Pearl Jam Drummer Mystery Deepens After Vedder’s 'Sitting In' Remark

Key points

• Abe Laboriel Jr. performed with Pearl Jam at the 2026 Ohana Festival in Dana Point, California, replacing Matt Cameron.
• Eddie Vedder’s post-festival letter thanked Laboriel for 'sitting in,' a term typically used for guest musicians rather than permanent members.
• Bassist Jeff Ament confirmed Laboriel was the band's first choice but stated it was 'too early' to confirm a permanent role before the festival.
• The band has no scheduled concerts, leaving the timeline for an official announcement or new album uncertain.
• Ament expressed hope for a new album and tour in 2027, noting that new material is in early development stages.

Background

Matt Cameron left Pearl Jam in July 2025 after nearly 30 years. The band promised to reveal a replacement at the September 2026 Ohana Festival. Prior coverage indicated Laboriel was the top candidate, but Vedder’s initial introduction at the festival described him as a temporary fill-in, creating immediate confusion among fans and media.

How outlets are covering it

Rolling Stone emphasizes the ambiguity of Vedder’s language, arguing that 'sitting in' contradicts the idea of a permanent hire and suggests Laboriel may have declined the full-time role to remain with Paul McCartney. Loudwire and PearlJamOnline.it focus on Jeff Ament’s interview, highlighting that Laboriel was the 'first name' considered and that the band is already writing new music. Jambands.com provides coverage of the festival performance, noting guest appearances by Billy Strings, but does not address the contractual status of the drummer. The outlets disagree on whether the Ohana performance constituted a definitive hiring event or a temporary collaboration.

Why it matters

The unresolved status of the drummer affects Pearl Jam’s touring schedule and album production. Ament’s comments suggest a potential 2027 release, but the lack of an official announcement creates uncertainty for fans and industry stakeholders regarding the band’s future lineup and creative direction.

What to watch

Fans and media await an official statement from Pearl Jam or Eddie Vedder clarifying Abe Laboriel Jr.’s role. The band is currently developing new material, with Ament and Stone Gossard discussing potential directions for a future album. No concerts are currently scheduled, leaving the timeline for a public resolution open.