Mastodon discusses Brent Hinds’ passing in honest new video

Mastodon recently released a heartfelt video that delves into the band’s profound loss over the departure and subsequent death of co-founding guitarist Brent Hinds. The video, entitled “The Mastodon in the Room,” features band members Troy Sanders, Bill Kelliher, and Brann Dailor candidly addressing the impact of Hinds’ absence on the band and their personal lives.

After 25 years with the band, Hinds decided to leave Mastodon in March 2025, only to tragically pass away five months later in a motorcycle accident at the age of 51. The band has carried on with touring guitarist Nick Johnston and is preparing to release a new studio album, which will feature Johnston’s contributions.

During the 35-minute video, the band members open up about their complex and emotional relationship with Hinds. They acknowledge the challenges of dealing with his departure and mourn the loss of their “wild man.” The band emphasizes the grief and sadness they have experienced following Hinds’ death, highlighting the void left by his absence and the absence of his infectious energy and creativity within the band dynamic.

Drummer Brann Dailor admits his initial struggle to address Hinds’ death publicly, expressing regret for not being more available to fans during that difficult time. The band also revisits significant moments from their history with Hinds, including a harrowing head injury he suffered in 2007 that nearly ended the band.

Despite facing numerous challenges, the band recounts how Hinds managed to overcome adversity, demonstrating remarkable resilience and creativity, leading to the successful album “Crack the Skye.” However, the video also sheds light on Hinds’ struggles with alcohol, declining morale, and inconsistent performances in the band’s final years.

The band members recount their efforts to address these issues and salvage the relationship with Hinds, but ultimately realize that change was unlikely to occur. Despite numerous heart-to-heart conversations and attempts to reach out, the band found themselves at a standstill, realizing that their efforts to communicate and connect with Hinds were in vain.

Memories of the last meeting with Hinds, where Sanders expressed heartfelt concerns about the band’s future, linger in the minds of the band members. The painful realization that they would never have the opportunity to reconcile with Hinds weighs heavily on Sanders, who had hoped for a chance to mend the fractured relationship.

The video offers a poignant and honest glimpse into Mastodon’s struggle to come to terms with the loss of a beloved bandmate and friend. Through their candid reflections, the band members demonstrate the profound impact of Hinds’ departure and death on their lives and the future of Mastodon.