Primus drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander has exited the band for the third time, announcing his departure via email on October 17. Bandmates Les Claypool and Larry "Ler" LaLonde were surprised by the sudden news, revealing in a statement on social media that Alexander informed them he was "no longer involved" with Primus and had "lost his passion for playing." “As disappointing as that is, we respect his choice," the remaining band members wrote. Alexander’s decision comes on the heels of Primus' upcoming touring schedule. Despite the band’s efforts to reach him, Alexander’s only follow-up was "another email".
Primus doesn't plan to cancel any upcoming shows. With high-profile dates approaching, the band has lined up some familiar substitute drummers to fill in. For their New Year’s Eve shows in Oakland, CA, the band will bring in drummers from Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade. In March 2025, Tool drummer Danny Carey will take over behind the kit for Primus during Tool's Live in the Sand event in the Dominican Republic—a role Carey last filled in 2014 after Alexander’s heart attack.
Looking further ahead, Primus will rejoin A Perfect Circle and Puscifer next year for the Sessanta V2.0 tour, for which they aspire to recruit the "greatest drummer on earth." Seeing as funk and groove are at the forefront of Primus' sound, most nu metal drummers wouldn't be out of place on a stage with them. Yet, the question of who will ultimately fill Alexander's shoes for these dates sparks intriguing possibilities.
Alexander joined Primus in 1989 and left in 1996, then rejoined when they reformed in 2003. He left again in 2010 and rejoined a few years later in 2013.
