To borrow a phrase from Tim Taylor of Home Improvement, "It's Tool-time."

At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Tool and opening band Meshuggah will bring their heavy sounds to the Bryce Jordan Center.

Tool, which won a Grammy for best metal performance in 1997, has been together since 1991. Shunning publicity and interviews in an attempt to avoid the American Idol image, this Los Angeles band has nonetheless developed a large and loyal fan base with its unique, hard metal sound.

The band's music is defined by changing rhythms, driving guitars and vocals belted by lead singer Maynard James Keenan.

"Maynard is one of the most amazing vocalists I have ever heard. His voice can carry longer than I can hold my breath," said Doug Heverly, head clerk at Mike's Music, 226 W. College Ave.

Up-and-comers Meshuggah will be opening for Tool. The Swedish band has toured with Tool before, as well as at Ozzfest. It has also played with System of a Down and P.O.D. and has been featured in Rolling Stone, Revolver, Blender and FHM.

While the group's latest album, Nothing, has gained Meshuggah more national notoriety, the band members still intend to remain true to their signature sound.

Tomas Haake, Meshuggah's drummer, describes their music as "aggressive metal with a twist. It has a very rhythmical aspect."

Bernie Punt, the executive director of sales and marketing at the Jordan Center, is very excited that the eight-week Lateralus tour is making a stop at Penn State.

From extremely steady ticket sales, he anticipates over 6,000 fans will come out to see the show. Although it will be the 249th concert at the Jordan Center, Punt thinks this one will be special.

"They play on inspiration. When Tool is playing, you never know what's going to happen," he said.

Previous Tool concerts have seen elaborate stage productions, giant music video backgrounds, and band members wearing masks and Speedos.

Tickets are still on sale for the show, with prices ranging from $28.50 to $35.

To preview Tool's distinctly dark sound, visit the events section of the Jordan Center Web site (www.bjc.psu.edu) and listen to a 45-second clip of the band's music.