Tool's guitarist Adam Jones revealed the band came close to opening Las Vegas' Sphere, the cutting-edge venue that debuted with U2's residency instead. During a recent interview, Jones indicated that negotiations between Tool and the venue's operators fell through before U2 ultimately secured the honor of christening the $2.3 billion Entertainment and Sports Arena.
"We were supposed to open that place," Jones stated, expressing confidence the band will eventually perform at the Sphere despite missing the inaugural run. The high-tech venue, which features the world's largest and highest-resolution LED screen, represents exactly the kind of immersive technological experience Tool's elaborate stage production philosophy aligns with. The band's visual presentation, orchestrated largely by Jones himself, has always prioritized cutting-edge projection and spatial audio design to complement their progressive metal sound.
U2's residency, which launched in May 2023, featured a specially curated setlist focused on the band's catalog from 1987 to 2004, supported by revolutionary audiovisual technology suited to the Sphere's distinctive hemispherical architecture. The venue's technical specifications make it an unusual draw for major acts, particularly those whose identities depend heavily on technological spectacle.
Tool's own visual aesthetic, developed across decades of tours and three-hour live performances, positions them uniquely for a Sphere residency. The band's deliberate pacing, intricate light choreography, and meticulous stage design have cultivated a devoted fanbase that experiences their concerts as complete multimedia events rather than conventional rock shows. Jones' comment suggests discussions remain possible, though Tool maintains their traditional touring schedule rather than pursuing Vegas residencies like many legacy acts.
The missed opportunity highlights how high-profile venue partnerships often shift rapidly in the entertainment industry, with negotiations capable of advancing significantly before collapsing. Jones' casual confidence about future Sphere performances suggests Tool views the partnership as postponed rather than permanently unavailable, particularly given how aligned the band's aesthetic values remain with the venue's technological capabilities.