Pearl Jam Keeps New Drummer Under Wraps Ahead of Ohana Festival Debut

Pearl Jam’s new drummer mystery adds fresh excitement as they prepare for their first show with the new member at Ohana Festival.

When it comes to legendary rock bands, few can match the enduring spirit and mystique of Pearl Jam. And right now, the group is bubbling with that very same magic as they gear up for a fresh chapter — one shrouded in secrecy, curiosity, and excitement. After bidding farewell to longtime drummer Matt Cameron in July 2025, the band has quietly chosen his replacement but is absolutely keeping the identity under wraps. Fans will finally get a peek at this mystery musician when Pearl Jam takes the stage for the first time with their new drummer at Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival in Dana Point, California, on September 27.

Pearl Jam in Vancouver in May 2024 (photo: Geoff Whitman)

The Thrill of the Unknown: Pearl Jam Embraces the Mystery

Stone Gossard, the band’s guitarist, shared a wonderful insight into their current mood during a recent interview on SiriusXM’s Pearl Jam Radio. “I love the mystery of it all. It’s so exciting,” he said. It’s honestly refreshing to hear a band of their stature relish in the unknown – a sentiment that feels rare these days when everything gets spilled online almost instantly.

He continued, “There’s not enough mystery in the world. I think the band is very excited that we’re actually getting to play. It’s been a while, and the fact that we get to do it at Ohana makes it even doubly exciting. And the fact that nobody knows who’s going to play drums with us even makes it triply exciting. So, it’s our mystery wrapped in an enigma, and we’re relishing in it right now.”

This vibe of secrecy casts a spell over fans, building genuine anticipation. You get the sense that this isn’t just a band restructuring — it’s a new adventure beginning, a fresh groove to discover.

Ohana Festival 2026: Pearl Jam’s Big Stage Return

The Ohana Festival marks its 10th anniversary this year and promises an unforgettable lineup packed with some seriously impressive names. The festival takes place at Doheny State Beach and features headlining sets from none other than Eddie Vedder himself, performing with some surprise guests on September 25, and Tyler Childers taking the stage the next night.

The festival’s undercard is equally tantalizing with rock legends Maná, punk stalwarts Bad Religion, the ever-cool Billy Idol, Courtney Barnett’s indie vibes, Bob Mould’s reunited Sugar, Alabama Shakes, Jon Batiste, Men I Trust, Fontaines D.C., Pixies, Rilo Kiley, The Format, and Pearl Jam’s bassist Jeff Ament’s side project P.E.S.T. It’s like a rock fan’s dream come true!

This eclectic mix of artists sets a perfect backdrop for Pearl Jam’s highly anticipated first show with their new drummer, ensuring the Ohana Festival will be a hot ticket for fans hungry to witness the band’s new rhythm section in action.

A Fond Farewell to Matt Cameron

Matt Cameron’s departure after a remarkable 27-year run with Pearl Jam wasn’t just the end of an era — it was a moment filled with respect and love. Gossard fondly reflected on Cameron’s contributions, tracing back to when Matt first drummed for some of Gossard’s earliest demos in 1990. “His playing speaks for itself. Matt’s always going to be our brother,” he said warmly.

The guitarist acknowledges the massive shoes the band’s new drummer will have to fill. “Where do you go after Matt Cameron? It’s a big question,” he admitted, emphasizing Matt’s powerful, energetic style and his outstanding dedication to the music. “He always played with power and with energy, and it’ll be a tough task to figure that out. But I’m confident that we’re going to be able to do it.”

It’s clear from Gossard’s words that while change is on the horizon, the legacy of Cameron’s artistry will remain deeply woven into Pearl Jam’s identity.

Keeping the Craft Sharp During the Break

While the band has taken a year off from the stage, Gossard revealed he’s been anything but idle. “I’ve actually been playing more guitar than I have in a long time, which is great,” he shared. Like many musicians, he’s made guitar play a daily ritual — noodling around, playing along with various tracks, and generally keeping those fingers nimble.

His focus has also turned to the studio, crafting demos and experimenting with ideas that might spark new creative directions. “Trying different things, dreaming about what Ed might like and where we could go that would be fun,” Gossard added. It’s a process of exploration, reflection, and preparation — the perfect way for a band ready to burst back onto the scene.

And it’s not just him. Everyone in the band has been equally busy, quietly nurturing the spark of new music. So when they hit the stage again, it won’t just be a comeback — it’ll be a reinvigoration.

Not Returning: Dave Krusen’s Role Confirmed

Among the many drummers who have donned the kit for Pearl Jam, Dave Krusen holds a special place as the band’s original drummer, who performed on their iconic 1991 debut album, Ten. Krusen was even inducted with Pearl Jam into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and briefly reunited with the group during the induction ceremony in New York — their first time playing together in 26 years.

Despite this, Krusen will not be joining the band again. When a fan asked on Instagram if he was “coming back,” Krusen responded simply, “no, they have a new drummer already.” This confirms the band’s commitment to moving forward while still honoring their rich past.

“It’s our mystery wrapped in an enigma, and we’re relishing in it right now.”
– Stone Gossard

Pearl Jam’s approach to this new chapter, cloaked in mystery and anticipation, reminds us just why they remain one of rock’s most enduring and captivating bands. With the Ohana Festival looming, fans have every reason to be excited — the next Pearl Jam era is about to unfold, and it promises to be thrilling.

FAQ

• Who is Pearl Jam’s new drummer? The band has chosen a new drummer but is keeping the identity a secret until their first show with him at the Ohana Festival on September 27.
• When did Matt Cameron leave Pearl Jam? Matt Cameron amicably parted ways with Pearl Jam in July 2025 after playing with the band for 27 years.
• What is the significance of the Ohana Festival for Pearl Jam? The Ohana Festival marks the band’s first live performance with their new drummer, making it a major milestone in their evolving journey.
• Will Dave Krusen return to play with Pearl Jam? No. Dave Krusen, Pearl Jam’s original drummer, confirmed he will not be rejoining the band.
• How has Stone Gossard been preparing for the band’s return? Gossard has been playing guitar daily, working on demos, and experimenting in the studio to help shape the band’s future sound.

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