Sneakily release at Idaho gig, and then confirmed on social media – Tool have released a new CD re-issue of their first record: Undertow. This package has been directed by Justin Chancellor with further package design by regular collaborator Mackie Osborne.
It’s a great looking package, featuring some further artwork by Polish sculptor Vahan Bego, as well as a commemorative coin.
I can’t determine if there’s any kind of audio changes to the record – no indication of a remix or remaster, so I suspect it sounds the same as it did 30 years ago. It’s a great sounding record, so no real problems there anyway.
These Undertow packages are only available at shows on the 2023 and 2024 tours. They cost US$500 for a signed copy – I haven’t seen any confirmation on whether there are unsigned variants for those not interested in paying that premium price. Hopefully we’ll see more international shows added to the 2024 tour so that fans outside North American can have a chance to purchase one – though it wouldn’t surprise me to see them sold on the Toolband store following the tours completion.
Below is an unboxing video from Tool’s Instagram account:
For further detail:
- A range of photos from a post on Reddit
- A collection of photos from Vahan’s FB page show construction of the sculpture
Hmmm, 7000 copies selling for US$500 each? That’s a nice $3.5 million if they can get it.
I was at the Idaho show. At the merch booth, I asked the worker, “What’s that $500 thing?” Her response after looking it up on her tablet, “It’s a collection of 20 CDs, signed.”
Me, confused as hell, “Hmmm, no thanks.”
Strange choice, given JC didn’t play on this album. Maybe I would consider the $500 if he re-recorded the bass parts (not that they need it).
Can we get an affordable unsigned copy please? I hate unboxing videos. I like experiencing it first time on my own. I like the deluxe packaging, extra visuals, holding the high quality materials. Even if it’s only a few times before stashing it away. I agree with Froudie … it would be nice to hear Opiate and Undertow re-recorded in studio with the embellishments of live performance. Third Eye also.