The Los Angeles-based alternative rock band Tool was formed in 1990 by vocalist Maynard James Keenan, drummer Danny Carey, guitarist Adam Jones and bassist Paul D'Amour, who would later be replaced by Justin Chancellor in 1995. Creating a unique sound for itself that blends progressive metal instrumental adeptness and virtuoistic rhythms with heady lyrics that oftentimes center around theological ideas and psychoanalytical themes, Tool distinguished itself from the myriad of other bands that were emerging from the Southern California music scene in the 1990s. Though quickly becoming a stalwart act for niche audiences and music connoisseurs after it released its debut EP, Opiate, in 1992, Tool managed to achieve crossover success when it released its widely popular album Ænima in 1996.
