This Banger Proves That Linkin Park’s Return Is One Of The Best Things To Happen In 2024

Linkin Park’s newest single, “Two Faced,” signifies a notable comeback to their nu-metal origins, echoing their sound from the early 2000s. The song, included in their eighth studio album, From Zero, highlights the band’s talent for merging intense guitar riffs with thoughtful lyrics, resulting in a compelling listening experience.

The music video, directed by the band’s turntablist Joe Hahn, showcases a gritty and vibrant performance. Shot on September 3, 2024, mere days before their September 5 event unveiling their comeback, the video features the band performing on their debut stage, emanating urgency and passion. Hahn’s direction focuses on close-up shots, immersing viewers in the performance’s intensity.

“Two Faced” explores themes of betrayal and duality, featuring lyrics that strongly resonate with audiences. The chorus, performed with emotional fervor, underscores the internal conflict of confronting deceit. This thematic exploration is consistent with the band’s tradition of tackling personal and societal issues through their music.

The song showcases a dynamic interaction between Mike Shinoda’s rapped verses and Emily Armstrong’s commanding vocals. Armstrong, recognized for her role in Dead Sara, infuses a fresh yet recognizable energy into the band, enhancing Shinoda’s delivery and adding complexity to the song’s storyline.

Musically, “Two Faced” features downtuned guitar riffs and a robust bridge breakdown, reminiscent of the band’s Meteora period. Joe Hahn’s scratching and programming add to the track’s texture, crafting a multi-layered and immersive soundscape.

The release of “Two Faced” caught fans by surprise, launching on November 13, 2024, merely two days prior to the album’s debut. This approach created substantial buzz and excitement, demonstrating the band’s skill in effectively engaging their audience.

Critics have lauded “Two Faced” for its blend of nostalgic and modern sounds. The track has been characterized as a “nu-metal throwback,” resonating with long-time fans while drawing in new listeners. Its fierce tone and thoughtful lyrics are noted as key highlights.

During live shows, “Two Faced” has established itself as a regular in the band’s setlist. Notably, at their album release concert in São Paulo, the song took the place of “Points of Authority,” featuring an extended intro and a prolonged instrumental bridge, facilitating increased audience engagement.

The production of “Two Faced” was a collaborative effort among all band members, with Mike Shinoda spearheading the production. Rich Costey handled the mixing, and Emerson Mancini mastered the track, resulting in a polished and impactful final product.

Overall, “Two Faced” showcases Linkin Park’s evolution as a band, honoring their origins while integrating new influences. The song’s release has reinforced their relevance in today’s music scene, cementing their legacy as innovators in the rock genre.