Maynard Warns Spark Arena Crowd to Stash Their Phones “Or I’m Going to Give You COVID.”
Tool’s frontman, Maynard James Keenan, told fans to put away their phones during the band’s Auckland show, jokingly threatening to “give them COVID again” if they didn’t comply.
A Return Full of Jabs and Memories
The concert at Spark Arena marked Tool’s return to Auckland, and Maynard leaned into the band’s complicated history with the city. He opened with an apology: “Sorry about that whole Covid thing,” referencing Tool’s 2020 visit. Moments later, he urged the audience to stop filming and stay present.
No Phones. Just Music.
Tool does not use locked-phone pouches for their shows, but they have long discouraged recording. At this Auckland date, the message was clear: enjoy the show, not the screen. Libel Music’s review noted that many in the crowd followed suit, stepping away from their devices while the band played. Libel Music Australia & New Zealand.
Setlist Highlights
The band dug deep into their catalogue, playing rare tracks like Disposition, H., and Crawl Away, the latter for the first time in decades. Maynard also challenged younger fans, saying some of these songs hadn’t been played since they were born.
What This Means for Tool’s Touring Vibe
The phone warning and COVID gag were more than just jokes; they reflect a band reconnecting with its roots. BluntMag says this performance could be a turning point for Tool’s current world tour, especially as they head into the Good Things Festival in Australia.
