Whalecome

Sup ppl? To mark the conception of White Whale I thought I’d post some of the best albums knocking about that feature our oceanic mammalian friends on their covers. Here are two heavy bastard albums well worth your attention, both happen to represent something of a milestone for each band. Break your backs, crack your oars and prepare for a life aquatic.

Mastodon – Leviathan (2004, Relapse Records)

Mastodon’s breakthrough album and my personal favourite (or maybe Remission, screw it they’re all good!) feature’s artwork from the prolific Paul Romano. The Band’s Moby Dick concept calls for the white whale to be the centerpiece in a savage and desperate scene. On this disk the Atlanta quartet excel themselves. Musically riveting, lyrically inspiring and fiercely heavy Leviathan is a must own release.


Highlight: Neil Fallon's verse on 'Blood & Thunder'/Intro to 'Iron Tusk'.


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Gojira – From Mars To Sirius (2005, Prosthetic)

Relentlessly brutal riffs and meticulous musicianship helped catapult Gojira into the higher echelons of the heavy metal elite, where they remain. From Mars To Sirius was the means. This is the French outfit’s third studio release and a good starting point for those new to the band, the ferocious double bass and pinch harmonics make it very appealing to all metal fans. The underlying ecological message of the music is still, six years after release, something new and refreshing. The whale depicted is thought to be inspired by the Sea Shepherd logo, one of the numerous charities that the band are involved with.


Highlight: The unrelenting 'From The Sky'.

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Last.fm

George