Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
1. “Blood and Thunder” – Mastodon (2004)
“Blood and Thunder” from Mastodon’s breakthrough album Leviathan is a quintessential example of Hinds’ aggressive yet melodic playing style. The song’s ferocious riffs and intricate guitar work are complemented by his raw vocal delivery, encapsulating the band’s signature sound. This track is a fan favorite and a staple in Mastodon’s live performances, often igniting crowds with its relentless energy.
2. “Oblivion” – Mastodon (2009)
From the critically acclaimed album Crack the Skye, “Oblivion” highlights Hinds’ ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional depth. The song features a haunting intro riff and complex time signatures that demonstrate his innovative approach to composition. Hinds’ vocal contribution, characterized by a soulful and melancholic tone, adds an additional layer of complexity to this epic track.
3. “The Czar” – Mastodon (2009)
Another standout from Crack the Skye, “The Czar” is a multi-part suite that showcases Hinds’ versatility as a guitarist. The song’s intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts highlight his skill in navigating various musical styles, from progressive rock to psychedelic metal. His ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies into a cohesive narrative is a testament to his compositional genius.
4. “Curl of the Burl” – Mastodon (2011)
“Curl of the Burl” from the album The Hunter is a testament to Hinds’ knack for crafting memorable hooks and riffs. The song’s catchy melody and straightforward structure mark a departure from the band’s more complex compositions, showcasing Hinds’ ability to create accessible yet powerful music. His distinctive slide guitar work adds a gritty, Southern rock flavor to this modern metal anthem.
5. “The Motherload” – Mastodon (2014)
Featured on the album Once More ‘Round the Sun, “The Motherload” is a prime example of Hinds’ ability to blend heavy metal with psychedelic rock influences. The song’s infectious chorus and intricate guitar harmonies demonstrate his penchant for blending melody with intensity. Hinds’ energetic performance and unique vocal style contribute to the track’s enduring appeal.
6. “Sultan’s Curse” – Mastodon (2017)
Opening the album Emperor of Sand, “Sultan’s Curse” features some of Hinds’ most intricate guitar work to date. The song’s complex riffs and dynamic shifts showcase his technical prowess and innovative approach to songwriting. Hinds’ contribution to the album earned Mastodon a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, cementing his status as a leading figure in the genre.
7. “Steambreather” – Mastodon (2017)
Another standout from Emperor of Sand, “Steambreather” highlights Hinds’ ability to create atmospheric soundscapes with his guitar. The song’s heavy, sludgy riffs and ethereal melodies create a sense of tension and release that is both captivating and immersive. Hinds’ performance on this track exemplifies his skill in balancing technicality with emotional expression.
8. “Toe to Toes” – Mastodon (2017)
Part of the Cold Dark Place EP, “Toe to Toes” is a track that showcases Hinds’ softer, more introspective side. The song’s acoustic intro and melodic guitar lines highlight his versatility as a musician. Hinds’ vocals, delivered with a sense of vulnerability, add emotional depth to this poignant composition, revealing a different facet of his artistry.
9. “High Road” – Mastodon (2014)
“High Road,” from the album Once More ‘Round the Sun, is a track that blends heavy riffs with catchy, anthemic choruses. Hinds’ guitar work is both aggressive and melodic, showcasing his ability to create music that is both accessible and complex. The song’s driving rhythm and memorable hooks make it a standout in Mastodon’s discography, further solidifying Hinds’ reputation as a masterful guitarist.
10. Collaboration with Giraffe Tongue Orchestra (2016)
Beyond his work with Mastodon, Hinds has also made significant contributions to other projects, such as Giraffe Tongue Orchestra, a supergroup featuring members of Alice in Chains, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and others. Their debut album Broken Lines showcases Hinds’ ability to adapt his style to different musical contexts, bringing his distinctive flair to tracks like “Crucifixion” and “Blood Moon.” These collaborations highlight Hinds’ versatility and influence across the broader rock and metal genres.
Conclusion
Brent Hinds’ contributions to Mastodon and the wider music scene are nothing short of monumental. His innovative guitar work, ability to blend genres, and distinctive vocal style have left a lasting impact on the world of heavy metal. The performances highlighted in this article capture the essence of Hinds’ artistry and demonstrate why he is considered one of the most influential musicians in modern rock and metal. As Mastodon continues to evolve and Hinds explores new musical territories, fans can look forward to more groundbreaking performances from this iconic guitarist.