Drumming News
Primus, the alternative metal band known for their unique sound and eccentricity, has launched an exciting new web series chronicling their search for a new drummer. This series, titled “Primus Interstellar Drum Derby,” delves into the band’s open audition process, which began after the departure of Tim “Herb” Alexander last fall. The auditions attracted over 6,100 applicants, with the series highlighting the final stage of the process, where drummers jammed live with the band.
The first episode of the series features lespecial’s Rory Dolan, who became a fan favorite in the audition process. Dolan, a Connecticut native, has been influenced by Primus for over two decades through his own band, lespecial. His deep knowledge of Primus songs, particularly their live variations, impressed the band, despite his group’s affiliation with Primus covers. Other drummers who auditioned included Thomas Pridgen (Fever 333, ex-The Mars Volta), John Hoffman, Mike Stone, Nikki Glaspie (Snarky Puppy), Stan Bricknell, Rory Dolan, Sam Groverman (Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio), Gergo Borlai, and Thomas Lang. Tool’s Maynard James Keenan and Danny Carey, as well as Stewart Copeland of Oysterhead, made surprise appearances during the auditions.
Ultimately, the coveted position went to John Hoffman, whose performance during the audition was praised by the band. Primus’s decision to share this audition process with fans is part of their effort to offer an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at their approach to music and collaboration. The series builds anticipation for their upcoming tour, which will feature a rotating lineup of members from Primus, Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer, celebrating Keenan’s 60th birthday.
Primus’s spring tour will kick off in late April, with shows scheduled across North America, and will feature Hoffman on drums for the first time. The band’s upcoming performances will showcase their unique style and chemistry, with the “Primus Interstellar Drum Derby” continuing to document the journey. Fans can catch Dolan and lespecial as they continue their own busy tour in the Northeast and at the Daze Between New Orleans festival later this spring.
Primus Spring 2025 Tour Dates:
04/24 Palm Springs, CA – Acrisure Arena
04/25 Las Vegas, NV – PH Live at Planet Hollywood
04/27 Albuquerque, NM – Isleta Amphitheater
04/29 San Antonio, TX – Freeman Coliseum
05/01 Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
05/02 Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP
05/04 Huntsville, AL – The Orion Amphitheater
05/06 Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
05/08 Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
05/10 Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
05/11 Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
05/14 Manchester, NH – SNHU Arena
05/15 Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at The Mann Center
05/17 Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center
05/18 Fairfax, VA – EagleBank Arena
05/20 Pittsburgh, PA – Petersen Events Center
05/22 Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage
05/24 Indianapolis, IN – Ruoff Music Center
05/25 Cleveland, OH – Blossom Music Center
05/28 Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
05/29 St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
05/31 Milwaukee, WI – American Family Insurance Amphitheater
06/01 St. Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
06/03 Omaha, NE – Baxter Arena
06/06 Portland, OR – RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater
06/07 Auburn, WA – White River Amphitheatre
