Mastodon issued a statement about a lawsuit filed by the estate of the late former member Brent Hinds, saying the band intends to “vigorously defend” itself against what it calls a “meritless lawsuit.” The dispute centers on money Hinds’ estate says is still owed from his stake in the group.
Mastodon’s statement: “Sadly, a private business dispute with the estate of our dear departed friend Brent Hinds was made public. We strongly deny allegations of ill intent on our part and intend to vigorously defend what we believe is a meritless lawsuit.”
“We don’t intend to speak publicly on this going forward, as we feel this wouldn’t honor Brent’s memory or the legacy of his musical gifts.”
Mastodon announced in March 2025 that Hinds was leaving the band after 25 years together, marking the end of the original lineup’s run. The split was described publicly as a mutual decision at the time.
That account later became more complicated, as reporting after Hinds’ departure indicated the breakup followed internal strain within the band. In the months after he left, Hinds made comments suggesting the split was not entirely amicable.
Hinds died on Aug. 20, 2025, after a motorcycle crash in Atlanta at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Boulevard. Police said he was riding a Harley-Davidson when a BMW SUV turned left and collided with him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The lawsuit was filed after his death by representatives of his estate, which is why Hinds’ share in Mastodon became a legal issue. The estate says a proposed buyout agreement was not completed before he died, leaving unresolved claims tied to his ownership stake.
The estate’s suit was filed on Sept. 3 and claims Mastodon owes Hinds fair compensation for his business interests and for the band’s use of his likeness in album artwork and promotional materials after his death. The same report said the estate alleges Mastodon’s camp offered an $80,000 check for his band shares.
The legal filing follows a high-profile split that ended a 25-year run between Hinds and the Atlanta metal band. The case now adds a business dispute to an already painful chapter for the group.
