Tool has paid tribute to former Mastodon guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds, who died tragically in a motorcycle accident this week in Atlanta, Georgia. He was 51.
In a heartfelt message, Tool reflected on the loss of not just a fellow musician, but a close friend: “The members of the band wish to convey their deepest sympathy on the tragic and untimely death of former Mastodon guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds. This one hits particularly close to home, as Brent was not only a fellow musician, that at times shared the stage with the guys as a guest guitarist, but was also a good friend outside the tour venues. With his creative output and valued friendship, though he has passed onto another plane, rest assured that he will not be forgotten on this one.”
According to Atlanta News First, Hinds was killed late Wednesday night (August 20) in a collision at the intersection of Memorial Dr. SE and Boulevard SE. Authorities confirmed that he was riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle when a BMW SUV turned left without yielding, striking him.
Police officers arrived on the scene at approximately 11:35 p.m. and found Hinds unresponsive. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. The female driver of the SUV remained present, and the Atlanta Police Department Accident Investigations Unit has launched a full investigation. The Fulton County medical examiner’s office later confirmed his death.
Rumors of the accident began spreading on Thursday morning after Tool guitarist Adam Jones posted a photo of Hinds on Instagram Stories, which was quickly picked up by fans online.
Hinds’s former bandmates in Mastodon also issued a statement: “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. RIP Brent.”
Writer and extreme metal devotee, Ialdagorth has spent over a decade covering the darkest corners of heavy music. A black metal lifer, he spends his free time wandering the Carpathian Mountains, likely humming blast beats to the trees.
