Tool—Danny Carey, Adam Jones, Maynard James Keenan and Justin Chancellor—haven't released a new studio album since 10,000 Days, which came out May 2, 2006 (that's around 4,500 days ago, in case you were wondering). So, yeah, this is welcome news. Anyway, here's the official news release from the band:
"Who's ready for some major breaking news? Brace yourself; get ready...okay, here we go. We are very excited to announce what is sure to be welcome news for both fans of Tool and prog-metal enthusiasts in general. After all the years of writing and arranging (and re-arranging) at the band's loft, I [Tool webmaster] can at this time officially report that the guys have moved into a major studio where the recording process for the next album is about to begin in earnest.
"For the past few days the band members have been getting sonically adjusted to their new surroundings—dialing in the equipment settings and restaurant catering choices—in preparation for Danny [Carey, drums] to begin his tracking any time now—perhaps by the time that you read this!
"I am also excited to announce that 'Evil' Joe Barresi will once again have his capable fingers at the engineering controls for what will certainly be another masterful Tool offering by the talented team. Pinch yourself if you want, but I have been told that all systems are 'GO' at this point for the upcoming sessions.
"I will be posting periodic bits and pieces on the progress of the tracking once the guys get deeper into the recording process, and hope that all of you will keep checking back to the official website for these updates.
"In the meantime, be sure to also visit the individual band members' sites and socials (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.) for more inside glimpses as Tool prepares for the next stage in their musical odyssey."
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Damian is Editor-in-Chief of Guitar World magazine. In past lives, he was GW’s managing editor and online managing editor. He's written liner notes for major-label releases, including Stevie Ray Vaughan's 'The Complete Epic Recordings Collection' (Sony Legacy) and has interviewed everyone from Yngwie Malmsteen to Kevin Bacon (with a few memorable Eric Clapton chats thrown into the mix). Damian, a former member of Brooklyn's The Gas House Gorillas, was the sole guitarist in Mister Neutron, a trio that toured the U.S. and released three albums. He now plays in two NYC-area bands.
