Pearl Jam Share Statement About New Drummer At Ohana, Eddie Vedder Performs With Pixies, Bad Religion, Billy Strings, Stephen Wilson Jr., & More

Over the weekend, Eddie Vedder's set at California's Ohana Fest turned into a Pearl Jam performance with Abe Laboriel Jr. behind the drum kit. It was the band's first gig since Matt Cameron left after 27 years last year, and now Vedder shared a statement about the new drummer.At the festival, Vedder introduced the new drummer (who they unveiled on Friday, the first day) and dedicated "Better Man" to him. His speech fooled fans — and Rolling Stone — into thinking that he was the official replacement: "There's an old musical adage that I do believe, and that is that you cannot be — and we've had the best — but you cannot be a great band without a great drummer. So, we thank Abe for keeping us in the running," he said onstage. But today's statement says Abe Laboriel Jr. is "sitting in." Here's the statement:Hello good humans,Just a quick note on this Monday morning to thank each and everyone who came out to Ohana Fest this year. Three days of great groups, all of whom were further energized by the pumped up vibes from a perfect crowd. You all made our tenth year so special and we are GRATEFUL.Also wanted to extend our further appreciation to Abe Laboriel Jr. sitting in on drums for PJ...