Grammy-nominated progressive metal band Mastodon opened up the main stage at the Rockstar Mayhem Fest with a thundering 40-minute performance at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.
The Atlanta, Georgia-based band, who weighs in with quite possible one of the most epic band names in recent memory, was led with the double-barreled attack of Troy Sanders and Brent Hind on bass and guitar, respectively.
Sanders and Hind traded off duties on vox while guitarist Bill Kelliher and drummer Brann Dailor completed the band's critically acclaimed sound of complex time signatures, extended melodic riffs, and gutteral vocals.
Photographer's Notes:
In the moments before beginning the set and launching into the crushing metal, Troy Sanders was already locked into the power stance, winding up. The frontman shifted his weight between his two feet, bass slung low across his hip, and he leaned farther back with each pull. He couldn't wait to unleash the beast.
Needless to say, this set was just plan fun. When photographing a band that puts such an incredible amount of energy into their live performance, I think one can't help but feed off that energy.
I photographed about half of this set, or just under 20-minutes in the pit. I left a little early, thinking I would have more trouble getting over to Underoath's stage, but I would have loved to shoot more of Mastodon's set.
Overall, I used the 14-24mm a lot, so if you're shooting these guys, bring your wide. As a matter of fact, bring it all, Mastodon is photo-candy – you can't really go wrong with any lens. The 70-200mm also got a good workout for tighter shots of the crew.
End Notes:
A huge gigantic thanks to Amanda for setting everything up for Mastodon.
