Pearl Jam keep auditioning drummers after Matt Cameron’s exit
Bassist Jeff Ament says there is no rush to settle the lineup, though he wants to return to the stage.
Pearl Jam have not chosen a permanent drummer following Matt Cameron’s departure and are continuing auditions, according to bassist Jeff Ament’s interview with Under The Radar. Ament said he wants to play shows but that the group is taking time to determine its plans.
Cameron left in July 2025 after 27 years with the band. Abe Laboriel Jr., a session drummer who also performs with Paul McCartney’s touring band, joined Pearl Jam for two September sets at Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival. They were the group’s first performances since Cameron’s exit.
Vedder thanked Laboriel for his help during the festival, and Pearl Jam thanked him afterward for filling in. Ament praised Laboriel’s playing in the interview, conducted after the bassist published his photo book Since Forever.
Ament also said Chris Cornell’s death had been especially difficult for Cameron, who had questioned whether to continue playing and discussed slowing down. He described Cameron’s departure as painful while expressing support for his former bandmate’s other interests.
