One of the Greatest Drum Solos of All Time Belongs to 1991 Hit – And It Still Hits

Tim Alexander of Primus was an innovator in the alternative music genre and helped move along the idea of less being more. He's one of the best drummers of all time but sometimes gets overshadowed by Les Claypool who really is Primus.

Claypool is certainly one of the greatest bass players of all time, and Primus is his baby. But, any good bassist knows that it takes two to tango in the rhythm section, and the bass has to have an apt drum complement to really rock.

Among Alexander's great works for Primus was "Eleven," a song off Sailing the Seas of Cheese, the second studio album and major label debut from Primus, that Drum Magazine named one of the most incredible drum solos of all time.

Tim Alexander's 1991 Drum Solo in Primus Features Grooves and Tight Drumming

"The name itself suggests that the track is in 11/8," Drum Magazine wrote. "The artist, Tim Alexander, has some noticeable grooves and fill throughout the entire song. In some way, his drumming is so tight, and you can see Neil Peart's influence on him."

Alexander quit Primus in October 2024 via email. His bandmates Les Claypool and Larry LaLonde shared the news on social media, stating on X that Alexander had "lost his passion for playing."

"On the heels of a wonderful spring & summer of touring and some fabulous plans ahead," Claypool and LaLonde added, "it has been a bit bewildering for us that Herb would so abruptly opt out."

The two added that "after several attempts to communicate with Herb, his only response was another email stating that he has 'lost his passion for playing.' As disappointing as that is, we respect his choice and it's forced us to make some tough decisions."

Alexander later told Rolling Stone that "only certain parts" of his letter were "released to the whole world" by his former bandmates. He added that "all of these tours left me feeling empty" and that his "body hurts constantly" among his reasons for leaving.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 27, 2026 at 5:42 PM.