Maynard James Keenan Critiques Tool’s “Stupid” Song

In a recent episode of Steve-O’s Wild Ride! podcast, Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan shared candid reflections on one of his band’s older tracks, admitting that he now considers it “stupid.” The discussion stemmed from an intriguing topic regarding artificial intelligence’s classification of his three bands—Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer.

AI’s Take on Keenan’s Musical Projects

During the podcast, Steve-O revealed that he had asked AI to analyze Keenan’s bands. The software described Tool as “reverent,” A Perfect Circle as “romantic,” and Puscifer as “absurd,” while suggesting that all three groups share a common goal of “dismantling the ego.”

However, Keenan appeared skeptical of the AI’s interpretations. “Yeah, I don’t know about that,” he responded, humorously questioning the notion of “reverence for fist fucking?”

Serious Play and Musical Reflection

Keenan elaborated on his songwriting philosophy, describing the lyrics across his bands as “serious play.” He emphasized that his artistic intent often balances humor with a deeper purpose. Yet, he confessed that he sometimes felt he had “failed” to achieve that balance in certain songs, admitting to getting “caught up in the wrong thing.”

Critique of Tool’s “4°”

One particular song from Tool’s 1993 debut album, Undertow, came under fire during the conversation. Keenan expressed regret over the track “4°,” openly labeling it a “stupid song.” He explained, “The way I wrote it… I was trying to fucking make a butt sex joke and it was dumb.” While he acknowledged the musical beauty of the song, he expressed disappointment in the lyrics, stating, “I don’t know what the fuck I was thinking.”

For reference, one of the verses includes the lines:

“Locked up inside you / Like the calm beneath castles / Is a cavern of treasures that / No one has been to.”

Redemption with “Stinkfist”

In a light-hearted moment, Keenan remarked that he felt he “fixed” the shortcomings of “4°” with the creation of “Stinkfist,” the opening track on Tool’s acclaimed 1996 album, Ænima.

Absurdity and Seriousness in Puscifer

Later in the podcast, Keenan agreed with the AI’s assessment of Puscifer as “absurd.” However, he clarified that the band’s work carries just as much seriousness as some of the material from his other projects, noting that the melodies and stories often align thematically.

Upcoming Puscifer Album and Tour

Fans of Puscifer can look forward to the band’s new album, Normal Isn’t, set to release on February 5. Pre-orders are available at the Loudwire Vinyl Shop, and the band will embark on a North American tour from March 20 through May 14.

Conclusion

Maynard James Keenan’s reflections on his past work reveal the complexities of artistic expression and the evolution of a musician’s perspective over time. His candid acknowledgment of what he considers missteps in his songwriting serves as a reminder that even celebrated artists grapple with their creations. As Tool and Puscifer continue to push the boundaries of music, fans can eagerly anticipate new material and live performances that reflect Keenan’s ongoing growth as an artist.

FAQs

What song did Maynard James Keenan call “stupid”?

Keenan referred to the Tool song “4°” from the album Undertow as “stupid” during the podcast.

What does Maynard think about AI’s classification of his bands?

Keenan was skeptical about the AI’s descriptions, particularly the characterization of Tool as “reverent.”

When is Puscifer’s new album releasing?

Puscifer’s new album, Normal Isn’t, will be released on February 5.

When will Puscifer be on tour?

Puscifer will embark on a North American tour from March 20 through May 14.