Oscar Isaac Reveals the Heavy Metal Album That Inspires Him
Oscar Isaac opens up about his love for Sleep’s Dopesmoker, calling it 'metal meets Gregorian chants.' The acclaimed actor and musician discusses his passion for raw, powerful rock music and how it shapes his creative world.
Some people just seem to have it all—talent, charisma, and looks. Oscar Isaac is one of those rare individuals who not only shines on the big screen but also has serious musical chops. If you’ve seen the Coen brothers ’ film Inside Llewyn Davis, you’ve witnessed his ability to command a role both as an actor and a live performer. That movie marked the first time many realized Isaac’s musical background, which began in his school days playing Nirvana covers and later joining a Christian ska-punk band that even opened for Green Day. Despite his early music career, Isaac eventually chose acting, attending Juilliard in New York and landing significant roles in theater before breaking into film.
From Indie Roots to Hollywood Stardom
Isaac’s journey through Hollywood started with smaller parts in thrillers, but his breakout came alongside Russell Crowe in Robin Hood (2010). He quickly built a reputation with supporting roles in films like Drive and The Bourne Legacy. Inside Llewyn Davis was a turning point, earning him a Golden Globe nomination and industry recognition for his multifaceted talent. Since then, he’s become a fixture in major franchises, including Star Wars, X-Men, Dune, and Marvel ’s Moon Knight, as well as starring in high-profile projects like Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.
A Deep Connection to Music
Despite his busy acting schedule, Isaac’s passion for music remains strong. He’s never shied away from sharing his love for raw, unfiltered rock. In a recent interview, he spoke about his admiration for the heavy metal band Sleep and their monumental album Dopesmoker. Describing the 2003 release, Isaac said,
This stoner metal album is actually just one epic, grinding track. I’ll listen to this when I really just want to wallow, man. I call it ‘sludge metal’ or ‘metal meets Gregorian chants.’ It’s real head music, if you know what I mean.
His praise was so enthusiastic that Sleep highlighted his comments on their social media, a nod to the actor’s genuine appreciation for their unique sound.
What’s Next for Oscar Isaac
Isaac’s calendar is packed with upcoming projects. He’s set to reunite with Guillermo del Toro for Fury, a thriller about two criminals on a violent journey. He’ll also star opposite Elizabeth Olsen in Flesh of the Gods, a retro-inspired vampire film, and is slated to play Snake in a new adaptation of the Metal Gear Solid video game. Even as his film career continues to soar, Isaac’s love for music—especially the heavy, immersive kind—remains a defining part of who he is.