Apart from the fact that bassists are almost always overlooked when they're not a focal point either musically or otherwise, I'd say the only significantly overrated person in Tool is Maynard, and that's just because a lot of people can't see past a lead singer by default. It's Adam's band in more ways than one and he's probably underrated by people who don't know that, but that's to be expected.

Me personally, if I absolutely had to rate on individual merit, I'd go:
Adam > Danny > Maynard > Justin.... but I wouldn't. Because I know that there's only one person in that group who could be replaced without destroying the band. He's on the end.

^^^^ I agree. The bass is the only thing you could ever use to coax me into re-listening to a Tool album. The vocals and lyrics are definitely their weak point.

I get your point now. Thank you for elaborating.

I'd love to hear some music that is focused on the bass - aside from Les Claypool. For some artists, even when the bass is the focal point, it gets drowned out by the other instruments. Like Mingus, for example. When I listen to his music, I feel like I have to try harder than I should to pick out the bass. So, is this because of the time period he was in or simply because of his choice of bass guitar (which was usually a double bass).

There are plenty of bands whose focus is clearly on the bass virtuoso for at least a majority of their songs:

Red Hot Chili Peppers (obviously you are aware of them but I think their early output is relevant), Minutemen, Yummy, and Infectious Grooves all seem like worthy answers...

They're all essential, but you're correct. Tool with another frontman could be nearly as great, possibly even better if the guy fit perfectly like Maynard, but had more ability.

Danny is irreplaceable, there isn't a drummer that plays with his power and creativity around... at least not that I've heard. I've heard faster and more technical drummers(though that's picking at straws, as Danny's nearly a virtuoso technically), but none with that grooving, powerful feel that he produces and certainly none who are as brilliant creatively. Tool's percussion segments are out of this world.

Adam's riffmastery and art direction is right up there. Justin is one of the cleanest bassists around as well.

Unbelievable band, best in the last 20 years IMO.

I think they have some of the best lyrics around. What are your issue's with the lyrical content?

And who do you like lyrically for a comparison?

I love Danny Carey and I wouldn't for a second trash Tool's lyrics. Maybe in a few places, but overall - damn fine.

I wish Maynard could sing, though. Never been a huge fan of his voice.

You'd put Justin last? Aww... I love Justin's bass work since he joined Tool. I think he's an amazing bassist and he's utilised in the instrument in ways I'd never seen before. When I first started listening to Tool (when I was young and stupid) sometimes I'd often hear sounds and be like "What is that?!" and it turns out it's bass guitar.

I think I'd probably put Maynard last in terms of individual merit. Adam Jones and Danny Carey are amazing, so is Justin like I just mentioned, and Maynard is an amazing vocalist with a great presence but he seems to come off as a bit of a douche and he IS overrated by Tool fans.

Come to think of it, now that I've written all that, I think I still think of all members as equal contributors.

Oh and P.S. I'm officially seeing Tool in January, **** yeah!

I'm just being realistic about Justin. Nothing against his abilities or anything.
And I wouldn't put Maynard dead last, simply because his lyrics are a huge part of what Tool is about. Without them, it'd be like having a face without a name, although I can't say that someone else wouldn't be able to do as good of a job. But I'm more sentimental than anything, so regardless, I still prefer Maynard behind the mic because of that.

Ah, will it be your first time seeing them?
They sound awesome live, you'll love it.

Listen to Pushit at 8 minutes 26 seconds.