Tool’s Best-Selling Albums Ranked
Since their formation in the early 1990s, Tool has established itself as one of the most innovative and influential groups in the progressive metal genre. Here, we take a look at Tool’s best-selling albums, which reflect not only their sales figures but also the creative contributions and successes of the band.
6. Fear Inoculum (2019)
- Release Year: 2019
- Sales: 537,000
- Awards: None
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Justin Chancellor, Danny Carey
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
After a long hiatus, Tool returned with “Fear Inoculum.” The album was praised for its complex structures and deep, philosophical lyrics, showcasing how the band has evolved their creative vision even after years of silence.
5. Opiate (1992)
- Release Year: 1992
- Sales: 1,070,000
- Awards: None
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Paul D’Amour, Danny Carey
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
“Opiate” is Tool’s debut EP and lays the groundwork for their later style. With a raw sound and provocative themes, the album set the stage for the development of their musical identity.
Their debut EP, “Opiate” (1992), and their latest album, “Fear Inoculum” (2019), unfortunately did not receive any awards. However, the nominations alone highlight Tool’s enduring influence and innovation in the music scene.
4. 10,000 Days (2006)
- Release Year: 2006
- Sales: 2,442,500
- Awards: Nominated for Grammy Award for “Best Hard Rock Performance” for “Vicarious”
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Justin Chancellor (bass), Danny Carey
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
“10,000 Days” explores themes of personal loss and mourning and is often regarded as Tool’s most emotional album. With complex arrangements and profound lyrics, it remains an essential work in their catalog.
Moving to the mid-2000s, “10,000 Days” (2006) garnered a nomination for “Best Hard Rock Performance” for the track “Vicarious,” but again, the band did not take home the troph.
3. Undertow (1993)
- Release Year: 1993
- Sales: 3,237,500
- Awards: Nominated for Grammy Award for “Best Metal Performance” for “Sober”
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Paul D’Amour, Danny Carey
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
“Undertow” was Tool’s first studio album and featured the famous song “Sober,” which propelled the band into public awareness. Its dark atmosphere and emotional content set standards for the genre.
2. Aenima (1996)
- Release Year: 1996
- Sales: 3,385,000
- Awards: Nominated for Grammy Award for “Best Metal Performance” for “Ænema”
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan, Adam Jones, Paul D’Amour, Danny Carey
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
“Aenima” marked a turning point in Tool’s career, solidifying their status in the metal scene. With a mix of aggressive riffs and profound lyrics, the album critically engages with societal norms and personal challenges.
“Aenima” (1996), was nominated for a Grammy in the same category for the song “Ænema,” although it did not secure the win. Similarly, “Undertow” (1993) received a nomination for “Best Metal Performance” for the hit “Sober,” yet it also walked away without an award.
1. Lateralus (2001)
- Release Year: 2001
- Sales: 3,470,000
- Awards: Grammy Award for “Best Metal Performance” (2002) for “Schism”
- Contributing Members: Maynard James Keenan (vocals), Adam Jones (guitar), Paul D’Amour (bass), Danny Carey (drums)
- Lyrics by: Maynard James Keenan
“Lateralus” is considered one of Tool’s masterpieces. The album combines complex musical structures with philosophical and spiritual themes. The hit “Schism” addresses interpersonal relationships.
“Lateralus” (2001), one of their most celebrated works, earned them a Grammy Award for “Best Metal Performance” in 2002 for the iconic track “Schism.” This recognition solidified their status in the music industry and showcased their unique sound.
In summary, Tool has won one Grammy Award, while several of their albums and songs have received nominations for other accolades.
With millions of albums sold and a loyal fanbase, Tool’s influence on the music landscape will be felt for years to come.
