Introduction
In 2024, Linkin Park embarked on an unprecedented revival after seven years of uncertainty following the tragic passing of their iconic lead singer, Chester Bennington. The band’s hiatus was an emotional journey, leaving fans wondering if they would ever return. However, the band’s announcement of a new album, tour, and the inclusion of a new vocalist has reignited excitement across their global fanbase. Their 2024 return marks a new era for the band, symbolizing both a tribute to their roots and a bold step into the future. The upcoming album From Zero and the worldwide From Zero World Tour have generated significant media buzz, particularly with the introduction of Emily Armstrong, the frontwoman of Dead Sara, as the new co-vocalist.
Linkin Park’s New Lineup: Emily Armstrong and Colin Brittain
The death of Chester Bennington in 2017 was a devastating moment for the band and its fans. Bennington was not only the voice of Linkin Park but also a central figure in the band’s emotional resonance and connection with listeners. Replacing him seemed unimaginable. However, 2024 brings an unexpected but welcome change with Emily Armstrong joining as the new co-vocalist. Armstrong, known for her powerful and dynamic performances with Dead Sara, brings a fresh yet complementary energy to the group. Her vocal range and ability to switch between fierce, gritty tones and softer, melodic expressions has earned her recognition within the rock scene (EW.com)(Our Culture).
Armstrong’s introduction into the band has not been without challenges. Stepping into Bennington’s shoes is a monumental task, given his ability to express vulnerability and rage in a way that deeply resonated with fans. Nevertheless, early reviews of Armstrong’s performances on new material, such as the single “The Emptiness Machine,” have been positive. Critics have noted that Armstrong’s vocals bring a raw intensity that aligns with the band’s sound, while still maintaining her unique identity as an artist (Our Culture).
In addition to Armstrong, Colin Brittain has also joined the band as their new drummer, replacing longtime member Rob Bourdon. Brittain, a seasoned musician and producer, has worked with prominent acts such as Papa Roach and Illenium. His technical precision and energy on the drums offer a revitalized rhythmic foundation for the band, complementing the other members—Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, and Joe Hahn(EW.com)(Our Culture).
The From Zero Album
The release of From Zero on November 15, 2024, represents Linkin Park’s first studio album since 2017’s One More Light, which was released just months before Bennington’s death. The album title From Zero is a nod to the band’s original name, Xero, before they became Linkin Park. The significance of the title goes beyond mere nostalgia—it symbolizes a fresh beginning, rooted in their past but looking forward to the future. As Mike Shinoda explained, the title reflects both the humble beginnings of the band and the emotional journey they’ve undergone since Bennington’s passing(Our Culture)(Stereoboard.com).
The lead single from the album, “The Emptiness Machine,” showcases Linkin Park’s return to their nu-metal roots, a genre that they helped pioneer in the early 2000s. The song features heavy guitar riffs, electronic elements, and an intense interplay between Armstrong’s and Shinoda’s vocals. Early reviews of the track have praised its emotional depth and sonic power, with many describing it as a return to form for the band, blending the aggression of Hybrid Theory with the melodic sensibilities of Minutes to Midnight. Armstrong’s ability to shift between clean vocals and aggressive screams has been particularly noted as a highlight, showcasing her range and versatility(Stereoboard.com).
From Zero promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, with a mix of anthemic tracks and introspective ballads. The tracklist includes songs such as “Cut The Bridge,” “Heavy Is The Crown,” and “Overflow,” all of which hint at themes of loss, recovery, and resilience. Shinoda has described the album as an exploration of the band’s past, present, and future, blending their signature sound with new elements brought in by Armstrong and Brittain. The album also features contributions from longtime collaborators such as producer Rick Rubin, who has worked with the band on several previous albums(Stereoboard.com).
Reviews of the New Tracks and Armstrong’s Solo Work
Critics and fans have eagerly anticipated the release of From Zero, and early reviews of the tracks, particularly “The Emptiness Machine,” have been positive. The song has been described as a powerful blend of the band’s early nu-metal sound with modern rock elements. Armstrong’s vocal delivery, which alternates between melodic passages and guttural screams, has been highlighted as a key element of the track’s intensity. Critics have also praised the production of the song, noting its dynamic arrangement and the seamless integration of electronic and rock elements(Stereoboard.com).
Armstrong’s previous work with Dead Sara has also been a point of interest for fans and critics alike. Known for her fierce stage presence and ability to convey raw emotion through her vocals, Armstrong has built a reputation as one of rock’s most dynamic frontwomen. Her work with Dead Sara, particularly on tracks like “Weatherman” and “Mona Lisa,” has showcased her ability to move between different vocal styles, from soulful crooning to raspy screams. This versatility is expected to play a key role in her work with Linkin Park, particularly in live performances where she will be tasked with delivering some of Bennington’s most iconic vocal parts(EW.com)(Our Culture).
In addition to her work with Dead Sara, Armstrong has also released solo material that further demonstrates her range as an artist. Her solo work tends to lean more towards alternative and indie rock, with a focus on introspective lyrics and stripped-down arrangements. This contrast to her more aggressive work with Dead Sara and Linkin Park highlights her versatility as a vocalist and songwriter, and her ability to adapt to different musical contexts(Our Culture).
The From Zero World Tour
The From Zero World Tour is set to be one of the biggest rock tours of 2024, with dates scheduled across major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia. The tour will kick off on September 11, 2024, at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles and will include stops at iconic venues such as New York’s Barclays Center, London’s O2 Arena, and Seoul’s Inspire Arena(Stereoboard.com). The tour is expected to feature a mix of new material from From Zero as well as classic hits from Linkin Park’s extensive catalog. Fans can expect to hear songs like “In the End,” “Numb,” and “What I’ve Done” alongside new tracks like “The Emptiness Machine”(Our Culture)(Stereoboard.com).
One of the most highly anticipated aspects of the tour is how Armstrong will handle Bennington’s parts in the band’s older material. While Armstrong has a vocal style that is distinct from Bennington’s, her ability to convey emotion through her vocals has been noted as a key reason why she was chosen to join the band. Early performances of “The Emptiness Machine” have showcased her ability to blend her style with Shinoda’s, creating a dynamic vocal partnership that adds a new dimension to the band’s sound(Our Culture)(Stereoboard.com).
Linkin Park’s 2024 revival is not just a return to the stage and studio—it’s a reimagining of what the band can be in a new era. The addition of Emily Armstrong as co-vocalist and Colin Brittain as drummer has breathed new life into the band, while their upcoming album From Zero promises to be both a tribute to their past and a bold step into the future. With the world tour set to kick off soon, Linkin Park is poised to reclaim their place as one of the most influential and innovative rock bands of their generation. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how the new lineup will handle both the emotional weight of Bennington’s legacy and the creative opportunities that lie ahead(Our Culture)(Stereoboard.com).
