Mastodon's New Album: A 90-Minute Sonic Snooze

Mastodon, a band known for its reinvention, has released its latest double album, Hushed and Grim, which critics describe as an overwhelmingly dull 90-minute slog. Despite past successes and a Grammy win for their 2017 album Emperor of Sand, this new collection is noted for its lack of ambition.

The album features the band's core members still capable of impressive musicianship, including a twin guitar attack and a solid rhythm section. However, without a clear sense of direction, Hushed and Grim struggles to engage any audience segment. Brief moments hint at the band's potential for dense, emotional music, reminiscent of early 2000s emo, but these are often overshadowed by long, meandering passages.

Tracks like "More Than I Could Chew" and "Teardrinker" showcase glimmers of what could have been a fruitful new sound, with intricate guitar work and emotive lyrics. Yet, Mastodon consistently pulls back from these more introspective explorations, opting for familiar but ultimately uninspired chugging or perplexing sonic detours, such as an unsettling bass solo on "Teardrinker."