YouTuber Ben Eller Joins Mastodon as Temporary Guitarist for Festival Performance

The progressive metal band enlisted Eller to step in for founding guitarist Brent Hinds, who recently departed after 25 years.

Mastodon announced the mutual departure of founding guitarist Brent Hinds on March 7, ending a 25-year collaboration.
Ben Eller, a YouTuber and session musician with over 507,000 subscribers, was recruited to perform with the band on short notice at the Tool Live in the Sand festival on March 9.
Eller, a longtime Mastodon fan, showcased his familiarity with their music, having previously created YouTube content analyzing the band's work.
During the festival, Eller performed 17 songs, including guitar solos and backing vocals, impressing fans and earning praise from Mastodon members.
It remains unclear whether Eller will become a permanent member of Mastodon, as the band has not made an official announcement regarding his future role.