Primus offers advice to potential new drummers: ‘We aren’t looking for a clone’

As Primus continues to search for a new drummer following the October departure of Tim “Herb” Alexander, the band has offered a bit of advice to anyone hoping for the gig.

In a Facebook post, the “My Name Is Mud” outfit notes that they’ve been going through submissions from potential new drummers since posting an open call in November, which they describe as “very encouraging.” They add that many of the submissions have included drummers playing along to Primus songs — “Which is great,” they say — but they encourage you to also “include something else that also reflects your creativity and personality as a player.”

“Primus is a band that is hard to define but the focus is ALWAYS on rhythm, groove, and unique tactile moods,” the post reads. “Smashy cymbals and fast metal riffs don’t impress as much as dynamics, finesse, originality, and POCKET. Be musical, not athletic.”

“During our recording career, the drum throne has been held by three amazing players with three very different approaches,” Primus continues. “Avoid focusing on just one. We aren’t looking for a clone.”

Those three drummers are Alexander, Bryan “Brain” Mantia and Jay Lane. Alexander, who was Primus’ longest-tenured drummer, left the group for personal and health reasons.

Primus will start holding auditions for their new drummer in January, and plans to debut them live during the 2025 Sessanta tour alongside A Perfect Circle and Puscifer.

As Primus continues to search for a new drummer following the October departure of Tim “Herb” Alexander, the band has offered a bit of advice to anyone hoping for the gig.

In a Facebook post, the “My Name Is Mud” outfit notes that they’ve been going through submissions from potential new drummers since posting an open call in November, which they describe as “very encouraging.” They add that many of the submissions have included drummers playing along to Primus songs — “Which is great,” they say — but they encourage you to also “include something else that also reflects your creativity and personality as a player.”

“Primus is a band that is hard to define but the focus is ALWAYS on rhythm, groove, and unique tactile moods,” the post reads. “Smashy cymbals and fast metal riffs don’t impress as much as dynamics, finesse, originality, and POCKET. Be musical, not athletic.”

“During our recording career, the drum throne has been held by three amazing players with three very different approaches,” Primus continues. “Avoid focusing on just one. We aren’t looking for a clone.”

Those three drummers are Alexander, Bryan “Brain” Mantia and Jay Lane. Alexander, who was Primus’ longest-tenured drummer, left the group for personal and health reasons.

Primus will start holding auditions for their new drummer in January, and plans to debut them live during the 2025 Sessanta tour alongside A Perfect Circle and Puscifer.