Pearl Jam address drummer situation in a new post

Following two weekend performances at the Ohana Festival — including an unannounced surprise set — Pearl Jam have officially addressed the live debut of their new drummer, Abe Laboriel Jr, as per theprp. Known primarily for his extensive work with Sir Paul McCartney, Laboriel Jr. took over behind the kit following the departure of longtime drummer Matt Cameron, whose replacement the band had hinted at earlier this year without disclosing his identity. On the morning of September 28, Pearl Jam frontman and Ohana Fest co-founder Eddie Vedder released a formal statement reflecting on the weekend’s performances and welcoming Laboriel Jr. to the stage.

Hello good humans,

Just a quick note on this Monday morning to thank each and everyone who came out to Ohana Fest this year. Three days of great groups, all of whom were further energized by the pumped up vibes from a perfect crowd. You all made our tenth year so special and we are GRATEFUL.

Also wanted to extend our further appreciation to Abe Laboriel Jr. sitting in on drums for PJ. 
It was a joy to play with him, and he’s obviously extraordinary at his craft. The man works and PLAYS hard.

It is no wonder he’s been with the ultimate Maestro Paul McCartney and his mind blowing band for decades. Thank you so much for this weekend Abe. And thank YOU Paul. We owe you big time.

— Eddie

The American rock group Pearl Jam was founded in Seattle, Washington, in 1990. Pearl Jam, one of the most important bands of the early 1990s grunge movement, has outsold and outlived many of its peers and is regarded as one of the decade’s most important acts. Since its founding, the band has included bassist Jeff Ament, vocalist/guitarist Eddie Vedder, and guitarists Stone Gossard and Mike McCready. Dave Krusen, Matt Chamberlain, Dave Abbruzzese, and Jack Irons were among the band’s early drummers. Matt Cameron, who joined the group in 1998 and left in 2025, was the drummer with the longest stay. Since 2002, keyboardist Boom Gaspar has also performed in sessions and on tour with the group.