Mastodon Seek Partial Dismissal of Brent Hinds Estate’s Lawsuit Against Them

Mastodon’s members have asked a judge to dismiss parts of a lawsuit brought by Brent Hinds’ estate, which is represented by his father, Billy Hinds. The dispute concerns the late guitarist’s business interests in the band and the use of his likeness on the cover of Mastodon’s album *Marrow Deep*.

The band argues that its members should not be personally liable because Mastodon is a limited liability company, and that no binding buyout agreement was made before Hinds died. Its lawyers also challenge the estate’s claims over fiduciary duties, ownership and future use of Hinds’ image. The estate filed its complaint in September, alleging Hinds’ departure had not been legally formalised and that the band sent an $80,000 buyout cheque, which it declined to cash.