As the band reunites, its new lead vocalist has a connection to the controversial group known for its troubling practices.
***CONTENT WARNING: THIS STORY MENTIONS RAPE AND SEXUAL ABUSE. PLEASE READ WITH CAUTION. ***
The reunification of Linkin Park comes after the 2017 death of Chester Bennington with new music, a new vocalist and drummer, and an upcoming tour.
The band debuted Emily Armstrong as the new lead singer, and Colin Brittain as the new drummer during a livestream on Thursday. The duo will join the remaining original members Mike Shinoda and Brad Delson as well as Phoenix and Joe Hahn. Shinoda will serve as co-lead vocalist alongside Armstrong.
Armstrong previously spent her time with alternative rock band Dead Sara, while Brittain worked with bands like Papa Roach, All Time and A Day to Remember. Brittain replaces Rob Bourdon, who served as the band’s drummer during its original run.
Not only did they announce their new vocalist and drummer, Linkin Park debuted their single “The Emptiness Machine” during the livestream. They also announced their upcoming album, titled FROM ZERO.
“Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking,” Shinoda said in a statement shared by Brooklyn Vegan.
“Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future — embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans,” the statement continued. “We are proud of what Linkin Park has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”
The band also announced their From Zero World Tour, which will include six arena shows in Los Angeles, New York, Germany, London, South Korea and Bogotá.
The announcement of Armstrong as the new lead vocalist wasn’t met with complete joy as social media users spoke out against her alleged connection to Scientology. The controversial pseudo-religion has been under fire for years for its troubling practices and alleged abuses against its members.
A social media user shared a 2013 photo of Armstrong attending the organization’s Celebrity Centre 44th Anniversary Gala. An accompanying press release from the Church of Scientology confirms Armstrong’s attendance at the event.
Armstrong allegedly supported Danny Masterson during his trial, which was based on the Masterson allegedly raping three women in the early 2000s. Masterson would later be convicted on two counts of rape.
The disturbing irony of Armstrong of replacing Bennington wasn’t lost on fans as they point out how he was a victim of sexual abuse during his childhood. According to CNN, the abuse haunted the singer and contributed to his excessive use of drugs and alcohol.
Linkin Park nor Armstrong have yet to respond to the backlash.
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