Pearl Jam is one of the most influential rock bands of our time. Formed in Seattle in 1990, the band consists of Eddie Vedder (vocals, guitar), Stone Gossard (rhythm guitar), Mike McCready (lead guitar), Jeff Ament (bass), and until recently, Matt Cameron (drums), who officially left the band in 2025 after 27 years. Their music blends grunge and alternative rock, marked by emotionally charged vocals and introspective lyrics that helped define the sound of the 1990s.
In April 2024, the band released their twelfth studio album, Dark Matter, produced by Andrew Watt. The album received widespread critical acclaim and was described as a fresh yet nostalgic return to their mature sonic identity. Singles such as “Dark Matter”, “Wreckage” (both topping rock charts), “Running”, and “Upper Hand” quickly became staples of their live shows.
Their massive Dark Matter World Tour (May 2024 – May 2025) spanned 48 shows across three continents, grossing over $120 million. Due to overwhelming demand, they added ten more U.S. dates in spring 2025. The final concert in Pittsburgh on May 18 delivered a powerful 25-song setlist, blending new material with classic anthems and covers.
The year 2025 also marked a transitional moment for the band. Longtime drummer Matt Cameron departed after the tour, signaling a new chapter in Pearl Jam’s history. In interviews, guitarist Mike McCready and bassist Jeff Ament emphasized their continued commitment to authenticity and community-driven music-making.