Mastodon drummer Brann Dailor delivered an emotional tribute to former bandmate Brent Hinds during the band’s Alaska State Fair concert. Dailor also mentioned their devastation at not being able to reunite with Hinds. A fan shared the tribute in a video posted on Reddit.
Dailor paused the show to honor Hinds, who had passed away two days earlier after 25 years with the band as their guitar player.
“We lost somebody that was very special to us yesterday. Brent Hinds, 25 years with us as our guitar player. One of the most creative, beautiful people that we’ve ever come across in this world tragically left us. Very unfortunate,” Dailor said.
The drummer reflected on their long relationship and the music they created together.
“We loved him so, so, so very much. And you know, we had the ups and downs of a 25-year relationship. It’s not always perfect. It’s not always amazing, but we were brothers to the end. And we really loved each other, you know?” he continued.
Dailor emphasized the lasting impact of their musical collaboration and shared memories from their years touring together.
“And we made a lot of very beautiful music together. I think that’s going to stand the test of time. Evidence by you people here tonight. So, we will continue to play Brent’s beautiful music that he helped us make, that we formed this band together and traveled the world together, slept in the van together, laid our heads down on beds of f*cking kitty litter, you know. Got way too drunk to remember anything the next day,” he said.
Dailor concluded his emotional tribute as he revealed the band’s devastation regarding not being able to have Hinds back in the band again.
“We’re just at a loss for words. We’re absolutely devastated and crushed to lose him and to be able to never have him back again. But you guys made it okay for us to come by the stage and do this tonight,” he said.
Hinds’ death marks the end of an era for one of metal’s most influential bands. His creative contributions helped shape Mastodon’s distinctive sound over more than two decades.
The Los Angeles Times reported that Hinds died in a motorcycle crash, bringing a tragic end to his musical journey. The guitarist was known for his unconventional approach to music and life. He often described his rebellious youth, where he would “take LSD and come to class still tripping,” which influenced his artistic development.
Hinds was a founding member of Mastodon and served as both guitarist and vocalist throughout his tenure with the band. Wikipedia noted that his guitar work alongside Bill Kelliher earned them the Metal Hammer Golden Gods award for best shredders in 2007. This achievement cemented their reputation as one of metal’s premier guitar duos.
The guitarist’s creative contributions were instrumental in crafting albums that would define modern progressive metal. Ultimate Classic Rock documented that Hinds helped create notable albums, including “Leviathan” and “Hushed and Grim.” These works showcased his unique blend of technical prowess and creative vision.
Beyond his musical achievements, Hinds was known for his colorful personality and artistic edge. His unconventional approach to both music and life made him a distinctive figure in the metal community. His creative spirit influenced not just Mastodon’s sound but the broader progressive metal genre.
The band’s decision to continue performing Hinds’ music serves as both a tribute to their fallen bandmate and a testament to the enduring power of their collaborative work. This ensures that his musical legacy will continue to reach audiences worldwide.
