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Rock icons in ‘complete shock’ after drummer suddenly quits the band

Longtime drummer of the band Primus, Tim “Herb” Alexander, has abruptly quit the band.
The rock band released a statement Tuesday detailing Alexander’s shocking departure that was announced to the band via email.
“On Thursday, October 17th, we received an email from Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander expressing that effective immediately he would no longer be involved with Primus,” the statement read. “It came as a complete shock to all of us here in the Primus camp.”
The band’s statement went on to say that the move comes on the heels of a successful spring and summer of touring.
“It has been bewildering for is that Herb would so abruptly opt out,” the post read. “After several attempts to communicate with Herb, his only response was another email stating that he has ‘lost his passion for playing,’.”
This was the drummer’s third stint with Primus. Alexander 59, originally joined the band in 1989 and left in 1996, rejoined in 2003 and exited again in 2010 before returning in 2013.
The band continued to say it respects Alexander’s choice but is now forced to make some tough decisions. Primus pondered cancelling its upcoming annual New Year’s show but bandmates Les Claypool and Larry LaLonde opted to use an augmented version of Primus featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade for a one-time event.
The social media post also noted that Tool’s Danny Carey will act as the band’s drummer during its performance in the Dominican Republic with Tool.
Christopher Burch can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter: @SwishBurch. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips/.

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