As diehard grunge fans, we had hoped that the world would never come to this: Matt Cameron deciding whether he would tour with Soundgarden or Pearl Jam. Cameron, possibly the most relevant name that you've never heard of in the early '90s Seattle grunge movement, is a very relevant part of both bands. And it makes sense, as he was the best drummer in the scene (it wasn't Dave Grohl, with no offense to the Nirvana drummer).
Cameron first rose to mainstream prominence banging the skins for Soundgarden. He joined Soundgarden vocalist Chris Cornell in the side project Temple of The Dog, dedicated to deceased Mother Love Bone vocalist Andrew Wood. Two former members of Love Bone, guitarist Stone Gossard and bassist Jeff Ament joined, as well as guitarist Mike McCready and additional vocalist Eddie Vedder. If you follow grunge, you'll know that all those listed, aside from Cornell and Cameron, are founding members of Pearl Jam. When Soundgarden shut down in 1997, Cameron jumped on as Pearl Jam's drummer the next year. Soundgarden reformed during 2010, and everything's been cool...until now.
It seems that both bands are looking to hit the road next year, which means that Cameron has to choose a side. And, unfortunately for Soundgarden fans (ourselves included), the drummer opted for Pearl Jam. He wrote in a statement that he is "trying to balance the many twists and turns of my awesome music career. This is temporary. I am still an active member of Soundgarden." Indeed, it must be awesome being a full time member of both Soundgarden AND Pearl Jam.
He's currently helping his fellows at the former find a replacement for 2014. Our first suggestion would be Brann Dailor of Mastodon, a band that has opened for Soundgarden in the past, but that act is reportedly busy recording its own new LP. We can only pray for the best.
