Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for has arrived, and after all these years, we’re faced with a true Linkin Park album. Speculation had started on social media with the countdown they posted, wondering what the band would come up with. Was it a new vocalist? A new song or concert? The answer came in the form of a resounding yes! Seven years after Chester Bennington’s suicide, they had performed their first live shows, introducing their new vocalist Emily Armstrong to the fans with the album’s first single, “The Emptiness Machine.”

Honestly, I was beyond excited while watching the concert video. At first, we didn’t see a new vocalist on stage, Mike was singing the song. But then came Emily’s part. When she sang “Going around like a revolver,” you could tell that a new Linkin Park adventure was beginning.

Emily definitely has a powerful voice, but of course, criticism was inevitable. No matter who comes after Chester, there will always be a group of people who won’t accept it. Those who think Chester’s legacy should be preserved, those who say Linkin Park died with Chester and shouldn’t continue, etc. While I may not agree, I certainly understand why people think that way. Chester wasn’t just a great voice, he was a strong character in the music world. And fans can be ruthless for someone they love so much. Chester’s voice is embedded in the DNA of all this great music. Continuing the band without him isn’t about replacing him, it’s about moving forward while respecting his legacy and the band’s journey.

I could go on and on about Linkin Park, but the focus of this article is their eighth studio album, From Zero, released on November 15, 2024. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting name for this album. They’re starting a new journey with a fresh vocalist, and it’s clear they’re paying homage to their early days, with a nod to their first name, “Xero.”

With the track “From Zero” (Intro), they’re inviting us into their new world.

And then there’s the first single, “The Emptiness Machine.” It was a great decision for this to be the first single. This is our first taste of what Emily Armstrong can do. She shows her vocal range and ability to carry Chester’s legacy with skill. The song gave me vibes from Linkin Park’s 2012 Living Things album—more alternative rock than nu-metal. You can feel signature sounds, like in “Castle of Glass” or even going back to “Faint.” It has a catchy chorus that you’ll want to listen to over and over. With Emily, it’s hard not to scream along to “I let you cut me open, just to watch me bleed.” “The Emptiness Machine” is powerful, energetic, and a fantastic way to welcome back the band’s fans after such a long time.

“Cut The Bridge” is an exciting track that points in a bold new direction for Linkin Park, with Emily taking the lead. The song showcases the band’s expertise in blending rock with electronic elements.

The album’s second single, “Heavy Is the Crown,” is a great fit for the album. The signature drums and synth-heavy production lay a solid foundation for Mike Shinoda’s rap. Emily’s vocals are well blended with the band, and the contrast between Mike’s and Emily’s styles creates a dynamic feel. This song also became the anthem for the 2024 League of Legends World Championship, with the band collaborating with Riot Games to create an animated music video.

Next is “Over Each Other,” which was released before the album. This is a track where Emily takes on all the vocals from start to finish. Her powerful voice builds gradually, exploding in the chorus with raw emotion. While it may not satisfy fans of the band’s more intense tracks, it’s a piece that showcases their growth as artists, emotionally resonant.

The album’s hardcore-punk tempo track, “Casualty,” takes center stage with its untamed, aggressive energy. Emily’s wild screams add power to the song, bringing the band back to the raw energy of their early days. This track promises a cathartic listening experience. Mike also surprises with more metal-oriented vocals, rather than his usual rap sections.

Next comes what I believe is the album’s most experimental track, “Overflow.” The song starts with a haunting atmosphere, with synth piano and almost whispering vocals. Linkin Park has always been known for their versatility, and this track is a perfect example. The band has proven time and again that they can make both intense music and, as in this track, more introspective sounds. It’s cinematic from start to finish, with a deep emotional landscape that definitely stands out on the album.

Then there’s “Two Faced,” the fourth single released before the album. The song has a riff that immediately grabs you and a memorable chorus. It’s very much a 2000s Linkin Park track. Along with “The Emptiness Machine,” it’s one of my favorites from the album. I guess time will tell which one I like best.

Track nine on the album, “Stained,” is a complex piece that showcases the band’s musical skills and their ability to create. The production is top-notch, offering a rich, layered listening experience that amplifies the song’s impact.

Track ten, “IGYEIH,” is another standout. For those wondering what “IGYEIH” stands for, it’s the abbreviation of “I Gave You Everything I Have,” a phrase that Emily sings at the beginning of the song. The song’s irregular tempo keeps things interesting—it starts with a fast pace, but doesn’t stay that way. It carries emotional weight, especially for anyone who’s been in a toxic relationship.

The album closes with “Good Things Go.” Looking at the album as a whole, it’s a poignant conclusion to an album filled with emotional depth. The song deals with themes of regret and the inevitable reality of losing the best parts of life. It never quite reaches the aggressive peaks of some other tracks on the album, staying within a certain limit, allowing us to focus more on its message.

From Zero marks the beginning of a new era for the band. But they enter this new phase without denying their past. They’ve managed to look fresh and modern while honoring their history—something truly commendable.

I also can’t overlook Mike Shinoda’s scouting ability. I had never listened to Dead Sara before, but I’m thankful to him for introducing Emily Armstrong to those of us who weren’t familiar with her. I have no doubt she’ll carry Chester’s legacy beautifully and write her own chapter for Linkin Park.

I’ll wrap up by welcoming the band back.

And Chester, don’t worry, the band is in good hands.