Mastodon Faces a New Era: Brent Hinds Departs, Ben Eller Steps In

The band Mastodon, a name synonymous with progressive metal, has recently seen a significant shift in its lineup. After 25 years of creating genre-defining music, Brent Hinds, a co-founding member and lead guitarist, has decided to part ways with the band. This announcement came just before their performance at the Tool Live In The Sand festival in Punta Cana on March 9, 2025. The band and Hinds have described this departure as mutual, emphasizing that there is no ill will and thanking each other for the years of collaboration and creativity.

Introducing Ben Eller

Stepping into Hinds’ shoes, at least temporarily, is Ben Eller, an accomplished guitarist and well-known YouTube personality. Eller performed with Mastodon during their recent show in Punta Cana, displaying a keen grasp of the band’s complex musical compositions. Known for his engaging guitar tutorials online, Eller has built a reputation for his technical skill and ability to teach music in an accessible way. His inclusion in the lineup was well-received, with fans noting his energy and prowess on stage.

Impact of Brent Hinds

Over the past quarter-century, Brent Hinds has been a pivotal figure in Mastodon’s success. Under his co-leadership, the band produced eight studio albums and achieved critical acclaim, including a Grammy for Best Metal Performance in 2018. Hinds’ unique guitar style and vocal abilities were key components of Mastodon’s signature sound, contributing to their global fanbase and respected status in the metal music scene.

Looking Forward

Despite the change, Mastodon reassures fans that their scheduled tours and musical projects for 2025 will proceed as planned. The remaining members are excited about this new chapter and committed to continuing their musical journey. They believe that change, while challenging, can bring fresh creativity and new opportunities.

What Fans Say

The response from Mastodon’s fanbase to the news of Hinds’ departure has been a mix of shock, nostalgia, and curiosity about the band’s future direction. On social media, fans have shared their favorite memories of Hinds’ performances and expressed hope that his future endeavors will be just as successful as his time with Mastodon. Likewise, they are supportive but curious about how Eller will mesh with the band’s dynamic in the long term.

Eller’s Background and Future

Ben Eller, originally from Tennessee, began playing guitar at the age of 16 and quickly developed a passion for music. His skills are self-taught, enhanced by the hours spent listening to and playing along with records by Metallica, Weezer, and other rock bands. Over the years, he has been involved in various musical projects, including his role as a session musician and contributions to several bands in different genres. Eller’s ability to adapt and his broad musical experience suggest he may well be a fitting addition to Mastodon, at least for their immediate needs.