(KTLA) – Linkin Park is back with new music and a brand new vocalist.
On Thursday — after a countdown timer on the band’s social media channels came to an end — the band staged a live-stream concert event with the group’s new co-lead singer: Emily Armstrong.
Armstrong will assume the role left vacant by founding member Chester Bennington, who tragically took his own life in 2017 at the age of 41. The band went on an indefinite hiatus shortly after.
Armstrong, previously of the band Dead Sara, joins Linkin Park and its legion of loyal fans who have clamored for new music and a return to the stadiums and venues that made the “In The End” musicians a household name. She’ll join longtime members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, and fellow newcomer Colin Brittain on the drums.
Shinoda described Armstrong and Brittain as “world-class talents,” adding that the band found a natural chemistry with them and a joy over what they’ve created together.
“We feel really empowered with this new lineup and the vibrant and energized new music we’ve made together. We’re weaving together the sonic touchpoints we’ve been known for and still exploring new ones,” Shinoda said.
In addition to Thursday’s live-streamed concert, the band released a new single — “The Emptiness Machine” — and accompanying music video. There’s also plans for six arena shows as part of an abbreviated world tour.
Linkin Park will kick off its six-show tour in Inglewood, performing at the Kia Forum on Sept. 11. After that, the band will travel to New York City, Hamburg, Germany, London, Seoul, South Korea and Bogota, Colombia as part of the “From Zero World Tour.”
“From Zero” is also the name of the band’s first album since 2017, which will be released Nov. 15.
“Before LINKIN PARK, our first band name was Xero,” said Shinoda. “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.”
Shinoda added that the album was made with a “deep appreciation” for its new and longtime bandmates, as well as friends, family and fans who have supported them throughout the years.
“We are proud of what LINKIN PARK has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead,” Shinoda said.
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