Linkin Park’s New Era: Emily Armstrong, ‘Let You Fade,’ and Cool Dad Points for Mike Shinoda
Linkin Park is entering a thrilling new chapter with the addition of vocalist Emily Armstrong. With a deluxe edition of their comeback album, 'From Zero,' dropping on May 16th, featuring the new single 'Let You Fade,' the band is proving they're not just back – they're evolving. But what does this new sound mean for the legacy of the band, and how are fans reacting to Armstrong stepping into the shoes of the iconic Chester Bennington?
The band's members, including Mike Shinoda, have been vocal about Armstrong's impressive performance. Shinoda told Baltimore's 98 Rock, "Emily has had the insane challenge of figuring out the way to sing these songs and how to present 'em with us. And she's put in so much work. She's done such a great job. I think the reason it all works is because the talent part is not — that's the lowest bar to clear." He also notes that their drummer Colin bring a new, young energy to the band.
In fact, Shinoda shared a heartwarming anecdote on stage at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., about how Armstrong's presence made him cooler in the eyes of his daughters. "I have daughters and having them see Emily and be like, 'Whoa! She is so cool!'," is a huge boost. Armstrong is currently soaking up the kind words.
'Let You Fade' is generating significant buzz. Shinoda revealed that the song underwent significant transformations during the recording process, initially being a less intense demo before evolving into a piano-and-vocals arrangement. "That piano and vocal thing was the second demo [we recorded during the initial sessions]," Shinoda said. "Of the three it’s probably my favorite." What should fans expect as the full version is launched?
Addressing fan concerns about Armstrong filling the role of the late Chester Bennington, Shinoda had this to say to KROQ radio last September: "One difficult thing that people are experiencing is just that they've heard Linkin Park for so long with Chester's voice and the idea of somebody else being in that role, it feels really different... Chester was a one-of-a-kind person and a one-of-a-kind voice, and Emily is also a one-of-a-kind person and a one-of-a-kind voice. She's not trying to be him. She's trying to be her. And it so happens that I think she singing on these songs sounds like Linkin Park."
The deluxe edition of 'From Zero' promises fans a deeper dive into the band's revitalized sound, featuring unheard tracks and live recordings. The 'From Zero (Deluxe Edition)' 2CD is a limited pressing and include new songs, five live tracks and all new, expanded packaging. The streaming version will contain three new tracks. How will these new additions resonate with long-time listeners and newcomers alike?
As Linkin Park embarks on this new journey, the blend of familiar sounds and fresh perspectives is sure to captivate audiences worldwide. With 'Let You Fade' on the horizon and Armstrong leading the charge, the future of the band looks brighter than ever.
What do you think about Linkin Park's new direction? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
