Tool Members, Gear & Sound
American rock band
Members
Select a Tool band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Tool is an American rock band known for their complex, layered compositions and innovative fusion of genres such as progressive rock, alternative metal, and art rock. Formed in Los Angeles in 1990, the group consists of Maynard James Keenan (vocals), Adam Jones (guitar), Justin Chancellor (bass), and Danny Carey (drums). Tool has garnered a cult-like following for their mystical aesthetic and cerebral approach to music, crafting epic, multi-sectioned songs that push the boundaries of conventional rock and metal. With albums like Ænima, Lateralus, and Fear Inoculum, they have cemented their status as one of the most intriguing and enduring acts in modern rock.
How to Sound Like Tool
Tool's sound is characterized by its dark, atmospheric intensity and intricate instrumental interplay. The band's music often features polyrhythms and unconventional time signatures, creating a hypnotic, almost trance-like effect. Guitarist Adam Jones employs a combination of distorted riffs and ethereal soundscapes, utilizing gear such as the 1976 Marshall Super Bass and Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier to achieve his signature tone. Bassist Justin Chancellor contributes to the band's distinctive sonic texture with his use of a Wal Mk III Bass, delivering tight, punchy bass lines that lock in with Danny Carey's complex drumming. Carey's use of both acoustic and electronic percussion, paired with intricate patterns, adds a dynamic and powerful dimension to their sound. Together, these elements create a sonic experience that is both aggressive and mesmerizing, making Tool a band that continually challenges and captivates their listeners.
Discography
Get the Tool Sound
Want to sound like Tool? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
