culture and entertainment - The metal community continues to mourn the loss of influential guitarist Brent Hinds, as progressive metal titans Mastodon performed their first show since his tragic passing at the Alaska State Fair ...
Hinds, who died Wednesday at age 51 in a motorcycle accident, helped shape Mastodon's distinctive sound over their 25-year history. His innovative guitar work and creative vision were instrumental in establishing the band as one of modern metal's most respected acts.
Drummer Brann Dailor delivered a poignant tribute that captured the complex dynamics of their long-term relationship, acknowledging both the triumphs and challenges they faced together. 'We had the ups and downs of a 25-year relationship... but we were brothers to the end,' Dailor expressed to the supportive crowd.
The band's history with Hinds spans back to 2000, when he co-founded Mastodon alongside Dailor, bassist Troy Sanders, and guitarist Bill Kelliher. Their journey together saw them evolve from underground metal favorites to Grammy-winning artists, though recent months had been marked by internal tensions that led to Hinds' departure in March 2023.
The significance of this performance extends beyond just remembering a fallen bandmate - it represents a crucial moment of transition for Mastodon as they begin to forge ahead while honoring Hinds' legacy. The band has committed to continuing to perform his music, ensuring his creative contributions will endure.