Foo Fighters Roar Back With New Drummer and Epic 25-Song Set

After more than a year away from live performance, Foo Fighters made a thunderous return to the stage with an intimate show at the Fremont Theater in San Luis Obispo, California, on Saturday, September 13. The 900-capacity venue offered fans a rare chance to see the stadium rock giants in a more personal setting.

Led by Dave Grohl, the band powered through a 25-song set that pulled from nearly every corner of their discography—excluding 2015’s Sonic Highways. Though no new material was played, the energy and depth of the set made it a memorable night for those in attendance.

Ilan Rubin Takes the Throne

The performance also marked the official live debut of drummer Ilan Rubin, who joined the band earlier this year. Rubin replaces Josh Freese, who stepped in following the tragic death of longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2021. Known for his work with Nine Inch Nails and Angels & Airwaves, Rubin brought a fresh dynamic to the Foo Fighters’ sound.

During their performance of “No Son of Mine,” the band briefly paid homage to Motörhead with a snippet of “Ace of Spades,” drawing cheers from the crowd.

Hints at What’s Next

Following the show, Foo Fighters updated their Facebook profile photo to include a new image featuring the band alongside legendary producer Rick Rubin. Just days earlier, they posted a cryptic shot of their legs with the caption, “Foo Fighters Assemble!”—suggesting studio sessions are underway and a follow-up to 2023’s But Here We Are may be in development.

While the band hasn’t confirmed new material yet, all signs point to something big on the horizon.

Foo Fighters setlist, Fremont Theater, San Luis Obispo, California, September 13
All My Life
Rope
Have It All
Times Like These
Wattershed
Stacked Actors
La Dee Da
These Days
The Pretender
Walk
My Hero
Learn To Fly
Rescued
Aurora
This Is A Call
No Son Of Mine
Shame Shame
White Limo
Winnebago
Best Of You
Alone + Easy Target
Low
Monkey Wrench
Exhausted
Everlong