In a career spanning over 30 years and five albums, Tool has carved out a niche as one of the most face-melting and influential rock bands globally. Led by the enigmatic Maynard James Keenan, the band’s allure has only grown stronger with time.

Inside the walls of Crypto.com Arena, there was one rule: no cell phones allowed. This wasn’t just a suggestion – it was a strict policy enforced by security. Keenan himself drove the point home, urging the audience to ditch their devices and fully immerse themselves in the experience. And immerse we did. With phones safely tucked away, fans were able to lose themselves in the performance. The absence of distractions only served to heighten the atmosphere, with hallucinatory visuals projected onto a mega-screen and Keenan’s rhythmic body movements holding everyone captive. Keenan’s unconventional stage positioning—on raised platforms behind the band rather than center stage—added an extra layer of surrealism to the performance.

Tool opened with “Fear Inoculum,” causing me to forget for a moment that I was there to photograph the band, not fall under the spell of hypnosis. They nailed it. The combination of Adam’s guitar, balancing distortion and crispiness, along with Justin’s precise rhythm and tuning, perfectly complemented Keenan’s vocals. If you thought I was missing someone, I’m not. Danny’s masterful polyrhythmic drumming is second to none. The entire set was harmoniously brilliant.

As the night ended, Keenan finally gave the green light for phones to come out – but not without some ground rules. Flash photography was strictly off-limits, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the show while still being able to brag to their social media following. I enjoyed their unconventional experience—from no phones to a thoughtful intermission—it was unlike anything I have witnessed.

All photos by Brandy Hornback