Maynard James Keenan collaborates with Primus on their first new song in three years
Primus is back with their latest studio recording titled “Little Lord Fentanyl,” which features the iconic Maynard James Keenan from renowned bands such as TOOL, A PERFECT CIRCLE, and PUSCIFER. This track, their first since the Conspiranoid EP in 2022, is a gripping and bizarre anthem filled with groove and dark humor.
The song also marks the official studio debut of drummer John Hoffman, who emerged victorious in a global audition process known as the “Interstellar Drum Derby” after surpassing over 6,100 other hopefuls. Hoffman, a native of Shreveport, infuses the song with his intricate and playful rhythms, described by Stereogum as a mix of “high-velocity flurries, Meters-esque swamp-pocket, and cartoonish cymbal clutches.” His unique style has injected new energy into Primus since joining the band earlier this year.
Hoffman’s journey from humble beginnings playing at Louisiana jam nights to landing the drum throne in Primus has been captivatingly recorded in an interview with Stereogum and in the band’s “Interstellar Drum Derby” YouTube series. This release comes amidst Primus’s “Sessanta” tour, a collaborative venture with A PERFECT CIRCLE and PUSCIFER to celebrate Keenan’s 60th birthday, and precedes their “Onward & Upward” summer headline tour starting on July 5 in Paso Robles, California.
Reeder, the creative force behind Metal Addicts, has turned his lifelong passion for metal into a vibrant online hub for metal enthusiasts. With a special penchant for black metal, Reeder is drawn to its dark, atmospheric, and unconventional sonic landscapes.
In conclusion, “Little Lord Fentanyl” marks a significant moment in Primus’s discography with the inclusion of Maynard James Keenan and the introduction of drummer John Hoffman. The track’s surreal and humor-laden narrative, coupled with Hoffman’s distinctive drumming style, sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the band’s musical journey. As Primus continues their spring tour and gears up for their summer headline shows, fans can expect a thrilling musical experience that exemplifies the band’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing creative boundaries.