Mastodon's upcoming album will feature guitar work from Nick Johnston, who has been touring with the band since August. This marks a significant development for the metal group following a period of extensive touring and personal challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Nick Johnston will contribute guitar work to Mastodon's new album.
- The band is currently in the writing process with over 20 song ideas.
- Bill Kelliher described the new creative environment as a "booster shot of adrenaline."
- The album's development has been a slow process due to touring and recent events.
New Creative Energy for Mastodon
Guitarist Bill Kelliher confirmed Nick Johnston’s involvement in the band’s next record during a recent interview. Johnston has been performing with Mastodon on tour, filling a crucial role since August. His contributions will now extend beyond live performances to new studio material.
Kelliher discussed the ongoing writing process, revealing that he has been creating new music since before the completion of their previous album, Hushed and Grim. The band currently has more than 20 song ideas in various stages of development.
Current Album Status
- Song Ideas: Over 20
- Writing Period: Since before Hushed and Grim was finished
- Recording Method: Demos at Kelliher's home studio, then full studio sessions
A Collaborative Writing Process
The band uses a structured approach for developing new material. Kelliher demos songs at his home, then brings them to his professional studio with an engineer. It is during these sessions that Nick Johnston and keyboardist João 'Rasta' Nogueira join in to contribute their ideas.
Kelliher emphasized the open nature of the collaboration. He encourages Johnston and Nogueira to add whatever they feel is right for the songs. This inclusive method allows for diverse creative input.
"We bring in Nick and João, the keyboard player, and we start jamming the songs and say, 'You wanna add something? Please add whatever you want in here,'" Kelliher stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit.
Background on Nick Johnston
Nick Johnston joined Mastodon for their touring commitments in August. His integration into the band's live setup was a necessary step during a challenging time. His upcoming studio contributions mark a deeper involvement with the group's creative future.
Challenges and Progress in Production
Despite the excitement, the album's creation has not been without its difficulties. Kelliher admitted that the process has been slow. This pace is largely due to the band's extensive touring schedule and the recent changes within the lineup.
He explained that working on 20 different songs, one at a time, takes significant time when balanced with a busy touring calendar. However, Kelliher expressed confidence in the quality of the material developed so far, much of which originated from himself and drummer Brann Dailor.
Johnston is also bringing his own complete songs to the table, creating a blend of existing and new compositions. Kelliher noted that while Johnston's influence will be present, a more fully integrated sound reflecting his permanent membership will likely emerge on the album after this one.
A 'Booster Shot of Adrenaline'
Kelliher described the current atmosphere within Mastodon as rejuvenated. He feels a fresh energy, like a "booster shot of adrenaline." This new dynamic allows the band members to contribute ideas more freely, without past constraints.
The guitarist highlighted a sense of a "clean slate," enabling them to write without concern for external opinions within the band. This change marks a significant shift, making the creative process easier and more open than it has been in years.
The enthusiasm is palpable within the group. Kelliher shared his excitement about the demoed material, calling it "incredible." This positive outlook suggests a strong future for Mastodon's sound.
- Creative Freedom: Band members feel more open to contribute.
- Energy Level: Described as a "booster shot of adrenaline."
- Future Sound: Expect a more cohesive blend of influences in subsequent albums.
Looking Ahead
The band remains focused on completing the songs they had before Johnston joined, while also integrating his new material. The goal is to produce an album that showcases the combined talents of the group, even as Johnston is still relatively new to the studio dynamic.
This upcoming record promises to be a powerful statement from Mastodon, blending established songwriting with fresh perspectives. Fans can anticipate a diverse and energetic collection of tracks as the band embraces this new chapter.