PRIMUS Takes the Stage at Fox Theater

In a night filled with nostalgia and electrifying energy, PRIMUS took the stage for their first concert following the shocking departure of longtime drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander. The event transpired at the iconic Fox Theater in Oakland, California, on December 30, and was nothing short of a triumphant comeback for the band.

Bryan "Brain" Mantia Returns as Drummer

Behind the drum kit for this memorable performance was none other than Bryan "Brain" Mantia, who has a long history with PRIMUS, famously stepping in when Alexander first left the band in 1996. This reunion reignited memories of the band's classic era, much to the delight of fans in attendance.

A Special Tribute to Tim "Herb" Alexander

To commemorate Alexander's departure, PRIMUS enlisted musicians from frontman Les Claypool's various side projects, including THE HOLY MACKEREL and FROG BRIGADE, creating a dynamic and diverse lineup that showcased the band's expansive musical background.

Setlist Highlights

The setlist was a retrospective journey through their discography, with highlights that included:

THE HOLY MACKEREL

1. Holy Mackerel 2. Highball With The Devil 3. Hendershot

FROG BRIGADE (featuring Larry LaLonde)

4. Up On The Roof 5. David Makalaster 6. Riddles Are Abound Tonight 7. D's Diner

PRIMUS (with Brain Mantia)

8. Restin' Bones (making a reappearance since 1997) 9. Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers 10. American Life 11. Fisticuffs 12. Shake Hands With Beef 13. Jerry Was A Race Car Driver

Encore:

14. Here Come The Bastards (with all three bands) 15. Cosmic Highway (with all three bands)

Mantia's Notable Contributions

Mantia's return to the stage with PRIMUS is particularly noteworthy, as he was instrumental in creating two studio albums during his tenure: the acclaimed "Brown Album" (1997) and "Antipop" (1999), along with the unique covers EP "Rhinoplasty" released in 1998. Additionally, Mantia contributed to the iconic theme song for the wildly popular TV show "South Park."

Tim "Herb" Alexander's Departure

In a candid letter to Rolling Stone last month, Alexander reflected on his decision to step away from the band. He expressed the struggles of maintaining his passion for music over the years. “Sometimes, what you love becomes a job, and that job may not resonate with your true self anymore," Alexander shared. This poignant moment underscored the emotional journey he experienced leading up to his departure.

PRIMUS Moves Forward

The news of Alexander's exit, however, didn’t diminish PRIMUS' momentum. The band remains optimistic and is committed to continuing their tour schedule. Upcoming shows will feature special guest appearances, including TOOL's Danny Carey for the "Live In The Sand" festival, while they’re also on the lookout for the "greatest drummer on earth" for their 2025 "Sessanta" dates.

A Journey with Challenges

Alexander’s tumultuous journey with PRIMUS began in 1989 and has seen him leave and rejoin multiple times, with significant health challenges—including a second heart attack in July 2016, following an earlier health scare in 2014—leading him to this pivotal moment.

The Spirit of PRIMUS Lives On

As fans celebrate this dynamic lineup and the band’s resilient spirit, one thing is clear: PRIMUS is not just a band; they are a beloved institution ready to keep rocking on!