Mastodon is a metal band that have gained monumental success and popularity. Since their inception in the year 2000, the band have gained a massive following, playing colossal gigs, grinding out songs that have a hardened edge. But does their new record ‘Once More ‘Round The Sun’ do the Atlanta act any justice? Well it does, it’s psychedelic and crammed full of instrumental riffs that lift the record from the depths to the forefront.

The band are born leaders of the metal contingent, forcing their points like a needle into a untarnished piece of skin. Their new record contains a sense of urgency and creativity. It could be perceived as a hard listen, full of gritty vocals and sobering lyrics, that are cut from a fabric drenched in the dregs of emotion.

The rattling riffs burn endlessly. The song ‘Motherload’ is a great example of this. It creates a great atmospheric pulsation. The drums batter in, letting the guitar come into prominence. It’s like a soaring ecstasy, perfect for the metal lover. ‘Chimes At Midnight’ starts with an infectious hook. The riff is reminiscent of a rolling stampede. The drumming is volatile, the vocals are fortified with growls. It’s a track that picks at the brain and the mind, it may force you to dance like a fiend craving the blood of a thousand souls.

‘Aunt Lisa’ is riff laden, packing an almighty punch, like fists denting the ministry of bubblegum pop. The screams catapult the song to new heights. ‘Halloween’ commences with a somewhat subtle guitar sequence until the vocals pounce in, developing the track, it’s spontaneous and needs to be heard.

Mastodon is a band that make music that is highly charged and brutal. The riffs are burning and broad, instantly infectious. The album deserves the high rating, because it delivers pounding music that isn’t pretty but is ultimately creative.

5/5

‘Once More ‘Round the Sun’ by Mastodon is out now on Reprise Records.

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Words by Mark McConville (@Writer1990Mark)