Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready recently discussed the band’s plans for a comeback from their break following drummer Matt Cameron’s exit. He shared updates on their search for a new drummer in an interview with American Songwriter.
McCready expressed his eagerness to return to performing and recording. He acknowledged the band’s current challenge in finding a replacement drummer.
“I think I’m kind of done with the break. I would love to get out and play again, you know,” McCready said. “I’m ready to go out again whenever, you know, or start working on another record. We’ve just got to find a new drummer, you know? We don’t have one.”
The guitarist explained that the band is currently in discussions about their next steps. No concrete plans have been finalized yet.
“We’re in the process of just talking about it, and figuring out what our next move is,” he continued. “I don’t have anything concrete to tell you, because I don’t know right now. We move very, very slowly, and then when something happens, we move quickly. So, right now, we’re kind of in our slow phase, like our Jurassic.”
McCready also shared details about the band’s ongoing communication and creative process during this transitional period.
“We’re all texting and emailing and talking to each other, and, you know, throwing out ideas here and there, but there’s nothing solid as of yet,” he said. “[I]f and when we finally get a drummer, we’re gonna all get in a room together and just start creating new stuff.”
Cameron’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the band. He had been a cornerstone of Pearl Jam’s sound for nearly three decades.
American Songwriter reported that Cameron served as Pearl Jam’s drummer for 27 years behind the kit before announcing his departure. The drummer originally joined the band in 1998, filling in for Jack Irons. He became a permanent member who helped shape the band’s evolving sound through multiple decades.
McCready revealed his surprise at Cameron’s decision to leave the band. Guitar World noted that McCready observed Cameron was getting tired of being on the road after years of extensive touring commitments.
“I was kind of surprised. I think Matt was getting tired of being on the road; he’s paid his dues,” McCready explained in the interview.
The timing of Cameron’s departure comes as Pearl Jam continues to maintain their status as one of rock’s most enduring acts. Pearl Jam Online documented that Cameron’s tenure from 1998 to 2025 represents one of the longest drummer partnerships in the band’s history. This period spanned multiple albums and countless tours that solidified Pearl Jam’s legacy in alternative rock.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their drummer search, Cameron reportedly left on good terms with the band. He maintained the positive relationships that have characterized Pearl Jam’s approach to lineup changes throughout their career. The band continues their search for a new drummer as they work toward their eventual return to touring and recording.
