Parabola cover

Parabola

Tool · 2001

31 min · 3 tracks · progressive metal

A sprawling, immersive journey blending heavy instrumentals with meditative vocal passages, invoking a sense of both chaos and tranquility.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Parabol / Parabola — This track serves as the centerpiece of the album, seamlessly transitioning from a serene introduction into a powerful exploration of life's dualities.
  • →
    Parabol / Parabola (Jello Biafra Dual Commentary) — This commentary adds an intriguing layer by juxtaposing Biafra's thoughts with the original track, enhancing the thematic depth around consciousness and societal critique.
  • →
    Parabola (Lustmord remix) — The remix offers a fresh interpretation of the original work, showcasing how the core themes can be transformed through different sonic landscapes while retaining their essence.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

73 /100
Alpine
Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The blend of heavy and meditative elements showcases Tool's signature style, making it a notable single in their discography.

What we noticed

  • The first track, 'Parabol', serves as an atmospheric introduction, gradually building tension before transitioning into the heavier 'Parabola'.
  • The song features dynamic shifts between aggressive instrumentals and softer, contemplative vocal sections, creating a contrast that enhances its thematic depth.
  • The length of 'Parabola' allows for extended instrumental passages, which contribute to its immersive quality and sense of journey.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Parabol / Parabola 10:10
  • 2 Parabol / Parabola (Jello Biafra Dual Commentary) 10:10
  • 3 Parabola (Lustmord remix) 11:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata