The New Regime – Exhibit B

Dynamic Solo Project of a Multifarious Talent

As a seasoned multi-instrumentalist whose past experiences include studio work and live performances with bands such as Angels and Airwaves, Nine-inch Nails and Paramore, the truly incredible depth of Ilan Rubin can be realized in his solo project, The New Regime. Exhibit B, The New Regime’s second studio album released March 31, reflects the vast spectrum of influence that is embodied by Rubin. Being produced, written and recorded entirely alone, Exhibit B is a further exploration into Rubin himself. From grungy guitar riffs to classical piano to electrified synths, Rubin’s talent cannot be confined to a single instrument, much less, a single genre.

Rubin, a drummer first and foremost, began playing drums at the age of 8, and by the age of 11 he was the youngest musician to play on a Woodstock stage. With such credentials, one might expect drums to dominate the entire album. Although incredible drum lines are featured on Exhibit B, the album begins with a playful, electro-esque beat on “Where I’ve Headed All Along.” The musical realms Rubin explores on his album only develops further throughout the record.

The third track “We Rise, We Fall” is a staple of the album, reminiscent of the hard-hitting rock that we would expect from an accomplished rocker such as Rubin. The album continues with “The Longing,” an airy, indie-sounding track with a fast-paced drumbeat showcasing Rubin’s coveted percussion with a small drum solo in the mid section.

The singing on Exhibit B begs the question, why haven’t we heard Rubin sing more extensively on other projects? Underneath his hard rock exterior, we find a singer/songwriter whose voice is entirely underrated. His soft acoustic strumming and introspective lyrics on “Let the Space Remain” connect with the audience on a tangible level.

The epitome of the entire album occurs during its resolution. The final track, “Voices Calling,” begins with a classically-influenced piano solo and flows into an almost menacing, poignant melody. Just when conclusion seems imminent, the song erupts with palpable emotion.

Rubin proves time and time again the extent of his talent through his work with like-minded musicians. With Exhibit B, Rubin steps out of the musical vehicles of others and creates a vessel to exemplify himself as an independent and ever-changing artist.