ABC/Randy HolmesMastodon is nominated for two awards at this Sunday’s Grammys: Best Metal Performance for “Sultan’s Curse” and Best Rock Album for Emperor of Sand. Speaking with ABC Radio, drummer Brann Dailor says that the nominations feel more like recognition of Mastodon’s whole career.
“For me, it ties everything all together,” he says. “Even though they say it’s just for one album, and I understand that, but it just feels like career validation or something.”
In the Best Rock Album Category, Mastodon will be competing against Metallica‘s Hardwired…to Self-Destruct, and Dailor credits James Hetfield and company for paving the way for metal being recognized at the Grammys.
“Metallica is the only reason we’re even having this conversation about the Grammys,” says Dailor. “Because they got so popular, the Grammy association was unable to deny the fact that they have to include this.”
Of course, that first metal Grammy award in 1989 infamously went to Jethro Tull over Metallica. While Mastodon feels the Grammys have gotten better at recognizing metal in recent years, the band thinks there’s still room for improvement.
“There’s not enough categories,” says guitarist Bill Kelliher. “It’s just Metal Performance, that’s all there is. There’s not Best Metal Album.”
Still, Mastodon feels “honored” to be nominated, and, most of all, they’re looking forward to a good time Sunday. The last time they attended the Grammys, Dailor wore a balloon-printed outfit — a literal birthday suit, if you will.
“The Grammys…are always an opportunity to dress up in something stupid, for me. Not stupid, but…something ridiculous,” Dailor laughs. “I have a powder blue tuxedo with a big crazy tie. I’m gonna look awesome.”
The Grammys air live from New York City’s Madison Square Garden Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ET on CBS.
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