Gojira and Mastodon

French heavy metal band Gojira, from Bayonne, blends thrash, death, and progressive metal with philosophical lyrics. Known for albums like Magma and Fortitude, they gained critical acclaim, Grammy nominations, and performed at the 2024 Olympics. They've toured with bands like Machine Head and are lauded for their unique sound and live performances.

Atlanta's Mastodon, formed in 1999, are influential in American metal, blending genres like stoner, sludge, and metalcore. Known for complex riffs and conceptual albums like Leviathan, they've received Grammy recognition for hits like "Sultan's Curse." Albums like The Hunter and Emperor of Sand showcase their diverse influences. They often collaborate with Neurosis' Scott Kelly and teamed up with Lamb of God in 2024 for "Floods of Triton."