Primus Releases Video of Billy Strings Auditioning for Drummer Position: ‘We Might Have Found Our Guy’

Primus Auditions New Drummer

Primus has released a video from Billy Strings showcasing his audition to become their new drummer. Check it out below.

Drummer Search Details

The quest for a new percussionist was initiated last month, following the announcement by frontman and bassist Les Claypool about the departure of longtime drummer Tim Alexander, which came as a “complete shock.”

In an online statement, the band encouraged fans and fellow musicians to submit their audition videos while searching for “a well-mannered, affable individual with an original sensibility and aesthetic, with a desire to open new doors in the creative world.”

Now, it seems that Primus is actively seeking a replacement for Alexander, having shared a message they received from Bluegrass legend Billy Strings.

In the video, Strings is seen trading his guitar for a drum kit and showcasing his skills in an effort to impress the band. Claypool shared it on his Instagram, captioning it: “We may have found our guy…” Check it out below.

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted by Les Claypool (@lesclaypool)

In addition to the details about Strings’ audition, Primus explained what qualities they seek in submissions. They advised anyone who reached out through social media to re-upload their videos to YouTube for better visibility.

“One thing we’ve learned in this ever-evolving process is that those who publish their entries on YouTube appear to stand out more,” they noted. “Some submissions in other formats can be more challenging and sometimes impossible to review.”

The band stated they would narrow down applicants by January and share their progress, including audition performances and discussions from a Celebrity Drum Review Committee on the Primus YouTube channel.

“To those submitting: while including recordings of Primus songs is appreciated, add something that reflects your creativity and individuality,” they concluded. “Throughout our recording career, the drummer’s throne has been occupied by three unique musicians with diverse approaches. We are not in search of a clone.”

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted by user PRIMUS (@primusville)

Following Tim Alexander’s departure, he elaborated on his decision to leave, stating: “Over time, I started to realize that it was affecting my physical life, my mental life, my family life, and my heart. I just wasn’t into it.”

“When I found myself struggling with everything, I had to take a moment to reflect on what I was actually doing,” he added. “I don’t think I ever chose my path in life; I always thought, ‘I’m a drummer, I’ll just make music,’ and it just came to me, accepting whatever happened.”

Primus has confirmed that their annual New Year’s Eve show will proceed with an expanded schedule, featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade.

They’re currently concluding the Sessanta Tour alongside A Perfect Circle and Puscifer, while also confirming that Tool drummer Danny Carey will join them at Tool’s upcoming festival next year, called Tool In The Sand.

Scheduled for March 7-9 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the all-inclusive Tool In The Sand event will take place across Hard Rock and Royalton resorts. Other participating bands include Mastodon, Coheed And Cambria, Eagles Of Death Metal, CKY, and King’s X.

Tickets are currently available on the Tool In The Sand website. More details, including the full lineup, can be found there.