"Emperor of Sand" is the seventh studio album by the American heavy metal band Mastodon, released on March 31, 2017. The album was produced by Brendan O'Brien, who previously worked with the band on their 2009 album "Crack the Skye."
The concept of "Emperor of Sand" draws from the themes of time, mortality, and survival. It tells the story of a man who has been sentenced to death and is forced to wander a desert under the watch of the titular Emperor. The narrative was inspired by personal experiences of the band members, particularly their encounters with cancer affecting close family and friends.
Musically, the album continues Mastodon's tradition of blending progressive metal with elements of sludge, stoner, and hard rock. It features complex instrumentation and diverse vocal performances from all four members: Troy Sanders, Brent Hinds, Brann Dailor, and Bill Kelliher. Notably, the album includes tracks like "Show Yourself" and "Sultan's Curse," the latter of which won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.
"Emperor of Sand" received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, musical cohesiveness, and thematic consistency. It has been praised for its ability to balance emotional weight with intricate songwriting, showcasing Mastodon's evolution as a band while maintaining their signature sound.
