AceShowbiz - Pearl Jam performed a surprise set at the Ohana Festival in Dana Point, California, introducing Abe Laboriel Jr. as their fill-in drummer following Matt Cameron’s departure from the band after 27 years.

The performance was initially promoted as Eddie Vedder and Friends, but the full band, including Laboriel Jr., appeared early in Vedder’s solo set to perform a 15-song set together. The group played fan favorites such as Corduroy, Hail Hail, Scared of Fear, Wishlist, and Dark Matter. Vedder clarified that Laboriel Jr. was only filling in for the night, and it has yet to be confirmed if he will become the band’s permanent drummer. Pearl Jam is scheduled to headline the Ohana Festival stage again on Sunday night, marking their only other planned show for 2026 so far.

Abe Laboriel Jr. is widely recognized as Paul McCartney’s longtime drummer and has also worked with artists like Sting, Steve Vai, and Eric Clapton. He previously collaborated with Vedder on the 2022 solo album Earthling and performed live with him at the festival. Matt Cameron, who joined Pearl Jam in 1998 and played on every studio album from Binaural onward, was the band’s drummer for nearly three decades before leaving in July 2025. Pearl Jam expressed gratitude for Cameron’s contributions and wished him well. Cameron was also known for his work with Soundgarden.

This development is significant as it marks a major lineup change for Pearl Jam, a band credited with shaping grunge music since their breakthrough album Ten. The choice of Abe Laboriel Jr., an accomplished and versatile drummer, suggests the band is seeking a seasoned professional to maintain their sound during this transitional period. Fans will be watching closely to see if Laboriel Jr. will take on a permanent role or if the band will explore other options moving forward.