After 25 years together, Mastodon and their co-founding guitarist Brent Hinds have amicably parted ways. The band announced the news on social media on Friday (March 7), writing: “We’re deeply proud of and beyond grateful for the music and history we’ve shared and we wish him nothing but success and happiness in his future endeavors. We are still very inspired and excited to show up for fans in this next chapter of Mastodon.” Despite the lineup change, the Atlanta metal band remain committed to their upcoming live dates, saying “all 2025 touring plans will remain intact.” Mastodon formed in 2000 with Hinds as lead guitarist/vocalist, alongside bassist/vocalist Troy Sanders, drummer Brann Dailor, and rhythm guitarist Bill Kelliher. They recorded eight studio albums together, including their 2004 masterpiece, Leviathan, which earned the group their only Grammy award in 2018 for Best Metal Performance for the single, “Sultan’s Curse.” No reasons for Hinds’ departure were given, and a replacement for the guitarist has not been named. (Rolling Stone)