Pearl Jam Unveils Abe Laboriel Jr. as Likely New Drummer at Ohana Festival

Key points

• Pearl Jam performed an unannounced set at the Ohana Festival on Friday night, joining Eddie Vedder’s 'Friends' lineup with Abe Laboriel Jr. on drums.
• The band played 'Corduroy' as the first song with Laboriel, followed by 'Hail Hail,' 'Scared of Fear,' and 'Wishlist.'
• This is the band’s first live performance since Matt Cameron left the group in July 2025 after 27 years.
• Eddie Vedder introduced Laboriel as 'filling in,' suggesting the arrangement may be temporary rather than a permanent hiring.
• Laboriel is a 55-year-old session drummer who has worked with Paul McCartney since 2001 and previously guested on Vedder’s 2022 album 'Earthling.'
• The band had previously confirmed a new drummer was chosen but kept the identity secret, described by Stone Gossard as a 'mystery wrapped in an enigma.'

Background

In late September 2026, anticipation built around Pearl Jam’s decision to reveal a new drummer at the Ohana Festival. The band had confirmed a selection was made following Matt Cameron’s amicable departure in July 2025 but withheld the name. Rolling Stone had previously listed Laboriel among top candidates due to his relationship with Vedder and his technical skills. The archive notes that the band’s choice was expected to be a versatile performer capable of handling their demanding live shows.

How outlets are covering it

Rolling Stone frames the event as a definitive 'unveiling' of the new drummer, suggesting Laboriel is the chosen successor. In contrast, Stereogum notes that Vedder explicitly introduced Laboriel as 'filling in,' implying the permanent role might still be undecided or could be announced on Sunday. Consequence of Sound reports the debut neutrally as a surprise appearance. All outlets agree that the performance was a surprise to fans, who had no prior hint of Laboriel’s involvement, though Rolling Stone highlights his 'ferocious' skills while Stereogum emphasizes his extensive session work with artists like Sting and Eric Clapton.

Why it matters

The identity of Pearl Jam’s new drummer is a significant topic for the band’s fanbase, given Matt Cameron’s long tenure and the band’s rigorous live performance standards. The surprise appearance at a major festival signals a shift in the band’s touring lineup and resolves months of speculation regarding the 'mystery' replacement. It also highlights the intersection of high-profile session musicians and major rock acts, as Laboriel’s departure from Paul McCartney’s live band in May 2026 had already raised questions about his future commitments.

What to watch

Pearl Jam is scheduled to headline the Ohana Festival on Sunday, where they may officially confirm Laboriel’s status or reveal a different permanent drummer. The band has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the hiring. Fans and media will be watching to see if Laboriel continues to perform with the band or if the 'fill-in' arrangement was a one-time event.