Tool’s first-ever Live in the Sand took place this past weekend from March 7-9 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Royalton Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The event featured two Tool performances alongside sets from Primus, Mastodon, Coheed and Cambria, King’s X, Fishbone, Moonwhalker, Eagles of Death Metal, Umphrey’s McGee, CKY, and Wheel. With lineup changes, guest appearances, and mixed fan reactions, the festival generated plenty of discussion. Here are some of the most talked-about moments.
Mastodon recruit Ben Eller
Atlanta progressive metal giants Mastodon surprised fans by recruiting YouTuber and session musician Ben Eller to fill in for founding guitarist Brent Hinds during their performance on Sunday (9th). Eller, known for his popular guitar lesson series This Is Why You Suck at Guitar, has built a strong following on YouTube, where he has shared tutorials and performance videos since 2010.
Just two days before their scheduled performance, Mastodon announced Hinds’ departure after 25 years with the band. Despite the sudden change, they assured fans that all 2025 shows will proceed as planned, and they’ve proven that so far.
Tool face backlash over repetitive setlists
Tool’s Live in the Sand festival disappointed some fans due to repeated setlist choices across their two headlining performances. Many had hoped for unique setlists or something closer to Metallica’s No Repeat format from their M72 Tour. However, Tool played four of the same songs: “Fear Inoculum,” “Rosetta Stoned,” “Pneuma,” and “Jambi,” both nights, sparking frustration among attendees.
Given the cost of travel and lodging for the sold-out destination event, some fans expected more variety. Alleged reports even suggest some attendees booed the band on the second night. Adding to the controversy, an attorney has reportedly begun gauging interest in a potential class-action lawsuit, citing the festival’s promise of “two unique headlining sets.” Reactions ranged from disappointment to support, with discussions flooding Reddit and subreddit threads.
Tool’s Danny Carey joined Umphrey’s McGee for King Crimson cover
Tool drummer Danny Carey made a special guest appearance with Umphrey’s McGee’s set on Sunday (9), joining the band for a cover of King Crimson’s “Red.”
Primus performed with new drummer John Hoffman for the first time
Primus played their first show with new drummer John Hoffman on Saturday (8th). Hoffman, who was selected after a global search, shared the stage with Tool’s Danny Carey, who stepped in for the opening four songs before returning for the encore.
Tim “Herb” Alexander left the group last fall, initially leaving Primus scrambling to fill the role. With Hoffman now officially on board, Primus is set to join A Perfect Circle and Puscifer for another leg of the Sessanta tour this spring.
