New Photo Book, Pearl Jam's New Drummer

Key Points:

• Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament, also a photographer, has released a new book, Since Forever, featuring over 250 black-and-white photos of the band along with his reflections, showcasing his long history of documenting Pearl Jam since the early 1990s.
• The book was released on September 25, coinciding with Pearl Jam’s surprise return to live performance at the Ohana Festival, where Abe Laboriel Jr. filled in on drums following Matt Cameron’s departure, though the band has not confirmed a permanent replacement.
• Ament shared insights into his photography journey, including selling his first camera to move to Seattle in 1983 and later reclaiming his craft during the production of the film Singles, motivated by a DIY ethic to avoid costly professional photographers.
• He recounted memorable moments such as capturing candid shots of Eddie Vedder during Ten sessions and the iconic sheep photo used for the Vs. album cover, as well as touring experiences like backing Neil Young, who often introduced songs just minutes before performances.
• Looking ahead, Ament expressed enthusiasm for new Pearl Jam music and touring in 2024, noting the band has started writing together again, while also reflecting on band dynamics and the possibility of change with their new drummer.