Mastodon: The Hunter Songbook - A Journey into the Recorded Guitar Versions

Mastodon's fourth studio album, "The Hunter," is a towering monument in the realm of progressive metal. Released in 2011, it marked a significant shift in the band's sound, embracing a more refined and melodic approach while retaining their signature ferocity and technical prowess. The album's intricate guitar work stands out as a defining element, showcasing the band's unparalleled skill and artistry.

Mastodon - The Hunter Songbook (Guitar Recorded Versions)

by David Boe

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	232027 KB
Print length	:	104 pages
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This article delves into the recorded guitar versions of "The Hunter," offering a comprehensive guide to each song's unique sonic tapestry. From the thunderous riffs of "Black Tongue" to the haunting atmospherics of "Curl of the Burl," we explore the intricacies and techniques that elevate these songs to the realm of modern metal classics.

Black Tongue

The album's opening track, "Black Tongue," sets the tone with its relentless assault of crushing riffs and soaring melodies. The guitar work is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a barrage of chugging palm mutes, tremolo-picked arpeggios, and screaming dive bombs.

The main riff, played on the low E string, is an unrelenting force that provides the song's backbone. The use of palm muting adds a percussive element, giving the riff its distinctive tightness and aggression. Interspersed between the heavy riffs are intricate arpeggios played on the higher strings, creating a haunting and melodic contrast.

Curl of the Burl

"Curl of the Burl" is a breathtaking track that showcases the band's versatility and ability to craft atmospheric passages that coexist seamlessly with their heavier moments. The song begins with a delicate acoustic guitar melody that sets a haunting and introspective mood.

As the song progresses, the acoustic guitars gradually give way to a wall of electric guitars, building a crescendo of sound that culminates in a soaring guitar solo. The solo is a masterpiece of melodic improvisation, featuring intricate fretwork, expressive bends, and a controlled use of feedback.

Blasteroid

"Blasteroid" is a high-energy track that combines crushing riffs with soaring melodies, creating a sense of controlled chaos. The guitar work is characterized by its intricate syncopated rhythms and heavy use of palm muting.

The song's main riff is a relentless barrage of palm-muted eighth notes played on the low E and A strings. The syncopated rhythm gives the riff an unpredictable and driving force that propels the song forward. Interwoven with the main riff are melodic lead lines that provide a haunting counterpoint, adding depth and complexity to the overall sound.

Spectrelight

"Spectrelight" is an epic track that spans almost nine minutes and showcases the band's ability to create expansive and atmospheric soundscapes. The guitar work is a blend of intricate arpeggios and soaring melodies, supported by a steady backdrop of distorted power chords.

The song's intro features a mesmerizing arpeggio figure played on the high strings, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. As the song progresses, the arpeggios are gradually layered with distorted power chords, adding weight and intensity to the sound. The guitar solo is a highlight, featuring a mix of sweeping arpeggios and soaring bends that reach towards the heavens.

The Hunter

The title track, "The Hunter," is a testament to the band's ability to craft intricate and memorable melodies. The guitar work is characterized by its use of interlocking harmonies and complex rhythmic patterns.

The main riff is a haunting and beautiful melody played in unison by the two guitars. The melody is supported by a steady rhythmic foundation provided by the bass and drums. As the song progresses, the guitars trade off lead and harmony parts, creating a sense of depth and dynamism.

Stargasm

"Stargasm" is a frenzied and unpredictable track that highlights the band's experimental side. The guitar work is a mix of chaotic riffing, dissonant chords, and improvised solos.

The song's main riff is a relentless barrage of palm-muted eighth notes played on the low strings. The riff creates a frenzied and unsettling atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the song. Interwoven with the main riff are dissonant chords and improvised solos that add an extra layer of unpredictability and aggression.

Thickening

"Thickening" is a showcase of the band's technical prowess, featuring intricate sweep picking patterns and blistering solos. The guitar work is a relentless assault of precision and speed, yet it remains melodic and cohesive.

The song's intro features a lightning-fast sweep picking pattern that sets the pace for the rest of the song. The main riff is a complex and syncopated melody that requires a high level of technical skill to execute. The guitar solo is a tour de force, featuring a mix of sweep picking, legato, and tapping techniques.

The Sparrow

"The Sparrow" is a beautiful and introspective track that showcases the band's ability to create moments of tranquility amidst their heavier sound. The guitar work is a blend of ethereal harmonics, delicate fingerpicking, and haunting feedback.

The song's intro features a series of harmonic notes played on the high strings, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. The fingerpicking pattern is intricate and delicate, adding to the song's overall fragility. The guitar solo is a haunting and expressive melody that reaches towards the heavens, providing a cathartic release.