Mastodon - Marrow Deep (2026)

Best tracks: In the Ruins / Golden Spires

Moderately prog-ish, very groovy, and very professional. Everything thunders, but everything is laid out neatly. The vocal interplay of the two singers and guests keeps things interesting. The varied mix eliminates some of the monotony typical of sludge and stoner. Dynamic moments fit especially well into the palette. The nods to classic prog rock also work well. Overall, I'd mention "I'm the Ruins" and "Golden Spires," but this is definitely a group of albums, not singles. Mastodon continues to be at the forefront of all their styles. The soaring "The Vanishing" also deserves special mention; the arrangement and mixing are particularly praiseworthy here. The final epic draws the line but adds nothing (except for the jazzy touches at the center), but that doesn't disappoint.