Sunn O))) Showcase Wide Music Taste on Amoeba Records’ “What’s In My Bag?”: Watch

On a recent installment of Amoeba Records’ video series "What’s In My Bag?", the drone metal duo Sunn O))) offered a revealing glimpse into the broad spectrum of sounds that inform their creative process. Greg Anderson and Stephen O’Malley, the core members of Sunn O))), curated an array of records that span genres, eras, and geographies, underscoring their expansive and unconventional musical palette.

The pair began their selections with a nod to foundational blues, choosing John Lee Hooker’s "No Friend Around," a record that highlights deep-rooted American musical traditions. From there, they ventured into the avant-garde, spotlighting Bill Orcutt’s "Music in Continuous Motion," an album celebrated for its experimental approach to jazz and guitar improvisation.

The duo’s picks also included milestones in jazz history, featuring works by Ornette Coleman and the Coltrane family — John and Alice Coltrane — whose groundbreaking improvisations and spiritual compositions have long influenced musicians across genres.

Adding to this diverse lineup were selections from underground contemporary artists such as electroacoustic composer Beatriz Feneyra and experimental musician Joshua Abrahms. These choices emphasize Sunn O)))’s commitment to exploring boundary-pushing sounds beyond mainstream recognition.

A notable inclusion was "Call of the Valley," a seminal Indian classical album by Shivkumar Sharma, Hariprasad Chaurasia, and Brijbhushan Kabra. This record, steeped in the raga tradition, reflects the duo’s appreciation for the meditative and atmospheric qualities often echoed in their own music. Complementing this was "Gagaku Suites," a compilation of traditional Japanese court music, further illustrating their interest in ancient and ritualistic soundscapes.

Their selections culminated in a range of culturally and stylistically varied records, including Gil Scott-Heron’s "A Legend in His Own Mind," the latest album from thrash metal veterans Exodus, and Rosalia’s "Lux," an album that has garnered attention from fans of experimental and progressive music scenes alike.

These choices not only highlight Sunn O)))’s eclectic taste but also their engagement with music that challenges and expands sonic boundaries. By sharing these picks on a platform known for intimate artist insights, Anderson and O’Malley have provided fans and fellow musicians alike with a window into the diverse influences that shape their sound.

Currently, Sunn O))) are preparing for a series of live performances scheduled for October, promoting their recent self-titled release. This album was recognized by consequence.net as one of the standout records in April 2026, further cementing the duo’s status within the experimental music landscape.

While the upcoming tour details are available through official ticket channels, the full episode of "What’s In My Bag?" offers a unique opportunity to experience the duo’s musical inspirations firsthand. Through this curated journey, Sunn O))) demonstrate that their artistry is deeply rooted in a wide-ranging and exploratory listening habit, bridging traditional, experimental, and contemporary music forms.