Undertow was Tool's only full album release with original bassist Paul D'Amour.Ĭomedian Bill Hicks is noted as 'inspiration' in the liner notes, and Undertow is the only Tool album released while he was still alive.
AllMusic saw the album's success in the 'striking, haunting visuals that complemented the album's nihilistic yet wistful mood.' Īs of 2020, Undertow has sold over three million copies in the United States, and is certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. It was released at a time when grunge was at the height of its popularity, and pop punk was slowly beginning to gather mainstream attention. Īccording to AllMusic, Undertow helped heavy metal music remain prominent as a mainstream musical style, and allowed several later bands to break through to the mainstream. The album includes some tracks the band decided to not release on their debut EP Opiate.
Produced by the band and Sylvia Massy, it was recorded from October to December 1992 at Sound City Studios in Van Nuys and Grandmaster Recorders in Hollywood. Undertow is the debut studio album by American rock band Tool, released on Apby Zoo Entertainment.
