Mastodon was one of the standout metal acts to perform at Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne's epic farewell show on July 5, a historic night for heavy metal fans around the world. In a new update, Mastodon drummer Brann Dailor shared an emotional reflection on the experience while also revealing that the band is now channeling that powerful energy straight into the studio for their next recording.
It's worth noting that Mastodon's upcoming album will be their first-ever without founding guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds. Hinds officially left the band on March 7, 2025, ending a monumental 25-year run since co-founding the group in 2000.
In their public statement, Mastodon described the split as mutual and respectful, expressing gratitude for their long history together and wishing Hinds the best in his next chapter. Despite the shakeup, the band confirmed their 2025 tour schedule would move forward as planned.
Just two days after Hinds' exit, Mastodon performed at Tool's Live In The Sand festival, marking their first show without him. Guitarist and YouTuber Ben Eller filled in on short notice, while acclaimed guitarist Nick Johnston later joined as a touring member.
While the band kept their tone diplomatic, Hinds later made headlines with harsh words, calling Mastodon "a shit band with horrible humans." His comments stood in sharp contrast to the band's public stance and hinted at deeper personal and creative tensions. Guitarist Bill Kelliher likened the departure to the end of a marriage, acknowledging that after decades together, people can grow apart.
"Such an unbelievable outpouring of love, friendship and gratitude," wrote Hinds. "We were so honored to be asked to perform. For months I’ve been trying to conjure up in my mind what it was going to be like, but it ended up being unlike anything I had ever experienced in my life, a new feeling. It was such a beautiful experience. From the stage, the side stage, the dressing room and out in the audience, the love was just pouring out of everyone for the last time that we will all be able to let Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne know just how very much they mean to every one of our lives.
"All the performers gave their all trying to make Dad Sabbath proud! When Ozzy hit the stage, there wasn’t a dry eye in the stadium. It stayed like that until the fireworks went off after Sabbath. What an incredibly emotional day for everyone. I’ll be riding this high for a long time and I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life. I’m so very grateful for this life experience.
"Thank you Black Sabbath for giving us a space to be creative and the greatest genre of music there is, heavy metal. Ozzy Osborne, I love you, thank you for everything!! You mean the world to me. Also a major thank you to Mario Duplantier, Eloy Casagrande, and Danny Carey for jamming with me during 'Supernaut', three of the best drummers in the world and some of the finest human beings, you made the day even more special, I love you.
"Thank you Bill Ward for showing us the way. You’re my greatest inspiration! What a day! Music never felt so powerful. Going to carry this into our next recording coming up soon!"
