Tool Confirm Writing Has Begun On Long-Awaited New Album

It seems Tool fans will have to wait a little longer for a new album, but according to the band’s own members, the creative process is officially underway. Nearly six years after the release of their chart-topping album Fear Inoculum, the band is prioritizing new material, though they admit the writing process has just begun.

In a recent interview with Loudwire Nights, guitarist Adam Jones was candid about the band’s progress, acknowledging the methodical and deliberate approach that has become their hallmark. He said that while the band isn’t yet in a dedicated, full-time writing phase, the process is ever-present. “The three of us have been jamming. I don’t know if you go, oh, the writing process has started. It’s always there. Between preparing for an upcoming tour or whatever we’re doing, there’s points where someone goes, oh, I got this and I got this,” he explained. “But I think we’re going to dive deep soon.”

Vocalist Maynard James Keenan added his own perspective, emphasizing that time is of the essence. Following the send-off concert for Ozzy Osbourne, Keenan noted that the experience highlighted the urgency of creating new music while the band has the chance. “Life is short. You just got to f***ing 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,” he stated.

Tool bassist Justin Chancellor has been a vocal proponent of a more expedited creative process this time around. In an interview with a separate outlet, he outlined plans for the band to dedicate three months to new material after returning from their Latin American tour. “When we get back, we’re actually gonna dedicate the next three months after that in the studio to organizing our ideas,” Chancellor said.

He also addressed the changing landscape of music releases, suggesting the band may move away from a traditional full-length album. Instead, they’ve discussed options like releasing a single, an EP, or a series of singles that could later be compiled into a record. Despite the lack of a firm timeline or format, Chancellor affirmed that creating new music is non-negotiable for the band. “We absolutely have to write new music to continue doing what we’re doing… So it’s coming. Trust me,” he said. Chancellor and Keenan have both stated that they do not want to take another 13 years to make a new record.

TOOL Upcoming Live Show:

• December 11, 2025 – K-Arena Yokohama in Kanagawa, Japan
• December 13, 2025 – Glion Arena Kobe in Hyogo, Japan
• December 19, 2025 – Blaisdell Arena in Hawaii, USA
• December 20, 2025 – Blaisdell Arena Show 2 in Hawaii, USA