Mastodon guitarist Bill Kelliher discusses Brent Hinds' departure after 25 years

Mastodon have addressed guitarist Brent Hinds' recent departure from the band after 25 years together.

Speaking to Guitar World, guitarist Bill Kelliher has reflected on the band's achievements with Hinds, saying: "It's been a fun, wild fucking ride, that's for sure. We achieved a lot of things that I never in a million years would have imagined. There's been Grammys, touring with our heroes, like Iron Maiden, Metallica, Motörhead, and Tool. I cherish all of that."

Discussing the split, Kelliher explained: "Like a marriage, sometimes people grow apart, and they get interested in other things. We wish nothing but the best for Brent in chasing his dreams. You know, it's amazing that we made it 25 years with the four of us."

"I mean, it's like being married to three other dudes, traveling the world, trying to stay the course, and having everybody agree. That we managed to do it this long, I feel like that's a feat in itself. You could never replace any of us because we [are the] the sum of four parts."

Addressing Mastodon's future, Kelliher added: "That doesn't mean there's not someone else out there that has stuff to offer in a new direction. I think I'll just leave it there, you know? It was a hard decision we all had to make. It's just… it was just time."

The band have continued performing with YouTube guitarist Ben Eller filling in for Hinds. Mastodon are set to support Slayer at upcoming shows, alongside appearances from Amon Amarth, Anthrax, Hatebreed and Neckbreakker.