Watch Mastodon Live At The Aragon

Mastodon Live At The Aragon is a concert film that captures the energy and intensity of the Atlanta-based heavy metal band Mastodon's live performance at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago in 2009. The film features the band's original lineup of Brann Dailor on drums, Brent Hinds and Bill Kelliher on guitars, and Troy Sanders on bass and vocals, along with their touring keyboardist Derek Mitchka.

The film begins with a brief introduction by Dailor, who promises the audience a night of "heavy, heavy tunes" and encourages them to "let loose and get crazy." The band then launches into a blistering set that includes songs from their first four albums, as well as a few unreleased tracks.

One of the most striking things about Mastodon Live At The Aragon is the sheer power and precision of the band's musicianship. Dailor's drumming is particularly impressive, as he effortlessly navigates complex time signatures and fills while never losing the pulse of the music. Hinds and Kelliher's guitar work is equally impressive, with each player delivering blistering riffs and solos that showcase their technical prowess.

But what really sets Mastodon Live At The Aragon apart is the band's ability to connect with their audience. Despite the intense, sometimes almost-atonal nature of their music, Mastodon manages to create a sense of community and shared purpose with the crowd. Whether Sanders is exhorting the audience to sing along with the chorus of "Circle of Cysquatch" or Hinds is coaxing the crowd into a giant mosh pit during "Blood and Thunder," the band members seem genuinely invested in making sure everyone in the room is having a great time.

In addition to the music itself, Mastodon Live At The Aragon features some impressive production elements. The stage design is simple but effective, with a massive screen behind the band that displays trippy visuals and eerie, atmospheric footage. The lighting is also top-notch, with strobes and spotlights creating a sense of drama and intensity that perfectly matches the band's music.

Overall, Mastodon Live At The Aragon is a must-see for fans of heavy metal and hard rock music. It's a powerful, visceral experience that captures the raw energy and emotion of Mastodon's live performance. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious to see what all the fuss is about, this concert film is sure to leave you breathless and wanting more.

Mastodon Live At The Aragon is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.4.