Primus has put out a call for applications for the role of “new drummer” following Tim “Herb” Alexander‘s sudden departure from the band last month.
A note posted to the off-kilter alt-rock power trio’s social media accounts on Monday reads, “We are currently taking submissions from all points in the universe for the position of Primus drummer/percussionist. Seeking a well-mannered, affable individual with original sensibility and aesthetic, possessing a desire to open new doors in the creative world. Flashy chops are wonderful, but groove, pocket, and the ability to listen, react, and contribute to the musical conversation is a must. Submit resume and a recent video performance to drumsearch@primusville.com.”
The remaining members of Primus—bassist/vocalist Les Claypool and guitarist Larry “Ler” LaLonde—previously indicated their intentions to find the “greatest drummer on Earth” for their upcoming six-week Sessanta V2.0 tour alongside Maynard James Keenan‘s A Perfect Circle and Puscifer when they announced Alexander’s abrupt exodus. Until then, Primus will lean on various substitutes behind the kit for its two-night New Year’s celebration in Oakland, CA (now featuring percussive support from Claypool’s Holy Mackerel and Fearless Flying Frog Brigade bandmates) and its slot at Dominican destination event Tool Live in the Sand in March 2025 (where Tool’s Danny Carey will fill in).
After the band revealed Alexander’s departure—and attributed it to Herb’s self-described “loss of passion for playing”—the drummer spoke to Rolling Stone about his exit. “My decision to leave the band was rooted in a deep need to prioritize my mental and physical health,” he said as part of an extended statement. “I want to give my family the presence and energy they deserve and take care of myself in a way that allows me to thrive.”
“I did say that,” he noted of the “loss of passion for playing” comment, “But I also said, ‘All of these tours left me feeling empty. My body hurts constantly.’ This context is important. I also told them they deserve someone who wants to be there. And I meant it. As far as ‘abruptly’ goes, I suppose there’s never the perfect time to leave something you’ve been a part of for so long. Bands have their own inner workings and are a relationship. Sometimes it doesn’t feel balanced, and sometimes it doesn’t work out.” Read more from Herb about the reasons behind his departure from Primus here.
While an open call for a new band member from a group of Primus’ stature is unusual, it’s not unprecedented. Earlier this year, The Smashing Pumpkins cast a similarly wide net in their search for a new guitarist. The process paid off, leading the band to hire Kiki Wong as its newest member.
So, do you think you have what it takes to be the new drummer for Primus? Might be time to freshen up the old resume… In the meantime, brush up on some recent live Primus with a full video of the band’s 7/9/24 show in Highland, CA below.
Primus – Full Concert – 7/9/24
[Video: Live Rock Music Concerts]
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