Mastodon and co-founding lead guitarist Brent Hinds are “mutually” parting ways, the Atlanta metal band announced today on social media. “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,” Hinds’ now-former bandmates wrote. “We are still very inspired and excited to show up for fans in this next chapter of Mastodon. As we move forward, all 2025 touring plans will remain intact.”

Hinds co-founded Mastodon, in 2000, with bassist Troy Sanders, drummer Brann Dailor, and guitarist Bill Kelliher. The group released its debut studio album, Remission, in 2002. Over the years, Mastodon and Hinds earned six Grammy nominations, and they won one Grammy Award: Best Metal Performance, in 2018, for Emperor of Sand’s “Sultan’s Curse.” Mastodon released their final album with Hinds, Hushed and Grim, in 2021.

Outside of Mastodon, Hinds leads Fiend Without a Face, and he’s played in Giraffe Tongue Orchestra, Legend of the Seagullmen, and more.

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