Maynard has this morning posted a more detailed update for us in Twitter, outlining some of the reasons why, and a ballpark release window for the new Tool album launch:
The most interesting point this raises for me is that what will happen on the coming US and European shows? Will we see new material? Will they just be greatest hits shows in the same mold as the last few tours? I’d always go to a Tool show if they were to swing past town, but if I were attending one of the US shows in May, I’d be a little disappointed to get the same show we’ve been seeing for the last six years again.
The mention of video is also intriguing, as typically videos have come out some time after the release of the album. Perhaps they are planning to launch with a video already the bag for their next album? Or perhaps details are being finalised to finally see that Opiate video.