Mastodon's first concept album — based on Herman Melville's classic novel Moby-Dick — Leviathan represented a massive step in the rising Atlanta band's evolution, both thematically, musically and commercially. Clean vocals crept into the fold, big-name guests (notably, the group's "fifth member" Scott Kelly, of Neurosis, made his debut appearance on a Mastodon record) contributed, and the 13-minute opus "Hearts Alive" foreboded progressive things to come. Committed road dogs from the start, the band toured extensively behind the record — which was met with critical acclaim, including an Album of the Year nod from Revolver — opening for Slayer and appearing on 2005's Ozzfest. Along for much of the ride was Revolver's creative director Jimmy Hubbard, photographing them onstage, backstage, in their van — a.k.a. "the Fart Box" — and pretty much anywhere else as they logged countless miles and played counteless shows. Below, he shares some of his favorite shots from the era.
Mastodon Circa 'Leviathan': See Rare and Candid Photos
Atlanta road dogs toured hard, played harder
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Hear Overdose Channel Motörhead and Venom on Ripping New Songs
Speedwolf, Mutilation Rites, Pyrolatrous members team for some beer-drinking rock & roll
See Brass Against's Soulful Big-Band Cover of Danzig's "Mother"
NYC-based singer Liza Colby delivers gorgeous, unorthodox performance
Hear Mayhem's Incendiary New Song "Worthless Abominations Destroyed"
Norwegian black-metal pioneers drop lead single off forthcoming LP 'Daemon'
Tool Announce Fall North American Tour With Killing Joke
Trek to kick off October 15th in Denver