Lateralus

Tool, Volcano Entertainment

Album cover for Lateralus
Album cover for Lateralus

Genre: Progressive Metal

Brief description: "Lateralus" is the third studio album by Tool, released on May 15, 2001. The album is a tour de force of progressive metal, blending complex rhythms, philosophical themes, and unparalleled musicianship. Vocalist Maynard James Keenan’s introspective lyrics explore spirituality and human evolution, while Adam Jones, Justin Chancellor, and Danny Carey create a soundscape rich with intricate guitar riffs, dynamic bass lines, and polyrhythmic drumming. Tracks like “Schism” and “The Grudge” showcase the band’s ability to blend technical proficiency with raw emotional intensity. One interesting thing about the album is its title track, which incorporates the Fibonacci sequence into its lyrics and rhythmic structure, a nod to the band’s fascination with mathematics and art.

Personal note:

Another top 5 album for me. I have more of a personal connection to this album. My dad is a huge Tool fan and have been listening to them since the day I was born. As a matter of fact, I was named after the lead singer! Maynard James Keenan. I was almost named Maynard, but my mom said no... LOL, and they decided on Keenan. Also, my dad's xbox gamertag is lateralus, and I recently got the same lateralus text on the album cover tattooed. As sort of a homage to him, as well as my love for their music.