Lecture Notes: Breakdown of 'Blood and Thunder' by Mastodon

Introduction

• Speaker: Brun from Macedon
• Topic: Breakdown of the song "Blood and Thunder"
• Inspiration for the Riff: Compilation of Egyptian Top 40 hits

Development of "Blood and Thunder"

• Album: Leviathan
• Method: Used a dictaphone to record ideas
• Guitar Playing: Simpler guitar riffs due to self-admitted lack of skill

Pre-Recording Tour

• Tour with Clutch: Two-month long tour from East Coast to Seattle
• Purpose: Played entire album live nightly to practice
• Influence: Inspired by Neurosis' approach with "Through Silver and Blood"
• Outcome: Exhaustion by the time of recording, producer advised against repeating the process

Song Composition

• Opening Fill: Pre-planned and integral to the song's introduction
• Reaction: Criticism on timing, but defended by creator
• Bridge Inspiration: Derived from "Yala Egypt's Hit List" CD
• Guitar Play: Execution by skilled band members

Lyrics and Vocals

• Lyrics Writing: Written in a van during the tour
• Neil Fallon: Sang the part of Captain Ahab
  • Chosen for his voice, perfect for a "salty sailor"
• Personal Impact: Pride in having Neil's voice on the track

Visual Imagery

• Imagery During Creation: Imagined giant water buffalo/oxen
• Impact on Live Performances: Powerful ending to live sets

Promotion and Publicity

• Initial Release Plan: Wanted "Blood and Thunder" as the lead single
• Publicist's Advice: Lead with "Iron Tusk" to maintain fanbase familiarity
• Success of "Blood and Thunder"
  • Featured in Tony Hawk and other samplers
  • Contributed to band's exposure (Ozfest)
  • Considered one of the band's most popular songs

Conclusion

• Live Performance: Typically closes shows with "Blood and Thunder"
• Impact on Fans: Recognized as the definitive end to their performances

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