Primus has officially released the final episode of their behind-the-scenes YouTube series Interstellar Drum Derby, which documented their global open-call search for a new drummer. This concluding chapter takes fans inside the final in-studio auditions and intimate interviews, ending with the heartwarming moment when Les Claypool surprises John Hoffman with a cake and the official news of his induction into the band.
The finale includes appearances from comedian-musicians Fred Armisen and Bob Odenkirk, with additional commentary from longtime drum technician Tim “Soya” Solyan. It also showcases both Hoffman and fellow finalist Gergő Borlai performing and engaging with the band, offering insight into the camaraderie, competition, and musical chemistry that defined the audition process. What started as a cosmic call for drummers culminates in a celebration of instinct, talent, and connection.
The episode then transitions into a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Primus’ new track, “Little Lord Fentanyl” — their first studio release in over three years. The song, recorded during Hoffman’s final audition session, captures the band in the midst of their creative process and marks Hoffman’s debut as an official member. The recording session offers fans a rare glimpse at the band’s musical evolution at this pivotal time.
“Little Lord Fentanyl” is a blistering, surrealist single that weaves dark humor with signature Primus grooves. The track features a standout guest performance from Maynard James Keenan (Tool, A Perfect Circle, Puscifer), whose distinctive voice adds an eerie layer to the chaotic soundscape. It’s also the first official studio recording with John Hoffman, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, who triumphed over more than 6,100 applicants during the band’s Interstellar Drum Derby audition series.
Hoffman’s unique style and rhythmic versatility have reinvigorated the band’s dynamic. His unconventional drumming has already made an impact, pushing the trio into an exciting new era. With Hoffman now firmly in place, Primus has launched into a busy tour schedule, beginning with their spring run on the Sessanta Tour — a joint outing with A Perfect Circle and Puscifer in celebration of Keenan’s 60(ish) birthday.
Looking ahead, Primus is set to embark on their Onward & Upward summer headlining tour, kicking off July 5 in Paso Robles, California. The tour will span 24 cities across the U.S., hitting legendary venues including Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, The Salt Shed in Chicago, The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York, and The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The tour will wrap up with a two-night finale at Sacramento’s Channel 24 on August 7 and 8.
Joining Primus on select tour dates will be genre-defying artists Ty Segall and MonoNeon, further enhancing the tour’s eclectic appeal. The Onward & Upward tour title itself reflects Primus’ legacy of constant reinvention, now propelled even further by the arrival of Hoffman. His deep groove, creative flair, and immediate chemistry with Les Claypool and guitarist Larry LaLonde made him stand out among thousands of hopefuls.
Les Claypool shared his enthusiasm about the band’s new chapter and upcoming tour:
“Hitting the road this summer with Hoffer at the helm! This fiery, cheerful, octopus-like drummer from Shreveport, Louisiana has breathed a very potent breath of freshness into this band we all call Primus.
“While splitting the drum duties of his first gig with the mighty Danny Carey down in the Dominican Republic, John ‘Hoffer’ Hoffman has launched himself into the Primus world with all guns-a-blazin’.
“Fresh from their next jaunt around the states with Sessanta Part 2 this Spring, Hoffer, Ler, and The Ol’ Colonel will be playing some full-length Primus sets at choice venues across the US, dipping into material (mainly at the request of Hoffer) that have not been performed in many years.
“Come see why this amazing fellow was able to rise above over 6,100 applicants to win the Interstellar Drum Derby and become the latest, and possibly the greatest, drummer to sit on the Primus drum throne.
“ONWARD AND UPWARD!!”
With new music, a refreshed lineup, and an ambitious tour schedule ahead, Primus is poised to enter one of its most dynamic and exploratory phases yet — fueled by the boundless energy and unique voice of their newest member, John Hoffman.
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