The search to fill Mastodon’s newly vacant guitarist position has taken an unexpected turn, with Canadian progressive fusion virtuoso Nick Johnston stepping in as the latest temporary replacement after the departure of founding member Brent Hinds. This development adds a new layer to the evolving story of the band’s lineup since Hinds parted ways with the group in early March, just ahead of their appearance at the Tool in the Sand festival in the Dominican Republic.
In the immediate aftermath of Hinds’ exit, Mastodon called upon YouTuber Ben Eller, who quickly learned 17 songs in only a few days to perform with the band. Despite his initial apprehension, Eller received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the Mastodon fanbase, making his brief tenure with the band a celebrated success. However, for their current run of shows, Eller has now stepped aside, as Mastodon’s Bill Kelliher continues to search for a long-term replacement.
Nick Johnston, renowned in the guitar world for his expressive and technically masterful playing, is now taking up the challenge. Known for his instrumental prowess and signature Schecter Strat-style guitar, Johnston has built a solid reputation across the progressive and fusion music scenes. His pairing with Mastodon, a band deeply rooted in heavy prog metal, comes as a surprise due to the notable contrast between Johnston’s melodic and often jazz-influenced style and the band’s heavier sound.
Johnston rose to broader recognition with his 2016 solo album Remarkably Human, having previously made an impression with his contribution to Polyphia’s “Champagne” in 2014. That same year, he featured on Periphery’s Clear EP, playing on “The Parade of Ashes.” Since then, Johnston has appeared on records by Intervals and Scale the Summit, and he released his latest album, Child of Bliss, in 2023. His impressive skill set and adaptable musicality suggest a strong, if unconventional, match for Mastodon’s current needs.
Video footage of Mastodon’s May 9 performance at the Sonic Temple Festival confirms Johnston’s technical capabilities are more than sufficient for the role. His unique musical approach—shaped by influences such as Pat Metheny, Jeff Beck, and Yngwie Malmsteen—offers something fresh to the band’s live sound. Johnston has spoken about how composing on the piano helps him break free from habitual guitar patterns, allowing his compositions to reflect a more nuanced sense of harmony. “When you take away the guitar, your usual tricks and licks are gone. There is no comfort zone,” he explained in an interview with Guitar World. “I find my guitar lives these days more like the icing on the cake.”
While some fans may be disappointed to see Ben Eller step away after his short but impactful stint with Mastodon, Johnston’s appointment has been received with intrigue and optimism. His exact role with the band remains undefined for now, but given the current tour alongside Periphery and Coheed & Cambria, it seems likely that Johnston will remain onboard for the foreseeable future.
As for the permanent replacement for Brent Hinds, Mastodon continues to take a deliberate and careful approach. Kelliher has emphasized his commitment to finding the right person, stating, “I’m as serious as a heart attack with Mastodon. I’m not ready to give it up yet. So, we’re going to keep looking.”
Meanwhile, Hinds has already resumed performing and has a full slate of upcoming shows, signaling that his musical journey continues on a separate path. For Mastodon, the journey toward a new era remains in motion, with Johnston’s arrival marking an intriguing chapter in the band’s ongoing evolution.
