Primus’ ‘Interstellar Drum Derby’ Draws Elite Talent in Search for New Drummer

Primus have been sifting through 6,200 auditions in their open search for a new drummer, following the departure of their longtime percussionist Tim “Herb” Alexander last fall. The band’s Les Claypool and Larry “Ler” LaLonde have dubbed the process the ‘Interstellar Drum Derby,’ sharing updates from their shortlist of candidates on social media.

Some of the standout drummers who have made it through include:

• Rory Dolan (lespecial)
• Thomas Pridgen (Fever 333, ex-The Mars Volta)
• Mike Stone
• Stan Bicknell
• Sam Groverman (Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio)
• Nikki Glaspie (The Nth Power, Snarky Puppy)
• John Hoffman
• Gergo Borlai
• Thomas Lang (stOrk)

Adding to the spectacle, Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan was present for some sessions, while legendary drummers Danny Carey (Tool) and Stewart Copeland (ex-The Police, Oysterhead) even took turns behind the kit. Rounding out the star-studded jam sessions were Fred Armisen and Bob Odenkirk, who also joined in on the fun.

Before Primus officially announces their next drummer, Danny Carey will temporarily fill in for their set at Tool’s ‘Tool Live In The Sand’ festival this March. The band is expected to debut their new drummer live when they hit the road in April for the ‘Sessanta V2.0 Tour’, where they’ll be rotating members alongside A Perfect Circle and Puscifer throughout the night. Whoever lands the gig will be in for a trial by fire, potentially performing across all three projects.

Do you love independent bands, or are you in one? The Mosh Network is not just a rock/metal news website, but it doubles as an independent band directory, designed so that visitors can browse independent bands by not just subgenre, but location as well. It’s perfect to keep your finger on the pulse of your area’s hottest and newest bands or if you’re in a band, it’s a great way to find bands to network with! Click the banner below and start discovering bands all over the world, now!