Yes, the prog-sludge-whatever-metal icons are back with their follow up to 2009′s Crack The Skye (which I loved).

The Hunter comes out Sept. 27 but you can hear it right this second by going to the band’s official site.

As for initial thoughts, I have to say that I do enjoy the band’s steady move towards melody and coherence.  Sure, they’re not as heavy as they were but whatever sheer power they’ve lost (or, rather, let go), they’ve more than made up for in songwriting.  “Curl of the Burl” may suggest Mastodon have become a modern rock outfit, but don’t let the seemingly simply tune fool you: drummer Brann Dailor alone proves the band’s still entrenched in their perfected poly-rhythmic whirlwind.

The Hunter, much like any other Mastodon record, is a reason to get excited about new music.  So stream this puppy and then go get yourself a (legal) copy next week.