Mastodon break their silence

After news broke that Brent Hinds' estate is suing them, the band issued a statement calling it a private dispute that spilled into public view.

“Sadly, a private business dispute with the estate of our dear departed friend Brent Hinds was made public.”

They call it meritless

Mastodon reject the idea that they acted in bad faith and say they will fight the case rather than settle quietly.

“We strongly deny allegations of ill intent on our part and intend to vigorously defend what we believe is a meritless lawsuit.”

No more public comment

The band says it will stop talking about the case, framing silence as respect for Hinds' memory and his playing.

“We don't intend to speak publicly on this going forward.”

Who is being sued

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that founding members Troy Sanders, Bill Kelliher and Brann Dailor are named as defendants in the estate's filing.

What the estate claims

The complaint cites unauthorized use of Hinds' image, an unfinished merch buyout, comments about his substance abuse, and private information made public after his death.

“selected and placed a recognizable image of Brent on the album cover of [new record] Marrow Deep”

The band keeps moving

Baroness frontman John Baizley has joined Mastodon's touring lineup long term, debuting at a warm-up show at the Earl before the Poisonous Weapons tour.

“We've invited him join us on stage during The Poisonous Weapons Tour to play a special set of Mastodon songs we haven't played in a long time!”