The Foo Fighters have officially named Ilan Rubin as their new drummer following the departure of Josh Freese earlier this year. Rubin, best known for his long-standing work with Nine Inch Nails, will join the band as they enter their fourth decade together. Freese, meanwhile, is set to return to Nine Inch Nails for their upcoming Peel It Back tour, according to confirmation from Rolling Stone.

Rubin’s appointment marks the latest chapter in a transitional period for the Foo Fighters, who have been adjusting to life after the loss of their beloved longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2022. Freese, a seasoned session and live drummer with an extensive résumé, was brought on in 2023 to help fill the massive void left by Hawkins. His time with the group, however, was relatively brief.

Freese publicly confirmed his departure in May, stating that the Foo Fighters had “decided to go in a different direction” with no specific explanation provided. The split was seemingly amicable, though it left fans speculating about the future of the band’s lineup. That speculation was put to rest this week when Nine Inch Nails shared a photo of Freese on their official X account with the caption, “Let’s f*cking GO,” signaling his return to the industrial rock group and clearing the path for Rubin’s arrival with the Foo Fighters.

Rubin, 36, is no stranger to high-profile gigs. He joined Nine Inch Nails in 2009 and became the youngest living inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the group in 2020. Beyond his work with Trent Reznor’s band, Rubin has performed with acts including Paramore, Angels & Airwaves, and composer Danny Elfman. His blend of technical prowess and creative versatility makes him a fitting addition to the Foo Fighters’ evolving sound.

The news comes at a significant milestone for the band. Earlier this month, the Foo Fighters marked their 30th anniversary with the release of “Today’s Song,” their first new music in two years. Frontman Dave Grohl debuted the track via the band’s website, accompanied by a personal audio message reflecting on the band’s long journey and directly addressing, for the first time, the recent lineup changes.

“Over the years, we’ve had moments of unbridled joy and moments of devastating heartbreak,” Grohl said. “It should go without saying that without the boundless energy of William Goldsmith, the seasoned wisdom of Franz Stahl, and the thunderous wizardry of Josh Freese, this story would be incomplete.”

Grohl’s message struck a tone of gratitude, acknowledging each past member's role in shaping the band’s history. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the time, music, and memories that we shared with each of them over the years. Thank you, gentlemen.”

With Rubin stepping behind the drum kit, the Foo Fighters are poised to enter a new phase. Though the band has yet to announce a full tour schedule, the new lineup is expected to appear on future dates and recordings.