Album Review: Linkin Park, From Zero

Named in tribute to their original band name (Xero), the comeback album from these nu-metal titans is among 2024’s most anticipated and controversial rock releases. An opus that has generated as much excitement as outrage, Linkin Park’s eighth LP sees them try to rebuild their empire in the wake of the tragic passing of lead singer Chester Bennington in 2017.

Now featuring new vocalist Emily Armstrong, this latest chapter is not a reinvention, but more a reminder of their power, and indeed importance, in the metal realm. A short, sharp shock to the system, From Zero draws on all eras of the band’s history and boasts a boat-load of future pit anthems.

‘Two Faced’ is one of their catchiest tracks to date, while the thuggish ‘Casualty’ is a thrilling blast of Helmet-meets-Prong riffola. Armstrong is their MVP throughout, her versatile vocals veering from glass-gargling growls (‘IGYEIH’) to heavenly croons (‘Good Things Go’).

Her undeniable chemistry with rapper Mike Shinoda, meanwhile, is a joy to hear, especially after all the darkness Shinoda has endured of late. An irresistible, eardrum-battering return to form, Linkin Park’s latest is a triumph that will silence many haters.

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