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Mastodon are one of the biggest bands in modern metal and it’s no surprise. The band have released five albums now, each to critical acclaim, with 2004’s Leviathan being featured in many “best albums of the 21st century” lists. Tracks like “Blood and Thunder” and “Curl of the Burl” are some of the most iconic metal anthems in recent memory. All this combined makes their upcoming album, Once More Around the Sun one of the most highly anticipated albums of 2014. And since a bad quality version of their new track, “High Road” has appeared online, the band have decided to treat fans with the proper studio version.

Straight away it’s clear that Mastodon are continuing with the more mainstream sound they had on 2011’s The Hunter. Given that they started as a sludge metal band and moved closer to progressive metal, especially on Crack the Skye, I can see why some fans would be upset with this. But the fact is, while Mastodon are great at complex ten-plus minute tracks like “The Last Baron,” they’re just as capable of making fantastic, simpler songs. And even if this track arguably marks the smallest change in sound between albums, it’s clear that they are continuing to evolve as a band. “High Road” may have a lot in common with the tracks on The Hunter but I wouldn’t necessarily say it would fit on there.

Honestly, compared to, “Curl of the Burl,” the big single from their last album, this isn’t much. But that’s not really a fair comparison to make. Really, it’s really not fair to compare any Mastodon song to “Curl of the Burl.” That song was simply the best, most instantly satisfying, riff-heavy metal song since “Enter Sandman.” This track still has a lot going for it though. The chorus is insanely catchy and overall it’s just a fun, simple metal song. It may not be as impressive as their earlier work to some people but it still rocks.

So, overall my first impression is that it’s damn good. The chorus seems perfect for a sing-along situation, similar to “Dry Bone Valley” and while the track has a lot in common with The Hunter, it adds a bit of a heavier edge to it. It may not have the same punch to it that other Mastodon songs have, but it is a pretty great track.

You can listen to “High Road” here. Once More Around the Sun comes out in June.