MASTODON have released 'Your Ghost Again' — the lead single from their forthcoming ninth studio album — and it is an explicit, emotionally raw tribute to co-founding guitarist Brent Hinds, who died on August 20, 2025 in a motorcycle accident near downtown Atlanta. He was 52.
Hinds had parted ways with MASTODON in March 2025 after 25 years with the band. His death transformed what was already a painful split into something permanent and irreversible.
Drummer and vocalist Brann Dailor has spoken with unusual candor about the emotional weight of recording in Hinds' absence: "When we were in the studio recording, I kept seeing Brent... It's about that: your mind plays tricks on you, especially so soon after someone dies." Dailor lost his mother during the same period, making this among the most personally gruelling records he has ever made: "I lost my mom, we went through all this turmoil with Brent, and then he passed away. It's been tough."
Bassist and vocalist Troy Sanders described his portion of the song as "all about Brent," with the bridge lines forming "two lines of pure gratitude" toward the late guitarist. Guitarist Bill Kelliher added: "We wanted to pick a song that sounds like MASTODON, and that has all the things in there."
The single was produced by an unusual pairing: pop production veteran Patrik Berger (Taylor Swift, Robyn) and CONVERGE guitarist and metal production veteran Kurt Ballou. The result reportedly retains MASTODON's signature progressive density while incorporating new sonic textures.
Touring guitarist Nick Johnston has been confirmed as appearing on the new album, which is described as finished and expected later in 2026.
To support the record, MASTODON have announced 'The Poisonous Weapons Tour' — a 27-date North American run kicking off September 16 in Orlando, FL and wrapping October 24 in Dallas, TX (at Sick New World). Support comes from blackgaze giants DEAFHEAVEN and French atmospheric metal act ALCEST. Key stops include Brooklyn Paramount (Sept 24), Washington D.C.'s Anthem (Sept 25), Hollywood Palladium (Oct 10), and The Fox in Oakland (Oct 9).
Presale tickets are available using the code MASTOTIX; general on-sale is June 5.