Linkin Park begins again 'From Zero'

The late 90s and early 2000s saw a huge surge in bands in the music scene, most of which tried to create their version of rock music at the time. It was a 'go big or go home' kind of scenario for these bands. 

From many of these aspiring souls, there came a band named 'Linkin Park', equipped with Nu-Metal music infused with contemporary hip-hop/rap–or sometimes just rock. 

They didn't look back after they exploded in the music scene with tracks like 'One Step Closer', 'Papercut' or even 'Crawling.' Bangladesh got a taste of the band for the first time through their album 'Meteora' and their music was an immediate hit. It resonated with the youth like none other–their lyrics spoke to them in a way they needed to hear. 

The announcement that Linkin Park would be returning with a new album, back in September, came as a pleasant shock. 

Released on 15 November, the album, 'From Zero', sends a strong message that a band which was thought to have been put to rest has been reincarnated. Because that's what this is. After 2017, Linkin Park was brought together with a new vocalist at the helm and with that, came new visions and promises. 

The rather new lineup of the band saw Emily Armstrong take up the mantle of lead vocalist with the others by her side. This was met with much scepticism, but the new album puts all of that to rest.

It is not the old Linkin Park, but at the same time, it is. The album brings in a new voice but the message, the lyrics and the overall theme stays more or less the same as its predecessors. 

Ifaz Abrar, the guitarist of Arekta Rock Band puts it aptly. 

"Linkin Park is known for experimenting with music and their experiments hardly ever fail. Each of their albums, from 'Hybrid Theory' to 'One More Light', has continued to stand out from their previous work, just like their new album. Yet, at the same time, it retains the very soul of Linkin Park, music-wise," shared Ifaz. 

Fans and artistes alike agree that their new music is not trying to change the band, but they still manage to bring a fresh sound to an ever-evolving music scene.

"Linkin Park has always had a knack for innovating their sound while keeping a touch of what makes them unique, and 'From Zero' is no exception," shared Tajwar Ul Islam, guitarist of Dads in the Park. "While not every song on the album hit home for me, I can see how the newer sounds will appeal to fresh fans who aren't looking for something from the old memory lane. " 

Four songs from the album, 'Emptiness Machine', 'Heavy is the Crown', 'Over Each Other', and 'Two Faced', are a testament to their musical 'experiments' exploring a new sound for the band. 

 'Emptiness Machine' is a brooding and industrial-infused track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Emily's powerful vocals, both clean and raspy, soar over the heavy instrumentals, creating a mesmerising and haunting soundscape. 

The song goes into the void of despair, capturing the raw emotion of loss and the struggle to find meaning in the face of adversity.

The band is known for lyrics that speak of the deep ends of human emotions—words that often go unheard, fusing it with music that resonates with the soul of those struggles. 'From Zero' retains that formula.

Or perhaps 'Heavy is the Crown', which to some might sound familiar to another track 'Faint' in terms of style. Featuring an astonishing 17-second scream from Emily, it was a showcase of the band's ability to make anthemic choruses. 

A reason why the song was the official anthem of this year's League of Legends World Championship—one of the biggest video game tournaments in the world. 

The song is a poignant reflection of the weight of responsibility and the pressure to succeed. It is a rallying cry for those who feel burdened by the expectations of others, urging them to break free from the chains of self-doubt and embrace their true potential.

On the flip side, 'Over Each Other' is a more melodic and introspective track, highlighting the band's softer side. Emily's vocals are delicate and ethereal, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing. The song explores the complexities of human relationships, the fragile nature of love, and the pain of heartbreak.

'Two Faced' is a blistering and aggressive track that showcases the band's nu-metal roots. The heavy guitars, pounding drums, and Emily's ferocious screams create a sonic assault that is both exhilarating and cathartic.

The songs 'Heavy is the Crown' and 'Two Faced' both showcase the new side of Linkin Park. The focus of their music has shifted, leaning more on their vocalist than ever before. Through singing and screaming, Armstrong's powerful voice carries the music.

While some fans may mourn the loss of Chester Bennington's unique voice, 'From Zero' is a bold step forward for the band. Emily Armstrong's powerful and distinctive vocals bring a fresh perspective to the band's sound, while the band's core musical identity remains intact.