Primus Announce New Drummer Ahead of 2025 Tour

Primus has officially announced their new drummer, John Hoffman, for their upcoming 2025 tour. This development comes after a comprehensive and highly publicized search process that involved over 6,000 applicants. Following the departure of their long-time drummer, Tim “Herb” Alexander, Primus was on the hunt for someone with the unique skills and qualities that embody the band’s distinctive alternative metal sound. Hoffman emerged victorious among a competitive group of finalists, each bringing their own flair to the auditions. His selection marks a new chapter for Primus, as they prepare to embark on their tour, starting with a highly anticipated performance at Tool’s ‘Live In The Sand’ event in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on March 8th, 2025.

The search for a new drummer began in earnest when Alexander exited Primus in October 2024, citing a loss of passion for the music. This left the band in a challenging position, given their imminent performance schedule. Hoffman’s experience primarily originates from his substantial presence on social media platforms like YouTube, where he showcased his drumming prowess. This made the Louisiana native an enticing choice for Primus, especially considering drummer criteria released by the band—seeking individuals with original sensibility and a desire to innovate within the creative world. Through this selection process, Hoffman achieved a significant dream of playing alongside Primus’ bassist and vocalist Les Claypool and guitarist Larry “Ler” Lalonde.

The drummer search process included an extensive five-day “interstellar drum derby” on the West Coast, inviting the top candidates to perform live with Primus. This segment of the search solidified Hoffman’s place as the band’s new drummer. Intriguingly, during Hoffman’s audition, he received an unexpected nod of approval from Maynard James Keenan, a prominent figure in the music world known for his work with Tool, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle. Keenan’s endorsement undoubtedly added to Hoffman’s confidence as he navigated the competitive audition process. This endorsement further heightened anticipation around Hoffman’s upcoming performances.

As Primus gears up for their “Sessanta V2.0” tour—named in celebration of Keenan’s 60th birthday last year—Hoffman will join other renowned bands such as A Perfect Circle and Puscifer, creating a dynamic experience for fans. This tour promises a unique collaboration aspect, with band members swapping roles to cover each other’s songs, a highlight sure to entertain audiences. Moreover, before Hoffman takes the stage with Primus, Tool’s Danny Carey will temporarily fill the drummer role at the “Tool Live In The Sand” while Hoffman transitions into his new position.

The upcoming 2025 tour schedule is already packed with dates across North America, beginning on April 24th in Palm Springs, California, and extending through several cities until June 7th in Auburn, Washington. This lineup of concerts confirms that Primus remains a formidable presence in the alternative metal landscape, driven by their innovative spirit and the fresh energy Hoffman brings. With a long-standing reputation for daring musical endeavors and a now-complete lineup, Primus is poised to captivate audiences anew.

For those curious to witness Hoffman’s debut with Primus, the tour presents ample opportunity to experience the band’s evolution live. In taking up the drumming mantle, Hoffman bridges a crucial gap left by Alexander’s departure. Fans eagerly await to see how his artistry will contribute to the band’s iconic sound. Primus has undoubtedly set the stage for a memorable 2025, marked by both a fresh beginning and a celebration of its enduring legacy in the metal world.

Check Out 2025 Primus Tour Dates Here:

Mar 7 – Mar 9 Tool Live In the Sand Punta Cana, La Altagracia
Apr 24- Acrisure Arena Palm Desert, CA
Apr 25- PH Live at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas, NV
Apr 27- Isleta Amphitheater Albuquerque, NM
Apr 29- Freeman Coliseum San Antonio, TX
May 1-BOK Center Tulsa, OK
May 2- Walmart AMP (Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion) Rogers, AR
May 4- The Orion Amphitheater Huntsville, AL
May 6- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, FL
May 8- MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheater Tampa, FL
May 10- PNC Music Pavilion Charlotte, NC
May 11- Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater Virginia Beach, VA
May 14- SNHU Arena Manchester, NH
May 15- TD Pavilion at The Mann Center Philadelphia, PA
May 17- PNC Bank Arts Center Holmdel, NJ
May 18- EagleBank Arena Fairfax, VA
May 20- Petersen Events Center Pittsburgh, PA
May 22- Budweiser Stage Toronto, ON
May 24- Ruoff Music Center Noblesville, IN
May 25- Blossom Music Center Cuyahoga Falls, OH
May 28- The Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids, MI
May 29- Hollywood Casino Amphitheater St. Louis, MO
May 31-American Family Insurance Amphitheater Milwaukee, WI
Jun 1- Xcel Energy Center Saint Paul, MN
Jun 3- Baxter Arena Omaha, NE
Jun 6- RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater Ridgefield, WA
Jun 7- White River Amphitheater Auburn, WA