Guniw Tools

Guniw Tools formed in Bristol in the late 1990s as a trio with Matt Jones on vocals and guitar, Luke Smith on bass, and Tom Skinner on drums. They started making experimental rock that leaned toward the atmospheric and introspective, with songs like "Either Wise Or Fool" and "Fade Story" showing their interest in melody and mood.

Their first album was called "Tides," and they followed it with records like "The Machine That Bids You Wait" and "Seclusion." The music got quieter and more layered over time, moving away from the raw sound of their early work. Tracks such as "Hush And Cool" and "Zujou no Ishi" reflect that shift toward a more subdued, thoughtful approach.

Some listeners found their lyrics too cryptic or obscure, which sparked occasional criticism even as their fans defended the writing as meaningful. The band never seemed interested in making straightforward statements, preferring instead to let songs like "It's Usual" and "Either Wise Or Fool" sit in a more ambiguous, suggestive space.