The best Mastodon albums

20 records, ordered by how much they reward a first listen — not by chart position.

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Crack the Skye

  1. 1
    Cold Dark Place

    Cold Dark Place

    2017

    A haunting blend of atmospheric melodies and heavy riffs, exploring themes of despair and introspection through intricate arrangements.

  2. 2
    Medium Rarities

    Medium Rarities

    2020

    A sprawling collection of heavy riffs, intricate arrangements, and eclectic instrumentals showcases Mastodon's diverse sonic palette.

  3. 3
    Live at the Aragon

    Live at the Aragon

    2011

    A sonic tapestry of aggressive riffs and intricate melodies, capturing the raw energy of Mastodon's live performance.

  4. 4
    Leviathan

    Leviathan

    2004

    A turbulent blend of progressive and sludge metal that immerses listeners in mythic narratives and colossal riffs.

  5. 5
    Live at Brixton

    Live at Brixton

    2013

    A thunderous live performance blending intricate musicianship with raw energy, showcasing Mastodon's heavy metal evolution.

  6. 6
    Once More 'Round the Sun

    Once More 'Round the Sun

    2014

    A vibrant blend of heavy riffs and melodic harmonies, weaving intricate narratives through powerful musicianship.

  7. 7
    Crack the Skye

    Crack the Skye

    2009

    A sprawling journey of progressive metal marked by intricate melodies and heavy riffs, exploring themes of spirituality and personal loss.

  8. 8
    Remission

    Remission

    2002

    A chaotic blend of heavy riffs and intricate drumming that melds sludge, progressive, and metalcore influences into a visceral sonic experience.

  9. 9
    Call of the Mastodon

    Call of the Mastodon

    2006

    A thunderous blend of sludge and progressive metal, steeped in intricate rhythms and vivid storytelling.

  10. 10
    March of the Fire Ants EP

    March of the Fire Ants EP

    2003

    A raw and visceral blend of heavy riffs, complex rhythms, and haunting melodies that define Mastodon's early sound.

  11. 11
    Lifesblood

    Lifesblood

    2001

    A raw, unrefined blend of sludge and progressive metal that roars with primal energy and intricate musicianship.

  12. 12
    Mastodon

    Mastodon

    2008

    A ferocious blend of intricate riffs and primal energy that pushes the boundaries of heavy metal.

  13. 13
    Hushed and Grim

    Hushed and Grim

    2021

    A sprawling, atmospheric journey through heavy riffs and introspective lyricism, blending progressive and sludge metal with haunting melodies.

  14. 14
    Oblivion EP

    Oblivion EP

    2009

    Heavy, intricate riffs intertwine with dynamic rhythms, underpinned by a blend of melodic and aggressive vocals.

  15. 15
    Jonah Hex: Revenge Gets Ugly EP

    Jonah Hex: Revenge Gets Ugly EP

    2010

    A gritty blend of heavy riffs and atmospheric soundscapes that evoke the desolation of the Wild West.

  16. 16
    Blood Mountain

    Blood Mountain

    2006

    A labyrinth of intricate riffs and sprawling compositions that meld heavy metal aggression with progressive complexity.

  17. 17
    The Hunter

    The Hunter

    2011

    A dynamic blend of progressive and sludge metal, layered with intricate melodies and visceral storytelling.

  18. 18
    Emperor of Sand

    Emperor of Sand

    2017

    A rich tapestry of heavy riffs and intricate melodies, blending sludge and progressive elements into a cohesive narrative experience.

  19. 19
    Feistodon

    Feistodon

    2012

  20. 20
    Slick Leg

    Slick Leg

    2001