"Opiate" is where it all started.  Tool's first seven-track EP layed the groundwork for "Undertow" and "AEnima."  While not nearly as elaborate or meticulous, "Opiate" shows Tool before they became really artistic and cryptic.  This first effort is a loud, bone-crunching trip through the sick and rather humorous mind of Maynard James Keenan, who is quite possibly the greatest frontman of all time.  Unlike Jonathan Davis, Fred Durst or any of those other easily forgotten, annoying wannabes, Maynard shows incredible range as a singer and as a lyricist.  His messages deal with abuse, ignorance, religion, hate, as well as many metaphysical terms (46 & 2).  Guitarist Adam Jones has an overflowing wealth of talent as does drummer Danny Carey, who might be even better than Dave Grohl.  This CD is solid gold, and the tracks are short bursts of insanity, unlike the songs on Tool's other efforts, which can sometimes go on for nearly ten minutes.  Tool is where all of the KoRns and Limp Bizkits get their ideas from.  Totally original, groundbreaking, and socially as well as musically biting, Tool remains one of the greatest rock bands of all time.  The only other band that can be ranked as high as Maynard and co. is Rage Against the Machine.