In a recent interview with Anita Stelmasiuk of 90 The Original, SOUNDGARDEN guitarist Kim Thayil discussed the departure of PEARL JAM drummer Matt Cameron.

When asked who he would choose as a replacement, Thayil mentioned Josh Freese and Barrett Martin as viable options due to their skills and experience.

He also praised Cameron's abilities, stating that he brought out the best in other musicians during his time with PEARL JAM.

Cameron left the band last July after nearly three decades of service, having joined as Jack Irons' replacement.

Before joining PEARL JAM, Cameron had a long history of playing drums professionally, starting at age 14 in various cover bands and later taking private lessons from Jon Szanto of the San Diego Symphony.

He eventually moved to Seattle and joined SOUNDGARDEN from 1986 until 1997, then toured with PEARL JAM from 1998 until his departure last year.

Thayil's comments come as PEARL JAM continues to tour in support of its latest studio album, "Dark Matter", which was released in 2024.

The band has been on hiatus since wrapping up the "Dark Matter" world tour in Pittsburgh on May 18, 2025.