Nick Johnston has revealed details about how he became Mastodon’s new guitarist. He explained that the selection process began well before Brent Hinds’ departure from the band. This information came from an interview with Guitar World.
Johnston described how his relationship with the band developed through his friendship with drummer Brann Dailor. This connection ultimately led to his recruitment.
‘One day, Brann [Dailor, Mastodon drummer] came along to one of our coffee hangs and we hit it off,’ Johnston said.
The guitarist explained that compatibility was a key factor in the band’s decision-making process.
‘You gotta be somebody who we all get along with and can stand the true test of time,’ he continued. ‘I’ve worked with great drummers, so I felt like he knew me because of that, having seen names like Gavin Harrison, Marco Minnemann, Thomas Lang, and Benny Greb.’
Johnston also revealed that Dailor had made him a promise about future opportunities with the band.
‘Brann told me I’d be the first person he’d call if anything ever came up,’ he said. ‘That’s what he did! We’ve become really close over the last few months.’
The announcement confirms that Johnston’s selection was based on a long-standing relationship with the band members rather than a traditional audition process.
Johnston’s recruitment comes at a pivotal moment in Mastodon’s history. The band navigates its first major lineup change in over two decades.
Loudwire reported that Brent Hinds left Mastodon after 25 years with the band. This marks the first lineup change in the group’s history. Hinds had been a defining voice in progressive sludge metal since the band’s formation. He contributed his distinctive Southern-fried guitar style and psychedelic influences to every Mastodon release from their debut album Remission in 2002 through Hushed and Grim in 2021.
The departure was described by the band as a mutual decision. Blunt Magazine noted that Mastodon expressed pride in their shared history while showing excitement for the next chapter of the band. This transition represents a significant moment for the progressive metal community. Hinds had been integral to Mastodon’s evolution from underground sludge pioneers to Grammy-nominated mainstream success.
Despite the major personnel change, Louder Sound confirmed that Mastodon’s 2025 touring plans remain intact. These include a co-headlining tour with Coheed and Cambria and various festival appearances. The band’s ability to maintain their touring schedule demonstrates their commitment to continuing their musical journey with Johnston as their new guitarist.
The seamless transition from Hinds to Johnston reflects the careful planning and relationship-building that preceded the official announcement. This ensures that Mastodon can continue their legacy while embracing a new creative direction.
