Mastodon have issued a formal statement following the public disclosure of a lawsuit filed by the estate of their former guitarist, Brent Hinds. The band has categorically denied the allegations brought against them and expressed their firm intention to defend themselves against what they describe as a “meritless lawsuit.”
Sadly, a private business dispute with the estate of our dear departed friend Brent Hinds was made public. We strongly deny allegations of ill intent on our part and intend to vigorously defend what we believe is a meritless lawsuit. We don’t intend to speak publicly on this going forward, as we feel this wouldn’t honor Brent’s memory or the legacy of his musical gifts.
The civil complaint, filed on September 3 in Fulton County Court, Georgia, centers on the financial and creative aftermath of Hinds’ departure from the band in March 2025. According to reports, the estate contends that Hinds retained his stake in the band’s business entities because he had not finalized buyout paperwork prior to his untimely death in a motorcycle accident.
Disputes Over Business and Imagery
The legal filing highlights a disagreement regarding an $80,000 buyout offer, which the estate claims lacked sufficient accounting to justify the valuation. Furthermore, the estate has raised concerns regarding the use of Hinds’ likeness on the cover of the band’s latest album, Marrow Deep. While Mastodon maintains that the figures on the artwork represent the Fates from Greek mythology, the estate argues that one of the figures is a clear depiction of the late guitarist, used without proper authorization.
A Complicated History
The relationship between the band and Hinds had been strained following his departure after a 25-year tenure. Despite the band’s initial public statements wishing him well, Hinds had been vocal on social media regarding his dissatisfaction with his former bandmates. Following his death, the band members initially expressed profound grief, later releasing a 35-minute video reflection in July that addressed the complexities of their professional split and the growth of their personal disconnect.
As Mastodon moves forward with their current tour in support of Marrow Deep, they have indicated that they do not intend to provide further public commentary on the ongoing legal proceedings, citing a desire to respect the memory of their former collaborator.
