MASTODON Unleashes 'Marrow Deep' with New Blood and Heavier Riffs

MASTODON, the titanic force of progressive metal, is set to reignite the scene with their highly anticipated album, "Marrow Deep." Slated for release on August 28 via Loma Vista Recordings, this marks a pivotal chapter in the band's storied career as they welcome guitarist Nick Johnston into the fold. Alongside the unmistakable contributions of keyboardist João Nogueira, the album promises to be a sonic journey that hearkens back to the raw power of their earlier works.

In a revealing interview with Australia's Everblack podcast, singer/bassist Troy Sanders expressed both excitement and anxiety as the release date looms. "I've been feeling good about it for a long time," he said, reflecting on the lengthy process from initial writing to the final product. "But it’s been so long that I don’t know how to feel anymore. We’ve been living with it since riff one, and now it’s time for the world to hear it." After spending nearly a year nurturing the project, Troy and the band are eager to unleash their creation onto an eager fanbase.

The heavier musical direction of "Marrow Deep" is notably sharper than its predecessor, the introspective "Hushed And Grim." Troy explained that the pandemic-driven album allowed for exploration and lengthening of songs, but now the band is ready to turn up the heat. "It feels like a knee-jerk reaction to what we’ve been touring on for the past five years. Bill and Brann started riffing heavy again, reminiscent of the 'Leviathan' era." It’s a return to form that fans have been craving, as MASTODON channels their roots while pushing forward into uncharted territory.

Johnston’s addition to the lineup has added fresh energy to the creative process. Troy revealed, "He brought a few songs into the process that turned out to be awesome. This is the first record with Nick, and his riffs and ideas have been a game changer for us." The collaborative spirit of the band shines through, as every member contributes their unique flair, culminating in a vibrant tapestry of sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

To celebrate the release of "Marrow Deep," MASTODON will embark on "The Poisonous Weapons Tour," a nationwide blitz that kicks off on September 16 in Orlando with support from the likes of DEAFHEAVEN and ALCEST. This tour is set to be an exhilarating ride across the country, culminating in a raucous finale on October 24 at Sick New World in Dallas. With a reinvigorated lineup and a heavier sound, MASTODON is ready to reclaim their throne in the metal kingdom.