Linkin Park’s New Album ‘From Zero’: Review Highlights

With the highly anticipated release just around the corner, excitement is building as we explore the latest reviews for Linkin Park’s new album, From Zero. This album marks the band’s first studio release since the poignant One More Light, which was released in 2017, only two months before the heartbreaking loss of Chester Bennington. His passing left a significant emotional void and raised questions about the band’s future in the heavy music landscape.

After a lengthy hiatus of seven years, Linkin Park made a thrilling return in early September with the release of “The Emptiness Machine” and an intimate live performance in Los Angeles. This event also introduced Emily Armstrong from Dead Sara as the band’s new co-vocalist, joining Mike Shinoda in their dynamic lineup. Additionally, they announced several exciting tour dates for 2024 alongside details about From Zero.

As the release date approaches, fans are eager to dive deep into the new material that Linkin Park has been crafting over the past several years. We’ve sifted through various reviews of the album and compiled intriguing insights for you to explore below.

READ MORE: Venues Begin Teasing Linkin Park Tour by Posting Photos

Get ready for the official launch of Linkin Park’s highly anticipated album From Zero, dropping on November 15.

Understanding the Reception: ‘Not the Best Linkin Park Album of All Time’

Throughout their illustrious career, Linkin Park has produced a number of iconic albums, particularly their groundbreaking releases Hybrid Theory and Meteora. Given their remarkable discography, it’s a tall order for any new album to eclipse the greatness of their earlier works. According to Kerrang!, From Zero may not claim the title of their best album, but this does not diminish its significance.

The publication emphasizes that it doesn’t necessarily need to outshine previous albums; instead, it represents a rebirth for the band, symbolizing growth and evolution rather than a direct competition with their past achievements. The review awarded the album four out of five stars, highlighting “Casualty,” which was debuted live, as potentially one of the heaviest tracks in their entire catalog. It concludes by stating, “…it’s a clear reminder of why Linkin Park reached the heights they did and continue to inspire countless generations of artists. Welcome back.”

Exploring Unique Elements: There’s Talking Laced Throughout the Album

During their recent live performance of “Casualty,” Mike Shinoda engaged the crowd, saying, “Dallas gets to find out what happens when Em puts her screaming pants on.” This remark references a line from the album, as noted by The Guardian. The review explains that a male voice encourages Armstrong to “get your screaming pants on,” indicating that some studio chatter is woven throughout the album, creating a unique auditory experience.

The Guardian also rated From Zero four stars, expressing that the band’s willingness to explore new sonic territories is evident in this comeback. The review concludes with the sentiment that this bold choice has certainly paid off, showcasing Linkin Park’s signature blend of innovation and musical risk-taking.

Discovering the Opening Track: ‘From Zero’ is a Stunning Vocal Harmony

The album’s title track serves as an intriguing 22-second vocal harmony featuring both Shinoda and Armstrong, as reported by Metal Injection. This opening segment draws comparisons to classic pieces like The Beach Boys’ “Our Prayer” and Big Big Train’s “Evening Star.”

The article beautifully captures the essence of the album, stating, “Listeners who approach From Zero with an open heart and an unbiased perspective will discover a triumphant return from one of the most influential rock bands of the last quarter-century.”

Uncovering Familiar Sounds: One Track Resonates with ‘Bleed It Out’

Various publications have pointed out that the song “Cut the Bridge” bears a resemblance to the fan-favorite hit “Bleed It Out” from their Minutes to Midnight album. Rock Cellar Magazine remarked that this track could be seen as an attempt at a “Bleed It Out 2.0,” with Metal Injection echoing similar sentiments.

The Guardian also highlighted a moment in the song where Armstrong’s voice stands alone, unaccompanied by any instrumental backing, which underscores her exceptional vocal prowess. Additionally, other comparisons suggest that some of the fresh material could easily fit alongside tracks from Hybrid Theory or Meteora, a sentiment echoed by fans since the release of “The Emptiness Machine” and “Heavy Is the Crown.”

Culminating with Emotion: It Concludes with a Powerful Ballad

A consensus among the reviews indicates that “Good Things Go,” the final track on the album, is a profoundly moving ballad. Metal Injection described it as “an immensely epic and impactful closer,” while Rock Cellar Magazine remarked on Linkin Park’s tendency to conclude albums on a high note, drawing parallels to Living Things’ “Powerless” and The Hunting Party’s “Final Masquerade.”

Although each review presents its unique perspective on the album, a majority agree that From Zero stands out as a cohesive and well-crafted work, with a strong potential to be recognized as one of the best albums of the year.