Grief permeated the night air at the Alaska State Fair as metal band Mastodon delivered a heartfelt tribute to their late guitarist and co-founder, Brent Hinds, during their August 22, 2025, performance in Palmer.
Drummer Brann Dailor addressed the crowd with visible emotion, acknowledging Hinds’ 25-year contribution to the band and the brotherhood they had formed since Mastodon’s inception.
Through tears, Dailor honored Hinds’ quarter-century legacy and the unbreakable fraternal bonds forged within Mastodon’s journey.
The tribute came just two days after Hinds’ tragic death in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 20. At 51 years old, Hinds had departed from the band earlier in 2025 under circumstances that were initially described as mutual but later disputed by the guitarist himself.
Despite these complications, Dailor emphasized the enduring bond between band members.
“For 25 years, through all the ups and downs, we were brothers to the end,” Dailor told the audience. “Brent’s creativity shaped everything we’ve ever done, and tonight, every note we play is for him.”
The Alaska performance marked Mastodon’s first appearance following Hinds’ death, with the entire setlist dedicated to celebrating his life and musical legacy.
Fans responded with emotional cheers and solidarity throughout the evening, creating a communal atmosphere of remembrance.
As lead guitarist, Hinds had been instrumental in defining Mastodon’s distinctive sound across their extensive catalog, earning praise as an influential figure in contemporary metal music.
His technical prowess and songwriting contributions had helped establish the band’s reputation for innovation within the genre.
The evening balanced somber reflection with celebration of Hinds’ artistry, highlighting the complex nature of long-term relationships within a touring band.
Social media platforms quickly filled with footage from the tribute, extending its reach beyond those physically present.
The collision with a BMW SUV driver who failed to yield while making a left turn at an Atlanta intersection cut short the life of a musician described by bandmates as a free spirit who enjoyed life to the fullest.
The band reflected on their journey together, from sleeping in vans to touring worldwide, as they honored the beautiful music created during their quarter-century collaboration.
Many attendees noted how Hinds’ unique approach to music licensing had helped Mastodon’s sound reach audiences beyond traditional metal circles.
Dailor shared how Hinds had mastered the art of diverse income through his creative side projects while maintaining his commitment to Mastodon’s artistic vision.
The band’s performance served as both acknowledgment of loss and affirmation of Hinds’ lasting impact, suggesting that while personnel may change, the music created together remains a permanent embodiment of collaboration and creativity.
