i read a post that states Maynard = TOOL...but IMHO i believe DC's drums is what creates most of the TOOL sound...his drumming sticks out the most.
I believe TOOL wouldn't be who they are if it ain't for the band themselves not just Danny. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Danny, though, I don't play drums, I try to apply his principle through guitar.
If you're referring to the technical & creative aspect, Danny isn't just the one who goes against the norm, the other 3 plays against themselves as well... musically.
Danny's playing is just so obvious 'cuz only a number of drummers could play off the beat & against the other members, & he's one of them.