Mastodon - The Making of 'Emperor of Sand' | Part 9

[@MarkArandjus]

The whole 'they're dad rock dumbing it down to be more radio friendly' criticism they throw at this band really has no basis. Look at how much of themselves they put into their work. This album, whatever you think of it, comes from a real and honest place. Metal snobs keep saying they sold out, I say selling out would be catering to what people want because it's financially safer, instead of doing what they feel they must do.

[@adammcmillon5610]

It's really interesting the bands who repeat themselves every album into staleness are lauded by those folks. Even if you don't like some of the music, Mast always progresses and goes somewhere new while still having their sound. And like you said, it's seemingly very personal. That's the mark of a great band. Just so happens the music is dank af, too!

[@boxcpl]

selling out would be re-writing blood and thunder 12-13 times.

[@MarkArandjus]

I myself am actually not against staying the same stylistically either. There are plenty of bands who do just one thing, but they do it well. I'm just saying some bands feel like they have to change, some bands live for one thing, and it's all good so long as it's genuine.

[@MrAncop]

I honestly don't get the argument of "radio friendly" Sure, Once More 'Round the Sun was maybe a little soft, it kinda felt like The Hunter 2: Electric Boogaloo, but Emperor of Sand feels like a Crack The Skye/Blood Mountain, in fact, I think that the only arguable mistake of this album is that it tries to reach and hold to so many things at the same time, sometimes it feels like Blood Mountain 2, sometimes like Crack the Skye, it has some Remission bits too, a bit of The Hunter...and for some people that can be a bit baffling and confusing, some people want more linear experiences, and some want a more varied one, but saying its "radio friendly" because their vocals are more melodic than before? that just classical BS from metal elitists. I'm a long time fan of Mastodon, I think Remission and Crack the Skye were their peak and I think Emperor of Sand is a solid album, and sure is better than Once More 'Round The Sun (I think it was an okay album, not bad, it just felt flat for me)

[@ThatMFShawnzy]

@mark Arandjus - I 100% agree and Ive been saying this since I heard it. Its EASILY up there in my 2nd favorite Masto album (tied with OMRTS) spot. If this is a bad album to you, then you should really question what substance you're looking for in a band. They change their sounds in many ways, yet they LITERALLY sound like a complete mashup of EVERY album they've put out thus far. This album is about a journey of DEATH. Why would it not sound how it sounds? I think its perfect, absolutely perfect, from head to toe.

[@JerryMeehanJr]

I lost my grandfather almost a month ago. He wasnt sick. Just turned 81 6 days before it happened. He got up that night sweating and sat down on the couch and my grandma found him hours later sitting upright gone. Ive lived in his house my entire life. But they are snowbirds for the last 8 years so when he was home for the 6 months i spent so much time with him and even when he came home for his jobs he was still working. I made sure I spent that time. I spoke to him 3 times a day on the phone so I have no regrets however, it is beyond me at this point in time that it could ever happen. He was on borrowed time I was told. He was 100% blocked in his heart back in june and had stents done but they said it wouldnt be enough. He never came off as run down or sick. He was a tough bastard. Death is such a strange thing, its like a fucked up magic trick. One minute the person is here the next they are gone and you can never speak to them again. This album came out right at the perfect time for me. I can not tell you how much I appreciate it. Listening to it getting lost on my own journey while trying to figure out what happened, its helped me out. Thank you guys.

[@NyeGuy-yv2dv]

I had a similar life living in my grandfather's home. Your post hit home. Peace be with you brother. Go out and make your grand dad proud. Long live Mastodon.

[@JerryMeehanJr]

Thank you so much 🙏

[@CursonaFun]

jerr sorry for your loss. Glad Mastodon could help. They have helped me as well in the past. 🙏🤘

[@teddyswoes6345]

jerr My condolences dude. I lost my grandfather three weeks ago. He meant the world to me and to my family and it's been very hard coming to terms that I'm never going to see him again in this form of existence. Just like with you, this album has come out at the right time and I cannot thank the Mastodon dudes enough for releasing such an honest and painfully beautiful piece of art.

[@DanielSilva-gf4kk]

The beauty of music is that it's always there, and helps through the dark times.. Sorry for your loss. Crank up some Mastodon and have a cold one in his honor. Somewhere there's others doing it just like you. Peace brother. \m/

[@rotkiv5446]

Damn it, Mastodon. You all have no idea what you guys mean to some people. Thanks you guys, sincerely.

[@letsmakepancakes3]

Love how serious the subject matter is, yet we have Troy being funny sitting in a hot tub in full clothes

[@fatherWolt]

I believe Troy is a hot tub connoisseur, this is the second hot tub I've seen him in for this documentary. I hope to see him in many more hot tubs.

[@svartsjokolade]

I scrolled down to type this, saw your comment, 1up.

[@MrPeteism]

letsmakepancakes I thought it was funny that there was no talking from BHinds at all. Likely because he is absolutely unable to be serious.

[@Psyfonify]

+Wolt lmfao

[@Daniel.Miranda]

Peter Price true i dont remember him talking in the hunter series either when his brother passed or maybe i didnt see the right videos..

[@CursonaFun]

Roots Remain has really great lyrics. Especially the part where Brann sings the "and when you sit in picture me" part. It's so powerful and it makes my hairs stick up.

[@madeofwax92]

Cursona same, man. I teared up listening to that shit driving earlier.

[@kailindart12]

Yeah, I got blurred vision and a sore throat. Do you think it's some kind of viral infection from the song?

[@Howdytoons]

"whether it's for joy or sadness tears are stronger than anything" You just made me stronger. Thanks.

[@boxcpl]

Roots Remain, favorite track, absolute gem. The dynamics in the bridge and Brann's voice. I am sorry that was my post, regarding its fruition.

[@TheStanStanmanson]

boxcpl Same

[@jSonTX]

boxcpl I'm with you guys. Best track

[@Crack_the_Skye]

You feel the whole track

[@judemisura4323]

I lost my mom to cancer and my daughter to murder. this band and album mean so much to me. I can't wait to get it.

[@JFox5812]

I can totally relate. I'm 21 and was just diagnosed with Heart Failure. I can relate to this because life does throw those curve balls. That happened right around when they announced this album. This gave me a reason to fight through and persevere like Troy said. This helped me and I can say that I am happy for that. Thanks Mastodon.

[@NyeGuy-yv2dv]

Stay strong brother. When the time comes keep your eyes and heart open. This is just a ride. Peace be with you.

[@JFox5812]

Thanks man. That means a lot to me.

[@FidoMejia]

Devin Owen 💪 moral Bro, you can

[@JFox5812]

Thank you man.

[@rockyowitz]

Devin Owen well wishes to you, and we're glad you were able to also enjoy this music with all of us

[@Sinfel133]

Emperor of Sand is the definition of "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"...probably one of the best albums I had the pleasure to hear

[@NyeGuy-yv2dv]

Okay. That's it. These guys are my favorite band ever. I'm a big 42 year old guy and this video reduced me to tears. The humanity, the heart, the humbleness and the friendship this band exudes can only be summed up in one word, integrity. These guy's have integrity. Bless you Bill and Troy and thank you Brent and Brannon. This album is your master work. Bravo gentlemen.

[@EricTheCleric93]

Brent's solo at 7:37...damn. That's the blues right there.

[@DrTurdsley]

Regardless of what the haters say Mastodon is still one of the best metal bands of all time.

[@EleisonUA]

The best part of your "The making of Emperor of Sand" series. And the best album you ever wrote, thank you, Mastodon.

[@lolh4x]

God damn Brent Hinds is such a godlike guitar player. I mean, so is Bill, but holy shit Brent's guitar solos are fucking tear jerkers.

[@thegreatkhan4601]

I don't understand people who dislike videos such as this one...

[@christopherjones1649]

My Mom died years ago when I was 19. I feel Bill's pain and everyone else who has to deal with cancer of a loved one. People who want Mastodon to keep making records like the early ones need to get over it. I love the early stuff but this record is just as good. You can't make the same records you made in your 40s that you made in your 20s because you are a different person with different experiences. I believe that Mastodon will be one of the few bands to age gracefully in the metal genre which is no easy feat.

[@manndscho5347]

Now THIS is some god damn friendship right here. Being so understandable and supportive towards others in such difficult times. Mastodon everybody.

[@ksenijaperunovic8464]

This shit is real. Those dudes do this for the right reasons. I didn't know this, and then I found out about Brent's brother during the making of "The Hunter" and about Brann and who Skye was, and then I played those records. Powerful stuff! It's so different when you know these things...

[@returntolifeband]

The piano outro on Roots Remain is truly haunting. Very similar to The Last Baron but it feels like something's different and something's more serious.

[@MrHupo]

I lost my mom when i was 12, she died of breast cancer, so did my grandma this year. The part when they sing about "And when you sit and picture me/Remember sitting in the sun and dancing in the rain" just breaks my heart, Seeing them wither away is a really sad thing, but we always hold dear the memories they shared with us and that's the message i guess, remember them as they were in their roots. For me this is the greatest mastodon song, best album in years

[@Tyrant175]

God, I love this band. Wish I would see Brent talking more, tho.

[@andym28]

Tyrant175 talks with his guitar. Best of his generation. Check out Greg Koch if you like his style.

[@nini9012]

Ok you gotta remember that he spent a lot of time inside the moon recording solos. He probably just wasn't around when they shot the interviews.

[@ryandbowers]

I'm not so sure that Brent's personality would have meshed well with the mood of this episode.

[@Tyrant175]

+Ryan Bowers Yaeah, thought aboout that too. Tho I believe that he can be serious when he has to.

[@mikejones-vd3fg]

lol yeah, cant have an upper at a pity party

[@ЮрийШор]

Every time i've listen this masterpiece, i'm just crying, i think "Roots Remain" is their best song. Most emotional accurate

[@Berkut888Gaming]

Fav song on the album, you know it's special when you feel the soul of the band in it

[@andrewhoel5927]

Extremely heartfelt, sad and beautiful. This record is so good on every level. The haters can say what they want. They're simply stuck in the past and can't see the great song's they created that have become the Emperor of Sand.

[@Martiizzer]

Thank you Mastodon for being in my life

[@TacomaJD]

Brann and Troy's vocals are so effin' powerful on this record.

[@mayakrieger3245]

I have an all new respect for these guys. I lost my grandfather to lung cancer. Never got to meet him or make memories. This album is something special. Thank you, guys

[@Gavin_Haughey_Colorist]

Always getting goosebumps from the end of Roots Remain. Those are the words that someone says when he dies. Just keep living your life, it'll all be ok and if you want ME to be happy, go out there and do what makes YOU happy. And that's exactly what they did.

[@UpUpBobby]

I put this "making of" on at work and am now literally holding back tears at my desk. Amazing how close these guys are. I can only hope to ever have friends and bandmates that are there for me when tragedy strikes like that. Fucking amazing. LONG LIVE MASTODON!!!

[@scramblesthedeathdealer]

No wonder some of these songs resonate so much with me emotionally. In the last 4 years, I've lost my step-grandfather (who's been there for me more so than my real grandfather), my father, my wife, and my grandmother. Thanx Mastodon for helping get through some of this and not give up.

[@TheEvilJules]

my Mon died when I was 9, I'm 20 now and this album hits me like a knife, thanks for doing that, I feel honored, and I think that so does my mom, Love you guys

[@ChipmunkAsylum]

I wasn’t the biggest fan of this album but i still love these guys. Hope the years to will be kinder to them and they continue to find joy through music.

[@HEXVGRVM]

My grandfather passed in 2006 on stomach cancer, lost many close friends... Been with lots of people, many many highs... Some serious lows, this video is so deep, if only cancer wouldn’t knock on our doors life would be so much easier, it’s hard to see people losing the battle... Also it’s good to see they’re maybe on a better place, no pain, no suffering, no more struggle, it’s sad but on the other hand that’s life, my question is: why some people, good and beautiful people gone too soon? *Thats my question* this song makes me remember people who are gone now, makes me remember life is good, precious... Limited! So enjoy your friends and family, you never know what’s coming next... Sorry it was too long but if you feel me... you feel me....

[@Christian.Lee_]

I was listening to Roots Remain in the car in LA traffic 2 days ago and I remembered my aunt's battle with cancer and I just started crying. This album keeps hitting me harder​ every time I listen to it.

[@ianfenwick4130]

These men have incredible resolve to continue to give us kick ass metal even when they're going through some serious shit. Thanks guys!

[@CashWiley]

My favorite 'making of', this is the one that really is the heart of the album. It's a great Mastodon album, but this is why it's a meaningful album. So inspirational.

[@tvacchino]

My respect for these guys and the Band just keeps growing and growing.

[@BolognaBolognaBologna]

sorry for your loss Bill

[@jasonpitts8395]

Music with reason and emotion, what a rare thing these days. I stopped listening to the radio years ago. The only way to see & hear genuine metal is see it live, buy the albums, etc.

[@marct.hernandez9129]

There's a lot of personal pain and sorrow in this album,... the greatest artist, pour their all into their work. "I'm in morning with the band."

[@seankebely]

This Making of gave me chills. I absolutely love this album there hasn't been a day yet since it came out that I haven't listen to it in it's entirety at least once

[@tymiller2526]

I discovered Mastodon about 6 months before my grandma passed very suddenly. Couldn't have been a better band to have discovered. They create relatable *and badass difficult* art for anyone to enjoy.

[@w_stew8912]

Bill is the nicest dude. I feel bad for his losing his mom. I can't imagine losing mine. Bill always takes time to interact with his fans and treats us like human beings instead of the way some guys in other bands treat their fans as nuisances. He's just a genuinely solid dude and I wish him the best.

[@dgarland1978]

will stewart I grew up in the same town as Bill and his brother. I never got to meet Bill, but I had a few classes with his brother. He was a pretty nice guy from what I remember, so I can see Bill being the same.

[@t.s.7493]

My heart goes out to Bill. My mom died from cancer when I was 17. We got the diagnosis and she was gone 2 weeks later, and 5 days after her 40th birthday too. It's rough. I'm 39 now and I still struggle with it everyday. Stay strong Bill and keep on doing what gets you through. Your music has helped me deal with a multitude of emotions and issues I've had over the years. Thank you for sharing it all with us.

[@sibeproductions4387]

I had a recent lose in my immediate family due to cancer, this album is not just sonically superb but really is healing in ways. Extremely solid record. Listen to it every day in the car commuting, it is just perfect. Brent's solos are mind blowing on this record.

[@zonta.Ivan.navarro]

In case any of you guys read this, you are inestimable. After the unexpected major-feels-trip provided by the video, the album became an even more meaningful experience to me; knowing why and how much of yourselves you guys put in it makes me grateful to have this record and listen to it on the daily; even though I'm not a musician myself, I value music immensely and cannot live without it, so thank you guys for sharing your life's work with us; Wish you all the best, and come to Brazil soon;

[@Woltgan69]

Very sorry for your loss, Bill.

[@claypritchett8113]

Best band in existence. Mastodon has created a wellspring of strength and courage for fans to draw out of in hard times.

[@yamilcamacho5698]

we need the entire film , please. i love the album

[@dre1kke]

Damn fuck the cancer!!! I lost 2 of my family because of it. Hang on, guys! And thank you all for your music. It gives the inspiration for further living... You're the best...

[@mrj1871]

Best solo Brent has ever done, gave me chills!

[@Fr3akymet4l]

I never saw a band putting so much effort in their songs. Every song consists of 100% of the feelings of the members. I wish my band could write songs with this amount of feelings too, the more feelings the more you can relate and identify yourself with the album.

[@evilash570]

This brought a tear to my eye. Epic album, from an epic band. Listening to this album you hear its power, and feel its haunting beauty!

[@bernardoberruga5946]

I love this fucking band!

[@NigelFortune]

I lost my brother to cancer at 19 so totally relate to this video. Good luck with the record guys sounds awesome!

[@Shanoa]

The making of was amazing, it made me feel connected with the album

[@mitchellokeefe7053]

Damn Mastodon making me tear up and shit. My mom was diagnosed right around a year ago. She was one of the lucky ones who won her fight. But this has to hit home for everybody at some point in their life. Thank you for doing what you do.

[@keithbrooks445]

wow guys. I feel you. I was diagnosed last august, and by September they took half a kidney. constant screenings from here out. thanks for sharing. I can relate.

[@CaptnShred]

I admire these guys. The courage it must have taken to tap into such painful and personal experiences, no wonder something truly special came out of if.

[@freiermann7]

Love this band. Love the new album. I keep putting Steambreather and Roots Remain on repeat. Those two songs are powerful together. Its almost like you can't hear one without the other. Magical stuff yall did there guys. Your emotions definitely come through in this album.

[@SvupperZ]

Incredible album guys, awesome that you were able to use those tragic experiences as a form of catharsis and creative stimulus.

[@fatherWolt]

These making of videos really give the listener such an intimate view of the album, the band members and the subject matter. I hope you guys release this as a whole, I'd buy the shit out of that!

[@jrose92081]

You guys are truly amazing. I lost my grandmother last December to brain cancer 5 days after my parent's house burned down. People like us mourn through our instruments. amazing album.

[@jschultz2363]

We found out my father had colon cancer last November and he died Dec 13th 2018. This album helped me get passed the darkest days, it also makes me reflect on how short life really is. Thank you for creating this Album! I got the album as soon as it came out and my dad was alive. After he passed this album has a greater meaning now and sentimental value.

[@nickgmoney]

Sending out my most heartfelt condolences to you guys! I just went through the cancer battle and its brutal

[@vengance9888]

That guitar solo that carries out the song just.. completely stands for what this album is about, no words needed.

[@mischiefmayhemsoap36]

Damn that was heavy. RIP Kathy. Long Live Mastodon. Fuck cancer

[@jbrock11]

This might be considered blasphemy to some people but I honestly think Roots Remain is one of the best, if not THE best songs Mastodon has ever made. They have other songs that are great for different reasons but none of them have quite hit me on the emotional level that this song does.

[@MrJandslegate]

I think it might be Brent's best solo. I mean, he's already proven he's on his own level but that solo just sounds truly heartfelt.

[@josueignaciomm]

I completely agree and you have nothing to be ashamed of. Some people just doesn´t like emotional things because the only idea of being open about what you feel produces pain in them. Everything else is just bullshit. Roots Remain, and this whole album is medicine for the soul if you know how to use it.

[@Killchain44]

There are so many great tracks on this album, but the more I listen to it....the more I keep coming back to "Roots Remain." It's simply flawless. So many layers to the song. I just want to keep listening and keep peeling them back. It really is a work of art.

[@Jordo246]

You're completely right, it may sound like a standard Mastodon song during the verse but as soon as that chorus kicks in I get chills.

[@darrenc8776]

Thats the thing with this band every song has such depth that you can't help attaching your own emotions to the music it takes you on a personal journey. I think mastodon have to be among a small number of great bands that have that ability to make you feel connected.

[@fraser_cummings]

Roots Remain is probably my favourite song on the album

[@nickl7142]

Emperor of Sand is by far my favorite Mastodon album, the emotion behind it all makes my eyes well up every time.

[@Theflowergeekcrafts]

Roots remain is one of my favorite songs. The lyrics are very touching and Brents solo at the end just hits me right in the heart. 💚

[@gudalpesanz]

I can just imagine what that dude's voice sounds live. Just watching this clip I got teary eyed. I don't care what anybody says Brann Dailor has an amazing voice.

[@tfrost33elkhunter]

As a fan I am saddened for the struggles and loss, yet inspired by their tenacious work ethic. You guys made another great record!

[@iflewbeyond]

I've said it before and I'll say it again...for me you guys are number One! And this video shows one of the reasons why that is...because you and your music is so honest. You do what you have to do for yourselves and then it's up to everyone else to say whatever they want about it...you will still create what you believe in and that for me is respect. I love this. Your music means so much to me, so thank you all. I'm sorry for your loss. Take care!

[@conordempsey4578]

Mastodon are serving complete justice to Bills mam/Brent's wife. They're not just "making an album" I already know I'm going to love this album, the sincerity is so clear.

[@gamerdareswins2825]

I'm absolutely blown away with Branns vocal ability. Wow!

[@deadwingproductions2353]

I have been a fan of Mastodon for almost 10 years now. I have loved them through every up and down they have been through Today, I am renouncing my love of Mastodon. at 7:27 Bill is wearing Beats headphones. That's it. I can't. No more. This journey is over.

[@tylerjacobson8012]

Deadwing Productions really? That's probably the gayest thing ive ever heard of. Denouncing love of a band because of some headphones. Gotta be the most hipster thing I've ever heard. "Yeah I used to like mastodon" "but their rhythm guitar player was wearing some beats headphones in this KZbin video" "now they're gay" Lol.

[@deadwingproductions2353]

I'm sure you wouldn't understand

[@hoodbrotown]

Tyler Jacobson it's a joke dude

[@dylanwillis1473]

Tyler Jacobson Nigga chill, It's a damn joke.

[@kilborn666]

would you wear them if you got them for free? they probably did.

[@eetfukouijaaa]

Every album this band makes, you can see their life permeate through each song, they put themselves into their art and it results into this chaotic beautiful tapestry. What a fcking amazing band.

[@fernandojimenezaniz3535]

Beautiful and powerful. Thank very much guys, for sharing it. We love you.

[@Williamstanway]

really loving the new album guys, I'm a hardcore oldschool mastodon fan, I love all your material but honestly the way you change as a band is fantastic and otherbands should take a leaf and learn to progress and grow as a band. the new album is awesome and so are you guys . you are my favourite band.

[@NickWeberMusic]

I FUCKING LOVE THIS BAND. They are the best FUCKING band. PERIOD! So much fucking love for these guys

[@Regular-Person-Guy]

These guys just keep surprising me. I gotta say, Troy is a really thoughtful and positive guy. Some bands couldn't handle a girlfriend leaving them without turning into a heroin addict. These guys have their moms die, and still stay strong. Keep making awesome music guys! Keep being exceptional!

[@gothicrain888]

The vocals and melodies on this album are fantastic. Brann' voice sounds amazing.

[@dompepe360]

Thank you for sharing such personal matters with your fans, Mastodon. The new album really helped me deal with the recent loss of loved ones. I'm sorry for Bill's mom and send the most positive vibes to Troy and his wife. Much love!

[@andrewloya76]

Emporer Of Sand is just an amazing complete Rock record. Definitely my favorite!

[@richiebizzle]

I've really enjoyed this whole series so far and this is my favourite episode yet! Much love to you guys! 👍👍👍👍

[@miguelgomes6849]

i tried not cry but ..................... i failed LOVE YOU MASTODON

[@headdroper]

Amazing album!!! Cant stop listening to it... Respect

[@Godscountry2732]

The Atlantic riff masters are one of the few progressive bands to compose a classic album. Thanks, guys! PS. I hope we get another 21 years of Mastodon's music.

[@carlosgonzaga9405]

Best Brent's solo in the album.

[@Cpmnk]

i almost lost my mum to cancer, an has had many bad repercussions in my life, my friends mum also passed away from brain cancer last year very suddenly, i feel very strong about this record, keep your heads up and stay strong guys

[@johnnyBentonamo]

this pulled on my heart strings

[@orchard390]

Killer album, and it's amazing to see how much of yourselves you guys put into your work Mastodon kicks ass!

[@donlegaspi9780]

You know when the music is coming from a real place, this is as real as it gets, made my bones ache and my skin shudder.

[@Shankabottomus]

I love this album like 10x more knowing the subject matter underlying the songs.

[@whitewidower13]

These guys love life. I have gone through tragedy and i continue to live and move forward letting the past make me stronger and this band screams that type of foreword momentum. This is why i love their music. It speaks to my heart.

[@ThePuertoricanBeastJonathan]

Well that made me shed a tear or two

[@v1LL3n_nZ]

I first heard Mastodon when Blood Montain came out, and to be honest it just didn't click with me. I then jumped in on Crack the Skye an though i was impressed it wasn't a big home run hitter for me. The Hunter and OMRTS had a few goodies but still... not overly amazing to me. Sultan's Curse hit home instantly. The whole bridge section blew me away. Amazing vocals, guitar work, and the rhythm section impressed me . Then I heard Show yourself and i thought, well this is catchy, I have to listen to this album. I picked it up on release and have not listened to anything else since. Steambreather and Scorpion Breathe instantly mesmerizing me. After watching these videos i can see why it has clicked. This album is written from the heart, and nothing tops that. One of my all time favourite albums.

[@nathanlyrakis7733]

roots remain is my favourite song of this album . my mom recently went through breast cancer and luckily was able to catch it in time but after going through all operations its sad to see her so weak. This song and this album hit deep