Linkin Park Make Grand Return with Exhilarating Prudential Center Show

Staging a comeback as a band after an extended period of time can be a difficult task in this day and age. Add in the loss of your lead singer whose impact is considered immeasurable and that prospect becomes even more daunting. For Linkin Park, it long seemed as if the band were done for good and content to let their legacy live out, however earlier last year they made a surprise yet welcome comeback that’s launched a successful and exciting new tour. Coming off their recent release From Zero with new frontwoman Emily Armstrong, the band has returned in full force and it’s very exciting to see one of the most influential acts in rock live once more. The new tour wastes no time in getting back in the saddle with Armstrong bringing plenty of vibrant energy to the set while Mike Shinoda’s immersive stage presence still resonates tremendously. The combined energies here ensure this latest tour’s momentum is consistent and the band’s musicality remains air tight, bringing plenty of excitement and flair. It also helps that the new additions to the band wisely decide to bring their own distinctive style to the mix.

While Linkin Park’s original run was no doubt defined by the late Chester Bennington’s captivating presence, this new tour makes the smart move of not trying to dwell on nostalgia, and instead showcases this latest ensemble. And the results are genuinely exhilarating to experience. Credit also goes to Armstrong for making her tenure feel her own rather than try and echo what’s been done before. Her grounded stage presence anchored the set and her on stage chemistry with Shinoda shined through especially well.

Of course while this tour was in service to their new era, it wouldn’t be a Linkin Park show without the classics and thankfully fans were treated to renditions of “In The End”, “Numb”and “What I’ve Done”. Armstrong managed to bring her own style to these songs while also managing to pay tribute to them. Admittedly it’s hard to not think of Bennington hearing these iconic songs, but she makes them her own while also acknowledging their impact on fans.

In some ways, this latest iteration of Linkin Park feels like a brand new band instead of a continuation, and admittedly has at times been met with a polarized reaction from fans and critics. However despite this, the band’s Prudential Center show emerged as a triumph with a committed and passionate performance that forged new ground while also honoring their own legacy in the process. Time will tell if this latest verison of the band will endure the way of it’s predecessor, but this current lineup is certainly committed to delivering an experience all it’s own while honoring their devoted fanbase. As it stands, the From Zero Tour is a satisfying showcase and a more than welcome return for one of rock’s most influential acts. For more information, be sure to follow Linkin Park on all platforms!