We are living in an age where news travels faster than the speed of light. In the age of information, because of our constant connection, opinions are abundant, and often marred with negativity. Stating this, in the last few months of 2024 there has been a whirlwind flying around the reunion of Linkin Park. Something allegedly taking shape behind closed doors, in September of 2024 their return was officially announced with new Lead Singer Emily Armstrong. Known as the guitarist and singer of the Hard Rock act Dead Sara, the selection left many fans conflicted. Understandable feelings, considering Linkin Park was associated with the lead vocals of the late Chester Bennington for nearly two decades, some have chosen to embrace the comeback, while others have not.
The truth of the situation, tragically Linkin Park, his family, friends, and fans lost Chester Bennington back in 2017. Now seven years later, the mixed emotions of Linkin Park continuing without him have been a hot topic of discussion, however navigating through all the noise of social media chatter, we are preparing for the first Linkin Park studio album of all new material since 2017’s One More Light. Arriving on November 15, 2024, the new album is fittingly entitled From Zero, since in many regards the band is starting from scratch.
An album that includes Vocalist/Guitarist/Keyboardist Mike Shinoda, Guitarist Brad Delson, Turntablist/Synth Player Joe Hahn, and Bassist Dave Farrell, the only one not rejoining Linkin Park is Drummer Rob Bourdon; who was replaced by accomplished Producer Colin Brittain. With this in mind, while many experienced Emily Armstrong performing live with Linkin Park on their reunion tour this fall, this will be the first time anyone will hear her on a studio album with the band. Speaking of touring, the initial nine-date world tour of the band did not include Delson, who is still a part of Linkin Park but opting to stay behind the scenes while Alex Feder takes over on guitar live. Focusing on this a bit more, the tour has largely been a success, with the band focusing heavily on back catalog tracks, but also including the newest single (with Armstrong) called “The Emptiness Machine” as part of sets.
This leads us to the inevitability of digging into the eleven tracks that make From Zero. Relatively short in duration, running just over thirty minutes, it all starts with an odd intro before “The Emptiness Machine” takes over. A strong, thriving track, it was a perfect selection as the lead single, because it not only showcases the power in Armstrong’s voice but features a chorus that will stick with you for a while. However, the album has a lot more to offer. For example, “Cut The Bridge” is a more straight-head Rock song that sounds almost atypical for Linking Park, but is quite catchy. This is while the album’s second single “Heavy is the Crown” continues strongly with irresistible melodies and an addictive chorus that will catch your attention no matter how divided you might be about the band’s return.
Meanwhile, the third single, “Over Each Other,” is rather melancholy. One that digs deep underneath your skin, it is arguably the most unique new track; because of its complete abandonment of Linkin Park’s traditional sound. On the other hand, “Casualty” brings on the Metal, “Overflow” is more electronic, and the brand-new single “Two Faced” is an intense, head-banging Modern Rock. Joining these, “Stained” is a very rhythmic piece. “IGYEIH” (short for I Give You Everything I Have) is another heavy track that will shake you to your core, before “Good Things Go” closes From Zero with a melodic somber tone.
All in all, From Zero is a wonderful piece of music. Yes, many might be skeptical about Linkin Park’s return and what it means for the legacy of Chester Bennington, but From Zero is enjoyable and something you can listen to repeatedly. Full of energy, From Zero tells its own story, no one song is alike, and that is why Cryptic Rock gives it 5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment