Primus drummer Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander has quit the band suddenly, announcing his departure in an email.
According to Primus, Alexander informed them that he ‘lost his passion for playing.’ Alexander previously played with Primus from 1989 to 1996, returned in 2003 until 2010, and rejoined in 2013 until now.
“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,” the band wrote in a social media statement.
“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,” the band continued.
“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,” they added.
Primus has confirmed that they won’t cancel any scheduled shows. They will carry on with their New Year’s Eve gig using members from related bands Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade. For their appearance at Tool’s beach festival, Tool’s own Danny Carey will fill in.
In July 2016, Alexander shared that he had experienced a second heart attack, following a previous health scare in 2014.
Ten years ago, Les Claypool’s plan to reunite the ‘classic’ Primus lineup — with Alexander and guitarist Larry Lalonde — had to be postponed after Alexander’s first heart attack. This attack required him to undergo triple bypass surgery. To keep up with tour commitments, Primus brought in Danny Carey to fill in for a few shows. Just three months after his open-heart surgery, Alexander rejoined Primus for touring.
