Mastodon's Picks in 'What's In My Bag?' | Amoeba Music [Full Episode] (2026)

In the latest episode of Amoeba Music's 'What's In My Bag?', Mastodon, the heavy metal band, gives us a glimpse into their musical tastes and personal stories. This series is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts, as it reveals the influences and passions of artists through their album selections.

Unveiling Musical Tastes and Personal Narratives

Mastodon's members, Brann Dailor, Troy Sanders, and Bill Kelliher, each bring a unique perspective to the show. Dailor, the drummer-vocalist, opts for a collection of underrated gems, including Coil's psychedelic masterpiece 'Love's Secret Domain', which he connects to his youthful LSD experiences. He also highlights Cocteau Twins' 'Victorialand' and Jeff Buckley's 'Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk', albums that hold a special place in his memories of Rochester, New York.

Sanders, the bassist-vocalist, shares a more emotional journey. Having lost his house and belongings in a hurricane, he chooses new vinyl for his family, reflecting their diverse tastes. From Ozzy Osbourne's 'Blizzard of Ozz' to My Chemical Romance's 'Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge', each selection is a personal tribute to his loved ones.

Kelliher, the guitarist, takes us on a trip down memory lane. He talks about learning 'Xanadu' by Rush as a young guitarist, and how Metric's 'Synthetica' reminds him of early Mastodon tours. His love for punk and surf music is evident in his choice of The Cramps' '...Off the Bone', describing them as a hellish version of Elvis.

A Deeper Look at Musical Influences

What makes this episode particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into the band's creative process. Their album selections offer a glimpse into the diverse musical influences that shape their sound. From the psychedelic to the punk, and from the classic to the contemporary, Mastodon's tastes are a reflection of their eclectic style.

One thing that immediately stands out is the personal connection each member makes with their choices. These albums aren't just musical preferences; they're tied to specific memories and experiences. For instance, Kelliher's love for Clutch's simplicity and great songwriting is a reflection of his early appreciation for Neil Fallon.

The Impact of Personal Narratives on Music

This episode also raises a deeper question: how do personal narratives and experiences shape an artist's musical journey? It's clear that Mastodon's members have a deep connection to the music they play and the albums they choose. Their selections are not just about the music itself but also about the stories and emotions attached to them.

In my opinion, this humanizes the band and gives us a deeper understanding of their art. It's a reminder that music is not just a collection of notes and chords but a powerful medium that can evoke memories, emotions, and personal connections.

As Mastodon prepares for their 'Poisonous Weapons' tour, supported by Deafheaven and Alcest, their appearance on 'What's In My Bag?' gives us a unique insight into their world. It's a testament to the power of music to bring people together and share stories, and I, for one, am excited to see how these influences manifest in their live performances.