Mastodon guitarist Bill Kelliher revealed significant lineup changes in a recent interview with Guitar World. The band’s upcoming record will feature only three of its original members, signaling a new chapter after Brent Hinds’ departure.
“It’ll be the three of us. It’s stuff the three of us have written together,” Kelliher stated about the new record’s composition.
“It’s amazing we made it 25 years with the four of us,” he continued. “Traveling the world, trying to stay the course, having everybody agree – that we managed to do it this long, I feel like that’s a feat in itself. And yeah, you could never replace any of us because it’s the sum of four parts.”
“But that doesn’t mean there’s not someone out there that has stuff to offer in a new direction,” Kelliher added. “I think I’ll just leave it there, you know? It was a hard decision we all had to make.”
This announcement represents a pivotal moment for the Grammy-winning metal band. Questions about their future direction and touring plans have naturally emerged.
Touring Plans Remain Intact
Consequence revealed that Mastodon will maintain their 2025 touring schedule despite the lineup change. The band appeared at Tool’s Live in the Sand festival. They will also co-headline a tour with Coheed and Cambria.
The band’s dedication to their touring commitments shows their resilience during this transitional period.
Hinds’ Legacy With Mastodon
Loudwire documented Brent Hinds’ extensive impact on Mastodon’s musical journey. He played an essential role in all eight studio albums, spanning from their 2002 debut ‘Remission’ to 2021’s ‘Hushed and Grim.’
Hinds’ contributions helped transform Mastodon from a heavy metal act into a progressive and experimental powerhouse.
Future Musical Direction
Live For Live Music noted the amicable nature of the split between Mastodon and Hinds. The remaining members see this transition as an opportunity for creative growth.
The band now faces the task of selecting a new guitarist. They must balance their established sound with fresh perspectives for their upcoming material.
