Primus has dropped a brand-new episode of their YouTube series Interstellar Drum Derby, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look into the search for their new drummer. The latest installment highlights audition footage of two standout musicians: Gergo Borlai and John Hoffman.
The episode provides insight into the intensive audition process the band underwent following the sudden departure of longtime drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander. By mid-March, Primus officially announced that John Hoffman would step in as the band’s new full-time drummer.
Director Agent Ogden, who helmed the episode, reflected on the creative challenges involved in its production:
“[It was] a challenge to put together. There was so much to fit into a single episode. The biggest challenge was figuring out how to showcase both drummers, Gergo and John, without repeating the same songs and keeping things moving forward.”
He added, “I think the back-and-forth editing between the two during the same track is fun to watch. You can hear the subtle differences, but it doesn’t disrupt the flow of the music. It was crucial to highlight their incredible talent, but it was just as important to show that these guys are humans, too.”
The episode arrives on the heels of Primus’ first new song in three years, “Little Lord Fentanyl”. The track features a guest vocal appearance by Maynard James Keenan (of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer), with John Hoffman on drums, marking his debut recording with the band.
Looking ahead, Primus is set to embark on their Onwards & Upwards Summer 2025 tour. The alt-rock veterans from California will be joined by Ty Segall and MonoNeon as special guests on select dates, bringing an eclectic lineup to stages across the country.
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