Maynard James Keenan has once again shifted his stance regarding a new Tool album. This time, he expressed uncertainty about the band’s progress in a recent interview with The Rock’s Morning Rumble.
The Tool frontman addressed questions about when fans might expect to hear new music from the band. He revealed his current position on the sidelines.
“I don’t know. Well, yeah, but, you know, those guys have to get together and chase their tails until they’re done chasing their tails, and then I can come in,” Keenan said. “They say I’m allowed in the room, but then there’s no room for me in the room.”
He continued to explain his current waiting position and alternative projects.
“So, I have to wait until I hear something. There is nothing, and there might be something, but I haven’t heard it, so,” he said. “Meanwhile, I’m doing other things. I just finished up the Puscifer record that comes out next year. And I probably dive in on working on Perfect Circle.”
This represents a notable change from his previous comments to Loudwire. In those comments, he emphasized urgency in creating new music.
“You know, life is short. You just got to f*cking do it now. There is no waiting. You don’t know what’s coming tomorrow. You got to do it now. So that’s what we’re doing,” Keenan had previously stated.
The contrasting statements highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Tool’s next album release.
Keenan’s latest comments suggest a stalled creative process. However, the band remains active in other areas. Tool has been balancing their studio ambitions with touring commitments and special events that keep them connected to their fanbase.
Loudwire reported that the band has announced their own destination festival called “Live in the Sand,” scheduled for March 2025. The event will feature two sets by Tool along with other notable acts. This signals their continued engagement with live performances even as new studio work remains uncertain.
There are signs of behind-the-scenes progress despite the apparent delays in album production. Wikipedia noted that bassist Justin Chancellor confirmed in 2025 that Tool planned to dedicate several months in the studio to organizing ideas for new music. This suggests that the instrumental members are actively working on material while Keenan waits on the sidelines.
The band’s creative process has historically been lengthy and meticulous. Tool’s last album, “Fear Inoculum,” was released in 2019 after a 13-year gap. This made it one of the most anticipated releases in rock music. Consequence of Sound revealed that guitarist Adam Jones has been working on new riffs and musical ideas. This indicates that the creative wheels are still turning despite Keenan’s current exclusion from the process.
These developments underline the complex balancing act Tool faces between touring commitments and creative work on their much-anticipated sixth album. The band’s methodical approach to songwriting has consistently produced critically acclaimed and commercially successful results throughout their career. This approach may be frustrating for eager fans, but it has proven effective.
