There’s been a big shift behind the kits in the rock world. Foo Fighters have officially brought in Ilan Rubin as their new drummer, while Josh Freese is heading back to Nine Inch Nails.
Sources confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that Rubin is stepping away from Nine Inch Nails—where he’s been a staple since 2008 (with a short break before returning in 2013)—to join Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters. It’s not yet clear if Rubin is in as a permanent member or just for touring duties, but the move is already sending shockwaves through both fanbases.
Rubin comes with serious pedigree. Aside from being the youngest living Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee (thanks to NIN’s 2020 induction), he’s known for his work with Angels & Airwaves, Danny Elfman, and his solo project The New Regime. His style blends power and precision—something that’ll no doubt leave its mark on Foo Fighters’ next chapter.
NIN didn’t hold back their excitement, posting “Let’s F**king Go, @joshfreese” on Instagram along with a photo of the returning drummer.
Freese also addressed fans directly in a heartfelt Instagram message posted on July 30:
“Leaving Nine Inch Nails at the end of 2008 was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make… NIN was a band that left me walking off stage every single night thinking, ‘That was incredible. We absolutely crushed it.’ … Now, being back on tour with Trent and the crew—helping them do what they do best night after night—is something I’m incredibly excited about. To be part of that energy again feels amazing.
“If you get a chance to catch one of these shows over the next sic weeks, I promise, they’re going to be absolutely unforgettable.
“Hope to see you out there.”
