Modern metal heavyweights Mastodon are back with no little bang: the Atlanta foursome’s new LP, ‘Once More ‘Round The Sun’, is set for release on June 24th via Reprise.
Clash caught up with lyricist-drummer Brann Dailor recently for a special piece that we won’t reveal just yet. But while conversing, we took the time to ask him a little about the new record – the band’s sixth studio set, and another that confirms their position as true titans of their scene.
You recorded ‘Once More ‘Round The Sun’ with Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Deftones, Alice In Chains), the first time you’ve worked with him. What was it like working with him?
It was cool, man. We’re good with most producers. We know what we want to do, but he was the right guy for sure. He got some great sounds and some great performances and I think he’s an awesome dude. He was a lot of fun to make a record with.
Tell me about the album cover (above). It’s pretty crazy…
It’s a bunch of leaves of orchids and leaves and all these plants. I can’t wait to hold the gatefold vinyl in my hands.
So making something physical is still important to you?
Yeah. Our fans are those kind of people, so we’re giving it to them. This is one of the trippiest art and music combinations I’ve seen in a long time. It’s there for that.
And I read in an interview that the songs are an expression to what’s happened to you guys over the past year or so.
Yeah. The album’s is about everyone’s crazy life. Obviously, art doesn’t happen in a vacuum, [and I get to share it] with these guys.
– – –
Mastodon, 'High Road', from 'Once More 'Round The Sun'
– – –
As told to Mischa Pearlman
Mastodon online. The band plays Sonisphere, July 4th-6th, details here.
Related: read an archive interview with Mastodon from 2009
Buy Clash Magazine
Get Clash on your mobile, for free: iPhone / Android
