Emperor of Sand cover

Emperor of Sand

Mastodon · 2017

51 min · 11 tracks · heavy metal · progressive metal · sludge metal

A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and intricate melodies, blending progressive and sludge metal seamlessly.

Why listen to this

Best for
dynamic emotional journeys long, immersive listening sessions gradual builds and payoffs
Context
By the time 'Emperor of Sand' was released in 2017, Mastodon had solidified their standing as innovators within the metal genre, following their acclaimed album 'Once More 'Round the Sun' in 2014. This sixth studio album reflects a matured sound, grappling with themes of mortality and loss, particularly influenced by band member Brent Hinds’ personal experiences during production.
If you like
heavy metal, progressive metal, sludge metal
What next
Hushed and Grim — Continues the cosmic themes with heavier emotional depth and intricate soundscapes.

Emperor of Sand is an album by Mastodon, released in 2017. A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and intricate melodies, blending progressive and sludge metal seamlessly. 'Emperor of Sand' debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking one of Mastodon's highest charting positions. The album received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical complexity, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance for the track 'Show Yourself'. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Emperor of Sand sound like?

A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and intricate melodies, blending progressive and sludge metal seamlessly. Rooted in heavy metal and progressive metal. Start with "Sultan’s Curse".

Is Emperor of Sand a good place to start with Mastodon?

Yes, Emperor of Sand is recommended as a starting point for new Mastodon listeners. A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and intricate melodies, blending progressive and sludge metal seamlessly. By the time 'Emperor of Sand' was released in 2017, Mastodon had solidified their standing as innovators within the metal genre, following their acclaimed album 'Once More 'Round the Sun' in 2014. This sixth studio album reflects a matured sound, grappling with themes of mortality and loss, particularly influenced by band member Brent Hinds’ personal experiences during production.

Who is Emperor of Sand for?

Emperor of Sand works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Emperor of Sand?

Emperor of Sand has 11 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·51:12

New here? Start with Sultan’s Curse.

  • 1 Sultan’s Curse Start here 4:09
  • 2 Show Yourself Standout 3:02
  • 3 Precious Stones 3:45
  • 4 Steambreather 5:03
  • 5 Roots Remain 6:28
  • 6 Word to the Wise 4:00
  • 7 Ancient Kingdom 4:54
  • 8 Clandestiny 4:28
  • 9 Andromeda 4:05
  • 10 Scorpion Breath 3:19
  • 11 Jaguar God Standout 7:56

Release Date

March 31, 2017

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

51 min 12 sec