Linkin Park’s risky return with a new vocalist has paid off. A year into their From Zero world tour, the band says the shows have exceeded expectations, despite early backlash over continuing without the late Chester Bennington.
The tour, which began in late 2024 and runs through June 2026, has already drawn hundreds of thousands of fans across Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.
Bassist Dave “Phoenix” Farrell admits in a new interview that the band entered the comeback uncertain. “We didn’t know what to expect… Tour is its own different animal.”
Farrell said the mix of new members and the older original trio—himself, Mike Shinoda, and Joe Hahn—created “a ton of question marks.” But the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “A year-plus into it, it’s gone very well… Everyone has stayed relatively healthy… And the shows have been great.”
He acknowledged the emotional and public pressure of moving forward without Bennington, who died in 2017. “The risk… is feeling embarrassed or putting something out that nobody likes.” Despite sleepless nights over the decision, he concluded that fear of criticism “should never be a reason” to avoid making new art.
The new lineup features vocalist Emily Armstrong, drummer Colin Brittain, and guitarist Alex Feder filling in for Brad Delson.
The band debuted their refreshed lineup in September 2024 and released their acclaimed album From Zero two months later.
