Linkin Park has officially returned with an exciting new lineup and plans for an upcoming album, marking a significant moment in the band’s evolution. In an interview with Billboard, the band unveiled the addition of vocalist Emily Armstrong and drummer Colin Brittain during a livestreamed performance in Los Angeles, promoting their forthcoming album, From Zero, due for release on November 15, 2024. The band is also set to embark on a world tour, initially announced during the event.
Mike Shinoda, the band's vocalist and guitarist, provided insights into the reformation process, revealing that the decision to reform was driven by the band's desire to explore new creative avenues. The process began as far back as 2019 when they first collaborated with Armstrong. As they produced new music, they made a conscious choice to keep their writing collaborative and fluid rather than strictly adhering to the Linkin Park sound.
In the interview, Shinoda explained the absence of drummer Rob Bourdon, who is not part of the current lineup. According to Shinoda, Bourdon expressed a desire to distance himself from the band in recent years, a sentiment that became increasingly evident as he participated less in group activities. This change was noted by both fans and band members, leading to the decision to move forward without him.
Emily Armstrong, in stepping into the role of lead vocalist—previously held by the late Chester Bennington—acknowledged the weight of taking on such a crucial position in the band. She expressed a commitment to honoring Bennington's legacy while integrating her own style into the performances of classic Linkin Park tracks.
With the new album and lineup, Linkin Park aims to rejuvenate their sound while respecting their rich history. In addition to Shinoda and Armstrong, current members including guitarist Brad Delson, bassist Dave Farrell, and turntablist Joe Hahn have rejoined for this new chapter. The excitement surrounding their comeback reflects their deep connection with fans and the music community at large. For those seeking further details, more can be found in the full Billboard interview here.