Wolfgang Van Halen’s band Mammoth explores horror in new “The End” music video
Wolfgang Van Halen’s band, Mammoth, has recently released a new single titled “The End,” marking their return after their last single in 2023. The track opens with an intense tapping riff infused with Wolfgang’s signature blend of melody and intensity. Wolfgang himself mentioned that he had the tapping idea for “The End” prior to Mammoth but found the perfect place for it in this new song, describing it as a balance between being shreddy yet controlled. He expressed his feelings about the track, stating that it felt particularly special to him once it was completed.
The music video for “The End” was launched today and takes viewers on a journey of chaos with a horror twist. Directed by Robert Rodriguez and horror effects expert Greg Nicotero, the video immerses Mammoth into a bar setting reminiscent of From Dusk Till Dawn, paying homage to Rodriguez’s work. The video features zombies, with a cameo by actor Danny Trejo. Other notable appearances include Slash, Myles Kennedy, Wolfgang’s mother Valerie Bertinelli, and references to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, a fitting tribute to Wolfgang’s father, who was known for his guitar skills in the original version of the song.
In terms of music, “The End” showcases Mammoth’s technical prowess. The track incorporates elements such as funky bass lines, soaring guitar solos, and a precise heaviness that demonstrates Mammoth’s musical capabilities beyond simply being associated with Wolfgang’s last name. Interestingly, it seems that the project has quietly dropped the Van Halen initials from its name, emphasizing Mammoth’s identity as a standalone entity.
Mammoth has exciting plans for the future, with The End Tour scheduled to kick off in October, featuring Myles Kennedy on the lineup. In the meantime, Mammoth will be performing with Creed and Seether across the United States, with Wolfgang set to represent the Van Halen legacy at Black Sabbath’s final show Back to the Beginning in Birmingham this July.
Overall, Mammoth’s latest offering, “The End,” showcases a fusion of intense musicality, creative visuals, and a touch of horror. With the band’s upcoming tour and diverse musical influences, Mammoth is proving to be more than just a legacy act, carving out their own path in the world of rock music.