Primus Drummer Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander Abruptly Quits Band

Drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander has quit Primus … again. Alexander emailed his bandmates to inform them he has “lost his passion for playing” and will no longer be involved with Primus.

Alexander had twice previously left the band. After Tim Alexander and guitarist Larry “Ler” LaLonde joined founding bassist Les Claypool in 1989 to form what would become the classic Primus lineup, the drummer first parted ways with the group in 1996. He’s second tenure behind the kit spanned 2003 through 2010. Tim Alexander reunited with LeLonde and Claypool once again in 2013.

Primus issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon regarding Alexander’s status, writing:

On Thursday, October 17th, we received an email from Tim “Herb” Alexander expressing that effective immediately he would no longer be involved with Primus. It came as a complete shock to all of us here in the Primus camp.

On the heels of a wonderful Spring & Summer of touring and some fabulous plans ahead, it has been a bit bewildering for us that Herb would so abruptly opt out. After several attempts to communicate with Herb, his only response was another email stating that he has “lost his passion for playing,”. As disappointing as that is, we respect his choice and it’s forced us to make some tough decisions.

We considered cancelling the annual New Year’s show, but after much talk Les and Ler have decided to pivot to an augmented version of Primus featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade. This will be an exciting special, one-time event.

As far as future Primus, the band is looking forward to performing in the Dominican Republic with Tool and others. Danny Carey has once again graciously offered to fill the drum throne.

For Sessanta, Primus plans on searching for the “greatest drummer on earth”. Details to follow…

Thank you for all your support and understanding.

Primus are next scheduled to take the stage on December 30 and 31 at Oakland’s Fox Theater for a two-night New Year’s Eve run. As mentioned above, the band will move forward with “an augmented version of Primus featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade.”

Tool drummer Danny Carey will play drums for Primus during their set at Tool Live In The Sand in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic next March. Then, Claypool and LaLonde will focus on finding the “greatest drummer on earth” in time to join the band for Sessanta 2025.

Sessanta 2025 spans April 24 – June 7 featuring Primus, Puscifer and A Perfect Circle. The six-week jaunt will make stops across North America.