mastodon

From Melville to Metal: The Conceptual Depths of Mastodon’s ‘Leviathan’

From Melville to Metal: The Conceptual Depths of Mastodon’s ‘Leviathan’

Mastodon’s Leviathan is a concept LP inspired by American novelist Herman Melville’s Moby Dick. Think of it as sludge metal’s answer to Dark Side of the Moon.

The 10 Greatest Classic Rock Performances on YouTube

The 10 Greatest Classic Rock Performances on YouTube

Only invigorating, blood-pumping, sledgehammer slabs of rock need to apply. So if time travel is ever invented, here are ten shows to hit first out of the gate.

The 75 Best Albums of 2021

The 75 Best Albums of 2021

Despite a global pandemic, musicians were far more active in 2021 and had time to create their finest work. It resulted in some of the best albums in years.

The 10 Best Progressive Rock/Metal Albums of 2021

The 10 Best Progressive Rock/Metal Albums of 2021

The ongoing pandemic led to a brilliant year in the best progressive rock albums. Many artists translated their 2020 hardships into artistic gems.

Mastodon’s ‘Medium Rarities’ Could’ve Used More Substance

Mastodon’s ‘Medium Rarities’ Could’ve Used More Substance

Medium Rarities is the kind of album that will appeal mostly to longtime Mastodon fans.

The 50 Best Songs of 2009

The 50 Best Songs of 2009

As part of PopMatters’ 20th anniversary, we are revisiting classic features. Travel back in time a decade ago to 2009, when indie rock was in its full ascendency,and hear the songs that soundtracked the era.

The 60 Best Albums of 2009

The 60 Best Albums of 2009

PopMatters turns 20 years old this October and we're beginning to celebrate our history by taking you back in time a decade ago. Obama was in the White House and the musical times were very good indeed. Revisit 2009 through its best albums.

The 20 Best Metal Albums of 2017

The 20 Best Metal Albums of 2017

There's common ground between all 20 metal albums despite musical differences: the ability to provide a cathartic release for the creator and the consumer alike, right when we need it most.

Mastodon: Cold Dark Place EP

Mastodon: Cold Dark Place EP

This EP is essential listening for any Mastodon fans who've followed the band into the 2010's without an excess of griping about what the band used to be.
Arcadea: Arcadea

Arcadea: Arcadea

Mastodon's Brann Dailor sings and drums like crazy for this synth metal act featuring no guitars. It's a treat if you're part of that very specific audience that enjoys synth-metal.
Roots Remain: A Conversation With Bill Kelliher of Mastodon

Roots Remain: A Conversation With Bill Kelliher of Mastodon

Among other things, Mastodon rhythm guitarist Bill Kelliher delves into how loss and life shaped their sixth outing, Emperor of Sand.
Mastodon – “Show Yourself” (Singles Going Steady)

Mastodon – “Show Yourself” (Singles Going Steady)

Mastodon may not be reinventing the wheel here, but they take one on a fun trip nonetheless.