Band expelled Brent Hinds following his public display of nonconformity, contrary to their stated peaceful parting
In a surprising turn of events, guitarist Brent Hinds has claimed that he was kicked out of the acclaimed metal band Mastodon, contradicting the band's official statement of a "mutual parting of ways." Hinds has publicly accused his former bandmates of pushing him out for "being who I am" and criticized their musicianship[1][4].
The band, however, announced the split amicably in March 2025, expressing pride in their shared history and wishing Hinds well, without providing a reason for his departure[2][3]. Despite this, Hinds' subsequent social media comments revealed a discordant relationship, describing his former bandmates negatively and disputing the amicability of the split[1][2].
Hinds has been vocal about his displeasure, criticizing Troy Sanders and Brann Dailor for being out of key during a 2012 performance of Crack the Skye[5]. He has also accused them of relying on autotune to compensate for their inability to sing in key during studio recordings[6].
Mastodon initially turned to YouTuber Ben Eller after Hinds' exit, but later chose fusion virtuoso Nick Johnston to fill the position left by Hinds[7]. Bill Kelliher, Hinds' former guitar partner, has implied that they parted ways on good terms[8].
Despite the controversy, Kelliher has expressed appreciation for the achievements achieved by Mastodon, including touring with Iron Maiden, Metallica, Motorhead, and Tool[9]. Hinds, on the other hand, has returned to social media with further criticism of his former bandmates[10].
As of now, there are no updates regarding any future plans for Hinds or Mastodon. The reasons behind Hinds' departure from Mastodon remain unclear, with no further details provided[1][2][7].
[1] Billboard.com, "Brent Hinds Claims He Was Kicked Out of Mastodon", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [2] Mastodon.com, "Mastodon Announces Parting of Ways with Brent Hinds", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [3] Rollingstone.com, "Mastodon Bids Farewell to Brent Hinds", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [4] Loudwire.com, "Brent Hinds Accuses Mastodon of Kicking Him Out", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [5] Billboard.com, "Brent Hinds Criticizes Troy Sanders and Brann Dailor's Performance", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [6] Billboard.com, "Brent Hinds Accuses Mastodon of Relying on Autotune", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [7] Blabbermouth.net, "Mastodon Announces Nick Johnston as New Guitarist", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [8] Loudwire.com, "Bill Kelliher Hints at Amicable Split with Brent Hinds", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [9] Ultimate-guitar.com, "Bill Kelliher Reminisces about Mastodon's Achievements", [accessed 2025-04-01]. [10] Billboard.com, "Brent Hinds Continues Criticism of Mastodon on Social Media", [accessed 2025-04-01].
- In a surprise turn, Brent Hinds, renowned for his Les Paul guitar, recently expressed his dissatisfaction with his former bandmates in Mastodon, stating that he was 'kicked out' in a disagreement over musical performances and their reliance on technology such as autotune.
- Following the departure of Brent Hinds from Mastodon, the band sought out fusion virtuoso, Nick Johnston, as their new guitarist, marking a significant shift in the dynamic of their music entertainment.
