Unofficial Import Reissue on Double Vinyl

Released in 2006, 10,000 Days is not only a step forward for Tool, but a re-embracing of the epic-length rock songs found at the roots of early heavy metal. The album starts out with “Vicarious,” which features some of Maynard’s most straightforward lyrics. Essentially a biting commentary on reality television, information stimulus overload, and living through others’ experiences, it’s only a brief glimpse of what’s to come. 10,000 Days also offers some of James Keenan’s most confessional lyrics. The 17-minute epic “Wings for Marie/10,000 Days” is an ode to his mother, who passed away during the band’s hiatus. In a way, it’s voyeuristic to listen to someone working out family issues on disc, but Keenan does it in a way that’s sensitive and honest without ever treading the careful line between melodrama and sincerity.

The anger that served as fuel for some of Tool’s greatest works has been replaced with calmer and more introspective moments as they patiently work out rhythm and melodic passages from one theme to the next. That’s not to say the anger isn’t still there — it does check in from song to song — but like most of Tool’s fanbase that has stuck with them through their first recordings, the group has evolved beyond that stage and has moved on to new concepts to explore.

So depending upon which Tool you are looking for, you’re either going to love or hate 10,000 Days. If it’s the hard-driving band with an intellectually driven existential anger and fits of angst, it’s not here. But if you’re looking for the Tool whose passion and introspection is complemented by intense emotion, brutal honesty, and musical maturity, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better metal album in 2006.

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