Mastodon released a 36-minute video titled "The Mastodon in the Room" on July 8, 2026. The video reflects on the departure and subsequent death of singer-guitarist Brent Hinds, who died in a motorcycle accident on July 8, 2025.

Mastodon announced Hinds had parted ways with the group a few months before his death. Hinds stated that Mastodon had fired him. After Hinds' departure, Mastodon hired guitarist Nick Johnston.

Founding members Troy Sanders, Bill Kelliher, and Brann Dailor discussed Hinds' behavior in the video. Sanders, the band's bassist and vocalist, said, "We knew in our hearts that this was never going to change. I cannot tell you how many heart-to-hearts that the three of us had, daytime, sober, as a four-piece, pleading to someone that you've been with for the bulk of your life to listen to us. … It got to the point where the shows were declining in the live environment, and we were exhausted, exhausted at throwing all this love at something that straight up was not listening or not caring."

Drummer Brann Dailor told Blabbermouth that the creation of the band's ninth album was difficult and emotional following the death of his mother and the turmoil with Hinds. Dailor recounted instances of Hinds' behavior, saying, "In his very, very drunken states, he would be a habitual line stepper. He'd cross the line with somebody. From what I was told, someone said, 'Don't do that to me,' and he did it and got punched." He also said, "It was horrible. It was really depressing and sad, fucked up. We just wanted that beautiful, amazing creature Brent Hinds out there serving up the honey-baked ham and screaming his head off. … We desperately wanted that guy. But he showed us time and again that that person wasn't coming back without some dramatic change."

Guitarist Bill Kelliher stated, "You're only as strong as your weakest link. The three of us could be out there practicing all day and rehearsing and we'd go out there, and we would rely on him, and it was killing us, killing all of us."

Dailor compared Hinds' return after incidents to a "battered housewife" scenario, stating, "It's almost like what you hear with a battered housewife. The remorseful boyfriend or husband comes back with flowers. … He bought us diamond rings."

Mastodon finished recording their ninth studio album in May 2026. Brent Hinds did not contribute to this album.

Why It Matters

The video provides insight from Mastodon's remaining members regarding Hinds' departure and death, addressing the band's internal dynamics. The situation led to a change in the band's lineup, with Nick Johnston joining as guitarist, and occurred during the production of their ninth studio album.