Les Claypool introduced the new Primus drummer John Hoffman with Maynard James Keenan’s approval.
“Hoffington!!! Welcome aboard!” Primus wrote in the caption of their Instagram post. Claypool also shared the same post on his own Instagram. “Heck Yes. (Napolean voice.), Keenan wrote in the comment section of Les’ post.
Primus was looking for a new drummer after Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander left. They wanted a ‘well-mannered’ drummer and announced it on social media in November, writing, “We are currently taking submissions from all points in the universe for the position of Primus drummer/percussionist. Seeking a well-mannered, affable individual with original sensibility and aesthetic, possessing a desire to open new doors in the creative world.”
The band continued, “Flashy chops are wonderful, but groove, pocket, and the ability to listen, react, and contribute to the musical conversation is a must. Interested parties can submit a resume and a recent video performance to [email protected].”
After leaving Primus, Alexander said he lost his passion for playing with the band. He said, “A lot of times, you do something you love for a long time, and sometimes the passion turns into a job, and sometimes that job doesn’t feel like it’s your being anymore. Over time, I started realizing that it was affecting my physical life, it was affecting my mental life, and it was affecting my family life, and my heart just wasn’t in it.”
Later in January, Claypool posted videos of Primus’ drummer auditions on Instagram, showing names like Maynard James Keenan and Danny Carey. Fans especially noticed Rory Dolan and Thomas Pridgen, and some reacted to them not being chosen right away.
“Just playing with Les and Ler is an insane honor, but if you don’t get the gig, I’m gonna flip a table,” one fan said in Dolan’s comments section.
To Pridgen, one of the commenters said, “Dude, we want you in the band. So many great drummers! Let’s go!” while another wrote, “I hope you get the spot. Your style is the most logical fit.”
Primus will perform with Tool’s Danny Carey at a festival in the Dominican Republic in March. In April, they will tour with Puscifer and A Perfect Circle.
