What makes Vicarious by Tool notable?

Vicarious debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, showcasing Tool's continued commercial success and artistic evolution. The title track garnered significant radio play and critical acclaim, further establishing the band as a leading force in progressive metal and influencing subsequent artists within the genre. In 2006, Tool released Vicarious as their first studio album after the critically acclaimed Lateralus. This album maintained their progressive sound while delving deeper into philosophical and social commentary, solidifying their status in the alternative metal scene during a time when they were also known for their elaborate live performances.

Who is Vicarious for?

Vicarious works well if you're into extended narrative progression, immersive reflective listening experience and thought-provoking philosophical themes.

How many songs are on Vicarious?

Vicarious has 7 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Vicarious

Tool · 2006

75 min · 7 tracks · progressive metal

A labyrinthine exploration of existential themes, merging intricate rhythms with haunting melodies and provocative lyrical depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Vicarious — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of voyeurism and detachment, driven by complex time signatures and a compelling narrative that invites listeners to reflect on their own consumption of media.
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CoSM — This track stands out for its atmospheric build-up and philosophical musings on consciousness, aligning perfectly with Tool's reputation for merging heavy instrumentation with deep lyrical content.
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Documentary — As an extensive piece that combines spoken word with ambient soundscapes, it serves as an introspective interlude that challenges conventional song structures and enhances the overall thematic experience of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The single showcases intricate composition and strong craft but lacks cohesion due to commentary tracks.

What we noticed

The commentary tracks provide insight into the band's creative process, contrasting with the primary musical content.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

extended narrative progression
immersive reflective listening experience
thought-provoking philosophical themes
patient exploration of complexity

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Themes: media consumption critique· philosophical voyeurism· consciousness exploration
Career context: In 2006, Tool released Vicarious as their first studio album after the critically acclaimed Lateralus. This album maintained their progressive sound while delving deeper into philosophical and social commentary, solidifying their status in the alternative metal scene during a time when they were also known for their elaborate live performances.
Stylistic neighbors: A Perfect Circle· Porcupine Tree· Opeth