LATERALUS

Here we have masterpiece of progressive metal, and prg rock in general. Math perfection behinds first song in here, called Grudge is unbelieveable. Tool have managed to show how much metal music can be interesting. This songs totally blew me away, especially after those 32 seconds of Maynard's (singer) screaming. It shows raw emotion, it is tottaly outstanding moment. And his pure voice is so beautifull, like it is not of this world. So it is in song Patient, after interesting guitar play in Eon Blue Apocalypse. Adam Jones manage to find sounds on his guitar that can not be compared to anything else before. He is true guitar scientist, one of the most creative guitarists of nineties. His guitar is full of colours, I can almost feel it like an synesthetic experience, seeing all those shades and structures of its light. Maynard's voice is, unlike for the most of metal singers, very unique and original. He might have been influenced by Joni Mitchell, but he really goes over this influence. He has very large range, and one gets impression that everything sounds smooth and nice out of his mouth. Smaller pieces, like Mantra and others, that are usualy called «fillers«, have their soul and purpose in album. These pieces make an ambient and prepair terrain for next song, and play games wih listener's imagination. My favourite piece here is Schism, just listening to vocal melodies is great thing, and bass is so killing here. (Damn, pitty I still did not figure out concept of this album; or may be not! I like to interpret it as I like it in that particular moment of time, not even care about lyrics.)

In so many other places, they manage to show that they have one of the most talented drummers of all times, and guitars are perfect everywhere, trust me. Enough said to conclude that this is my favourite metal album of all times, highly creative work, progressive (no doubt), never boring to me. People who like great drums, original guitar, perfect vocals, intriguing lyrics, rich imaginary, lots of colours, strange, math and powerfull rhythms, interesting bass, concept albums, original prog music, fans of complex metal music, people who like virtuosity, superb production, they should all hear this wonder.