Rock band Tool is reportedly in discussions to secure a residency at the state-of-the-art Las Vegas Sphere in 2027. This move could mark the first time a metal act headlines the innovative venue, known for its immersive visual experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Tool is in talks for a 2027 Las Vegas Sphere residency.
- Drummer Danny Carey mentioned a potential new album release to coincide with the shows.
- The Sphere residency is a significant financial and logistical undertaking.
- If confirmed, Tool would be the first metal band to perform there.
Tool Drummer Confirms Discussions
Danny Carey, the drummer for Tool, recently spoke about the band's plans during an interview. He confirmed that discussions are underway regarding a potential residency at the Las Vegas Sphere.
Carey also hinted at the possibility of a new album release in 2027. This album could coincide with the proposed string of performances at the unique Sin City venue.
"I think we’d be perfect for that," Carey stated. "We’ve been talking to those guys."
The Sphere is known for its cutting-edge technology and massive LED screen that wraps around the audience, creating a fully immersive environment.
Fast Fact
The Las Vegas Sphere opened in September 2023 and has a seating capacity of approximately 18,600 people.
A Demanding Endeavor
Carey emphasized that preparing for a Sphere residency is a complex and demanding process. The scale of the venue and its unique technical requirements necessitate extensive planning and significant financial investment.
He described the endeavor as "pretty intense." The band would need to dedicate considerable resources to develop a show that fully utilizes the Sphere's capabilities.
What is the Las Vegas Sphere?
The Sphere is a spherical entertainment venue in Paradise, Nevada. It features a 16K resolution LED screen that covers the interior, along with advanced audio technology, providing an unparalleled sensory experience for live performances and events.
The financial aspect is also a major consideration. Carey noted that it takes a substantial number of shows for an act to become profitable at the venue.
"It’s a pretty expensive endeavor, it takes a while to get into the black," Carey explained. "I think it’s quite a few shows before you make any money."
This suggests that any residency would likely involve a significant commitment from the band, possibly spanning several weeks or months.
Pioneering Metal at the Sphere
If Tool's residency materializes, they would make history as the first metal act to headline the Las Vegas Sphere. The venue has already hosted a variety of acclaimed artists since its opening.
Previous residencies have included rock legends like the Eagles and Dead & Co. Country music star Kenny Chesney has also performed at the venue.
The Sphere aims to attract a diverse range of musical genres and entertainment. Tool's unique blend of progressive metal and intricate visual aesthetics could be particularly well-suited for the venue's immersive capabilities.
Beyond Tool, another prominent metal band, Metallica, is also reportedly in talks for a residency. This indicates a growing interest from heavier music acts in utilizing the Sphere's innovative platform.
Tool's Recent Activity and History
Tool rose to prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s, gaining a dedicated fanbase with tracks like "Sober" from their album Undertow and "Schism" from Lateralus.
After a 13-year hiatus from new album releases, the band returned in 2019 with Fear Inoculum. This album was met with critical acclaim and commercial success.
While no new LP has been released since 2019, Tool did release the single "Opiate²" in 2022. This track was a re-imagining of their 1992 song "Opiate."
Tool's Grammy Wins
- Best Metal Performance: "Ænema" (1998)
- Best Metal Performance: "Schism" (2002)
- Best Metal Performance: "7empest" (2020)
The band continues to tour and perform at major festivals. This year, Tool is scheduled to appear at the Sonic Temple Festival, demonstrating their ongoing presence in the live music scene.
A Sphere residency would represent a significant new chapter for Tool, offering fans an unprecedented way to experience their music and visuals in a cutting-edge setting. The band's complex soundscapes and elaborate stage productions align well with the venue's advanced technical capabilities.
As discussions continue, the prospect of Tool bringing their unique brand of progressive metal to the Sphere in 2027 generates considerable excitement among fans and the music industry alike.