In an honest revelation, Primus' guitarist Larry LaLonde discloses that the item he snatched during their hastened escape from the destructive California wildfires was a double-neck guitar, a gift from Alex Lifeson.
California Wildfires Devastate Larry LaLonde's Collection
Musician Larry 'Ler' LaLonde, known for his work with the band Primus, has suffered a significant loss following the California wildfires in January 2025. His home and studio were among the structures destroyed, along with a substantial portion of his prized guitar collection.
Among the 58 guitars lost was a notable "Sailing on the Seas of Cheese" Stratocaster that LaLonde had owned since high school. This guitar was a staple in his early career, featuring prominently in the first Primus records.
LaLonde's collection included nearly his entire collection of Paul Reed Smith guitars, with the exception of one. In a show of support, Paul Reed Smith later sent him two new guitars to help replenish his losses.
Tragically, LaLonde also lost his entire home studio and recording gear, along with countless other items. However, he managed to save one precious guitar - a double-neck guitar given to him by Alex Lifeson during the evacuation.
Currently, LaLonde is auditioning drummers after the departure of Tim Alexander, all while he and his family are "scrambling to find a place to live." The full interview with LaLonde will be published on our website in the coming weeks.
Despite the devastating loss, LaLonde remains hopeful and resilient, ready to continue his musical journey.
- Larry 'Ler' LaLonde's collection, which includes guitars from famed brands like Fender, Gibson, PRS, and Les Paul, was severely impacted by the California wildfires in January 2025.
- Among the guitars lost was a Gibson Stratocaster called "Sailing on the Seas of Cheese," a significant piece in LaLonde's early career and Primus' music history.
- Despite the loss, celebrities and figures in pop-culture, including Paul Reed Smith, have shown their support, with Smith sending LaLonde two new guitars to help replenish his losses.
- In addition to the loss of his guitars, LaLonde also lost his home studio, recording gear, and countless other items, but managed to save a double-neck guitar, a gift from Alex Lifeson.
- LaLonde, who is currently auditioning drummers after the departure of Tim Alexander, is also "scrambling to find a place to live."
- Despite these challenges, LaLonde remains hopeful and resilient, ready to continue his musical journey and contribute to the entertainment industry.
