Primus announced via Instagram on Tuesday (October 29) that their longtime drummer, Tim “Herb” Alexander, has abruptly quit the band. Primus’ founder and bassist Les Claypool and the group’s veteran guitarist Larry LaLonde made the surprising announcement in response to Campbell’s October 17 email to the group notifying them that “effective immediately he would no longer be involved with Primus.” For Primus’ annual New Year’s Eve shows in Oakland, the band will “pivot to an augmented version of Primus featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade,” while their upcoming festival date with Tool will feature Danny Carey filling in on drums. “It came as a complete shock to all of us here in the Primus camp,” the band writes. “It has been a bit bewildering for us that Herb would so abruptly opt out.” Claypool and LaLonde made several attempts to contact Campbell, who told them he has “lost his passion for playing.” “As disappointing as that is, we respect his choice,” the band writes. (Consequence of Sound)