Justin Chancellor recently shared his thoughts on creating bass parts for Tool and praised his bandmates as some of the best in rock music. He highlighted how the band writes songs that blend unique time signatures with catchy riffs. “There’s a vulnerability to our music that attracts people,” Chancellor said. He believes Maynard James Keenan is among the greatest vocalists, and he thinks drummer Danny Carey will be remembered as one of the best rock drummers ever. He also noted that he and guitarist Adam Jones each have their own distinct styles.
In January 2025, Chancellor received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Bass Magazine. He joined Tool in 1995 after original bassist Paul D’Amour left the band. “I have the advantage of having Danny as our drummer,” Chancellor explained. “I can play anything, and he makes it better. I can bring him something in 7, and he’s right on it. Even if it sounds a bit tricky, Danny finds a way to groove through it.”
Before practice, the band records their ideas on their phones. Chancellor and Adam Jones work on riffs, while Danny Carey develops rhythms in different time signatures. Then, they bring everything together. “My role is to connect everything,” Chancellor said. “That’s what the bass guitar does – it acts as the glue between the kick drum, guitar, and vocals.”
Tool’s 2019 album, *Fear Inoculum*, topped the charts after a 13-year break between records. Chancellor hopes the band can work faster on new music, but he also acknowledged that “art doesn’t really have a schedule.” Fans are excited to see what’s next for Tool!
