TOOL - Fear Inoculum: Every Song Ranked From Worst To Best

2. 7empest

"7empest" might be the most effectively structured song on the entire album as a light, clean start settles you in for a similar experience to tracks like "Pneuma" and "Invincible," before the whole thing bursts to life.

"F*ck, here we go again!" Keenan barks as Fear Inoculum's biggest riff kicks in. After well over an hour of spacy psychedelia with only a cluster of releases, the first few minutes are pure, metallic catharsis. Tool let rip on "7empest." It's simultaneously the album's most accessible and epic track as while it rocks the hell out early on, it comes in at a hefty 15:43 - and those minutes are well filled with a rich variety of sounds.

"7empest" succeeds by flipping the format as the riff-driven gratification comes sooner rather than later. Then, the song jams out, before quietening down and exploding once more. It never gets as quiet as tracks like "Culling Voices," though, and its sludginess will delight anyone craving heft and power.

Adam Jones' performance deserves special commendation here. His soaring leads are all over "7empest," completing this near-perfect, single-ready joint.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.