Mastodon

Leviathan

First released2004

Leviathan was recorded at Lakeside Studios in New Jersey during 2008-2009 and produced by the band alongside Mike Big Cheese Exeter and Dave Fridmann, known for his work with The Flaming Lips and other progressive acts. The album marked a shift toward a more accessible progressive metal sound compared to the band's earlier work, with the production emphasizing clearer guitar tones and vocal melodies while maintaining heavy instrumentation. Fridmann's production approach helped shape the album's polished yet powerful sonic character, utilizing both analog and digital recording techniques. The recording process involved extended studio sessions to capture the complex arrangements and layered compositions across the album's four lengthy tracks. Leviathan represented a commercial and critical turning point for Mastodon, establishing them as one of the leading contemporary progressive metal bands.