Linkin Park is back with a new lead singer!
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TOP 5
5. IGYEIH
“I gave you everything I have.”
From the very start, “IGYEIH” grabs your attention with its powerful sound and raw energy. Emily, the lead singer, delivers an emotionally charged performance where anger, strength, and vulnerability shine through her voice. The track’s rock foundation is unmistakable, with its commanding electric guitar riffs, pounding drumbeat, and almost growling vocal delivery.
“IGYEIH” is the ultimate headbanger—an anthem about giving your all to someone who gives nothing in return, or worse, fills your life with problems, hate, doubt, and negativity. The song takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster, capturing the journey from being deeply infatuated and blinded by love to feeling unforgiving, angry, and ultimately reclaiming your power by letting go. It’s a cathartic and liberating ride that resonates on every level.
4. Cut the Bridge
Cut the bridge and watch it burn.
The instrumental for “Cut the Bridge” begins with a slower, more stripped-down beat, setting an introspective tone, but quickly builds into an electrifying, crowd-jumping, upbeat sound. Mike Shinoda, one of Linkin Park’s original and current vocalists, brings his signature rhythmic delivery to the track, seamlessly blending rap with rock—a hallmark of the band’s iconic style.
Shinoda’s lyricism is piercing and deeply personal, written from a first-person perspective that directly addresses the lies and betrayal unraveling a once-perfect relationship. Overall, “Cut The Bridge” is a raw, emotional ride wrapped in the dynamic, high-energy sound that fans of Linkin Park know and love.
3. Good Things Go
Take a journey deep within yourself—embracing all the joys and confronting all the regrets—with “Good Things Go.”
“Good Things Go” stands out as one of the album’s slower, more introspective tracks, carrying a somber and reflective tone. Linkin Park showcases one of their greatest strengths here: the ability to convey raw, unfiltered emotion. The song begins with a quiet harmony that sets a delicate and vulnerable atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective narrative.
Thematically, “Good Things Go” delves into regret, exploring the longing to be saved from one’s own mistakes or self-destructive habits. Its soft yet poignant delivery makes it a deeply relatable piece, resonating with anyone who has faced moments of self-reflection and a desire for redemption.
2. Stained
Stains don’t always wash away, like the pain we’ve lived through.
This poignant line serves as a striking metaphor, likening the enduring scars of life’s struggles to stains that cannot be washed away. It encapsulates the lingering impact of emotional pain, highlighting how certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping who we are long after the moments have passed. Its simplicity enhances its depth, beautifully conveying the themes of resilience and the inescapable influence of our past.
1. Heavy is the Crown
Linkin Park’s Emily Armstrong wears the heaviest crown.
I have a lot to say about this song in terms of its connection to the band’s history and current dynamic. The track starts with an infectious energy and quickly evolves into an upbeat rock anthem that will have crowds headbanging and jumping in no time. Mike Shinoda’s vocals are nostalgic, harking back to the band’s early days. The lyrics address the band’s criticism when choosing a new lead singer, highlighting how harsh and cutting those words can be. However, Emily proves herself worthy of the role, taking on the responsibility with passion and determination. She’s not only ready to face the challenge but is also committed to showing that she belongs, further cementing her place in the band’s legacy.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
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RGM RATING
(A+) (96%)
Linkin Park is a legendary rock band that first rose to prominence in the late ’90s, and if you’ve ever been a rock fan, you’re probably familiar with their name. With a history of setting the bar incredibly high, this new album marks a significant moment in the band’s journey. From Zero is Linkin Park’s first release since the passing of their original lead singer, Chester Bennington. As a result, Emily, the new lead vocalist, has been entrusted with the monumental task of stepping into some very big shoes. Personally, I was impressed by the grit, raspiness, and passion in her voice, which brings a fresh but fitting energy to the band’s sound.
The band has done an excellent job of preserving its core essence. The 22-second title track offers a playful nod to the album’s name, referencing the band’s original name, “Xero,” while affirming their commitment to staying true to their roots. Through subtle samples and nods to older LP songs, this album is a reminder that this new chapter isn’t the end of an era or a replacement, but rather an exciting addition to what fans have always loved about Linkin Park.
This Post Has One Comment
I love the album as well. In my Top 5, we match on “Good Things Go” and “Stained”. This is the first album I have ever heard from Linkin Park. The lead singer’s vocal on “Over Each Other” really drew me to look at other songs. I did not realize she was new to the band. Great review.