Concertwire.com

Atlanta-based modern rock outfit Mastodon has solidified their niche in the future of hard rock by awakening the sleeping giant that gives the prefix “heavy” to metal. The quartet has attained critical accolades and gained fan support since their formation in 1999. This attention has only gained momentum over the past five years since they began their tireless touring schedule. Mastodon's style includes heavy (and sometimes quite complex) guitar riffs, jazz-influenced drumming, odd time signatures, and long, melodic instrumental interludes inspired by the band's love of progressive rock. They have also supported Clutch, Queens of The Stoneage, Hatebreed, Canibal Corpse, and Dillinger Escape Plan. Members of Clutch and Queens of the Stoneage have collaborated on Mastodon’s album, Blood Mountain. Crack the Skye, their fourth and newest studio album, was released in March 2009.