Ex-Mastodon Guitarist Brent Hinds Has Died at 51
Former Mastodon guitarist Brent Hinds has passed away in Atlanta, GA. The former guitarist of metal band was involved in a fatal crash that occurred the night of Wednesday, August 20 at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Boulevard. Brent was riding his motorcycle, a Harley Davidson, and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other driver involved, a motorist in a BMW SUV, stayed at the accident site.
Brent Hinds’ Prior Bands
Hinds left his native state of Alabama to go to Georgia. While in Atlanta, he was in the music scene, performing with Four Hour Fogger, The Last of the Blue Eyed Devils, and surfbilly rock band Fiend Without a Face. Bassist Troy Sanders who was a member of Fiend Without a Face, and Hinds soon formed Mastodon.
Brent Hinds and Mastodon
Hinds and Sanders met musicians Bill Kelliher and Brann Dailor at a High on Fire concert. They formed Mastodon in 2000. Eric Saner was briefly vocalist of the band, but the four musicians – Hinds, Sanders, Dailor, and Kelliher remained the band’s regular lineup for 24 years. When Saner left Mastodon, Brent took over the majority of vocal duties, along with member Bill Kelliher.
While Brent Hinds was in Mastodon, he composed the soundtrack for the 2010 DC movie Jonah Hex. With members of Tool, Hines formed supergroup Legend of the Seagullmen. Mastodon and Hinds parted ways this past March, citing that it was a mutual decision. It appeared to be an amicable split.
Brent Hinds’ Legacy and Remembering his Music
The multitalented musician will be remembered for his contributions to not only Mastodon, but to movie soundtracks and a variety of other bands. He was just 51 years old at his time of death. An investigation into the accident is ongoing.
Mastodon members issued a heartbreaking statement on their social media:
We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief… last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident. We are heartbroken, shocked, and still trying to process the loss of this creative force with whom we’ve shared so many triumphs, milestones, and the creation of music that has touched the hearts of so many. Our hearts are with Brent’s family, friends, and fans. At this time, we please ask that you respect everyone’s privacy during this difficult time. RIP Brent.
Brent left an indelible mark in the world of music. Besides his intricate guitar work with Mastodon, he was an incredible writer, a capable vocalist, but more than that, he was a friend. Fellow musicians and fans will be able to cherish the many songs he wrote.
