Primus, one of the longest-standing hard rock bands, is in search of a new drummer as Tim “Herb” Alexander has abruptly quit the band, citing a loss of passion for playing. The band, formed in 1984 by Les Claypool and Larry LaLonde in the San Francisco Bay Area, expressed their shock at Alexander’s sudden departure in a social media post.
Alexander, who joined Primus in 1989, was known for his precision and technical skills that helped shape the band’s unique sound. With hits like “Jerry Was a Race Car Driver,” “My Name is Mud,” and “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver,” Primus gained a strong underground following before reaching a broader audience in 1991.
Despite several attempts to communicate with Alexander, the drummer confirmed his decision to leave via email, leading the band to make tough decisions. While Primus recently concluded a tour, they have a concert scheduled for Dec. 31 at the Fox Theater in Oakland, which is still set to proceed.
In light of Alexander’s exit, Primus has decided to move forward with an augmented version of the band for the upcoming show, featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade. This special event promises to be an exciting one-time experience for fans.
Looking ahead, Primus is now on the hunt for what they call the “greatest drummer on earth” to join their ranks for future tours. Despite the unexpected turn of events, the band remains optimistic about their musical journey and the opportunities that lie ahead.