The Strange History Of MASTODON (from death metal to the Grammys)

[@ThePunkRockMBA]

Go to my sponsor aura.com/punkrock to get a 14 day free trial and see if your personal information has been leaked online

[@eddiewramos]

NO!

[@FACEL1FT]

Thanks for mentioning saints row man! Thats where i know mastodon from. Not from the first game, tho. Colony of Birchmen caught my attention in Saints Row 2

[@Tiedy88]

you should start uploading your live stream highlights bro

[@jeremysiron9622]

@@Tiedy88 he does, on his second channel he posts most of the livestream material….wasn’t sure if you knew that

[@GregGolightly]

nothing ironic at all about punk rockbeing essentially a promo code. .

[@likearitual]

I live in Georgia and both of my bands practice at Mastodons studio Ember City in Atlanta, it's a really low-key building in West Atlanta industrial area, half of it is a rental rehearsal spot, and I've talked to these guys a handful of times. Incredibly cool guys and humble, they're all super involved in the scene here still. Big love for Mastodon.

[@Timewalker13]

Consider yourself lucky

[@RoxBelleATL]

Brann came into the bar/restaurant I work at on New Year's Eve he had on a silver sequined suit absolute fucking legend lmao

[@anti-liberal7167]

I seen them in Atl at Lakewood during the Mayhem Yager tour in 06 on the main stage with Slipknot disturbed dragonforce

[@moshhard616]

Howdy neighbor haha

[@likearitual]

When they shut down Blackbox in Atlanta the dudes from Mastodon knew a lot of local bands were out of a rehearsal space so they repurposed half of their studio to fill the gap. One of the coolest things they've done outside of making records.

[@berke2336]

Crack the Skye is easily one of the best Prog/Metal concept albums to exist. Every single song is so well done on every front

[@albo3music]

I completely agree! The fact that the album is named after Brann’s sister really shows how personal it was to them as well ^^

[@nicholaskoenig3106]

I love it. Listen to it driving, mtn biking and/or lifting all the time!

[@jordazmo19]

Seriously amazing album ☺️

[@slangislayer]

One of those albums where I listen to each song in order. It's an entity

[@SpiritStoneWarrior94-yx3gs]

The Czar is an absolutely phenomenal track! One of my favourites by them, and then the classics like Colony of Birchmen, Blood and Thunder, The Wolf is Loose, Sleeping Giant, Seabeast, Irontusk, March of the Fire Ants etc.

[@rycolligan]

I love how diverse their discography is. They have an album for every mood. I think they struck the perfect balance of prog and brutal on Blood Mountain, but I go back to all of their albums frequently. Brann’s drumming is genuinely masterful, delicious, crushing, and smooth simultaneously.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Absolutely. Every album is unique and yummy it it’s own way. Such a unique band with a sound like no one else. Love that there’s 3 singers and they are each super talented. My man Bill Kelliher is riff lord par excellence 🔥🔥🔥

[@johnnyhourigan1857]

I love that Each member is so crucial to the band. If anyone left the band would be finished. I’d just like to point to Brent’s solos. They get better and better with each album.

[@nerlfi]

Agreed, man - the album art, songs, lyrics, musical styles - they're true artists.

[@BlueZirnitra]

I love the subtle tension in his drumming. He has that marching band style precise control over the snappiness and timing of his hits. It just sounds so sharp, alive but still crushingly heavy. Brilliant drummer.

[@rawrshacktsu8623]

Colony of Birchmen popped my cherry.

[@ChristopherRoss.]

For me, Crack the Skye is a really special album. A once in a lifetime masterpiece sort of achievement.

[@heinthepain]

Agreed!

[@osamabindiesel3389]

Knew about mastodon since colony of birchmen, but this album with the track “divinations” is what made me a fan. It was played briefly as an adult swim bump along with the visualizer of the album cover, and it was the coolest thing I ever saw/heard.

[@samuelkidwell6728]

​@@osamabindiesel3389 I found Mastodon watching Adult Swim before school. I love the reference in your username btw lol.

[@jeremysiron9622]

It is a 10

[@rocketPower047]

​@@osamabindiesel3389 Rock Band?

[@codeP08]

The Last Baron is long, but it's a masterpiece, every second of it is gold. One of my favorite Mastodon tracks,

[@MasterOfNone2023]

The Last Baron is quickly becoming my favorite song. I first heard Mastodon many years ago and I was very upset that I'd never heard it before this week.

[@gorecomplex]

The last baron and Hearts alive are the two best songs they ever wrote. Hearts alive ending sits in my head 24/7

[@jas_mandalorian]

@@gorecomplex if i close my eyes as the song comes on , i can feel myself surrounded by the ocean

[@spasehorse8524]

I worked for Relapse when they put out Leviathan and then the Warner Bros buy out. The bonus check I got at Christmas was huge because of that album. We had to literally sit in a circle of boxes full of CD's and Vinyl over the weekends to fill preorders. Its insane the love they had before blowing up

[@AtZero138]

Always liked stories like This.. that era, when sales dropped, somehow this underground music was selling, without the machine... The Band Breather Resist, told me about them.. Jake from Converge also.. that First album.. takes you somewhere.. like,, Since By Man,, push to panic.. Cheers from Southern California.. @∅

[@JasonSimpson-ue7cl]

I really liked blood mountain, great cd

[@camw621]

The thing about Brann's drumming is that it's just SO entertaining to listen to.... He's one of those drummers where you can enjoy just focusing on his parts just as much as listening to the album as a whole..

[@okochannell]

Yeah, absolutely!

[@jeremysiron9622]

The distinct guitar riffs on top of the almost jazz style drumming, somehow fitting into metal, is something only they can pull off….. the guitar and drums are so distinct that literally no other metal band sounds like them at all, they somehow fit this weirdness into metal and it works

[@blackmatterlives9865]

If i remember correctly the reason why he plays drums like he does was instead of keeping up with a bass player he had to keep up with his brother's guitar

[@QQyoko]

Emperor of Sand was my introduction to Mastodon. What a phenomenal album.

[@aaronbakerbcg3984]

Emperor of the Sand is a great album but damn they took 100 steps back with Hushed and Grimm. That’s a terrible album.

[@jeremysiron9622]

@@aaronbakerbcg3984 it’s been so up and down since “Crack the Skye”(a veritified all time Metal masterpiece10/10) that’s where their creativity and consistency peaked imo….luckily they still are capable of good stuff,(Emperor of Sand was a pleasant semi return to form)….it’s not like Metallica where you lost hope for anything good decades ago….but yeah so up and down since CTS

[@user-bf6gz8ej4o]

@@aaronbakerbcg3984 Finally someone gets it! Hushed and Grim is objectively boring lol. Every song is slow, there are like 2 riffs in everyone of them, nothing is as complex as in the previous albums and it feels like Brent Hinds isn't even a part of Mastodon anymore. I really think this was their last album with him 'cause he's gone full on country music by now.

[@zdancrk]

Same here. I'm practicing the solo for "more than I could chew" from the album hushed and grim.

[@officialmetalwill]

Phenomenally disappointing.

[@failuretolaunchdrums]

The Hunter got waaay better with time. Aged like wine. Title track is mesmerizing.

[@nercksrule]

Metal fans have always been picky eaters. No matter the subgenre. The Black Album had some objectively well-written and composed songs (except for Enter Sandman), and everyone acted like Metallica had killed their mothers.

[@petermikolay]

@nercksrule Drinking game: - start a chat about it - take a shot everytime you hear: 'sell out' - you just killed yo liver

[@julienouellette1920]

Not my favorite Mastodon album but its their best produced

[@M6A6T6T]

I loved it as soon as it came out I like hushed and grim all their albums are good tbh

[@JJMetalhead]

Thanks so much for the shoutout!!! Great video. Mastodon is one of those bands that continues to put out fantastic music. Hushed and Grim took me a little while to warm up to, but now I really appreciate it.

[@Swollen_Goat]

Crack the Skye is still my favorite album by them, and personally the band just became another level once Brann started singing. His voice really puts it all together with how different it is from Brent's and Troy's. All 3 of them together though just make this perfect triangle of vocals.

[@luissousa54]

For me, Cold Dark Place is one of the best things they released. something about those 4 songs that just sounds perfect. Blue Walsh is one of my favourite tracks.

[@ethanpollard1411]

100% agree.

[@blkmtl96]

For sure.

[@ChrisRogersTheAngryChef]

great song.

[@kreb12]

It's getting cold outside.

[@garnermcculloch2778]

Mastodon has to be my favorite band to come out in the last 20 years. Their ability to release an album that just so happens to coincide with real life traumas that I am dealing with is uncanny.

[@xkmmx2132]

I remember literally popping out of my seat when Christian Bale cranked Blood and Thunder in The Big Short. I was literally ready to start playing air guitar and headbanging in the theatre.

[@darrelstinkmeaner4673]

That character was so well played. Great movie! I just about pooped my pants when the song played too.

[@rossdixon]

Can’t believe you didn’t mention their appearance in the Aqua Teen Hunger Force Movie. Legit one of the best things they’ve ever done.

[@hughj1796]

I was gonna say that but glad I checked if someone else had first

[@user-bf6gz8ej4o]

Also their song "Island" appeared in Pixar's Monster's university lol

[@jonathanporter5223]

"Cut you up with a linoleum knife" awesome song and one of the best movie soundtracks.

[@floatingdisembodiedhead8975]

​@@jonathanporter5223hilarious video accompaniment too

[@ChapoBlanco]

Bro I literally came here looking for this gem. I’m glad I’m not the only one 🫡

[@jevinday]

Also: the idea of Finn listening to a 90 minute double album is hilarious 😂

[@jeremysiron9622]

The idea of Finn’s newborn boy growing up into a prog fan is hilarious, also congrats Finn

[@pb9018]

Brann is one of the best drummers in metal without a doubt. The Hunter is the album that hook me in.

[@jeremysiron9622]

Fantastic second vocalist as well

[@pb9018]

@@jeremysiron9622 ikr, hes amazing on vocals too

[@bobunitone]

He can do an amazing King Diamond too

[@markjames8664]

I would say one of the best in the entire rock world.

[@chikinonfrydai]

i’d even go as far to say he’s one of the best drummers period lmao

[@bschnauf6287]

I went to a local record store in mid to late 2000’s and bought Leviathan. In a week I was hunting for their releases. My favorite band of all time. Followed my Floyd, RUSH, and such. The music speaks to me. It’s musically brilliant. Stellar talents at each instrument. Composition is on point. Hard to pick favorite album.

[@andrewthurmond8231]

I'm so happy to see you covering them. They have been with me since Remission and they have grown with me through the years. Every single time they release a new album, their lyrical content parallels where I'm at in my life at the moment. I bought "The Hunter" on my way to on Occupy rally and the opening track blasted someone for stealing the light and the purpose. When I was living in my Tahoe trying to make it in Colorado, they released "Once More 'Round the Sun" with bangers speaking to me like "The Motherload" telling me the universe has my back and that I can have whatever I want. They are hands down one of the greatest bands ever to me. Tattooed on my forearm are the lyrics to "The Sparrow" which are simply "Pursue happiness with diligence".

[@hsatin20]

These guys are hardworking bad asses. I was super lucky enough to meet the band back in the early 2000s when they toured through Michigan multiple times to bring their music to the masses. They crushed it live and were super nice. They toured their asses off and worked hard for what they got.

[@thatstranger6114]

That's a shame. I had the exact opposite experience with them in 2014 and it really turned me off of them. I don't know what it was, maybe it was just a bad day but they seemed very standoffish.

[@onbedoeldekut1515]

They DEFINITELY deserve recognition for bringing disco structure to metal without fans realising. Over numerous albums, they use a repeating pattern that can be found on everything since Crack the Skye, it's very reminiscent of some patterns used by Benny & Bjorn. Not to mention the piratical lounge music vocals of Brent, they emulate Sinatra after being possessed!

[@ladyhonor822]

Thank you 😊🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@PowDJoke]

What do you mean by disco structures :o ?

[@NavarroSkyrim]

I really loved Hushed & Grim, one of the saddest and most emotional albums I've ever heard...

[@rubaidaallen2764]

It really is beautiful. I cried.

[@kreb12]

I think it's the best they've done since Crack The Skye

[@jessietaylor790]

Crazy to me that Brent didn't write anything for that record

[@corysabourin7054]

Leviathan and Brann's drumming is what drew me to Mastodon, Crack the Skye is still my favorite album of any band.

[@osimate]

It is insane Brann is one of the best drummers doing this all while also being one of the main singers in the band. He has been getting more and more time in each album singing, and it gives me crazy Ozzy vibes each time.

[@asdf9890]

I can’t even sing and play guitar at the same time, can’t imagine keeping time for the whole band while singing. 😂

[@WTR28]

Bill Kelliher is right up there with James Hetfield when it comes to all time great rhythm guitarists in metal.

[@jefjon423]

so mediocre at best?

[@alexbrown4426]

​@BigDaddyJeff lmfao try learning the melodic break in circle of cysquatch and then try capillarian crest

[@user-bf6gz8ej4o]

@@alexbrown4426 1. These riffs were written by Brent 2. I think he meant it in a way that when you're "up there with James Hetflield" you are mediocre because Hetfield just straight up writes boring riffs. His riffs sound like something a beginner would write but no one can write like Bill Kelliher

[@exortor]

​@@jefjon423 saying hetfield is mediocre, is mediocre itself.

[@Brentqvaleenjoyer]

For me, it’s Kirk Windstein, Bill Kelliher and Jerry Cantrell top 3 rhythm guys all time.

[@markymark3668]

Can't understand how anyone can hate Hushed and Grim. One if their best if not their BEST work so far IMO. Every single song is memorable and feels like it will be considered a 'classic' in 40 years time

[@WFly101]

it's my 3rd favorite behind CTS and Leviathan.

[@Zinchor]

Same thing that happened with Leviathan, for many its just a slow burn

[@dibari22]

I'm late to the Mastodon game, but Hushed and Grim is one of the best albums I've ever heard, period, let alone among Mastodon albums.

[@Environmenthrall]

Completely agree. Their best release since CTS hands down. They retained their classic sound while pushing into new territory. It's certainly their most emotional release, IMO. I revisit it often, which doesn't happen with The Hunter or Emperor of Sand.

[@TheRumbles13]

It was incredible live

[@joshkelley8321]

Seen them 7 times and will be seeing them an 8th time in May. One of the most underappreciated bands in music today

[@MHep-qy9yv]

I toured with them twice with my old band Priestess, listen to both our albums and you can hear that at least Brann's drumming rubbed off on us haha. Magical lovely dudes they are

[@indie_keegan]

No way! I fucking love Priestess!!! Been listening since the myspace days. Thats super cool dude!!

[@m92quad55]

Laaaaaaaaaay doooooooown!

[@blackfieldchapelband724]

You guys kicked ass in Priestess🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@DenisisTimeless]

My band timeless played with your band a long long time ago in Vermont at Higherground.

[@DenisisTimeless]

A few years ago I started writing music again just for fun. I have a project called ORFIN. it’s just me playing all instruments and getting vocalists on my songs. Bucket list was doing a song with Bjorn of Soilwork. ORFIN - Bring Down The Heavens.

[@dominicspizzirri4399]

Mastodon have never made a bad album. Maybe the latest one is a bit too long admittedly, but Mastodon is legendary. They’ve grown on me a lot through the years.

[@noneofyourbusiness1114]

SAME! along with catching them at the first mayhem fest.

[@JonnyTF2]

Emporer of sand is pretty bad, show yourself is one of the worst songs i have ever listened to.

[@Paroketh]

These guys have not a single bad album, it’s just incredible considering also that they had no change in the lineup and still have new great ideas

[@Lucols4]

The hunter is such an underrated record.

[@mwheeler1994]

Agreed. It got me into the band and I love the simpler structures and psychedlic elements.

[@thatoneguy3115]

Their performance of the Sparrow in the aquarium is top notch

[@billyjoejimbob6958]

Agree, it's an awesome album.

[@kreb12]

It just has to live in the shadow of Crack The Skye, a hard act to follow

[@countrytodd4614]

To me the Hunter is like their pop album, no 5 part 12 minute epics 😂

[@iknowbroikno]

I do not always agree with you but you are the best at what you do on youtube, one thank you for featuring one of my fav bands that i feel like really dont get covered a lot. Second thank you for the knowlage you drop on here. I use to be in the NJHC scene and now I am a solo witch house artist (CULTCHILD), I've gotten so much further in my music career because of the advice you give in your videos. Just, thank you!

[@iknowbroikno]

Sorry for the cringe ya'll. I'm just being honest.

[@ThePunkRockMBA]

Thank you!

[@ctilson176]

Mastodon is a band that I regretfully put off for many years. I remember reading Revolver back in 2004 and seeing ads for Leviathan and pretty much ignoring it. It wasn’t until I heard Blood and Thunder in the film The Big Short (not knowing it was them) but being really attracted to the track. I looked up the song and was in complete shock that it was them and that I hadn’t paid more attention way back when. Fast forward and they are not only my most favorite band but I’ve seen them in concert twice and got to meet them. Absolutely awesome dudes and tall as fuck.

[@hesherette]

I wish you had mentioned that the Mastodon guys met at a High on Fire show, which is beyond cool imo bc they ended up touring w High on Fire as well as collaborating w HOF members. Love me some Mastodon + HOF! awesome video Finn!

[@Jcruz388]

Thanks for shedding light on Today Is The Day, such a criminally underrated band.

[@cthulhuferrigno6547]

My favorite band; I've seen them live 22 times (with the 23rd coming up in May). That being said, I don't think they've ever topped Leviathan, the closest thing to a perfect album I've ever heard.

[@saradel9897]

Great video ! I really like your “ the strange history of “ series. So informative! I’ve only listened to Leviathan so far but after watching this video I want to check out more of their songs!

[@gojira2892]

I discovered Mastodon through March of the Fire Ants on Headbangers Ball in like '02 or '03. Leviathan is still in my top 10 metal albums of all time. Unfortunately I don't like their new stuff as well but am still going to see them and Gojira in April. Going to check out Lethargy now, I didn't know it existed until this video so thanks, Finn.

[@anthonybeilman7092]

Crack the skye blew my freaking mind. It's one of my top 10 albums and oblivion is one of my favorite songs. The album just kicks ass beginning to end.

[@VitrificationOfBlood]

Amazing band with an amazing career. Insane diverse sound and greats riffing all around, what’s not to love?

[@fredcarrier4933]

Their behind the scenes videos about the making of their albums are really cool insights into the band. Definitely one of the most musically wide ranging bands out there.

[@Crysta1Pisto1]

Discovered them about 10 years ago, and instantly fell in love with their sound.

[@marcgaskett]

Mastodon are certified legends and imo have never put a foot wrong, this includes both the newest album and The Hunter, both incredible albums

[@drumskank]

I don't think Mastodon has ever made a bad record. Sure, fans have their favorites but each album is a work of art and represent a different period in the artists lives. They also stand out from the rest in their creativity and amazing musicality.

[@kreb12]

Once More Round the Sun is probably the "worst" and it has Asleep in the Deep.

[@iantaylor7988]

Mastodon without question has to be my favorite band of all time and it's always cool to see I'm not the only person who loves them. I found Leviathan when I was in high school and that album, Crack the Skye and The Hunter got me through some pretty low points there and then in the first couple years of college. Not only that, but it was through Mastodon I found Dillinger Escape Plan and Red Fang, and all of the bands John from Baroness has done album art for. Seriously, you want a good collection of metal, just listen to any band that's gotten him to do their album art.

[@ggagoots]

Yeah they got me into Red Fang as well. Red Fang is great I hope they keep making music. And yes I just bought a shirt of theirs the other day the merch and imagery is fantastic

[@jeremysiron9622]

“Crack the Skye” is a near perfect album imho…..everything up to and through that album that they released is fantastic….post Crack the Skye is very hit or miss

[@mickschnabel]

Crack The Skye is a damn masterpiece IMO! reminds me, I need to watch the concert dvd of that again soon

[@jaredhicks1370]

I can see that. I didn't like The Hunter, gotta say everything since slaps for me

[@brainthief]

I was working at a college radio station when I got to hear their first EP, "Lifesblood," which has since been re-released as "Call of the Mastodon." I first saw them live during Remission. I love the journey and evolution of the band. Definitely in my top 5 favorite bands.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

Seeing them with Gojira and Lorna Shore. It's going to be incredible seeing 3 of my favorite drummers at once. We all know Gojira can rock a stage like no other so I'm hoping Mastadon dials it in as perfectly too!

[@alexander1995s]

Dude I saw them in LA and I actually thought Mastadon absolutely nailed it that night that show was so insane

[@ltziggy6470]

Milwaukee concert in the bmo center? I saw them there and holy shitttt!

[@1bossdj]

I love everything Mastodon does. You're absolutely right that their "worst" is still amazing. I also love that you chose the best part of Last Baron to feature. The first time I heard that song, I played it repeatedly mostly to hear that groove.

[@masonsampson9094]

Love Mastodon they are one of the greatest bands of the modern era and I will love them to the day I die

[@sasakanjuh7660]

So glad to see Mastodon is getting attention it well deserves.. This band marks a very significant period of my life and holds a very special place in my heart.. Love this band so much!!

[@coreyw5981]

Not the biggest fan of mastodons catalog but goddamn "tread lightly" from 'round the sun is so damn good. That should have been more popular

[@SOSscorn]

Tread Lightly is fucking fantastic.

[@TheWRCS]

Brann is such a fantastic drummer, hands down one of my favorite drummers ever.

[@stevetrent4638]

Thanks for this video, I love this band so much. I’ve been a fan since I was a kid when remission came out and it’s just so special to be able to listen to your favorite band evolve and move forward like they have in a positive way.

[@SparkleFunHorse]

One of my favorite bands of all time. And I absolutely love that they change their sound & style on each new album. It always takes me a few listens to 'get it,' and that's what I love about them: it's never the same thing twice. And of course their musical chops are undeniable. Their riffs are undeniable (TY Bill K). Their dedication to pushing their own limits (which then pushes the listeners' as well) is undeniable.

[@Isuckatvideogames210]

Over the last few years mastodon has become one of my favorite bands. I found leviathan during the pandemic and I instantly went back into their discography. Within days I was purchasing mastodon merch and vinyl records

[@paulbutton2429]

I got into them around blood mountain, but for me, mother puncher is still their best track. Such brutality and precision. Their newer stuff is still fantastic, toe to toes is a great track.

[@KonradBeezo]

Mother puncher is a awesome song for sure, I really dig trilobite also

[@ino592002]

Awesome vid Finn! I had the pleasure of meeting those guys in Germany of all places. They were on tour with Tool and I went to see them after I came back from Iraq in 06. It was the end of the show and I made my way over to the merch area to score some t-shirts and I found myself speaking to the gentleman behind the table selling the shirts and I was like "man I didn't know Mastodon was opening for Tool, they were really good". I had few drinks in me and I was like "man you look just like those dudes from Mastodon..." and low and behold I had been speaking to Brann the whole time. He autograph my shirt which I still have till this day.

[@dcase20]

I was lucky enough to see them around 2002 at a little dive in Fort Worth called the Wreck Room. They opened for one of my favorite bands at the time Alabama Thunderpussy. I ended up buying their five song EP that I don’t even think you can get anymore and still listen to it to this day.

[@brentesquire]

Once More Around the Sun was my intro to Mastodon. Crack the Skye and Remission are the two albums that I continue listening to on the regular.

[@kreb12]

I remember when my friend showed me Leviathan in high school and I didn't get it at first. Going on 20 years later, no other band has ever meant something personal to me. I'm proud of what Mastodon continues to accomplish, the humanity and positivity they've injected into their music. They're something special.

[@hanes2]

It’s impressive they went from a Social network to a Metal band within months

[@scottsummers5751]

Longtime Mastodon fan here. I LOVE the Hunter. Bought the cd the day it came out. Loved it right away no repeat listens needed. Still love it to this day.

[@Kakaze1]

I'm an old fan of Mastodon. I think like most old fans, I checked after Crack the Skye... and yet, I will still go and see them live on the upcoming tour.

[@t_wr3kz176]

The band also had a cameo in the DC movie, Jonah hex. What many don't know, they composed nearly the entire ost for that movie. When "the hunter" was released, it didn't leave my car stereo for almost 2 years. You're right about the videogames. "SplatterHouse" was the best hands down.

[@BonyHawksToeSkater]

I’m not wild about Hushed and Grim, but the rest of their discography stands with anybody, IMO. They hit so many different styles with stride and fluidity. To me, Blood Mountain and Crack the Skye are absolute masterpieces. Even with some of their longer songs (as you mentioned), particularly like The Czar, they are so dynamic and musically sound, they don’t even feel like 10 minute songs. Top 3 favorite band for me, and I’m glad you did a video on them. 🤙🏼🔥

[@stevemacdonald5717]

The hunter is their best, no question

[@alexbrown4426]

​@@stevemacdonald5717 I agree, the entire album from start to finish is banger after banger.

[@colerichardson6739]

honestly, the hunter is one of my favourite mastodon albums (it’s hard to pick one)

[@JayBigDadyCy]

I absolutely love this band and how I got into them was actually something you didn't mention - their song "Linoleum Knife" they did for the ATHF movie. While it's meant to be a typical metal song with goofy lyrics, it kicks ass. And from there I slowly started unraveling what is now one of my all time favorite bands and I'm not a metal head at all. Going to see these guys with Gojira in May. I cannot fucking wait.

[@mikecamp7175]

Throw the seed out in the street and run over him after the show!

[@deluge71]

This was a long time coming, but what a great tribute. I'm not at all surprised that it came from you, Finn. Thanks so much for posting.

[@collins2509]

I'll always have a soft spot for The Hunter. You sorta can't go wrong with any of their albums. There's always something to suit the mood depending on which one you listen to. For my money, Crack the Skye is their best work, and it definitely deserves a mention in any discussion about the best metal albums of all time. It's truly a masterwork.

[@christophernoble76]

true bro, there's an album or song for every mood

[@jarlwhiterun7478]

These are 4 of the most talented sob's in musical history, but Brann is just a head above anyone else in modern metal. Maybe tied with Akerfelt

[@brianmohler6252]

Tony Hawk's Underground was what introduce me to them, and the cover art for their album Leviathan was a huge influence on my art style back in college. They'll always be one of my all-time favorite bands!

[@FACEL1FT]

For me it was “Colony of Birchmen” on the Krunch Radio in Saints Row 2

[@MrDingus64]

Honestly having every band member behind a mic is so awesome. In Mastadon's case especially cuz it gives the band almost like a shape shifting element. Just love these guys! Great video 🤘🤘

[@danbauer3669]

Bill doesn't really sing anymore. And he never did leads. Also, MastOdon

[@jessiegarcia82]

Love this band. Favorite album is Once More ‘Round The Sun.

[@henrilopes7337]

Mastodon and Opeth are my favorite bands, got to see them together on the last US tour. Now they're going on the road with Gojira!!!! It feels like Mastodon knows what I like.

[@croaker4747]

Saw that one as well in Philly. Great show!

[@goner.9989]

This feels like another one of the videos where finn isn't a fan of the band but still is trying to do them justice. (I might be wrong on that, I don't know). Let's say he doesn't like mastodon, the fact that he is able to get past his personal opinion on it and be objective and state factual statements is respectable. Just as an example, if i was in finn's shoes and got punished by hordes of say... deftones fans, I would have just told them to fuck off. Instead, finn at least cares to toss them a bone to gnaw on so that they shut up. (not saying mastodon fans are like that, once again i don't know how they act. I have never interacted with them). Still, you're willing to go there and I respect the absolute shit out of you, man.

[@SteveGoldberg-xk2li]

If he was actually a fan of Mastodon, then he would probably know how to pronounce Brann's name correctly.

[@pclindholm]

Awesome video, I really enjoy learning about these bands and where they have been. I'm looking forward to listening to some of their older stuff later this week.

[@alteredbeast304]

One of my favorite bands of all time. Seeing them and Gojira for the 4th time each in August

[@KoLjAx]

Troy Sanders' old band Social Infestation is definitely worth checking out too.

[@poikusa0207]

Mastodon is my number 1 band and are the biggest reason I listen to heavy music. They have never had a bad album in my opinion. I like different things about all their albums and I definitely have my favorites, but they are all incredible in their own ways.

[@thoronthol1175]

Thanks! That was a great trip.. just getting into these guys after seeing them live in August, so I appreciate the history.

[@mattmarach3574]

You should do a video about the 2nd coming of "Headbanger's Ball". That's actually how I heard of Mastodon. Saw the video, and purchase the Headbanger's Ball Vol 1 CD. That show was extremely influential in my love of Metal. I would stay up, watch videos, and write the names down so I could get the CDs.

[@osimate]

Awesome video, these guys are amazing. For anyone who hasn't seen their set they did during the pandemic in the atlanta aquarium should go watch that ASAP, it is for me their peak moment so far. I never expected a stoner metal band to reach this massive. Their music since crack the sky has been just beyond everyone else in stoner metal, it's so amazing to see them continue to grow. Hushed and grim had a legitimate case for their best album this late into their career depending on what you are looking for. Found them at Leviathan and have been a massive fan since.

[@markusszelbracikowski956]

Leviathan has one of the best opening songs ever. Jesus that thing slaps hard right out of the gate.

[@badmotorbreath5206]

Definitely, although The Wolf is Loose is also a cracking opening to Blood Mountain 🔥

[@daveofvalor4321]

Love this history review of Mastodon! Finally, going to see them on their tour with Gojira and Lorna. Total bucketlist band for a while now. I was also an artist on Relapse around the time of 2008 to 2010. Mastodon is one of my favorite bands since Leviathan. Over the years I have gone back to listen to the old and new. Mastodon and Dillinger were still on the label when we came on. Shortly realized out of the 4 labels we could have chosen while still on Tragic Hero Record; Relapse was not the one. Our band name was From Graves of Valor, which was later changed by our singer to Graves of Valor, along with changing the sound. We had members of Through the Eyes of the Dead. Do you remember our bands? If so, probably at least TTEOTD, who were on Prosthetic at the time. Anyways, I believe there's enough of a following of both bands and still to this day, that you could make a short about them and or us. Mainly interested if you knew of us or their band and what your thought are/ were during that time. Love your channel! Your thought processes and observations line up with mine completely. Rock on Finn! 🤘

[@l9fingers368]

Sorry, hate to be that guy, but I have to do this. After hearing you butcher Brann Dailor's name for the 200th time within the first 3 minutes of the video, I had to comment. His name is pronounced "Brawn" like the word for strength, not "Bran" like the cereal. Also, while you aren't technically incorrect calling "Brent Hinds" "Bill Hinds" as you did in the opening, (His birth name is William Brent Hinds after all) it's not the name he has gone by for the entirety of the band. He's "Brent Hinds." Calling him "Bill" would be confusing to those are not very familiar with band considering that's the exact name of the other guitarist. The guitarists are Bill and Brent, not Bill and Bill. Other than that, it's a great retrospective you've done here, although I do wonder if you're an actual fan considering some of these basic mistakes. It would be like doing a Metallica retrospective and calling Kirk Hammett "Curtis" or something like that. The real fans would suspect you don't really know of what you speak.

[@benjaminsmall8604]

The mispronunciation of Brann’s name was bugging me too!

[@SteveGoldberg-xk2li]

Thank you! I was gonna make a comment about the same thing. It was getting very annoying.

[@alexhydell3608]

I just realized I was not even subscribed, which is crazy because I watch your content every day. It still comes up on my feed. That's how much I appreciate this channel, I've been binging it and I wasn't even subbed!

[@MysticArchmage]

Mastodon is not and has never been death metal, ya dingus.

[@Mintis-bh4rr]

ikr. do ur damn research

[@eh2643]

Easily my favorite band of all time. Cool to see you talk abt them

[@vaughnwesley9178]

I am quite happy that you’ve done a video about Mastodon already!

[@InGrindWeCrust2010]

I saw Today Is the Day on the In the Eyes of God tour in 1998 or so. Dailor and Kelliher made that band for the brief time they were in there. Then saw Mastodon 2-3 times between the 1st and 2nd albums as part of small touring bills. Leviathan came out, and then they never seemed to play a small venue ever again.

[@TylerSampson51]

I still get chills listening to Crack the Skye. I never expected to have a mastodon album to hit like it, but Emperor of Sand hit me hard. Love that album too.

[@TheRumbles13]

Ill never forget seeing them live. I was in tears because of everything Mastodon helped me through. I looked over and a complete stranger beside me was crying too. I gave him a hug and said " we're fucking here bro!!" One of the most wholesome random interactions Ive ever had.

[@TrinaJulianEdwards]

Really great commentary. I have loved Mastodon for over twenty years, and I think part of it is because they are willing to take those risks. They have evolved as a band, while I've evolved as a listener. I enjoy all of their albums, although The Hunter is not my favorite. There are some great songs on that record, Curl of the Burl being one of them, but coming on the heels of Crack the Skye did not do it any favors. Crack the Skye is one that sticks with you. It really is a masterpiece. That was never going to be easy to follow. I'll never forget the first time I heard Oblivion. It's somehow heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. Hushed and Grim is not to everyone's taste, but it grows on you. You can really hear their grief at the loss of their friend and manager. I feel like sometimes metal music loses some of that authenticity, so it's good to go down that road once in awhile. I'm excited to see where they go from here. Can't wait to see them with Gojira this spring- they're absolutely amazing live. They're all great at what they do, but Brann is a wonder.

[@byronwright210]

Hushed and grim is in my opinion, yet another masterpiece.

[@dwreckglass]

Stoked to see you do this video! Mastodon is hands down my favorite band. I love their entire discography! A couple corrections (respectfully): They released “Call of the Mastodon” before “Remission” Brann is pronounced like the word “Brawn” 🙏😎

[@Munchable420]

Remission was on repeat back in my dope smoking weed smoking whiskey snorting shitty Mazda 626 high school daze, I still come back to it from time to time and although all that other shit is long gone out of my life the album is still very much apart of me and why i love heavy shit and is as massive as it ever was. Got into them via blood mountain but remission is just something else entirely, those early 4 albums were all so different in the best way possible. Thanks fin for pulling this one out of the hat, very much enjoyed it.

[@1PMF]

Awesome presentation of the Mastodon history, hats off! I found Mastodon, which nowadays have evolved to be my favorite band of all, with The Hunter. Due to the fact, that specific album means the world to me! And I'd say my all time favorite track by Mastodon is on that album. The Sparrow.

[@thunderczar9272]

I've been waiting on a Mastodon video from you for a while now! Wasn't disappointed. I can't wait to see them play in August!