“This is three times, I will leave and never regret”: Brann Dailor Announces Shocking Retirement, Leaving Fans and Music Community in Disbelief
In a surprising and emotional announcement that has sent shockwaves through the music world, Brann Dailor, the acclaimed drummer and founding member of the progressive metal band Mastodon, revealed today that he is retiring from the band after decades of groundbreaking work. At 46 years old, Dailor made the shocking statement, leaving fans and the music community grappling with the reality that one of the most innovative drummers of his generation will no longer be part of one of the most influential bands in modern metal.
Dailor’s decision comes after years of personal and professional challenges, which he alluded to in his announcement. With a heavy heart, Dailor emphasized that this is his third and final time stepping away from Mastodon, a decision he said was difficult but necessary. His departure marks the end of an era for the band and leaves a void that will be hard to fill. In his statement, Dailor expressed both his gratitude and his sadness, leaving many fans wondering what the future holds for both him and Mastodon.
“This is three times,” Dailor said in a brief yet poignant post shared across social media platforms. “I will leave and never regret. I’ve given everything I have to this band and this music, and now it’s time to step away and focus on the next chapter of my life. It’s a decision I’ve thought long and hard about, and while it’s painful, I know it’s the right one for me.”
Brann Dailor’s announcement has left a wave of shock, confusion, and sadness among fans, fellow musicians, and the broader metal community. Mastodon has long been known for its innovative sound, combining elements of progressive rock, sludge metal, and stoner rock, and Dailor’s unique drumming style has been a key component of that sound. His intricate rhythms, explosive fills, and the way he shaped the band’s compositions have earned him a reputation as one of the most technically proficient and creative drummers in the genre.
A Storied Career with Mastodon
Brann Dailor’s journey with Mastodon began in 2000 when the band was formed in Atlanta, Georgia. Along with guitarist Brent Hinds, bassist Troy Sanders, and guitarist Bill Kelliher, Dailor helped create the band’s distinctive sound, one that would go on to influence an entire generation of metal musicians. Mastodon quickly gained attention for their complex song structures, heavy riffs, and deep conceptual themes, and their debut album Remission (2002) introduced the world to their unique fusion of metal and progressive rock.
Dailor’s role in Mastodon was always more than just that of a drummer. His contributions to the songwriting process and his dynamic range behind the kit were crucial in shaping the band’s music. His drumming was known for its versatility, blending power and precision with a distinctive creative flair. As the band progressed from their early days, albums like Leviathan (2004) and Blood Mountain (2006) showcased Dailor’s extraordinary ability to juggle complex time signatures, intricate rhythms, and thunderous beats. His drumming not only supported the band’s sonic assault but also added a rhythmic complexity that became a defining characteristic of Mastodon’s sound.
One of the most memorable aspects of Mastodon’s music was the thematic depth and conceptual albums they became known for. Dailor’s input in the band’s songwriting, especially on albums like Crack the Skye (2009) and The Hunter (2011), helped shape their epic narratives, often exploring topics like mythology, science fiction, and personal trauma. Crack the Skye, in particular, was praised for its ambitious storytelling and its innovative fusion of metal and progressive rock, and Dailor’s drumming was instrumental in bringing these ideas to life. His ability to seamlessly transition from heavy, thrashing beats to more intricate and melodic rhythms allowed Mastodon to create music that was both challenging and accessible.
Mastodon’s groundbreaking work earned them critical acclaim, multiple Grammy nominations, and a devoted global fanbase. Their contributions to the evolution of metal were widely recognized, with Dailor often singled out for his technical prowess and his ability to elevate the band’s music with his imaginative drumming. Mastodon’s work on Once More ‘Round the Sun (2014), Emperor of Sand (2017), and Hushed and Grim (2021) only solidified their status as one of the genre’s most important bands. Dailor’s performances continued to push the boundaries of what was possible on the drums, combining speed, precision, and an emotional depth that resonated deeply with listeners.
Throughout his career, Dailor’s personal life and experiences also found their way into his music, giving the band’s work an intimate and reflective quality. His lyrics often explored themes of loss, pain, and personal growth, reflecting his own struggles and triumphs. His ability to channel his emotions into his music helped Mastodon stand out in a crowded field, creating a bond between the band and its fans that transcended the music itself.
The Decision to Leave
While Dailor’s announcement came as a surprise to many, he alluded to personal reasons behind his decision to step away from the band. In his statement, he explained that this wasn’t the first time he had contemplated leaving Mastodon, but that he had always returned to the band because of his deep love for the music and his connection to his bandmates. However, after much reflection and with a sense of peace, Dailor said it was time for him to move on from his role in the band.
“This is something I’ve considered several times before,” Dailor admitted. “But this time, I feel it in my heart. I’ve given everything I could, and now it’s time to take care of other things, things that are important for my well-being. I’ve been through a lot over the years, and I’m grateful for everything, but I’ve reached a place where I know it’s time to let go.”
While Dailor did not go into detail about the specific challenges he faced, it’s clear that the decision was deeply personal. Many fans have speculated that his departure could be related to burnout, mental health struggles, or the toll that years of touring and recording have taken on him. Regardless of the reasons, Dailor’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in both his life and the history of Mastodon.
Reactions and Tributes
Brann Dailor’s retirement announcement has been met with an outpouring of support and admiration from fellow musicians, fans, and industry insiders. Mastodon’s bandmates—Troy Sanders, Brent Hinds, and Bill Kelliher—expressed their deep respect and love for Dailor, acknowledging his immense contribution to the band’s success. In a joint statement, they wrote, “Brann has been the heart and soul of Mastodon since day one. We have shared incredible moments and made amazing music together. His decision to step away is heartbreaking, but we support him wholeheartedly. He will always be part of this family.”
Fans of the band have flooded social media with messages of gratitude, remembering the incredible music Dailor helped create. “Mastodon would not have been the same without Brann,” one fan wrote. “His drumming, his energy, his creativity—he was a huge part of why I fell in love with the band. Whatever comes next for him, I’ll always be grateful for everything he gave us.”
Other musicians in the metal community, including drummer Dave Lombardo (Slayer) and Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters), expressed their admiration for Dailor’s skill and influence, calling him one of the best drummers of his generation. “Brann’s ability to bring emotional depth to his drumming is something truly special,” Lombardo wrote. “He’s one of the few drummers who can combine technicality with heart and soul. I’ll miss seeing him behind the kit, but I’m excited to see what he does next.”
The Future of Mastodon
As for the future of Mastodon, the band has not yet announced whether they will continue as a three-piece or if they plan to recruit a new drummer. Whatever the case, it’s clear that Brann Dailor’s legacy will remain an integral part of the band’s identity. His innovative drumming and creative contributions will continue to be a cornerstone of Mastodon’s music, even as the band moves forward without him.
In his farewell message, Dailor assured fans that he would always carry the memories of his time with Mastodon in his heart. “Thank you all for your love and support over the years,” he said. “I will never forget the journey we’ve been on together, and I’ll always cherish the music we made. This isn’t goodbye forever, just goodbye for now.”
As the music world processes the loss of one of its brightest talents, fans can take solace in the vast catalog of music Brann Dailor helped create. His impact on Mastodon and the metal genre as a whole is undeniable, and his departure, while painful, signals the end of one incredible chapter—and the beginning of something new for him and for the band.
