive songs that experiment and expand as long as it's interesting. Rosetta Stoned and Wings For Marie/10.000 Days are prime examples of 10 minutes+ songs done right.
    I don't give a **** about the lack of screams from Maynard which seems to be a common complaint. What he brings to this album is solid. Wish he sang more, but oh well.    … Expand
  44. RickNowells
    Sep 1, 2019
    0
    Why would you took 13 years to make this? I've been a fan of TOOL for so long and they came out with this? The statement was not enough.
  45. Jjgrant
    Aug 31, 2019
    0
    Old stuff was better...I miss the good old days of tool not this stuff, it could've been so much better
  46. A5AP_Mark
    Aug 30, 2019
    6
    Great music and lyrics actually mean things which is always good but 10 min. a song is too much. Don't listen to if you're trying not to fall asleep. 13 years I waited and 13.000 days is what I got.
  47. Boban
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    13 years of wait is well rewarded. I listened Fear Inoculum more then 50 times before album was out and it is perfect song. 10 minutes feels like 2. Sam is with album. It has everything I wanted from Tool album but more mature. When you have such recognizable sound like Tool it is very hard to create something new but not to fat away from the sound that everyone expect from you. And Tool13 years of wait is well rewarded. I listened Fear Inoculum more then 50 times before album was out and it is perfect song. 10 minutes feels like 2. Sam is with album. It has everything I wanted from Tool album but more mature. When you have such recognizable sound like Tool it is very hard to create something new but not to fat away from the sound that everyone expect from you. And Tool did just that. Great album in every aspect… Expand
  48. Jes1310
    Apr 16, 2020
    10
    Fear Inoculum sounds like TOOL, the feeling, the sounds, the production, the visuals are all TOOL. I do not think this will make the TOON fanbase grow, because this is not their most accessible album. But then again the hype surrounding this record has been overwhelming, and that might lead new followers to TOOL.
    Fear Inoculum demands a lot from the listener, and the 10+ minutes song are    Fear Inoculum sounds like TOOL, the feeling, the sounds, the production, the visuals are all TOOL. I do not think this will make the TOON fanbase grow, because this is not their most accessible album. But then again the hype surrounding this record has been overwhelming, and that might lead new followers to TOOL.
    Fear Inoculum demands a lot from the listener, and the 10+ minutes song are all capable of mesmerizing the listener if the person listening is patient. Patience might be not be the thing in 2019, but try it, and you will be rewarded.

    Personally I think the songs are awesome and much better than I had hoped and for me it adds a lot to the legacy of TOOL.    … Expand
  49. Jugmonkey
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Outstanding from from to back. If you're a Tool fan it definitely delivers. One of the greatest bands to ever deliver the hard rock goods. 7empest is 15:43 of head crushing goodness.
  50. djangojimi
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Tool is best at being Tool; they are always supremely idiosyncratic and true to their own sound as the classic 4-piece band in the mold of Sabbath and Zeppelin (and keeping the flame alive for the sound they created and which has been emulated countless times since Opiate/Undertow). Regardless of their absence or a casual fan’s opinion about A Perfect Circle or Puscifer, this album isTool is best at being Tool; they are always supremely idiosyncratic and true to their own sound as the classic 4-piece band in the mold of Sabbath and Zeppelin (and keeping the flame alive for the sound they created and which has been emulated countless times since Opiate/Undertow). Regardless of their absence or a casual fan’s opinion about A Perfect Circle or Puscifer, this album is another perfect crystallization of Tool’s ethos: heaviness, thoughtfulness, turning dismay or confusion into beautiful art. Favorite tracks of mine are 7empest, Pneuma, Fear Inoculum, one of the coolest drum solo songs put down as a studio album track (Chocolate Chip Trip)...aw hell, the whole album. Users or “fans” who express boredom or dismay that Tool haven’t fulfilled some fantastical expectations from a 13 year studio album hiatus should ask themselves this: what did you expect? Tool to all of a sudden sound like Gojira or Meshuggah? I’m definitely puzzled by how people would expect Tool to metamorphose into something they’re not.… Expand
  51. litbright
    Nov 2, 2019
    10
    It took quite a few spins but I suddenly found myself loving Fear Inoculum. Listening from start to finish, not skipping the interludes, and out of nowhere it became a magical experience every bit as wonderful as previous Tool albums. Listen with the best headphones you can find or go to the quietest space available, and just allocate some time to sit and listen properly withoutIt took quite a few spins but I suddenly found myself loving Fear Inoculum. Listening from start to finish, not skipping the interludes, and out of nowhere it became a magical experience every bit as wonderful as previous Tool albums. Listen with the best headphones you can find or go to the quietest space available, and just allocate some time to sit and listen properly without interruption. Worth every day of the 13 year wait.… Expand
  52. MilkXy
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    I never write reviews. So Since I'm here Best to grab a copy of this Gem. It's truly a Masterpiece. I really hope TOOL continues to write music!
  53. DieMyDarling
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    I feel like there is always a cultural barometer that exists for every music release: where does it fit in in the current geopolitical climate? How does it capture the attention of the youth? To say that such barometers are meaningless in considering this album feels almost too obvious, yet it is so singular that it cannot be overstated. This album exists in a space encompassing 13 longI feel like there is always a cultural barometer that exists for every music release: where does it fit in in the current geopolitical climate? How does it capture the attention of the youth? To say that such barometers are meaningless in considering this album feels almost too obvious, yet it is so singular that it cannot be overstated. This album exists in a space encompassing 13 long years and in doing so does not even try to comment on the present. It speaks in sweeping gestures lyrically, encompassing such universal beliefs that life is ruled by fear, or that we all struggle to remain relevant while constantly heading toward obsolescence. Musically this album does not give a flying **** about what the kids are into. There are no sing-along choruses. There are no pleas to a disenfranchised youth. There are no BASS DROPS. There is only a sonic landscape that requires effort to indulge in and comprehend.

    As always, TOOL is using complicated time signatures and polyrhythms to keep the listener on their toes throughout plodding passages that would otherwise be snoozefests. Trying to figure out what Danny Carey is even doing is always one of the great pleasures of listening to a TOOL album and this one is as far from disappointment on that front as you could imagine. Adam Jones even gets to go nuts, as 7empest is a monolithic riff crucible that does not stop delivering for nearly 16 minutes. Pneuma - like Parabola before it - asks us to sit back and comprehend what a beauty life could (and should) be if we can only get out of our own way.

    If there is something negative to be said about the album, it's that the vocals are too tame. Even spots where it feels like Maynard should be cutting loose (the end of Invincible and Culling Voices, for example) he just sits back. Even if you don't care if he is getting aggressive, he is also way too shy about his vocal range. Parts of Fear Inoculum (the song) and Invincible really could have been sung much more dynamically (he proved he can do it on The Pot) but he just rests on his laurels.

    The fact that such an album could even exist let alone be embraced in 2019 is something to be celebrated. For people who long for the "old" TOOL, they are gone and thank god, because we needed this album more than we ever knew.    … Expand
  54. jburrelluk
    Sep 9, 2019
    10
    A majestic beast of a record that people will be exploring for years to come. Nothing particularly new here but when it comes to this band, how is that a bad thing? Sits beautifully in their catalogue. Hope its not their last release!
  55. ioneil1
    Sep 9, 2019
    10
    At first listen I would have said 8/10, but in classic TOOL fashion this gets better with each successive listen. The details in each of these records is staggering. All members were on top of their game on this one. Phenomenal album. Welcome back TOOL!
  56. Fizo
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    For me the album is amazing. I think that many people have problems with their unreallistic expectations. Through masterpiece.
  57. snazzlefra55
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    As a semi-OGT from back in 97, I can attest that I did not have high hopes for this album. However after 13 years, I was hoping for a great release. This album shattered my expectations. Not just content, but composition and production. Evil Joe did a fantastic job, also Bob Ludwig and the rest of the team. Love the jams, love how Maynard lets his band mates shine, love the satire. IAs a semi-OGT from back in 97, I can attest that I did not have high hopes for this album. However after 13 years, I was hoping for a great release. This album shattered my expectations. Not just content, but composition and production. Evil Joe did a fantastic job, also Bob Ludwig and the rest of the team. Love the jams, love how Maynard lets his band mates shine, love the satire. I understand it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this is Tool’s logical progression in a world of overproduced hit n hook heavy industry dominated in majority by ghost-written pop artists that sell their looks ahead of art. Bravo Tool.… Expand
  58. JPBrunel
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Tool's mind blowing return after 13 years. This is everything I was hoping and, truth be told, even more!
  59. smithtede1984
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Fantastic Album, showcasing sounds from across all their albums. 13 years for essentially 6 songs though....
  60. Cmax210
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    Amazing album. Surpassed my expectations. POTENTIALLY my favorite tool album just need to pass the test of time. We shall see
  61. Mus1ckjm
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Just gets better and better. Every song on this album is good. A Masterpiece. This was worth the wait.
  62. TOOLman
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    This Album is on another Level. Unbelievably amazing! A must listen numerous times. For all the negative reviews above. I honestly can't understand how you can rate a zero . The effort, quality, technicality is above the vast majority of artists period! If your giving the album a zero because you don't like it est to never listen to music again.
  63. MechaWolff
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    By far the Apex of Tool's evolution. Thoroughly enjoyed the album. Definitely worth the wait!!!
  64. Darkus
    Sep 7, 2019
    10
    Sonically its: Complex, dense, technical, challenging, atmospheric, calculated, mature and inspiring.

    Danny Carey  Adam Jones (7empest it's his magnum opus) Justin Chancellor  Maynard James Keenan  They all have their moments. Lyrically it matches Tool's standards, lots of: pedagogies, metaphors, parables, philosophy, mythology, literature, psychology, historical    Sonically its: Complex, dense, technical, challenging, atmospheric, calculated, mature and inspiring.

    Danny Carey 

    Adam Jones (7empest it's his magnum opus)

    Justin Chancellor 

    Maynard James Keenan 

    They all have their moments.
    Lyrically it matches Tool's standards, lots of: pedagogies, metaphors, parables, philosophy, mythology, literature, psychology, historical references, scientific references, sociology, etc. It takes multiple listens to fully comprehend it. Be patient.    … Expand
  65. Toolfan27
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    Album is PHENOMENAL! Everything about it, the intricacies, the builds, and the overall experience. Puts you in another dimension, it really does! The length of the songs is not a problem at all either, Tool is exceptional at pulling you in on each song, and every song does that! 13 years, WELL WORTH THE WAIT! This may just be my favorite album from them to.
  66. Higgensworth
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    Just brilliant. Amazing adaption of their craft and evolution of their sound.
  67. HRFloyd
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    Enjoy tour trip around the spiral. A deep, tribal, psychodelic experience. Love it.
  68. Alblockhead
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    Great album. Love all 83 min. It has been a long time in the making. And it doesn’t disappoint
  69. Melo6666
    Sep 9, 2019
    10
    Excelente álbum, sem duvidas um dos melhores dessa década, álbum diferente de tudo que temos visto na atualidade.
  70. Drewwypoo
    Sep 10, 2019
    10
    They're back and just as good. You have to let the album grow on you, it really is worth the wait.
  71. iamMOG
    Sep 1, 2019
    0
    Album sucks. Songs are too long and Maynard doesn't scream, wahhhhhhhhhhhh!
  72. aleatoric
    Aug 30, 2019
    2
    Production hits like a wet noodle. Bass is somehow lost in the mix, making the music seem flat and linear through its attempted highs and lows. The guitars are high in the mix but have no edge or distortion, making them seem low impact and not as heavy as they should be. The vocal performance is not bad, but the production makes them lack punch and dilutes their emotional impact. TheProduction hits like a wet noodle. Bass is somehow lost in the mix, making the music seem flat and linear through its attempted highs and lows. The guitars are high in the mix but have no edge or distortion, making them seem low impact and not as heavy as they should be. The vocal performance is not bad, but the production makes them lack punch and dilutes their emotional impact. The songwriting is complex for complexity's sake, but does not seem to have much purpose or climactic payoff (they should listen to Mogwai to understand how to do that better). Electronic interludes are laughable and amateur compared to anything remotely similar created in the last 10 years (go listen to Tim Hecker or something if you want a better example). Really, this album is good if you want to ignore all of alternative music's progression over the last 20 years, and instead release something that wants to regress the artform both technically and creatively. No thanks.… Expand
  73. Relaxingtr0ll
    Aug 30, 2019
    5
    Beautifully written masterpiece, even though it took 13 years to make. It was definitely worth the wait.
  74. Timekilla
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    A masterwork of intelligent technical symmetry.

    Danny Carey and Adam Jones both have an individual song that focuses on their amazing talent. This album is thick with Opiate/Undertow vibes and as I listen I can somehow see the 30-year evolution of this band unfold into this album.

    ABSOLUTE 10/10. If you have ever liked or loved the unique sound of Tool, this is their pièce de résistance.
  75. cokoslut
    Sep 1, 2019
    0
    they should have never come back! 20 minute songs with useless intros and outros.
  76. IvNo
    Aug 30, 2019
    0
    It felt way too try hard and pretentious at times. A strong let down. I liked the singles but then when I first heard the album I was just disappointed.
  77. lupatchi
    Feb 14, 2020
    0
    Made an account just to leave a review on this album and hopefully save a few tool fans some of there must valuable time. Firstly ill start with the good parts of the album; the tittle track
    thats pretty much it rest of it is poorly produced and only has the decent reviews it has becasue of tools long time STANS
  78. Jimx
    Sep 1, 2019
    0
    Really weak album. I don't think it was worth such a long wait. I hope they make better ones in the future.
  79. monkespaceshape
    Aug 30, 2019
    0
    This album was forced and pretentious. Love is much better! If you read the lyrics you will understand the context but when you are putting the sound together it does not come through as clear and conveyed.
  80. coolcrowe
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    Listen to this album at least three times before coming to any conclusions. The first time I was unsure, but by the third listen I was grinning and joyfully following along with the songs. Once your mind knows what to expect the whole thing is an extremely enjoyable experience, probably the most sonically pleasing Tool album. It's true that Maynard's vocals a little more subdued that inListen to this album at least three times before coming to any conclusions. The first time I was unsure, but by the third listen I was grinning and joyfully following along with the songs. Once your mind knows what to expect the whole thing is an extremely enjoyable experience, probably the most sonically pleasing Tool album. It's true that Maynard's vocals a little more subdued that in other albums but it actually works for the best, his lyrics and vocals mix with the other elements of the band better than ever before. The group sounds completely in their element and everyone does a fantastic job throughout, though Danny can't help but steal the show at times. It stands up to the band's reputation and can easily sit alongside their other albums as a wonderful and awe-inspiring work of art. The lyrics here also carry an urgency and desire for change that wasn't always present in past works... it's obviously written to move you and inspire action and change within, to remember where we come from, where we're going and how precious the time between is.… Expand
  81. atliy
    Dec 31, 2019
    9
    It took me several listens to grasp this album. Now I get goosebumps almost every time I blast the album.
  82. ChuckAmok
    Sep 7, 2019
    8
    Was honestly, somehow, not a Tool fan previous. I haven't yet decided where this record lands in their catalog, but this is an exceptionally good, loud, rock, metal, riff, geek record. The secret isn't MJK, it's the way the guitar and bass build solid, thick riffs and expand on them with patience, dishing out the sparks with masterful restraint.
  83. mintlo
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    I'm a TOOL fanboy and I love the album. I get that they're an acquired taste. I think it's great.
  84. JokerInTheGame
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Unlimited power! Has been and always will be my favorite band. Perhaps that makes me bias, but Tool is just genius.
  85. BryanFurysMom
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    Fear Inoculum is a masterpiece. It's a Tool album that fits in nicely with the rest of their discography and certainly as a proper follow up to 10,000 Days. Even 13 years later is sounds like they never missed a beat, never lost their sound or their skills, or their vision. Maynard James Keenan's lyrics are as sharp and mysterious as ever; his voice is still spectacular. The combination ofFear Inoculum is a masterpiece. It's a Tool album that fits in nicely with the rest of their discography and certainly as a proper follow up to 10,000 Days. Even 13 years later is sounds like they never missed a beat, never lost their sound or their skills, or their vision. Maynard James Keenan's lyrics are as sharp and mysterious as ever; his voice is still spectacular. The combination of Adam Jones' unique guitars, Justin Chancellor's booming bass, and Danny Carey's carefully controlled chaos on the drums still give me chills after all these years. It doesn't feel Tool's been gone for 13 years. It feels like they've still been here all along. If you hate this album, if you can't listen to it...then you're not a Tool fan. You never were. THIS IS TOOL. THIS IS WHAT THEY SOUND LIKE.… Expand
  86. Panhodny
    Sep 7, 2019
    10
    As usual not first listen friendly (hence some of the negative reviews) but incredibly rewarding with time.
  87. Killabytz
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    Best album ever! Only sheep that never understood Tool hate on this album, it’s absolute perfection..change my mind??
  88. barrykester
    Sep 10, 2019
    9
    From a progressive metal stand point, the album has a great dynamics and the musicianship of tool is nothing less than amazing. Lyrically, Maynard keenan blew me away with Descending and Culling Voices. The songs are extremely tight because, god damn it, they are tool. The album is hypnotic as tool should be -- smoke a spliff and nod your head boys. And the zero reviews from so calledFrom a progressive metal stand point, the album has a great dynamics and the musicianship of tool is nothing less than amazing. Lyrically, Maynard keenan blew me away with Descending and Culling Voices. The songs are extremely tight because, god damn it, they are tool. The album is hypnotic as tool should be -- smoke a spliff and nod your head boys. And the zero reviews from so called x-fan-boys that look forward to the second coming of their original tool albums are nothing less than hilarious. I foresee hours of enjoyable listening pleasure. Blessed are the progressive rock/metal heads for they shall inherit the earth.… Expand
  89. echoecho11
    Sep 4, 2019
    8
    Worth the wait. The laborious drawn out writting process is evident in the album, but somehow it elevates it for me. It's dense, often monotone but something about it just keeps drawing me back. I just hope now that they have this out they're not so constipated with their future releases. In the meantime this one is an instant classic for me.
  90. Rej72380
    Sep 13, 2019
    9
    This is beyond a reasonable doubt the best rock album of the year. The mix of heavy metal guitar riffs and lengthy tracks that make it really good. From the titular track to invincible to 7empest, the album has it all. I definitely recommend purchasing the album and not just stream it.
  91. ambientdrop
    Sep 4, 2019
    9
    Maybe the most interesting drumming performance captured on tape. Adam and Justin elevate their playing again. The music is just amazing. However, it sounds like they spent 13 years working on the music and a few months working on vocals. I'm fine with Maynard's new approach to how he uses his voice for Tool. It just seems like he had more opportunities (I'm thinking specifically ofMaybe the most interesting drumming performance captured on tape. Adam and Justin elevate their playing again. The music is just amazing. However, it sounds like they spent 13 years working on the music and a few months working on vocals. I'm fine with Maynard's new approach to how he uses his voice for Tool. It just seems like he had more opportunities (I'm thinking specifically of the first few minutes of 7empest) with how the music was written. That being said, the songs feel complete and cohesive. And while the 6 songs are each over 10 minutes, none of them feel that long. At the end of each one you feel like "is that it?"… Expand
  92. vagman
    Dec 25, 2019
    10
    Never being a tool fan until now.Have heard some of their most knowned songs and liked them but never gone through listening a complete album.This one made me revisit their oldest work.Can easylly say its thei best and an amazing album.Its being since my early 20s that i find myself captivated by an lp and listening it over and over again.With a good set of headphones its a magicalNever being a tool fan until now.Have heard some of their most knowned songs and liked them but never gone through listening a complete album.This one made me revisit their oldest work.Can easylly say its thei best and an amazing album.Its being since my early 20s that i find myself captivated by an lp and listening it over and over again.With a good set of headphones its a magical experience best think ive listened as far a production.… Expand
  93. Venussbrc
    Sep 16, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wow, this album is just amazing. 80 minutes traveling in my mind and soul. Open your ears… Expand
  94. Mement0
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    This album is another masterpiece they've produced.

    It's so clinical yet chaotic but disciplined. A perfect blend. The musicianship is otherworldly. Jones has produced his best work to date. All the tracks challenge you as a listener and require your full attention to genuinely appreciate and enjoy. After each listen it grows on me more and more. Layered beautiful album. This    This album is another masterpiece they've produced.

    It's so clinical yet chaotic but disciplined. A perfect blend.

    The musicianship is otherworldly. Jones has produced his best work to date.

    All the tracks challenge you as a listener and require your full attention to genuinely appreciate and enjoy. After each listen it grows on me more and more. Layered beautiful album.

    This album is not for the impatient and people looking for quick easy melodies. Be patient!!!    … Expand
  95. Thigpen84
    Sep 5, 2019
    8
    I actually love what they have evolved into with this album, pnuema and invincible are top 10 tool songs for me, I will say that it took a few days of listening for me to really start liking this album, and my complaint not just for this album but for tools history is that since Aenima (which in my mind is the best album) they have less and less music or at least less variety of music onI actually love what they have evolved into with this album, pnuema and invincible are top 10 tool songs for me, I will say that it took a few days of listening for me to really start liking this album, and my complaint not just for this album but for tools history is that since Aenima (which in my mind is the best album) they have less and less music or at least less variety of music on their albums with each release and this new one gets an 8 from me for that very reason, not enough product after 13 years… Expand
  96. JLuis_001
    Sep 2, 2019
    9
    A great album, very dense and long. It takes time to unravel it.
    The biggest problem? The majority will judge the wait instead of the music.
  97. PhillipD
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    13 years in the making, those who are worried that time would perhaps deliver something other than exceptional need not worry, this is a truly majestic piece of work. Layered and textured, like previous Tool albums, this album deserves your attention with nuances that become apparent upon further listening, a feast for the ears. The music is different to previous albums in that it is13 years in the making, those who are worried that time would perhaps deliver something other than exceptional need not worry, this is a truly majestic piece of work. Layered and textured, like previous Tool albums, this album deserves your attention with nuances that become apparent upon further listening, a feast for the ears. The music is different to previous albums in that it is softer in parts (these guys are 13 years older) a little of the anger has gone but still the quiet gives way to chugging guitar and machine like drumming, the bass drum sounds like a Harley motorbike starting up, insane. A great clean mix with bass guitar to the forefront with the drums over this rather than behind gives it a freshness, Adam's technical licks give it that high end, and Maynard's signing transcendent, forced at times, but still restrained, sublime. 10/10 for a Tool fan, 8/10 for a non fan that must appreciate the fine craft, scores of 0? That's not really fair on what is in my opinion their best work.… Expand
  98. Nbecarri
    Sep 19, 2019
    7
    Being a new Tool fan, my expectations weren't as high as some of the older fans. Fear Inoculum, in my opinion, is good. Not bad, not great, but good. Perhaps I would've been harsher on this album if I was one of the people who waited 13 years for it to come out. So far, however, I would say that it is MAYBE a fraction better than 10,000 days.

    Favorite Tracks: Fear Inoculum, Pneuma,    Being a new Tool fan, my expectations weren't as high as some of the older fans. Fear Inoculum, in my opinion, is good. Not bad, not great, but good. Perhaps I would've been harsher on this album if I was one of the people who waited 13 years for it to come out. So far, however, I would say that it is MAYBE a fraction better than 10,000 days.

    Favorite Tracks: Fear Inoculum, Pneuma, 7empest.

    Least Favorite Tracks: Invincible.    … Expand
  99. whitewulf
    Sep 14, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am completing my 30th - 40th listen of this album at the moment. I can't stop wondering about this album and everything else that isn't TOOL just feels bland because of this album, It's how I felt when I fell in love with Lateralus. When I heard TOOL for the first time I couldn't stand it, and my girlfriend at the time just couldn't stop listening to them. I just didn't get it. "Why would anyone like this band? Lamb of God is way better" I had thought at the time. But then something just clicked. I guess it started to grow on me and since then it just hasn't stopped. Understanding this band can be frustrating for some, as this album. I see this album as a reintroduction to TOOL's activity, their way of saying that were official out of our light hiatus.

    Like many in the negative reviews section, I felt overly underwhelmed with this album when I first listened to it. I didn't truly listen to it, I judged it and wanted it to do what I wanted but that's not what TOOL is about, They were never about that. They've always reflected on their lives at the time and tried to get to the next evolutionary step. "Patience is required" I am paraphrasing Maynard here and it's what a lot of people excessively lack in our time and age. You don't need to force yourself to like it, don't like it now? Don't worry about it, be angry or upset if you must and hopefully tomorrow or 5 years from now you'll try this album and it'll make sense to you. This isn't the first time this has happened to TOOL, fans were divided with 10,000 days ( I know I was).

    Now to the nitpicking in this album, IF YOU WANT MY HONEST OPINION AND FEEL LIKE SKIPPING THE PART ABOVE THEN START HERE. This album is repetitive, uninspired and lacking of various "TOOL" features. It is repetitive at first glance and it feels so familiar, until you find the other TOOL song that you think it is copying and realized that it is different, way different. It's different to the point it is hypnotic. Adam, Danny and Justin take their **** time but just like anything in life, the good **** the really good **** is right in front of your eyes but you don't see it since your so occupied with your own ego. I know, I do it all the damn time. The synchronization of the instrumentals are impeccable and masterful with Adam's ability to enlighten all in riffs that are soft, twisted yet organized and aggressive without any excess. Justin's hypnotic grooves foretell past and future as always with lovecraftian essence and superb flux but what's to say about Danny? Danny's inter-connective beats that make love to the universe in it's calm, chaotic states and everywhere in between; A **** kraken on the drums.

    TOOL is almost a religion to me and like all "good" religions we need some words to understand it. They felt forced and kept reminding me of APC (Note: past tense) which isn't a big problem but I didn't like it. And then I realized that this isn't Maynard... Well, not the Maynard I was expecting which was a 36 to 41 year old Maynard. This is a matured 55 year old Maynard and how he as aged like a fine wine, or vineyard. Fear Inoculum, A vaccination for our fears in our world of fears. Reflective lyrics that criticize the world aren't new to Maynard, but the way he looks at it now is peculiar and illusive at times, I swear I felt them super forced the first time around but I had learned my lesson with 10,000 days and knew that I had to keep trying, I still am trying but god **** damn it are these lyrics still good even though I understand maybe half of it. It reminded me of when I was 16 and shouting out the lyrics to Prison Sex good. Goosebumps once it lost that sense of being forced... Or was I the one forcing something? Trying to force something out of my reach because I'm a spoiled brat and everything needs to please my selfish desire. This album is criticizing me, you, us, we. "Free fall through our midnight. This epilogue of our own fable. Heedless in our slumber. Floating nescient, we". The opening lyrics to "Descending" make a critic of us, we humans. Instead of going with the flow and seeing where the river takes us we struggle and when we get irritated we drown in our own negativity. Just take a deep breath and try again.

    In the end, This album is all I can think about and I feel it unnecessary to listen to anything else for the moment. There is so much sweat and energy put into this album with pure ingenuity and awareness. My favorite that always give me chills is in "Descending" at 6:55, god damn that soulful Duet of guitars that reflect yet don't match as if they were copulating.

    Well, I tried to keep it short but I'm almost reaching the limit here on Metacritic. For those of you read it all, I'm happy you took the time and know that it means a lot to me since I tend to keep my opinion to myself but I just couldn't with this album and If you didn't like the album well then that is perfectly fine. Just try to give it a chance in your approximate future.    … Expand
  100. metta206
    Sep 3, 2019
    9
    I love this album. At first, I was skeptical since Im a big big Tool fan and I thought I might just be fanboying out. But I really love it. Its taken multiple listens, but the more I absorb it, the more I dig what they're doing. For me its at least on par with Lateralus and Aenima, and a big improvement over 10,000 days. It might be the best thing they've ever done. Danny Carey isI love this album. At first, I was skeptical since Im a big big Tool fan and I thought I might just be fanboying out. But I really love it. Its taken multiple listens, but the more I absorb it, the more I dig what they're doing. For me its at least on par with Lateralus and Aenima, and a big improvement over 10,000 days. It might be the best thing they've ever done. Danny Carey is an absolute monster! I can understand why some fans may be put off by the long, winding songs. Its definitely not for everyone, but it certainly works for me!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

12
#12 Most Discussed Album of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Chicago Tribune
    Oct 9, 2019
    63
    The album plays like an extended mood piece that bends and drifts, with a shortage of the crushing hard-rock crescendos and riffs that defined the band’s work on “Lateralus” (2001) and before.
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  2. Slant Magazine
    Sep 19, 2019
    60
    Sadly, there’s nothing on Fear Inoculum as immediately accessible or anthemic as past Tool glories like “Sober” or “The Pot,” but what is here will reward repeated spins, even if listeners initially find themselves waiting for those mammoth riffs to show up, a la “7empest,” or for Maynard to finally kick into high gear, as in the rousing refrain of “Descending.”
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  3. Exclaim
    Sep 10, 2019
    70
    Musically, Tool have taken the best of Lateralus's dynamism and the heaviness of 10,000 Days to explore the middle ground with great length on Fear Inoculum. Those who stuck it out through the decade-plus wait won't mind hanging around a little longer until the album's close.
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