Tool Announces First Studio Album in Over a Decade—’Enlighten the Spiral’ Set for 2026 Release
In a monumental moment for progressive metal fans worldwide, Tool has officially announced their first studio album in over a decade, titled “Enlighten the Spiral.” Set for release in early 2026, the announcement comes after years of cryptic teasers, studio rumors, and long-standing anticipation following their critically acclaimed 2019 comeback album “Fear Inoculum.”
The news broke via an enigmatic teaser posted simultaneously across the band’s social media platforms—a swirling spiral of sacred geometry accompanied by a brief audio snippet of atmospheric instrumentation and thunderous drumming. The caption simply read: “The Spiral continues… 2026.” Within hours, the band’s official website updated with the album’s title, projected release window, and a countdown clock that has already ignited speculation among fans.
Frontman Maynard James Keenan, known for his lyrical mysticism and side projects like Puscifer and A Perfect Circle, issued a rare statement:
> “Enlighten the Spiral is both a reflection and an evolution—structured chaos, inspired by the fractal nature of existence, time, and entropy. We’ve pushed our limits again.”
Longtime bandmates Adam Jones (guitar), Justin Chancellor (bass), and Danny Carey (drums) are said to have collaborated on the new material over a span of nearly four years, with much of the recording reportedly done in secret at a custom-built studio in Arizona. Sources close to the band reveal the album will feature “epic-length tracks,” mind-bending time signatures, and layered sonic explorations that continue Tool’s tradition of musical alchemy.
Industry insiders are already predicting that Enlighten the Spiral could become one of the most influential rock releases of the decade. A world tour is also rumored to follow, with immersive visuals and stage design being developed by Adam Jones in partnership with digital artist Alex Grey.
For fans who have waited patiently through years of silence, the spiral is indeed enlightening once again.
