Mastodon begin recording ninth album following Brent Hinds’ departure

Mastodon have reportedly begun recording their upcoming ninth studio album, forging ahead despite the recent departure of founding guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds. The band confirmed earlier this year that Hinds had amicably left after 25 years, but assured fans that their creative momentum and touring schedule would remain unaffected.

Drummer Brann Dailor first teased plans for the record back in January, revealing he had been working on a “supernatural horror” concept. He hinted that the album would span a wide sonic spectrum, from punk rock and progressive metal to flashes of the heavier, more aggressive sound of old. At the time, Dailor also said he didn’t “see a world in which it does not come out in 2025,” fueling speculation about the band’s next chapter.

That timeline now seems even more likely, as guitarist Bill Kelliher recently confirmed via Patreon that recording sessions are officially underway. He also reiterated that Hinds will not be involved in the record, marking this as the band’s first album without contributions from the longtime member.

Although the band has yet to name a permanent replacement for Hinds, fans have already seen guitarist Nick Johnston step into a more active role. Johnston, who’s been touring with the band, is reportedly involved in the writing sessions and could become a key player in the group’s evolving sound.

While the loss of Hinds certainly marks the end of an era, Mastodon’s remaining trio — Dailor, Kelliher, and bassist/vocalist Troy Sanders — appear more focused than ever. With recording underway and fresh creative energy in the studio, their next release promises to be a bold new step that remains rooted in the band’s signature intensity.