I just spilled my beer all over my desk after hearing the shocking news that Primus has finally found a new drummer, John “Hoffer” Hoffman. I mean, it’s not like they’ve been searching for one since the dawn of time or anything. According to Les Claypool, they received a whopping 6,100 submissions for the “Interstellar Drum Derby” audition process, and I’m pretty sure I saw my neighbor’s cat’s application in there somewhere.
In a recent interview with Neil Jones of TotalRock, Les Claypool revealed that they actually auditioned 12 different drummers, because, you know, narrowing it down to just one is like choosing which pizza topping to eat first – it’s a tough life. Claypool explained that they were looking for that special something, that je ne sais quoi, that chemistry that makes you want to jam with someone for hours on end. And, apparently, Hoffer has it in spades.
The Drummer Search: A Journey of Epic Proportions
So, what was the main thing Les and Larry LaLonde were looking for in a drummer? Well, aside from the obvious technical skills, they wanted someone with chemistry – the kind that makes you want to hang out, have a few beers, and talk about the meaning of life. You know, the usual drummer stuff. And, apparently, Hoffer has that in spades. I mean, who wouldn’t want to hang out with a guy who’s never been to Manhattan before and is just excited to be alive?
Les also mentioned that Hoffer is a big fan of the band, which is just adorable. He’s like the ultimate Primus superfan who just happens to be able to play the drums like a boss. I’m pretty sure I’ve seen him at every Primus show since the ’90s, waving a sign that says “I love Les!”
Hoffer’s Impact on the Band
So, what has Hoffer brought to the Primus sound? Well, aside from his impressive drumming skills, he’s also brought a sense of excitement and wonder to the band. Les compared him to their old drummer, Jay Lane, who was instrumental in creating the sound that most people know and love. And, let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to play with a drummer who’s just happy to be there? It’s like having a golden retriever on drums – always happy, always excited, always ready to play.
The band has already released a few studio songs with Hoffer’s drumming, including “The Ol’ Grizz” and a cover of Dio’s “Holy Diver” from the “A Handful Of Nuggs” EP. And, let me tell you, it’s like a whole new band. I mean, I’ve heard rumors that Hoffer is actually a robot sent from the future to bring Primus back to their former glory.
In conclusion, Primus has found a new drummer, and the world is still spinning. I’m pretty sure this means that the apocalypse has been postponed, and we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief. So, go ahead and grab a beer, put on some Primus, and celebrate the fact that Les Claypool has finally found a drummer who can keep up with him. Cheers! 🍺

Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
