Matt cameron Charts a new Musical Course After Pearl Jam Exit
Matt Cameron, the acclaimed drummer known for his work with Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, is embarking on a fresh chapter in his illustrious career. He recently made the decision to step away from Pearl Jam after three decades with the band, a move he describes as a natural progression toward pursuing long-held artistic ambitions. Now, he’s channeling his energy into projects that allow for a different kind of creative expression.
Cameron explains he’s reached a point where he wants to fully dedicate himself to projects driven by his personal artistic vision. This isn’t a departure from collaboration, but rather a refocusing of his efforts. he provided ample notice to Pearl jam, ensuring a smooth transition for all involved.
New Musical Ventures
Several exciting projects are already taking shape. One is “Is This Real?”, a band initially formed as a tribute to the influential punk group Wipers. Though, the project has evolved, and Cameron is now leading the band as vocalist and guitarist, incorporating original material he’s been developing for years. He anticipates releasing an album with “Is This Real?” in the near future.
Moreover, Cameron is collaborating with a veritable supergroup called “3rd Secret.” This band features Kim Thayil of Soundgarden, Krist Novoselic of Nirvana, and Jon ”Bubba” Dupree of Void.while details are still emerging, the possibility of live performances is on the horizon, though Cameron notes these shows will differ in scope and intensity from those with Pearl jam.
“I’m at a point now where I want to do a face-melting 70-minute set,” Cameron shared, highlighting his desire for extended, immersive performances. This desire reflects a shift toward a more unrestrained and energetic musical outlet.
Maintaining Positive Relationships
Cameron emphasizes that his departure from Pearl Jam was entirely amicable. He’s remained in contact with former bandmates Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament, describing their interactions as positive. He expresses hope for future reunions,even if just for a casual get-together.
“Hopefully we’ll get back together at some point and have a beer or something,” he saeid, demonstrating a continued respect and fondness for his former colleagues.
What’s Next for Pearl Jam?
Currently, Pearl jam is without a drummer, and the band has not announced a replacement. They have no scheduled tour dates for the remainder of 2025, and their 2026 calendar remains open. This provides them time to find the right fit and chart their next musical direction.
For Cameron, this new phase represents an exciting chance to explore his artistic passions and deliver the kind of high-energy performances he’s envisioning. You can expect to see and hear a lot more from him as he dives headfirst into these compelling new projects.