Tool was formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1990, when vocalist Maynard James Keenan and guitarist Adam Jones began collaborating after meeting through mutual friends. Both had moved to Los Angeles in the late 1980s—Keenan with a background in visual arts and Jones originally pursuing work in film. As they developed early material, they recruited drummer Danny Carey, who joined after other drummers failed to show up for rehearsals, and bassist Paul D’Amour, completing the band’s first lineup.
The group released their debut EP Opiate in 1992, followed by their first full‑length album Undertow in 1993. This early period showcased a heavier, more straightforward metal sound that helped them gain traction in the alternative and hard‑rock scenes. Their breakthrough came with Ænima in 1996, which marked a shift toward more experimental songwriting and established Tool as a leading force in progressive and alternative metal. Bassist Justin Chancellor joined the band in 1995, replacing D’Amour and solidifying the lineup that continues today.
Tool’s evolution continued with Lateralus (2001) and 10,000 Days (2006), albums known for complex rhythms, extended song structures, and thematic depth. Their music increasingly incorporated elements of art rock, psychedelic influences, and intricate visual design, much of it shaped by Jones’s background in film and the band’s long‑standing collaboration with visionary artist Alex Grey. These releases earned widespread critical acclaim and expanded their international audience.
After a long period of anticipation, Tool released Fear Inoculum in 2019, their first studio album in thirteen years. The record continued their tradition of lengthy, meticulously crafted compositions and debuted to strong commercial and critical reception. By this time, the band had sold more than 13 million albums in the United States, reflecting their enduring influence and dedicated fanbase.
Across their career, Tool has earned four Grammy Awards, headlined major festivals, and maintained a reputation for artistic independence, often taking extended periods between releases to refine their work. Their catalog includes five studio albums, one EP, and a box set, each contributing to their status as one of the most innovative and genre‑defying bands in modern rock and metal. Their lineup—Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Danny Carey, and Justin Chancellor—has remained unchanged since 1995, a rarity for a band with such longevity.
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