Brent Hinds, former guitarist with Mastodon, has passed away at the age of 51 following a motorcycle accident.
In a statement released yesterday (August 21), the band wrote “We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief… last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident. We are heartbroken, shocked, and still trying to process the loss of this creative force with whom we’ve shared so many triumphs, milestones, and the creation of music that has touched the hearts of so many. Our hearts are with Brent’s family, friends, and fans. At this time, we please ask that you respect everyone’s privacy during this difficult time.”
Hinds co-founded the group in 2000, remaining part of the lineup until his departure in March this year. Establishing several more bands and sideprojects over the years, his other groups included Fiend Without A Face, Giraffe Tongue Orchestra, Legend of the Seagullmen and The Blood Vessels.
Many musicians have been paying tribute to Hinds on social media, with Trivium‘s Matt Heafy writing “We did ozzfest 2005 together initially – and he definitely was one of the earlier heroes of mine/ ours who was TOUGH on us. Years later when touring together on the Slayer/ Trivium co-headlining tour with Mastodon and Amon Amarth, he sat with me in our dressing room and played on acoustic and sang to me alone, a song that he had written but never played for anyone – after telling me that after all these years; we’ve proven ourselves and that he respected me/ us. There weren’t many like this man. That’s for sure.”
Queens Of The Stone Age also wrote “Rest in Peace Brent Hinds. With love and respect. See you on the other side old friend.”
Rock Sound’s thoughts are with Hinds’ friends and family at this time.