Primus Share Insane Video of Billy Strings' Audition to Be Their New Drummer: 'We Might Have Found Our Guy'

Primus may have found their new guy, and it's a guy you already know. After the veteran band revealed in late October that longtime drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander had unexpectedly left the group, they put out an open call for a new timekeeper, and one of the musicians who threw his sticks into the ring is already a star in his own right. . his own right.

The band released a video earlier this week of “Mafunction Junction” star Billy Strings putting down his guitar and sliding onto the drum stool to give it a shot. Bluegrass Strings' Ripper pulls off a series of impressive moves that showcase his speed and dexterity, something he'd need if he really wanted to support the group known for bass-heavy tracks with unusual time signatures. “Okay, here's my audition to play for Primus,” Strings says before showing off his skills, ending with a flourish and a furious air-drum beat to punctuate the tape.

The band seemed quite impressed, with Claypool commenting, “We may have found our man.” The audition process will involve narrowing down the candidates in January, with plans to post their progress and some audition videos along the way.

In an Oct. 29 message, singer/bassist Les Claypool and guitarist Larry LaLonde revealed that Alexander quit suddenly on Oct. 17 in an email announcing his departure “effective immediately,” citing a “loss of passion for playing.” Claypool and LaLonde said the news came as a “complete shock” to them.

In their statement that they're looking for “the best drummer on Earth,” Primus urged fans and fellow musicians to send in their audition videos, a call that clearly landed with Strings.

For now, Primus will go ahead with their New Year's Eve show in Oakland, California, featuring members of Claypool's side projects Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade, with Tool's Danny Carey joining them for a upcoming festival in the Dominican Republic in March.