Help carry the beat for drummer Tim

The family of Primus and Puscifer drummer Tim Alexander have asked fans to join them in a "global drum circle" when his heart is stopped by doctors this afternoon.

He’ll go under the knife after suffering a heart attack last week. The procedure will take place after 7.30am Pacific Time – 3.30pm BST.

The 49-year-old’s family say in a statement: “Sometime tomorrow, Tim’s heart will be stopped for his open heart surgery. The heart is like a drum and we need to help keep it going, so during this time we ask you to help carry the beat.

“Whether it be drums, percussion or even in your head, we’d like to start a global drum circle to send positive, healing energy to Tim. Any and all prayers, healing words and thoughts would also be greatly appreciated.”

Fans are asked to express their support by tweeting #carrythebeat to @TimAlexander or @Primus.

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.