Mastodon Faces Transition After Brent Hinds’ Departure
Mastodon fans have recently been in turmoil following the announcement that co-founding lead guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds has departed from the band. In the wake of this significant change, YouTuber Ben Eller has stepped in as a temporary replacement. During a conversation with Guitar World, rhythm guitarist Bill Kelliher shared insights into the band’s future with Eller and the qualities they seek in a permanent replacement for Hinds.
Bill Kelliher’s Insights on Finding a Replacement
The Ideal Candidate
In an interview published online on March 15, Kelliher articulated that the ideal candidate to fill Hinds’ shoes would need to be “easy to get along with” and possess a strong desire to play at a high level. He emphasized the importance of compatibility, stating:
“Obviously, you gotta be somebody who we all get along with and can stand the true test of time. Like, living together in a little tour bus on the road for fucking days and months at a time, it’s got to be someone who can do all that.”
He continued, highlighting the necessity of personal chemistry: “We’ve got to be able to sit down and have a beer with them, go out to dinner with them, you know, feel them out, and make sure they’re Mastodon material.” Kelliher stressed the importance of finding someone with a unique style who is serious about their craft, remarking, “I’m as serious as a heart attack with Mastodon. It’s my life. It’s all I really know.”
The Current Situation with Ben Eller
Kelliher also discussed the band’s immediate future with Eller, mentioning upcoming shows: “We do have some more shows coming up. We have a tour with Coheed and Cambria coming up in May, which, you know, we’re still going to fulfill that. We’re going to finish up our new record; I’m not sure what our future is with Ben or if we’ll try a couple of other people out. Not really sure yet; it’s too early to say.”
Brent Hinds’ Departure and the Introduction of Ben Eller
The Official Statement
On March 7, it was reported by Loudwire that Hinds and Mastodon had mutually agreed to part ways after 25 years together. The band released a heartfelt statement on social media:
“Friends and fans: After 25 monumental years together, Mastodon and Brent Hinds have mutually decided to part ways. We’re deeply proud of and beyond grateful for the music and history we’ve shared and we wish him nothing but success and happiness in his future endeavors.” They reassured fans that all 2025 touring plans would remain intact and expressed excitement for the next chapter of Mastodon.
First Show with Ben Eller
Just two days later, Mastodon played their first show with Eller at Tool’s inaugural Live in the Sand Festival. The setlist featured 17 songs, including rare tracks that hadn’t been performed live in over a decade, as well as fan favorites like “Blood and Thunder” and “Crystal Skull.”
Kelliher’s Reflections on Hinds’ Legacy
In a separate statement, Kelliher reflected on the legacy of Hinds during Mastodon’s first 25 years, describing it as a “fun, wild f***ing ride.” He acknowledged the band’s significant achievements, including Grammy wins and touring with legendary bands like Iron Maiden and Metallica. Kelliher noted that sometimes, “people grow apart,” and expressed well wishes for Hinds in his future endeavors.
Who is Ben Eller?
Ben Eller is primarily known for his popular YouTube channel, which features a series titled “This is Why You Suck at Guitar.” He has previously analyzed the guitar work of Mastodon, citing their 2004 album, Leviathan, as one of his favorites. In 2020, he collaborated with Kelliher to teach viewers how to play “Fallen Torches” from Mastodon’s Medium Rarities compilation. When approached about filling in for Hinds, vocalist/bassist Troy Sanders asked Eller if he could learn 17 Mastodon songs on short notice, to which Eller confidently replied that he could.
Mastodon’s Future Plans
Mastodon is set to embark on a U.S. co-headlining tour with Coheed and Cambria starting in May, supported by Periphery. They will also perform at the Sonic Temple Festival and the Back to the Beginning concert in the U.K. Additionally, Kelliher mentioned that the band is working on a follow-up to their 2021 album, Hushed and Grim.
Conclusion
The departure of Brent Hinds marks a significant turning point in Mastodon’s journey, leaving fans and the band contemplating the future. With Ben Eller stepping in as a temporary guitarist, the band is actively seeking a permanent replacement who aligns with their values and vision. As they prepare for upcoming tours and continue to create new music, only time will reveal the next chapter in Mastodon’s storied legacy.
FAQs
1. Why did Brent Hinds leave Mastodon?
Brent Hinds and Mastodon mutually decided to part ways after 25 years together, as announced by the band on social media.
2. Who is Ben Eller?
Ben Eller is a YouTuber known for his guitar tutorials and analyses. He has filled in as the guitarist for Mastodon following Hinds’ departure.
3. What are Mastodon’s plans for the future?
Mastodon plans to embark on a co-headlining tour with Coheed and Cambria starting in May and is also working on a follow-up album to their 2021 release, Hushed and Grim.
4. What qualities is Mastodon looking for in a new guitarist?
The band seeks a guitarist who is easy to get along with, has a strong desire to play, and can handle the rigors of touring life, along with possessing a unique style.
