Linkin Park have announced a major comeback, introducing Dead Sara singer Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist. This news comes seven years after the death of lead frontman Chester Bennington. The band launched a new album and tour, unveiled the single “The Emptiness Machine,” and held a special livestreamed concert featuring their new vocalist.
Background
Armstrong, formerly the frontwoman of rock band Dead Sara, joins Linkin Park members Mike Shinoda (co-vocalist, multi-instrumentalist), Joe Hahn (turntablist), Brad Delson (guitar), and Phoenix (bass), along with new drummer Colin Brittain. Original drummer Rob Bourdon is not participating in the reunion. The band’s return marks their first major activity since Bennington’s passing in July 2017, aside from a tribute show.
Touring
The six-date “From Zero” tour kicks off on Sep. 11 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. It includes September stops in Brooklyn, New York; Hamburg, Germany; London, England; and Seoul, South Korea, as well as a Nov. 11 gig in Bogota, Colombia. The band is expected to do more shows in 2025. Rumours of a reunion had been circulating all year, with speculation that Linkin Park were seeking a female vocalist. The band teased a big announcement with a countdown clock, which led to no news last week.
New album and single
Regarding the band’s new era, Mike Shinoda stated, “Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future—embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what Linkin Park has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.” “From Zero,” the band’s first album since 2017’s “One More Light,” will be released on Nov. 15.
Livestream concert
The “From Zero” livestream is available to view on the band’s social media channels for the next 24 hours. The livestreamed concert, held at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, featured new vocalist Emily Armstrong. “This is a very special day for us,” commented Shinoda early in the set, ahead of the Los Angeles band playing “Crawling,” the second single from their phenomenally successful debut album.
Future implications
Linkin Park’s return with new music and a new vocalist signifies a new chapter for the band. Their upcoming tour and album release are highly anticipated by fans worldwide. The band’s ability to evolve while honouring their past is a testament to their resilience and dedication to their craft. As they embark on this new journey, the music world eagerly awaits what Linkin Park will bring next.
