Released: 2014
Genres: Progressive Metal, Stoner Metal, Sludge Metal, Heavy Psych
The Musiquarium’s Once More ‘Round the Sun Review Score: 6 out of 10
Following Mastodon’s transition into a more commercial hard rock sound with 2011’s The Hunter, Once More ‘Round the Sun has the band continuing down that same path, though Nick Raskulinecz is in the producer’s chair this time ’round.
Tread Lightly is a fairly heavy opener for those who thought the band was getting ‘softer’ on The Hunter, though this album is still very much a safe Mastodon album. Like its predecessor, the singles are among the best tracks, with The Motherload and High Road finding the right balance between Mastodon’s signature heaviness and a commercial viability. The title track has a memorable chorus, something that the band is getting better at doing. Aunt Lisa ends with a bizarre Blitzkrieg Bop-type chant from the all-female band The Coathangers, which feels a bit like a “jumping the shark” moment.
Once More ‘Round the Sun is a more than competent record, with some decent riffs scattered throughout and an improved grasp on the band’s newfound mainstream accessibility, but like The Hunter, it only makes you yearn for the more unhinged Mastodon of the previous decade.
For credit breakdowns and historic release details, view Mastodon on Discogs.
Back to the 2014 Album Reviews Guide or the Mastodon Reviews page.
Written by Brett Nippard