One key to help this song make sense: the majority of the song he is speaking from the perspective of a drug to its user. "i am just a worthless liar. I will find a center in you. I will chew it up and leave" Also, Maynard, as a writer, is more of a story-teller so a lot of the time when he is saying the word "I..." he may not be talking about himself literally, but more of the subject of the story he is trying to tell. Of course, he has plenty of writing that is about his actual self as well, but this is not one of those.
I always looked at it as the point of view from the substance itself. It’s worthless a lier what it does to the user lifting them up just to break them down.
yes, but... lemme continue that thought pattern out for ya... when you're neck deep in addiction, you eventually end up embodying the substance in these characteristics because it's taken over your life, you're no longer in control. you start doing those same exact things to the people around you that it's done to you. anybody who tries to hang through it with you, especially if they're enabling your habit? they get chewed up and spat out as well.
I always interpreted it as the impact an addict has on their loved ones. my sister is clean now, but this song describes how she treated us at her worst. she struggles with that guilt even decades after getting clean.
Ugh... it's not about addiction. It's about religion... like half their songs from this era. Sober = thinking clearly = NOT believing in religious nonsense. Re-read the lyrics.
This song is not my first choice to introduce someone to Tool. I’d recommend “The Pot” or “Lateralus” next. Or “Parabol” and Parabola”, but the two need to be played back to back as they are connected almost like an intro and song. Tool is known for polyrhythms and deep lyricism. Also, yes…. If you start doing Tool songs the “Tool army” will descend on your channel because we love nothing more than introducing people to their music.
I mean I would consider this to be a good opener to tool cuz imagine hearing Sober for the first time in the year 1994, at the time shit was probably boombastic
@@ethanfowler1752I don’t have to imagine. When “Sober” dropped I had already be listening to “Opiate” for a while. It absolutely was huge, and the video was unlike anything anyone had ever seen before.
Thanks for sharing all that, guys. Really appreciated the openness. Next song: The Pot. Trust me. It’s funky and bops hard. After that, you’ll have to keep going. Promise.
the song in a nutshell is about addiction , it is about a friend of his that felt that he could only be creative while he was under the influence. I have heard Tool's music compared to a horrific accident , you wanna look away but you can't , the music just draws you in. Makes you feel uncomfortable but comforted at the same time.
This song is about battling addiction. The stalking butler is the addiction. Great reaction. "There's a shadow just behind me Shrouding every step I take Making every promise empty Pointing every finger at me Waiting like a stalking butler Who upon the finger rests"
They are the best, really and honestly opening up with their personal views and ideas! Even if I have my own pov about a lot of stuff I always learn and rethink about my stuff after listening to them
The song was written about a friend of the band.. the friend was a substance addict, but did not think of himself as an addict, he rather blamed the using on the fact he could only operate “at his artistic best” when he was highly intoxicated. And we can see via the analogies used within this song... the song is full of contradictions which is the daily struggle of an addict... The song is about addiction and drug abuse. The first verse describes the creeping, uncomfortable urges that follow an addict through his daily life. The drugs make you lie and view the world through paranoid eyes. The lead singer, Maynard James Keenan, refers to the addiction as a "stalking butler" to indicate that the drugs are always a constant presence just waiting for you to reach out for their help to maintain your high or relieve some pain. Keenan whines that he wants to be under the influence, and almost in the same breath, that he wants to start over. This is the back-and-forth internal struggle he has with the elation of being high and the deep regret over his ruined life from the addiction. He goes on to give the drug a voice, calling itself "a worthless liar" and an "imbecile". The drug will get under your skin and "find the center in you", then build you up just enough to bring you down. The song ends with Keenan repeating the lyric, "I want what I want". He is referring to when the addiction takes hold and no amount of reasoning or rational thinking can get between an addict and their drug of choice.
Hey Don, Thanks so much for sharing with us. Not easy to admit where you were and how dark things were. Really glad you're in a better place and you're still here with us. When this song came out, I was in High School... and honestly, it resonated with me so much.. I actually think it helped me NOT become addicted to anything. My family history said I should have gone down that same path... but hearing this strangely beautiful bald man scream out his anguish made me take notice. Love your reactions, guys!!! keep it up!!!
Fun Tool fact - their guitarist is also a special effects and set design guy for the movie industry. Can't be bothered to look anything up right now - but I remember reading many years ago that he worked on Jurassic Park and Terminator 2
This, of course, is an iconic Tool song that sprung them into stardom. But this album, & especially everything that followed is truly epic. Tool is one of a kind. Tool is mysterious. Tool is thought provoking. Tool is emotional. Tool is life changing. Tool is my favorite band of all time! I hope you dive into more.
thank you Don for being so open. i’ve always found that people who have struggled with addiction, or are close to someone who has, are the ones that pick up the meaning of this song. to be honest, i’m happy when people don’t get it on their own, because it means maybe they’ve never had to fight the demons off like we have 💜
I liked the ramble city. It helped me get some insight into who you guys are as PEOPLE. I really enjoyed it, and I always enjoy your reactions, thoughts, etc..
Wow pegasus for a first time listen and not being a metal head you did a really good job finding your truth in that track❤ well done how Tool intended 👏
I subscribed because I am 42 and TOOL now is much more relevant to my life than when I saw them live in high school in the 90s. They are the best band for creating dialog and critical thinking for reaction videos. Stay with just the tracks and lyrics and don't let the videos distract you. They are good for after you get it. All songs are just as relevant so pick what you want.
Don talking about that feeling of not wanting to get out of bed reminded me of the opening of "Chalk Outlines" (I'm still hеrе in this bеd thаt I сrаwlеd in / I hоpе thаt I'm sоmеоnе еlsе in thе mоrning). Glad to watch this reaction, but it's not going on a playlist or have me very inspired. You two were great though. I love it when you're open (or when your bouncing- that always cracks me up).
After hearing your thoughts on the song, I think their track Lateralus would be awesome. That is a very well composed track with awesome lyrics. Especially when you consider life as a whole.
Lateralus would be great to see you react to! It's based on the fibonaci sequence. I'll leave the figuring out of how it was used in case you do a reaction but the talent to use that in a song is crazy! I think Ren does it on one of his tracks too.
It’s a song about getting sober. Alluding to all things in recovery including the 12 step program. This is an early Tool track and I believe Maynard may have also been expressing some anger to his experience of hypocrisy in religion but I’m certain a bigger Tool fan will correct anything I got wrong. 🤘
"Tool guitarist Adam Jones has stated in an interview that the song is about a friend of the band whose artistic expression only comes out when he is under the influence."
My favorite reaction you guys have had on this channel. The personal details and really sharing experience, in depth discussion of the lyrics. Opening up about what it means to be human, bringing up the Illiad to reference how old and innate addiction is and what it means to be a man and better yourself. I loved how you guys kind of didnt get it at first, and then it slapped Don on the face hard and brought him back to the bad times, and him sharing his past made BP realize what the song was about, and let him attach to it in his own way. Very cool experience gentlemen. Much love.
Since it got brought up, Puscifer - the Humbling River It's a beautiful song about someone who has conquered every trial in their life except for "the river" and pleads to an angel to show him the way.
omg what's even cooler than starting reacting to Tool is that from them they will get to Puscifer and A Perfect Circle! Can't wait for BP and Don to find a lot of meaning in their music!
Tool is my favorite band of all time. Followed very closely by Jinjer. Who you should definitely do more of. I’ve seen Tool probably 12 times over the years and they’re one of the most incredible live shows ever.
“Stalking butler” something waiting in the shadows for you to need them. In this case, drugs and addiction. “Why can’t we NOT be sober” (Why do we have to be sober) “Why can’t we drink forever” Weed lets me sleep and cope with my anxiety. And I just like it. I quit drinking over a decade ago. It was only fun for awhile.
The Pot and Lateralus really are best to start off with when discovering Tool. But have to say you guys did a beautiful job with this. The openess and honesty was felt and appreciated
Maynard believed he's mathematically proven there's no God, making himself a fool. Nothing inside time/space can prove or disprove God. Personal experience is the only way. Only believe and trust in Jesus. There's no other way into Heaven
This was a really interesting reaction. I'm enjoying watching you guys dive into different genres and relating things to your own experiences. This is arguably the most openly relatable Tool song out there (maybe Aenima for some people). Definitely continue diving down this rabbit hole.
The thing is...Tool's (Maynard's) lyrics are almost always written in such a way that the listener can find a meaning in them that is relevant to their own life and experiences. The inspiration for him to write the lyrics may be one specific thing, but there are often at least 2 or 3 other layers that can be dug into to find something that resonates with you.
"I will only elevate you, just enough to bring you down." seems to fit what Don was describing, drinking and then laying in bed wanting things to be done, chasing that feeling that they never get.
This song is a plea. A voice screaming, crying, "why?". Why is my life so much confusion? SO. FUCKED. UP?! Why is my life filled with so much pain?! Speaking personally when I was in the depths of my depression I had a term I used I called "running to sleep" because that's what I did every night, I ran to sleep! Because only when I was asleep did my mind, which was torturing me by my own volition with thoughts that were on constant repeat, was silenced...temporarily. When my head hit the pillow and I fell into unconsciousness so did this plagued mind of mine. This song is a roar in the face of the universe from the wounded and afflicted. Gripping the edge of the blanket we pray....can't we just go back?! To when things were simple, and free. Before we started making mistakes. Hurting others. Hurting ourselves...please...can we?!
I hate when people pick this as the first song. It's a great song but it seems like such a watered down version of their music. You'll get what I'm saying if you keep going. Which I really hope you guys do!
Just peeking through the surface is a fine start for most folks, let them get a taste, get the idea of what's happening before throwing them completely into the blender. Sober is a great way to help someone tune in.
I liked this song from day one but I didn't get it either. It wasn't until recently that I gained great appreciation for the band and essentially joined the Tool Army. So many times I questioned my worth. Sober is about that. So many other songs later I discovered a part of me inside Tool. There is so much more to hear that will blow your mind in a wonderful way.
I think you would appreciate Wings For Marie and 10,000 days (they are part 1 and 2 and should be done together). They are about the death of Maynard's mother after many years of paralysis. They're very moving, and incredibly beautiful.
BP will be absolutely touched by Wings for Marie cos of losing his mum to cancer as well... it's going to hit him hard... damn I just want to listen to them again so badly
@@margaritasaloscerdos5 yes, that's the reason I thought of those two songs. I figured they would resonate with him. He should definitely choose the videos with lyrics.
I’m a VERY late to the party Tool fan. Knew of them because of their early videos, but really didn’t dig deep until the pandemic when I needed something to do to escape. One thing I’ll say is that they really started making sense to me (the lyrics at least) when I read about Maynard’s history, specifically with his mother. The music though is SO intricate.
The "Jesus won't you f*cking whistle" part makes me picture something like: Jesus sidled up on him (like a lithe butler that appears suddenly like a thief in the night) and caught him in his decaying state, unprepared and not ready to face him.
I’m impressed that BP went from “It’s interesting.” (ie, I’m not feeling this or understanding what the lyrics are saying) to pretty much seeing and understanding all of it at the end. And big kudos to Don for being so open about personal and family travails. Much like Don, this song was just a cool one to watch back in the 90s on MTV because of the incredible stop-motion animation. I didn’t ‘get’ the song until I watched some reactions during Covid. The song itself is fairly straightforward musically for a Tool song. Those that know the band better than me will direct you toward the next choice. The Pot is a great one.
What I get out of "Jesus, won't you f*cking whistle" is "why won't you call me home", as one whistles to call their dog. And it follows into "Why can't we drink forever" as a double entendre... why can't we (drink forever) and why can't we drink (forever), or taste death. To start this over is to be reincarnated. And that really comes into the forefront with the next set with Mother Mary and the 'sleep forever' changeup.
I love this song so much. I gravitated to tool when i was younger because of being in a rough place mentally. So the bits about self hate felt like i wasn't alone. Im not sure tool has upbeat songs.
I really appreciate how don Juanabe was willing to be so frank in his discussion about his history with alcohol. Im a recovering alcoholic and the fear of opening to others when i realized i had a problem kept me from getting the help i needed fir years, its not an easy thing to admit especially on a place like youtube so i just wanted to say thank you , youre spot on with the lyrics and i hope people can watch this and realize theyre not alone when dealing with addiction.
Maynard is a GOAT. I have such nostalgia for them. Seeing them live was mind blowing... But after my teenage years Maynard's other band, A Perfect Circle, was more my style. 🔥🔥🔥
damn, I refreshed and exited the chat! Guys you got it, this song is like the internal dialogue in Ren's "Hi Ren", and we can hear the addiction and the human talking to each other, and the addiction stating what he wants and the human wanting to stop and start again, and have peace finally. When you are rock bottom and ask whoever your god or what you believe in, to send you a sign how to get out of the damn hole, you just want a whisper or whatever, but many times you can't find "HOPE" and see the light anywhere. Tool is often cryptic in the messages but so metaphorically beautiful, always deep and raw in meaning, and there's no room for repetition of patterns as their songs are always like a rollercoaster. But one that you would absolutely love riding! Buckle up and welcome to the next rabbit hole. You should watch the live performance of this song, but if you want somethinf full of meaning and more uplifting I would suggest "Lateralus" to really get what they are about. Think about the fact that it was written follwoing the fibonacci sequence somewhere... I don't want to reveal all of it!
This song is ultimately about addiction. It helps me through my life as a sober person. I like your reaction videos dude! You are open minded and get it like most people don't.
Also you could take part of that 2nd verse as the drug. "I am just a worthless liar, i am just an imbecile. I will only complicate you, trust in me and fall as well. I will find a center in you, I will chew it up and leave. I will work to elevate you(make you feel better) just enough to bring you down." Pretty deep!
It can also be the "shadow" but basically, drug and addiction feed themselves in our shadow aspects, and in fact it starts with "There's a shadow just behind me". We can never see our shadow self, and it is always the voices that work into your own detriment
Thanks for this reaction guys and sharing so much about your own struggles and experiences.some of it hit pretty close to home and pretty hard. This song was written long before maynard owned a winery. His other bands are puscifer and perfect circle.
Think about "I" as the spirit of "I" that we all share. and "I" is sometimes a worthless liar, "I" is sometimes great. No matter what, "I" will mostly complicate you. Trust in "I" and fall aswell. much love.
can i just say i know you like to watch other peoples reactions to your videos but i spend most of my time watching your face. Your expressions are priceless lol xx
There are plenty of explanations for the lyrics (people read into things a lot). The point of the song was to show the struggle of a friend of the band with serious addiction issues. His addiction practically stalked him (or so it seemed) and (YES guys he was calling out to god asking why he HAD to suffer) Then much like in Hi Ren, the song takes a turn and the drugs are talking "I am just a worthless liar, I am just an imbecil, I will only complicate you, trust in me and fall as well." The power of that message shook the fandom into devotees. I like this song, Swim, Prison Sex and 46&2 are also fun songs. They did over time develop their style so very much because Maynard is a mad genius. He's the one who does the stop animation for all of the videos. He's meticulous, not just with his lyrics, but his musicianship and hiis very approach to the performances themselves. I saw a comment suggesting you see the live version of this song and I have to agree. The lyrics are mind bending sure, but the performances of this band are epic in themselves. I'm sure plenty of people are going to send you to their deeper songs, The Pot, Parabol and Parabola, Lateralus, these are all technically magnifacent songs. The depth of THIS song doesn't even compare to the depth in those that came after I promise you. I appreciate you both for your takes, I love hearing you guys talk it out because you get to a lot of the conclusions we'll eventually come to the comment section to echo.
Tool are the smartest band in the world...and my personal favourite......they change the way i listen to music.....and to an extent.....looked at life......spiral out....
Tool is amazing. This song and others have helped me get off a 13 year cocaine addiction. So much love for them for helping in the way they did. Owe these guys for making my life better than it once was. That said... this isnt a great introduction to TOOL but i advise you to check out more. 46 and 2 and Schism and The pot are usually beginner tool fan makers.
This song heats me so hard in part because my father has always been addicted to alcohol, I struggled myself with alcohol and drugs during some years of my life, I can feel every word he is singing so hard, and makes me a kind of catharsis. It is not one of my favorite tools songs anyway (I love all their discography) but it gets me into this feeling of what the hell, I don't want this in my life for sure, but I have to accept this feelings are in me, and will always be, and I learned to deal with it. Tool took me to a huge learnig process of myself.
Could tell BP wasn’t vibing with this, but if you guys try another track, you might appreciate The Pot, Vicarious, Aenema or Lateralus(definitely the most uplifting mind, body and soul track you will ever find).
Yeah before I came across tool. I was a 90s rap and r&b lover for a big portion of my life….Tool changed me and the way I viewed music and life. Tool isn’t music you just tap your foot to. It demands your attention. There is so much mastery going on in their music…and the lyrics is the tasty topping. The lyrics are so deep and mind expansive…..the music itself does the same thing. They are an experience….type of music you have to have headphones and just close your eyes and let it take you. The reason why some people don’t like them because they have short attention spans and don’t put enough energy into just sitting without distractions and just listen
struggled at first to hit the like button but I went ahead and did it for you. Greatest rock band of all time and yes, they are deep. This song is about addiction. If addiction had a voice this is what it would tell you.
It was a mad battle inside your mind!! Between addiction, and you not wanting it anymore, and not just to save yourself, but everybody else around you!!
Maynard likes to portray himself as another instrument of the band, so yes a lot of the vocals kind of do blend in. Live performances he no longer sings center stage he usually has Opera perches on either sing of Danny (drums), and he moves back and forth between them during the show.
This song hits me really hard every time I hear it, my father passed away (June 8th 2023) he died due to his body shutting down due to alcohol abuse, for decades he fell and this is song resinates with me at a very deep and hurtful place, sad part is many that abuse alcohol refuse to admit they have a problem and refuse to seek help. Tool comes from a dark place and I love their music but this song I love and hate purely because of my own experiences and the resentment and frustration toward my father. I could also see the same emotions and demons hitting Don, much respect to you.
I loved your discussion. A lot of the time Tool reactors miss the mark you nailed it. I'd really like to see you do more Tool reactions. Undertow ties in with this one nicely.
I was working in an abandoned apartment building fixing cables and found a TOOL cd and became an Instant fan. They have the greatest drummer Danny Carey !
Thank you guys. Genuine thank you. Finally I can find an avenue to help explain to my partner why I am the way I am. Recognition and explanation are a Tool we must adapt.
One key to help this song make sense: the majority of the song he is speaking from the perspective of a drug to its user. "i am just a worthless liar. I will find a center in you. I will chew it up and leave"
Also, Maynard, as a writer, is more of a story-teller so a lot of the time when he is saying the word "I..." he may not be talking about himself literally, but more of the subject of the story he is trying to tell. Of course, he has plenty of writing that is about his actual self as well, but this is not one of those.
I always looked at it as the point of view from the substance itself. It’s worthless a lier what it does to the user lifting them up just to break them down.
yes, but... lemme continue that thought pattern out for ya... when you're neck deep in addiction, you eventually end up embodying the substance in these characteristics because it's taken over your life, you're no longer in control. you start doing those same exact things to the people around you that it's done to you. anybody who tries to hang through it with you, especially if they're enabling your habit? they get chewed up and spat out as well.
I always interpreted it as the impact an addict has on their loved ones.
my sister is clean now, but this song describes how she treated us at her worst.
she struggles with that guilt even decades after getting clean.
Well said
Ugh... it's not about addiction. It's about religion... like half their songs from this era. Sober = thinking clearly = NOT believing in religious nonsense. Re-read the lyrics.
Respect to both of you for sharing your problems from the past.
Very brave, hope many listen to you and can deal with their own problems.
The Tool army will decend upon your channel!
haha they don't know yet about the Tool army! haha
Amen🙏🏽
They don't even know whats coming lol
Let’s hope so!
Fact lol
This song is not my first choice to introduce someone to Tool. I’d recommend “The Pot” or “Lateralus” next. Or “Parabol” and Parabola”, but the two need to be played back to back as they are connected almost like an intro and song. Tool is known for polyrhythms and deep lyricism. Also, yes…. If you start doing Tool songs the “Tool army” will descend on your channel because we love nothing more than introducing people to their music.
hopefully not as cringe as the Nightwish (which I love) army lol
Definitely cannot recommend Parabol/Parabola enough for a new Tool listener
I mean I would consider this to be a good opener to tool cuz imagine hearing Sober for the first time in the year 1994, at the time shit was probably boombastic
@@ethanfowler1752I don’t have to imagine. When “Sober” dropped I had already be listening to “Opiate” for a while. It absolutely was huge, and the video was unlike anything anyone had ever seen before.
The Pot or Vicarious is normally the first songs I think of when recommending Tool but social commentary songs that make you think
Watch the live version next, it will blow you away! Loved both of your comments through this, much respect🙏🏻🤘
ua-cam.com/video/u7lweNCCwS0/v-deo.html
You absolutely correct my brother
'92 lollapalooza sober.. yes it is epic
THIS!
NOT THE NEW LIVE 1992 Lollapalooza Sober LIVE "Tool - Sober Live (Pro Shot) Remastered" is the video title.
Thanks for sharing all that, guys. Really appreciated the openness. Next song: The Pot. Trust me. It’s funky and bops hard. After that, you’ll have to keep going. Promise.
Yes
Rock the pot!~
Man fuck the pot haha let's get into real Tool
The Pot is incredible!
@michelefilener8998 it's great... but compared to the rest of Tools catalog its definitely at the bottom
Oh man. My favorite reactors FINALLY dipping their toes into the Tool pool!!! Dive in head first! You won't be disappointed!!
Sameeee !! Im so excited for them!
Very different and awesome
Another deep rabbit hole worth exploring.
the song in a nutshell is about addiction , it is about a friend of his that felt that he could only be creative while he was under the influence. I have heard Tool's music compared to a horrific accident , you wanna look away but you can't , the music just draws you in. Makes you feel uncomfortable but comforted at the same time.
This song is about battling addiction. The stalking butler is the addiction. Great reaction.
"There's a shadow just behind me
Shrouding every step I take
Making every promise empty
Pointing every finger at me
Waiting like a stalking butler
Who upon the finger rests"
THIS is what a reaction vid should be! So much respect to you guys for opening up and being sincere. ❤
Tool's music is a tool. 😊
They are the best, really and honestly opening up with their personal views and ideas! Even if I have my own pov about a lot of stuff I always learn and rethink about my stuff after listening to them
The song was written about a friend of the band.. the friend was a substance addict, but did not think of himself as an addict, he rather blamed the using on the fact he could only operate “at his artistic best” when he was highly intoxicated. And we can see via the analogies used within this song... the song is full of contradictions which is the daily struggle of an addict... The song is about addiction and drug abuse. The first verse describes the creeping, uncomfortable urges that follow an addict through his daily life. The drugs make you lie and view the world through paranoid eyes. The lead singer, Maynard James Keenan, refers to the addiction as a "stalking butler" to indicate that the drugs are always a constant presence just waiting for you to reach out for their help to maintain your high or relieve some pain.
Keenan whines that he wants to be under the influence, and almost in the same breath, that he wants to start over. This is the back-and-forth internal struggle he has with the elation of being high and the deep regret over his ruined life from the addiction. He goes on to give the drug a voice, calling itself "a worthless liar" and an "imbecile". The drug will get under your skin and "find the center in you", then build you up just enough to bring you down. The song ends with Keenan repeating the lyric, "I want what I want". He is referring to when the addiction takes hold and no amount of reasoning or rational thinking can get between an addict and their drug of choice.
Hey Don, Thanks so much for sharing with us. Not easy to admit where you were and how dark things were. Really glad you're in a better place and you're still here with us. When this song came out, I was in High School... and honestly, it resonated with me so much.. I actually think it helped me NOT become addicted to anything. My family history said I should have gone down that same path... but hearing this strangely beautiful bald man scream out his anguish made me take notice. Love your reactions, guys!!! keep it up!!!
It's "why can't we NOT be sober" the "not" changes everything
I loved the honest reaction and exploration of the themes of the song. Videos like this one are the reason I watch reaction videos
Fun Tool fact - their guitarist is also a special effects and set design guy for the movie industry. Can't be bothered to look anything up right now - but I remember reading many years ago that he worked on Jurassic Park and Terminator 2
This, of course, is an iconic Tool song that sprung them into stardom. But this album, & especially everything that followed is truly epic. Tool is one of a kind. Tool is mysterious. Tool is thought provoking. Tool is emotional. Tool is life changing. Tool is my favorite band of all time! I hope you dive into more.
Maynard is still creating magic through Puscifer
Mine too!
@@PsychoGecko89and A Perfect Circle
thank you Don for being so open. i’ve always found that people who have struggled with addiction, or are close to someone who has, are the ones that pick up the meaning of this song. to be honest, i’m happy when people don’t get it on their own, because it means maybe they’ve never had to fight the demons off like we have 💜
Lateralus, 46 & 2, The Pot, Right in Two, Parabol and Parabola, they have a ton of good music!
I liked the ramble city. It helped me get some insight into who you guys are as PEOPLE. I really enjoyed it, and I always enjoy your reactions, thoughts, etc..
Wow pegasus for a first time listen and not being a metal head you did a really good job finding your truth in that track❤ well done how Tool intended 👏
I subscribed because I am 42 and TOOL now is much more relevant to my life than when I saw them live in high school in the 90s. They are the best band for creating dialog and critical thinking for reaction videos. Stay with just the tracks and lyrics and don't let the videos distract you. They are good for after you get it. All songs are just as relevant so pick what you want.
The live version from the 90s is such a show. Tool is a major rabbit hole. Don, thank you for the personal reaction.
Don talking about that feeling of not wanting to get out of bed reminded me of the opening of "Chalk Outlines" (I'm still hеrе in this bеd thаt I сrаwlеd in / I hоpе thаt I'm sоmеоnе еlsе in thе mоrning).
Glad to watch this reaction, but it's not going on a playlist or have me very inspired. You two were great though. I love it when you're open (or when your bouncing- that always cracks me up).
After hearing your thoughts on the song, I think their track Lateralus would be awesome. That is a very well composed track with awesome lyrics. Especially when you consider life as a whole.
100% concur
Both lateralus and the pot would be great to see them react to :D
Lateralus would be great to see you react to! It's based on the fibonaci sequence. I'll leave the figuring out of how it was used in case you do a reaction but the talent to use that in a song is crazy! I think Ren does it on one of his tracks too.
It’s a song about getting sober. Alluding to all things in recovery including the 12 step program. This is an early Tool track and I believe Maynard may have also been expressing some anger to his experience of hypocrisy in religion but I’m certain a bigger Tool fan will correct anything I got wrong. 🤘
No, it's not. The story of this song is very well known.
"Tool guitarist Adam Jones has stated in an interview that the song is about a friend of the band whose artistic expression only comes out when he is under the influence."
@@emerje0 ...yep, same story most of us got. I guess he hasn't run across it yet.
@@mapexzildjian6361 The "friend" is Bill Manspeaker
The song is sung from the perspective of someone who does not want to be sober
As a recovering alcoholic myself, this songs hits me hard, everytime i listen to it. Your reaction and honesty made me hit subscribe. Thanks!!
My favorite reaction you guys have had on this channel. The personal details and really sharing experience, in depth discussion of the lyrics. Opening up about what it means to be human, bringing up the Illiad to reference how old and innate addiction is and what it means to be a man and better yourself.
I loved how you guys kind of didnt get it at first, and then it slapped Don on the face hard and brought him back to the bad times, and him sharing his past made BP realize what the song was about, and let him attach to it in his own way.
Very cool experience gentlemen. Much love.
Since it got brought up, Puscifer - the Humbling River
It's a beautiful song about someone who has conquered every trial in their life except for "the river" and pleads to an angel to show him the way.
omg what's even cooler than starting reacting to Tool is that from them they will get to Puscifer and A Perfect Circle! Can't wait for BP and Don to find a lot of meaning in their music!
Tool is my favorite band of all time. Followed very closely by Jinjer. Who you should definitely do more of. I’ve seen Tool probably 12 times over the years and they’re one of the most incredible live shows ever.
“Stalking butler” something waiting in the shadows for you to need them. In this case, drugs and addiction.
“Why can’t we NOT be sober” (Why do we have to be sober) “Why can’t we drink forever”
Weed lets me sleep and cope with my anxiety. And I just like it. I quit drinking over a decade ago. It was only fun for awhile.
Double negative, in TOOL Sober. 'Why can't we not be sober?'
The Pot and Lateralus really are best to start off with when discovering Tool. But have to say you guys did a beautiful job with this. The openess and honesty was felt and appreciated
I could never be a reactor because I have literally heard every song you react to. But I love seeing you watching it for the 1st time
The way you guys broke this down was beautiful to watch.
You are about to be inundated by Tool Army drowning you in facts 😂
Facts 💯 lol
Do Lateraus the fettuccine sequence.
Maynard believed he's mathematically proven there's no God, making himself a fool. Nothing inside time/space can prove or disprove God. Personal experience is the only way. Only believe and trust in Jesus. There's no other way into Heaven
@@munkeeBraynStooLOL
Love This Band & Song!
I have a Tool suggestion. Hear me out; the song is Hooker with a Penis. It's a metal diss track. Don't be fooled by the title. It's deep.
One of my all time favorites
Yes to this one!
I'm an oldschool Tool-head.
But personally, I recommend you start off with Lateralus and yer headphones on 😉👍
absolutely agree Danny!
This was a really interesting reaction. I'm enjoying watching you guys dive into different genres and relating things to your own experiences. This is arguably the most openly relatable Tool song out there (maybe Aenima for some people). Definitely continue diving down this rabbit hole.
Being a liar faking it everyday that you're okay and nobody can tell that you're just ready to blow up. Great reaction guys.
Didn’t expect this band! Tool and Ren are two of my fave writers.
Love you guys for trying out other genres. Keep it up!
There’s nothing more goosebump inducing than hearing the entire crowd sing the “trust me…trust me” at a tool show.
The thing is...Tool's (Maynard's) lyrics are almost always written in such a way that the listener can find a meaning in them that is relevant to their own life and experiences. The inspiration for him to write the lyrics may be one specific thing, but there are often at least 2 or 3 other layers that can be dug into to find something that resonates with you.
The absolute beautiful thing about TOOL is that it truly makes you think!!! Which is why I love this band so much!!!
I subscribed because of your Ren reviews, but PLEASE go down the Tool rabbit hole! ❤❤❤
Same as you Victoria! and then came to love their insights on everything and BP songs as well. I am so happy they are finding TOOL
Same!
"I will only elevate you, just enough to bring you down." seems to fit what Don was describing, drinking and then laying in bed wanting things to be done, chasing that feeling that they never get.
Welcome into the best rabbit hole on the planet ! Tool Army there waiting for more
This song is a plea. A voice screaming, crying, "why?". Why is my life so much confusion? SO. FUCKED. UP?! Why is my life filled with so much pain?! Speaking personally when I was in the depths of my depression I had a term I used I called "running to sleep" because that's what I did every night, I ran to sleep! Because only when I was asleep did my mind, which was torturing me by my own volition with thoughts that were on constant repeat, was silenced...temporarily. When my head hit the pillow and I fell into unconsciousness so did this plagued mind of mine. This song is a roar in the face of the universe from the wounded and afflicted. Gripping the edge of the blanket we pray....can't we just go back?! To when things were simple, and free. Before we started making mistakes. Hurting others. Hurting ourselves...please...can we?!
I hate when people pick this as the first song. It's a great song but it seems like such a watered down version of their music. You'll get what I'm saying if you keep going. Which I really hope you guys do!
YES. I’m usually suggesting Rosetta Stoned, or Lateralus for big appreciation lol.
@tracyalbright5468 I think the pot Is the perfect introduction. Then 46&2 after.
Just peeking through the surface is a fine start for most folks, let them get a taste, get the idea of what's happening before throwing them completely into the blender. Sober is a great way to help someone tune in.
I liked this song from day one but I didn't get it either. It wasn't until recently that I gained great appreciation for the band and essentially joined the Tool Army. So many times I questioned my worth. Sober is about that. So many other songs later I discovered a part of me inside Tool. There is so much more to hear that will blow your mind in a wonderful way.
I think you would appreciate Wings For Marie and 10,000 days (they are part 1 and 2 and should be done together). They are about the death of Maynard's mother after many years of paralysis. They're very moving, and incredibly beautiful.
BP will be absolutely touched by Wings for Marie cos of losing his mum to cancer as well... it's going to hit him hard... damn I just want to listen to them again so badly
@@margaritasaloscerdos5 yes, that's the reason I thought of those two songs. I figured they would resonate with him.
He should definitely choose the videos with lyrics.
His going to absolute adore them… Can’t wait to see it ❤🙌🙌🌌🌌
I’m a VERY late to the party Tool fan. Knew of them because of their early videos, but really didn’t dig deep until the pandemic when I needed something to do to escape. One thing I’ll say is that they really started making sense to me (the lyrics at least) when I read about Maynard’s history, specifically with his mother. The music though is SO intricate.
The "Jesus won't you f*cking whistle" part makes me picture something like: Jesus sidled up on him (like a lithe butler that appears suddenly like a thief in the night) and caught him in his decaying state, unprepared and not ready to face him.
Sober live 1993 is a must watch 🧡🙏
Ahhh,Tool.Keep it coming your reactions are heartfelt and go deep👍.Tool are Quality,you won't be disappointed❤🇬🇧
I’m impressed that BP went from “It’s interesting.” (ie, I’m not feeling this or understanding what the lyrics are saying) to pretty much seeing and understanding all of it at the end. And big kudos to Don for being so open about personal and family travails. Much like Don, this song was just a cool one to watch back in the 90s on MTV because of the incredible stop-motion animation. I didn’t ‘get’ the song until I watched some reactions during Covid. The song itself is fairly straightforward musically for a Tool song. Those that know the band better than me will direct you toward the next choice. The Pot is a great one.
What I get out of "Jesus, won't you f*cking whistle" is "why won't you call me home", as one whistles to call their dog. And it follows into "Why can't we drink forever" as a double entendre... why can't we (drink forever) and why can't we drink (forever), or taste death. To start this over is to be reincarnated. And that really comes into the forefront with the next set with Mother Mary and the 'sleep forever' changeup.
I love this song so much. I gravitated to tool when i was younger because of being in a rough place mentally. So the bits about self hate felt like i wasn't alone.
Im not sure tool has upbeat songs.
Your discussion and sharing, is an enormous service to the community Men and those suffering from 'isim's.
Thanks for sharing 🙏
that shirt is DOPE AF, my man!!!
I really appreciate how don Juanabe was willing to be so frank in his discussion about his history with alcohol. Im a recovering alcoholic and the fear of opening to others when i realized i had a problem kept me from getting the help i needed fir years, its not an easy thing to admit especially on a place like youtube so i just wanted to say thank you , youre spot on with the lyrics and i hope people can watch this and realize theyre not alone when dealing with addiction.
Bro droppin truth bombs, talkin about chasing the feelings.... Great reaction!
Thanks for doing this guys. Would love to see more tool.
Maynard is a GOAT. I have such nostalgia for them. Seeing them live was mind blowing... But after my teenage years Maynard's other band, A Perfect Circle, was more my style. 🔥🔥🔥
damn, I refreshed and exited the chat! Guys you got it, this song is like the internal dialogue in Ren's "Hi Ren", and we can hear the addiction and the human talking to each other, and the addiction stating what he wants and the human wanting to stop and start again, and have peace finally. When you are rock bottom and ask whoever your god or what you believe in, to send you a sign how to get out of the damn hole, you just want a whisper or whatever, but many times you can't find "HOPE" and see the light anywhere.
Tool is often cryptic in the messages but so metaphorically beautiful, always deep and raw in meaning, and there's no room for repetition of patterns as their songs are always like a rollercoaster.
But one that you would absolutely love riding! Buckle up and welcome to the next rabbit hole. You should watch the live performance of this song, but if you want somethinf full of meaning and more uplifting I would suggest "Lateralus" to really get what they are about. Think about the fact that it was written follwoing the fibonacci sequence somewhere... I don't want to reveal all of it!
This song is ultimately about addiction. It helps me through my life as a sober person. I like your reaction videos dude! You are open minded and get it like most people don't.
T00L Army incoming… enjoy the ride 🌀🌀🌀
Also you could take part of that 2nd verse as the drug. "I am just a worthless liar, i am just an imbecile. I will only complicate you, trust in me and fall as well. I will find a center in you, I will chew it up and leave. I will work to elevate you(make you feel better) just enough to bring you down." Pretty deep!
I should have watched the rest of the video b4 I commented bcuz you said basically what I just said lol
It can also be the "shadow" but basically, drug and addiction feed themselves in our shadow aspects, and in fact it starts with "There's a shadow just behind me". We can never see our shadow self, and it is always the voices that work into your own detriment
Thanks for this reaction guys and sharing so much about your own struggles and experiences.some of it hit pretty close to home and pretty hard.
This song was written long before maynard owned a winery. His other bands are puscifer and perfect circle.
Think about "I" as the spirit of "I" that we all share. and "I" is sometimes a worthless liar, "I" is sometimes great. No matter what, "I" will mostly complicate you. Trust in "I" and fall aswell. much love.
Wow, love the commentary. The song made you think deeper than you thought it would.
can i just say i know you like to watch other peoples reactions to your videos but i spend most of my time watching your face. Your expressions are priceless lol xx
that turned into a terrific reaction guys you nailed the esccence of this, he also had perfect circle
Tool is literally one of the greatest lyrically meaningful bands in history
There are plenty of explanations for the lyrics (people read into things a lot). The point of the song was to show the struggle of a friend of the band with serious addiction issues. His addiction practically stalked him (or so it seemed) and (YES guys he was calling out to god asking why he HAD to suffer) Then much like in Hi Ren, the song takes a turn and the drugs are talking "I am just a worthless liar, I am just an imbecil, I will only complicate you, trust in me and fall as well." The power of that message shook the fandom into devotees. I like this song, Swim, Prison Sex and 46&2 are also fun songs. They did over time develop their style so very much because Maynard is a mad genius. He's the one who does the stop animation for all of the videos. He's meticulous, not just with his lyrics, but his musicianship and hiis very approach to the performances themselves. I saw a comment suggesting you see the live version of this song and I have to agree. The lyrics are mind bending sure, but the performances of this band are epic in themselves. I'm sure plenty of people are going to send you to their deeper songs, The Pot, Parabol and Parabola, Lateralus, these are all technically magnifacent songs. The depth of THIS song doesn't even compare to the depth in those that came after I promise you. I appreciate you both for your takes, I love hearing you guys talk it out because you get to a lot of the conclusions we'll eventually come to the comment section to echo.
Such a great reaction. Love the in depth take to this song. Great thing about music is it grabs everyone differently.
Tool are the smartest band in the world...and my personal favourite......they change the way i listen to music.....and to an extent.....looked at life......spiral out....
Oh god he called on us enjoy the thousands of new subs tool army is here
So glad you're doing Tool. DO MORE TOOL.
Absolutely LOVE me some Tool! A Perfect Circle as well, Maynard is something special!
Congrats for getting it! I too found this in retrospect after my own self-destruction.
I will tell you this mr. Pegasus and mr. Dom will blow their shit when they hear this band
Tool is amazing. This song and others have helped me get off a 13 year cocaine addiction. So much love for them for helping in the way they did. Owe these guys for making my life better than it once was.
That said... this isnt a great introduction to TOOL but i advise you to check out more. 46 and 2 and Schism and The pot are usually beginner tool fan makers.
This song heats me so hard in part because my father has always been addicted to alcohol, I struggled myself with alcohol and drugs during some years of my life, I can feel every word he is singing so hard, and makes me a kind of catharsis. It is not one of my favorite tools songs anyway (I love all their discography) but it gets me into this feeling of what the hell, I don't want this in my life for sure, but I have to accept this feelings are in me, and will always be, and I learned to deal with it. Tool took me to a huge learnig process of myself.
Your comment "That is where the art lies.." comment struck me in a relatable way. I never would have thought that myself, but am glad you said it.
Great conversation guys. Don, hugs.
Could tell BP wasn’t vibing with this, but if you guys try another track, you might appreciate The Pot, Vicarious, Aenema or Lateralus(definitely the most uplifting mind, body and soul track you will ever find).
yes, they should go next with Lateralus I reckon... and then maybe Parabol and Parabola to completely make them spiral in!
Yeah before I came across tool. I was a 90s rap and r&b lover for a big portion of my life….Tool changed me and the way I viewed music and life. Tool isn’t music you just tap your foot to. It demands your attention. There is so much mastery going on in their music…and the lyrics is the tasty topping. The lyrics are so deep and mind expansive…..the music itself does the same thing. They are an experience….type of music you have to have headphones and just close your eyes and let it take you. The reason why some people don’t like them because they have short attention spans and don’t put enough energy into just sitting without distractions and just listen
Culling voices after seeing it live has become a personal favorite hoping you join the army soon
Why can't we NOT be sober.... double negative for emphasis
struggled at first to hit the like button but I went ahead and did it for you. Greatest rock band of all time and yes, they are deep. This song is about addiction. If addiction had a voice this is what it would tell you.
My cup runneth over yet I'm still surprised when people haven't heard of them. 30 years of Tool and it still sends shivers of amazement down my spine.
It was a mad battle inside your mind!! Between addiction, and you not wanting it anymore, and not just to save yourself, but everybody else around you!!
Maynard likes to portray himself as another instrument of the band, so yes a lot of the vocals kind of do blend in. Live performances he no longer sings center stage he usually has Opera perches on either sing of Danny (drums), and he moves back and forth between them during the show.
Its the double negative for me "why CANT we NOT be sober" WHY CAN WE BE SOBER.
This song hits me really hard every time I hear it, my father passed away (June 8th 2023) he died due to his body shutting down due to alcohol abuse, for decades he fell and this is song resinates with me at a very deep and hurtful place, sad part is many that abuse alcohol refuse to admit they have a problem and refuse to seek help.
Tool comes from a dark place and I love their music but this song I love and hate purely because of my own experiences and the resentment and frustration toward my father.
I could also see the same emotions and demons hitting Don, much respect to you.
I loved your discussion. A lot of the time Tool reactors miss the mark you nailed it. I'd really like to see you do more Tool reactions. Undertow ties in with this one nicely.
More Tool guys! They don't miss.
I was working in an abandoned apartment building fixing cables and found a TOOL cd and became an Instant fan. They have the greatest drummer Danny Carey !
Thank you guys. Genuine thank you. Finally I can find an avenue to help explain to my partner why I am the way I am. Recognition and explanation are a Tool we must adapt.