Mastodon Responds to Legal Action From Estate of Late Guitarist Brent Hinds
The band has characterized the recent court filing as a meritless dispute regarding business shares and album artwork.
"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." — Mastodon
Band Addresses Public Business Dispute
Following public disclosures surrounding a lawsuit filed by the estate of former guitarist Brent Hinds, Mastodon released a public statement on social media addressing the matter. The band denied all allegations raised in the legal action and indicated that they plan to defend themselves against the suit.
In their statement, the group emphasized their intention to remain quiet about the litigation moving forward to protect Hinds' legacy:
"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."
Key Allegations in the Fulton County Lawsuit
The civil complaint was officially submitted on Sept. 3 in Fulton County Court in Georgia on behalf of the late musician. According to details reported by The Atlanta Journal Constitution, the lawsuit centers on financial holdings and image rights associated with the group's recent output.
1. Business Buyout & Ownership Stake
The filing asserts that although the band attempted to purchase Hinds out of his interests in their shared business ventures prior to his passing, Hinds had not signed the requisite documents. Consequently, the estate maintains he still held his ownership stake. The band issued an $80,000 buyout check, but the suit claims there was no accounting provided to show how that sum was determined, leading the estate to hold off on cashing the check until a complete financial review is conducted.
2. Album Artwork & Image Rights
The estate further alleges that Hinds' likeness was incorporated into the artwork for Mastodon's latest studio release, Marrow Deep, despite Hinds not performing on the record or granting consent. While the band described the three prominent figures on the cover as representative of the Greek Fates, the estate contends that a tattooed, bearded face visible among skulls in a garment worn by one of the figures is a recognizable portrayal of Hinds.
Timeline of Events Leading to the Dispute
Mastodon and Brent Hinds parted ways after 25 years together. The band's public announcement noted that both parties "mutually decided to part ways" and expressed gratitude for their shared history. Hinds subsequently voiced criticism of the band members in comments on social media posts following the split.
A few weeks after his departure, Hinds died at age 51 in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta after being struck by another vehicle. Mastodon received the news at baggage claim in an Alaskan airport prior to a performance, issuing a statement offering condolences to Hinds' family, friends, and fans.
In July, the three core members of Mastodon released a 35-minute video reflecting on Hinds' life while detailing the factors that contributed to their professional separation.
Mastodon officially released their new album Marrow Deep on Aug. 28.
Upcoming Tour Activity
Mastodon is scheduled to launch their next slate of concert dates supporting Marrow Deep on Sept. 16 in Orlando. The tour runs through an appearance at the Sick New World festival in Fort Worth on Oct. 24. Full ticket and venue details are available through the band's official website.
