In 2019, the band Tool returned for the first time in 13 years, and we still don't know what that means.

Popdust didn't think the band's reunion was a big deal, considering how the band handled the extremely pretentious promotional process for Fear Inoculum. But it seemingly worked. Tool fans from all corners of the earth rushed to binge the 80-minute spectacle, and as the reviews started to pour in, the majority of them were positive.

We were left with a lot of questions. Tool is undoubtedly the greatest metal band of all time and have repeatedly challenged and changed the way human beings enjoy music.

With that said, this listicle comes from a genuine place. We want to enjoy Tool. We really do. But as one can imagine, the task feels insurmountable for us normies. Below are a few questions we would really like answered before diving into the Tool sensation.

Keep ReadingShow less
MUSIC

Call It a Comeback: New Music From All Your Nostalgic Favorites

Check out six of this week's returns, reissues, and reunion album announcements.

Among the steady stream of new music that's come out so far in (*Arcade Fire voice*) the month of May, this week brought returns, reissues, and comebacks from some sorely missed artists.

Take a look at six of this week's releases from musical vets who have either returned after spending time out of the public eye, or are simply reinventing their sound.

1. Phantom Planet - "Balisong"

The LA-based indie rock band popularized for writing The OC's theme song are back with a new single, "Balisong," inspired by lead singer Alex Greenwald's obsession with a butterfly knife. This is the "California" group's first new music since their excellent 2008 album, Raise the Dead, the follow-up to 2004's underrated self-titled. Phantom Planet has a new album in the works, but haven't announced an official release date yet. It's safe to say that "Balisong" is a promising preview of what is shaping up to be a tremendous reunion record.

2. Tool - "Descending" and "Invisible" (Not Officially Released)

Tool debuted their first new music in over a decade during their headlining set at Welcome To Rockville. The prog rockers played two new songs, "Descending' and "Invisible," from their upcoming new album. They also officially confirmed the release date for the anticipated new LP, which we now know is due out August 30th, but they haven't disclosed any other details.

3. Blink 182 - "Blame it On My Youth"

The San Diego pop-punk veterans (minus Tom DeLonge, who is trying to prove once and for all that Aliens DO exist as well as releasing new music with Angels & Airwaves) are back with a slightly different sound in a new song called "Blame it On My Youth." This is the first glimpse at their forthcoming album, which is supposed to sound "a lot more aggressive," according to what Mark said in an interview withNME. The three-piece –– made up of Mark Hoppus, Travis Barker, and Alkaline Trio's Matt Skiba –– are set to go on tour with Lil Wayne this summer.

4. Silversun Pickups - "Freakazoid"

Last month, Silversun Pickups shared the first single, "It Doesn't Matter Why," off of their upcoming album, Widow's Weeds, the follow-up to 2014's Better Nature. This week, the "Lazy Eye" musicians are sharing another glimpse of the album with a slow-burning new track called "Freakazoid." The band's new LP will be released June 7 via New Machine Recordings.


5. Michael Stipe - "Your Capricious Soul" and "Drive to the Ocean" (Not Officially Released)

R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe previewed new material while opening for Patti Smith. During the performance, he played three new tracks –– "Your Capricious Soul," "Drive to the Ocean," and an untitled track.

6. Brian Eno with Daniel Lanois and Roger Eno - "Like I Was A Spectator"

Brian Eno announced that he will be reissuing and expanding the album he made with Daniel Lanois and his brother Roger Eno, "Apollo: Atmospheres & Soundtracks," for the 50th anniversary of the Apollo II moon landing. This will include 11 new tracks, which will comprise a new album entitled For All Mankind. They promoted the new release with the video for one of the new tracks called "Like I Was A Spectator," which features rare NASA footage. The remastered edition (including the new album) is out July 19th.


Sara is a music and culture writer.


POP⚡DUST | Read More...

New Releases From Shawn Mendes, Vampire Weekend and More

Annika Grace Asks If There's "Anybody Out There"

Now in Theaters: 5 New Movies for the Weekend of May 10th