New Drummer Debut
Pearl Jam surprises fans by debuting new drummer Abe Laboriel Jr. at festival.
Anonymous
Pearl Jam surprised fans at Eddie Vedder’s Friday set at the Ohana Festival by bringing out drummer Abe Laboriel Jr., best known for his long-running work with Paul McCartney. The band played a selection of favorites and newer songs, turning the billed “Eddie Vedder and Friends” appearance into an early preview of its lineup ahead of Sunday’s scheduled headlining performance. Laboriel is expected to play with the band again, but Pearl Jam has not officially confirmed whether he is Matt Cameron’s permanent replacement. Cameron left in July 2025 after 27 years with the group, prompting months of speculation about who would take over the drum seat.
Key Points
1
Vedder began the set with five acoustic songs, including a tribute to his late friend Glen Hansard, and performed the Who’s “I’m One” with Billy Idol before Pearl Jam joined him.
2
The performance included a rare rendition of “Green Disease,” which had been played only seven times in the preceding 15 years; Vedder introduced it with remarks about environmentalist Capt. Paul Watson, who was at the festival.
3
Pearl Jam also played the Dead Boys’ “Sonic Reducer” in tribute to the band’s recently deceased guitarist Cheetah Chrome, and closed with the Who’s “Baba O’Riley.”
4
Matt Cameron later cited the physical demands of touring and a desire to pursue other projects as reasons for leaving Pearl Jam.
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