Primus Play Their First Live Show Since Exit Of Drummer Tim Alexander

As they prepare to hold auditions for their new drummer, Primus have returned to the stage for the first time since August – playing their first show since the departure of longtime percussionist Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander.

Alexander had previously joined Primus in 1989, replacing Bryan ‘Brain’ Mantia behind the kit, who would in turn replace him after leaving in 1996. After splitting in 2000, Alexander would return for the band’s 2003 reunion, though took another few years off between 2010 and 2013.

In late October, Primus revealed that Alexander had announced his departure on October 17th. Despite attempts to communicate with the drummer on numerous occasions, Alexander finally responded by explaining he had “lost his passion for drumming.”

However disappointed the band is by the turn of events, they wrote that they respect his choice but, ultimately, had to make some tough decisions about what would come next.

In the wake of his departure, Primus revealed they would honour their upcoming appearances, which include a US tour with Puscifer and A Perfect Circle in April, and a performance in the Dominican Republic in March, where they’ll be joined by Tool’s Danny Carey.

Their other scheduled dates included their annual New Year’s Eve concerts, which in 2024 featured bassist/vocalist Les Claypool’s other bands, Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade. Presenting an “augmented version” of the show, the band returned to the stage on Monday evening to play their first show since Alexander’s exit.

For their six-song set, the band were once again joined by Mantia, who performed classic tracks such as Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers, Jerry Was A Race Car Driver, and Shake Hands With Beef. Their set was also opened with a performance of Restin' Bones – the first time the track had been performed since 1997, when Mantia was last a member of the group.

Following Alexander’s departure in October, Primus announced they were “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,” they added. “Flashy chops are wonderful, but groove, pocket, and the ability to listen, react, and contribute to the musical conversation is a must.”

With applications closing in December, the group are now reportedly in the process of holding auditions for their new drummer this month, with a formal announcement as to the identity their new percussionist likely set to arrive ahead of their April tour.