The second single from Mastodon’s sixth studio album shows remarkable growth in the band’s approach to songwriting and recording. But those of long hair and denim vest need not worry: When the Atlanta sludge lords drop Once More ’Round the Sun on June 24th, you’ll hear that they’re still as heavy and brutal as ever.
“Chimes At Midnight” sounds instantly cinematic. The guitar work between frontman Brent Hinds and Bill Kelliher heaves and hos with the sonic interplay of two men who’ve played together so long they can read each other’s thoughts. Over contrasting arpeggios and chunky riffs, an eerie lead approximates the Theremin of an old horror movie. The song then shifts gears into a hard-driving rhythm that’s like a battle tank with a throttled turbo engine. The seismic tempo shifts are almost progressive. But between the unpredictable arrangements and the more intricate interplay of riffs and leads, there’s much more going on than with so many lifestyle bands who can’t get past Black Sabbath’s 1972 opus Vol. 4.
Even if you’re a longtime fan who’s attached to Mastodon’s early recordings, there’s no denying the band is evolving in a way that stays true to their original sound while pushing the limits of the genre further than many of their peers. mastodonrocks.com
The shift to 3D printing allows for intricate detailing and tighter tolerances, ensuring each nut meets exact specifications.
The process begins with powdered metal, which is precisely 3D printed into the desired shape using advanced metal printing technology. After printing, the parts are depowdered and cleaned before undergoing a sintering process—an advanced heat treatment—during which the parts achieve full density and hardness. Lastly, the nuts are CNC “kiss-cut” to exacting specifications for consistency and control of the fit before receiving a premium electroplating finish.
“Floyd Rose has always been synonymous with innovation, and by embracing this incredible new technology we are able to continue that legacy,” said Andrew Papiccio, president of AP International Music Supply of which Floyd Rose is a division. “The accuracy and flexibility of the new 3D printing method will allow us to make a more consistent piece while also giving us full control of the manufacturing right here in the USA.”
Initially, the 3D-printed locking nuts will be available in ten classic sizes with a 10” radius, with plans to expand the range to accommodate various fretboard radii in Spring 2025. This augmentation will offer players more options for customizing their setups to match a wide variety of fretboard curvatures.
To get a sneak peek at the new Floyd Rose USA Series, come visit us at NAMM in booth 5734 in Hall D.
