LEVIATHAN

While Mastodon's latest Blood Mountain is their best, their second album Leviathan from 2004 isn't far behind. Leviathan is a concept album based on Moby Dick. A very progressive idea and theme but one that has surprisingly clicked with the mainstream metal audience.

Leviathan is the album that gained the band worldwide attention, with the label of the 'new Metallica' being thrust upon them. A lot of pressure for the young band, but pressure that the band has thrived on making the most exciting music in metal.

Stand out tracks include 'Blood and Thunder' and 'Iron Tusk', both songs containing the best riffs I have heard since early 90s Pantera. But the masterpiece of this album in the 13 minute epic 'Hearts Alive', this is Mastodon at their most progressive. Absolutely brilliant.