by New Primus drummer John Hoffman has been nominated for the Modern Drummer 2025 Reader’s Poll ‘Prog Rock Drummer of the Year,’ as announced on his Instagram.
Hoffman expressed his excitement about the nomination. It places him alongside some of the most respected names in progressive rock drumming.
“Wow. Well, I’m once again holding back tears of joy,” Hoffman said. “I just found out I have been nominated for Modern Drummer 2025 Reader’s Poll ‘Prog Rock Drummer of the Year’!! What a mind blowing feeling to see my name in contention next to such absolute legends of the game.”
The drummer continued to share his gratitude for the recognition.
“I’m speechless. I cannot thank you all enough,” he continued. “Truly blown away, what an honor. Much love, y’all!!”
The nomination includes other notable drummers such as Danny Carey, Mike Portnoy, II from Sleep Token, and Virgil Donati. The Reader’s Poll results will determine the winner for 2025.
Hoffman’s nomination comes just months after he was selected as Primus’s new drummer following an extensive audition process. Modern Drummer reported that Hoffman was chosen from over 6,200 applicants worldwide, making him the eighth drummer to join the band in their history.
The Shreveport, Louisiana-based drummer began his musical journey at an exceptionally early age. Relix noted that Hoffman started playing drums at age two and performed his first national tour by age 17. His musical upbringing was heavily influenced by his father, a career musician who played in the Texas-based band The Killer Bees.
Prior to joining Primus, Hoffman was known locally as “the busiest drummer in Shreveport,” playing over 250 shows per year with several local bands, including the “Gypsy Punk Country Grumble Boogie” group Dirtfoot. The final decision for the Primus position came down to Hoffman and Hungarian drummer Gergo Borlai.
Hoffman impressed the band with his audition videos, including a notable performance of the Primus song “John the Fisherman.” Loudwire revealed that Primus bassist and vocalist Les Claypool praised Hoffman’s drumming style as reminiscent of Jay Lane and Stewart Copeland, signaling a high technical and stylistic fit for the band’s complex sound.
Hoffman’s selection followed the departure of longtime drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander in late 2024, who resigned after decades with the band. His official debut with Primus includes touring that started in March 2025. The tour includes performances at the Tool Live in the Sand festival and the Sessanta U.S. tour with A Perfect Circle and Puscifer.
