Metal band Mastodon launches a rare vinyl pressing containing actual fossilized teeth from prehistoric mastodons.
Grammy-nominated metal band Mastodon has unveiled a limited edition vinyl record containing actual 10,000-year-old fossils from the prehistoric animal that shares its name. The band announced the unusual release on October 9, revealing that fossilized mastodon teeth had been ground into dust and incorporated into a special pressing of their latest album, Marrow Deep.
The physical records were manufactured as part of a collaboration involving Loma Vista Recordings, Waxworks Records, and the University of Georgia geology department. Fans wanting to secure one of the ultra-rare items must enter a special online raffle, according to information published by dexerto.
The project brings a two-decade-long journey to completion for bassist and vocalist Troy Sanders and his bandmates, who originally received the prehistoric specimens as a gift from a dedicated fan.
How the Mastodon fossils became vinyl records
The unusual concept began roughly 20 years ago when a fan gifted the band a large bag of fossilized mastodon teeth. Because the items were not suitable for display, the musicians spent years wondering what to do with them until Troy Sanders suggested incorporating the material into a music release.
Researchers at the University of Georgia geology department helped grind the ancient fossils into particles fine enough to be mixed into the vinyl material. Experts ensured that the addition of the fossil dust would not affect the sound quality or overall playability of the physical records.
Inside the Bone Dust Edition of Marrow Deep
The newly announced version of the album Marrow Deep has been strictly limited to just 170 copies worldwide. Each package includes two vinyl records and a formal certificate of authenticity for collectors.
Band members personally visited the pressing plant to sprinkle the fossil dust onto each record during the manufacturing process. The band timed the release to contrast the ancient fossils with their brand-new album, creating a unique physical collectible for dedicated music fans.
How fans can purchase the limited edition vinyl
Each copy of the exclusive Bone Dust Edition carries a retail price of $150. Due to the limited amount of fossil material available, only 170 lucky supporters will secure a physical copy.
Fans residing in the United States, Canada, and Mexico can enter a raffle through Loma Vista Recordings until October 12 at 12 PM ET. Winners will be selected at random, and the records are expected to begin shipping around October 16.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mastodon fossil vinyl record?
The Mastodon fossil vinyl record is a limited edition pressing of the album Marrow Deep that contains actual 10,000-year-old mastodon tooth fossils ground into dust.
How much does the Mastodon fossil vinyl cost?
Each copy of the Bone Dust Edition vinyl record costs $150, and only 170 copies were produced for fans through a special raffle system.
How did the band get the mastodon fossils?
The band received a large bag of fossilized mastodon teeth from a fan approximately 20 years ago and eventually decided to grind them into powder for a vinyl release.
