Mastodon Debuts New Lineup with YouTuber Ben Eller at Tool’s Live in the Sand Festival
Table of Contents
- Mastodon Debuts New Lineup with YouTuber Ben Eller at Tool’s Live in the Sand Festival
- A New Chapter for Mastodon
- A Setlist of Classics and Rarities
- Ben Eller: From YouTube to the Stage
- Looking Ahead: Touring Plans
- Mastodon’s Evolution: A New Chapter with YouTuber Ben Eller? A Deep Dive into Progressive Metal’s Next Act
- Mastodon’s Paradigm Shift: How YouTube guitarists Are Reshaping the Future of Rock
Mastodon, the veteran progressive metal group, took the stage at Tool’s Live in the Sand Festival in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on march 9, 2025, marking their first performance after parting ways with longtime guitarist Brent Hinds. For this high-profile set, the band enlisted the talents of Ben Eller, a well-known YouTuber celebrated for his guitar tutorials and deep appreciation of Mastodon’s music. The 17-song setlist featured a mix of career-spanning hits and rarities, including five songs that hadn’t been performed live in at least five years. This performance signals a new chapter for the band as thay move forward with their 2025 touring plans.
The performance at the hard rock & Royalton Resorts in Punta Cana was highly anticipated by fans eager to witness the new lineup in action. Mastodon kicked off their set with “Pain With an Anchor,” a track from their 2021 album,hushed and Grim.
A New Chapter for Mastodon
The departure of Brent Hinds, a co-founder of Mastodon, was announced just before the festival. The band released a statement on social media, noting that the split was “mutually decided” and that their 2025 touring plans would proceed as scheduled. This declaration left fans wondering who would fill Hinds’ shoes, and the answer came in the form of Ben Eller.
Eller’s role extends beyond just playing guitar. He also contributes vocals,as seen in video clips from the performance. Replacing Hinds is no small feat, requiring not only technical skill but also the ability to capture the essence of Mastodon’s sound.
A Setlist of Classics and Rarities
Mastodon’s setlist on March 9, 2025, was a treat for longtime fans. In addition to staples like “Blood and Thunder,” the band dusted off several deep cuts that hadn’t been played live in years. These included:
- “Ember City” (First time since 2019)
- “Tread Lightly” (First time since 2016)
- “Ghost of Karelia” (First time since 2019)
- “The Motherload” (First time since 2020)
- “All the Heavy Lifting” (First time since 2015)
The full setlist from the performance at Tool’s Live in the Sand Festival is as follows:
- “Pain With an Anchor”
- “Crystal Skull”
- “black Tongue”
- “I Am Ahab”
- “Megalodon”
- “Ember City”
- “Tread Lightly”
- “Ghost of Karelia”
- “The Motherload”
- “The Crux”
- “Pushing the Tides”
- “More Than I Could Chew”
- “All the Heavy Lifting”
- “Spectrelight”
- “Mother Puncher”
- “Steambreather”
- “Blood and Thunder”
Ben Eller: From YouTube to the Stage
Ben Eller is well-known to his half a million YouTube followers for his guitar tutorials and his thankfulness for mastodon’s music. Eller has highlighted the band’s musical genius and influence on his own playing in several videos over the years. His deep understanding of Mastodon’s catalog makes him a fitting addition to the band’s lineup.
Looking Ahead: Touring Plans
Mastodon’s appearance at Tool’s Live in the Sand Festival is just the beginning of their 2025 touring schedule. The band is set to perform at the Sonic Temple festival in May, followed by a U.S.tour with Coheed and Cambria and periphery from May 10 through June 8. They also have festival dates scheduled in Canada and overseas, including the Back to the Beginning concert in the U.K. with Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne.
Mastodon’s ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to their signature sound is a testament to their longevity and influence in the metal world. With Ben Eller on board, the band is poised to continue delivering powerful performances and pushing the boundaries of progressive metal.
Mastodon’s Evolution: A New Chapter with YouTuber Ben Eller? A Deep Dive into Progressive Metal’s Next Act
Did you know that the recent lineup change in the iconic progressive metal band Mastodon might signal a paradigm shift in how musicians leverage online platforms to build their careers? This isn’t just about replacing a guitarist; it’s about the future of band formation, fan engagement, and the evolving landscape of the music industry.
To gain deeper insights into this groundbreaking progress, we spoke with Dr. Anya Petrova, Professor of Music Industry Studies at the University of California, Berkeley.
The addition of Ben Eller to Mastodon is truly interesting and points to several significant shifts in the music industry. This isn’t simply a case of one musician replacing another; it’s a testament to the evolving relationship between artists and their fanbase, the power of online communities, and the creative potential found in unexpected collaborations. The fact that a prominent YouTuber, renowned for his guitar skills and passionate Mastodon fanbase, is now a core member of such a well-established band reveals the blurring lines between conventional pathways to musical success and the digital age’s impact on talent finding and career development.
Dr. Anya Petrova, Professor of Music Industry Studies, University of California, Berkeley
Dr. Petrova emphasized the significance of Eller’s pre-existing fanbase:
it’s a powerful indicator of how online communities are reshaping the music business. Eller already has a built-in audience,bringing not only skill but also a pre-existing and engaged fanbase to Mastodon. This challenges the traditional notions of “breaking” into the industry through established labels or years of playing small venues. The digital age offers option routes to success, leveraging existing online communities to propel musicians to larger audiences.We’re seeing a democratization of the music industry, where online engagement translates directly to real-world musical collaborations. That’s a game-changer.
Dr. Anya petrova, Professor of music Industry Studies, University of California, Berkeley
Regarding the strategic importance of Mastodon’s setlist choices, dr. Petrova noted:
The setlist choice is brilliant. including both well-known tracks and deep cuts is a clever strategy to appeal to both established fans and newcomers. The rarities cater to dedicated followers, while the hits broaden appeal and introduce less familiar listeners to the band’s range. This creates a sense of both continuity and evolution, reassuring longtime supporters while welcoming new members into the Mastodon community. It’s a nuanced approach that can bridge potential generational gaps within the fanbase.
Dr. Anya Petrova, Professor of Music industry Studies, University of California, Berkeley
Dr. Petrova also highlighted wider industry trends that Mastodon’s move exemplifies:
- The Rise of Online Talent: Online platforms are fertile grounds for discovering talent, bypassing traditional gatekeepers.
- Cross-Platform Collaboration: Musicians are increasingly collaborating across different mediums, fostering unique combinations of skills and audience reach.
- Fan Engagement as a Competitive Advantage: Building a strong online presence and interacting directly with fans can be a major differentiator in a competitive landscape.
- Evolving Band Dynamics: The traditional concept of a band is evolving, accommodating alternative methods of member recruitment and collaboration.
Dr. Petrova offered advice to aspiring musicians considering unconventional paths to success:
- Build a strong online presence: Use various platforms to share your music, connect with fans, and engage in conversations about your craft.
- Network strategically: Connect with others in the music industry, both online and offline.
- Embrace collaboration: Find others with complementary skills and interests, fostering creativity.
- Remain adaptable: The music industry is dynamic; be prepared to adapt to change and explore new opportunities.
For aspiring musicians, these are essential takeaways:
Dr. Anya Petrova, Professor of Music Industry Studies, University of California, Berkeley
Dr. Petrova concluded, “The Mastodon story serves as a compelling snapshot of the innovative ways the future of music is taking shape.”
what are your thoughts on mastodon’s bold move and the broader trends it reveals? Share your opinions in the comments section below,or join the conversation on social media using #MastodonEvolution #FutureofMusic.
Mastodon’s Paradigm Shift: How YouTube guitarists Are Reshaping the Future of Rock
Did you know that a veteran progressive metal band just redefined “band formation” by recruiting a YouTube sensation as their new guitarist? This isn’t just a quirky news story; it’s a pivotal moment reflecting broader trends in the music industry. To delve into this fascinating case study and explore its implications, we spoke with Dr.Julian Thorne, a leading musicologist and expert on digital media’s impact on the music industry.
Senior Editor (SE): Dr.Thorne, Mastodon’s decision to recruit Ben Eller, a youtube guitarist known for his tutorials and Mastodon covers, has generated considerable buzz.can you unpack the importance of this seemingly unconventional choice?
Dr. Thorne (DT): Mastodon’s move is indeed groundbreaking. It signals a essential shift in how bands are formed and how musicians build their careers. The recruitment of a YouTuber like ben Eller highlights the increasing blurring of lines between online and offline spaces in the music world. It’s no longer enough to just be incredibly skilled; you also need a strong online presence and engaged fanbase. Eller brings both – not only masterful guitar skills, but also a ready-made audience of half a million followers, many already passionate about Mastodon’s music. This integration transcends the customary “breaking into the industry” narrative.
SE: How does this challenge established norms of band formation and career progression in the music industry?
DT: Traditionally, musicians built their careers through years of grueling gigs in small clubs, securing record deals, and navigating the complexities of the music industry food chain.Eller,however,has leveraged the power of online platforms – YouTube,specifically – to build both his musical skills and an engaged fanbase. This illustrates a democratization of chance. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok offer choice pathways to success, enabling artists to bypass the traditional gatekeepers—record labels, talent scouts, and managers—and connect directly with potential audiences.
SE: You mentioned Eller’s pre-existing audience. What strategic advantage does this bring to Mastodon, not just for immediate attention, but for long-term sustainability?
DT: That’s a critical point. Eller’s established following immediately expands Mastodon’s reach, introducing the band to perhaps hundreds of thousands of new fans who are already invested in his work and musical style. This isn’t only about gaining immediate visibility; it’s about bringing loyal and engaged listeners to the table. Moreover, this pre-existing audience is more likely to be interested in mastodon’s music given Eller’s demonstrated affinity for the band. His position allows for effective cross-promotion, increasing the organic growth and reach of the band. This is a powerful tool—one that future bands will be wise to emulate.
SE: The article also mentions Mastodon’s setlist included several deep cuts alongside popular hits. What’s the strategy behind such a blend?
DT: The strategic inclusion of both well-known tracks and rarities is a masterstroke in fan engagement. Established fans get to experience their favorites,rekindling their passion,and hear songs they’ve not heard live in years. This creates a unique and memorable concert experience. At the same time, the inclusion of hits broadens the appeal, introducing newcomers to Mastodon’s wider musical catalog and expanding the audience – even creating a feeling of being ‘in the know’ amongst more casual listeners. This blend creates a synergistic relationship between established and potential audiences, ensuring a concert that resonates differently depending on the listeners’ existing familiarity with the band’s work.
SE: What are the broader industry trends encapsulated by Mastodon’s move, and how can aspiring musicians employ these strategies?
DT: Mastodon’s case highlights several key trends:
The Rise of Digital Platforms as Talent Incubators: Online platforms serve as ideal grounds for musicians to refine their skills, build a following, and directly connect with their audience.
Cross-Platform Collaboration: By blending musicianship with online content creation and social media engagement,artists can foster more powerful connections and collaborations.
The Significance of Online Community Building: Constructing a robust online presence is a powerful tool for artist growth, visibility, and outreach.
Evolving Band Structures: Traditional band dynamics are fluid and adapt to accommodate various forms of collaboration.
Aspiring musicians should consider these actions:
- Cultivate a robust online identity: Utilize various platforms to showcase yoru music, build your persona, and engage with your audience.
- Network Strategically: Interact with your peers and professionals in the music field, both online and offline.
- Embrace Collaborative Endeavors: Partner with like-minded creatives who can help you expand your capabilities and audience.
- Demonstrate Adaptability: Be open to new developments and approaches and embrace change; the music industry is in constant flux.
SE: what would you say is the enduring takeaway from Mastodon’s bold decision?
DT: Mastodon’s move isn’t just about one band adapting to change; it’s a glimpse into the future of the music industry itself. It’s about the power of online communities,the evolution of band dynamics,and the democratization of opportunities for artists. By embracing new approaches and leveraging digital platforms, musicians can revolutionize how they build careers, engage their fans, and reach new heights of success. the Mastodon/Eller collaboration is a potent example of that revolution in action.
What are your thoughts on the changing landscape of the music industry? Share your opinions in the comments below or join the discussion on social media! #MastodonEvolution #FutureofMusic #DigitalMusicIndustry