In this episode of Amoeba Music's 'What's In My Bag?', we get a fascinating glimpse into the personal music tastes and influences of the heavy metal band Mastodon. The show, which invites artists to explore the record store and share their picks, offers a unique insight into the minds of these musicians.
A Journey Through Musical Influences
Drummer-vocalist Brann Dailor takes us on a trip down memory lane with his selections. He begins with Coil's 'Love's Secret Domain', a psychedelic masterpiece that takes us back to his youthful LSD experiences. The Cocteau Twins' 'Victorialand' brings us to Rochester, New York, where Dailor's youth was spent. But it's not just about the past; he also highlights overlooked gems like Jeff Buckley's 'Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk' and Björk's 'Selma Songs', proving that even well-known artists have hidden treasures.
Bassist-vocalist Troy Sanders' choices are deeply personal. Having lost his home and belongings in a hurricane, he rebuilds his vinyl collection with new purchases. His selections are a heartwarming reflection of his family's tastes: Ozzy Osbourne's 'Blizzard of Ozz' for himself, Barry Manilow's 'Greatest Hits Vol. II' for his wife, and so on. It's a beautiful way to reconnect with his loved ones through music.
The Personal Histories of Mastodon
Guitarist Bill Kelliher keeps it personal too. 'A Farewell to Kings' by Rush holds a special place in his heart, as it was the song he learned as a young guitarist. Metric's 'Synthetica' takes us back to an early Mastodon tour, where the band bonded over the band's music. Kelliher's interest in punk and surf music is evident in his choice of The Cramps' '...Off the Bone', describing them as a unique blend of Elvis and Hell. His final picks, Clutch's self-titled album and Weezer's 'Pinkerton', showcase his love for simplicity and great songwriting.
What makes this episode particularly fascinating is the insight it gives us into the band's creative process. Their music is a reflection of their personal histories, influences, and even their family dynamics. It's a reminder that great art often stems from deeply personal places.
The Power of Music
Music has the power to transport us, to evoke memories, and to connect us with others. For Mastodon, it's a way to express their individuality, their shared experiences, and their love for the craft. This episode of 'What's In My Bag?' is a testament to the power of music and its ability to shape our lives and our art.
As we delve deeper into the world of Mastodon, we realize that their music is not just a collection of sounds, but a narrative of their lives. It's a beautiful reminder of the impact music can have on us all.
