Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson has confirmed that he won’t be partaking in the relaunched band’s upcoming touring plans. During a livestreamed concert reveal of Linkin Park‘s new lineup held yesterday, September 05th, Delson was absent, with guitarist Alex Feder (Still A Great Night) performing in his place.
At the time, Linkin Park co-vocalist/guitarist, etc. Mike Shinoda described Feder as a fill-in. As it turns out, Feder‘s new role is a bit more involved than that just that one show.
While Delson will remain active with the band creatively, and is credited as a songwriter and musician on their new material and forthcoming album “From Zero“, it seems that Feder will be taking over for him at the band’s live shows going forward.
In a statement issued via his Instagram today, Delson outlined his reduced role in the diamond-certified band. His statement reads as follows:
“Beyond excited to share this new chapter with the world.
Bringing our vision to life is the culmination of many twists and turns, as we continue our unique journey together as a band. We couldn’t do it without a belief in what is possible, even when things seem impossible; without the ability to listen, particularly when emotions run deep; and without the support and love of everyone around us. Thank you thank you thank you.
In awe of @emilyarmstrong and @colinbrittain for their talent, passion, and partnership. Deep gratitude to all my bandmates for their humility, hard work, and friendship.
I’ve always felt deeply connected to and proud of our live performances. Over the years I’ve realized I thrive most when I’m actively working with my bandmates behind the scenes––in the studio, collaborating on our new music, and helping build our live show.
I am so proud of everything we continue to create together. While I will not be performing on tour in this new chapter, I am super excited to introduce Alex—my handsome deputy on the road. Alex is a world-class musician, a kind and thoughtful friend, and we are truly fortunate he’ll be contributing his unique talent to our LP universe.
Fresh eyes, honest appreciation, and devoted teamwork have brought us to this special moment. The privilege of sharing our creativity with you. Thank you for joining us on the journey.
-BBB”
Emily Armstrong (Dead Sara) has newly taken over the vocal duties from the late Chester Bennington in the group, However, co-founding Linkin Park drummer Rob Bourdon has opted out of being involved with this revised version of the band completely. In a recently published interview with Billboard, Shinoda explained that Bourdon intentionally sought to put distance between himself and and the band in the years since Bennington‘s 2017 death, and seemingly is no longer interested in being an active member. In his place, the group have recruited Colin Brittain.
The group debuted their first new single, “The Emptiness Machine“, with their new roster yesterday, alongside announcing a November 15th release date for “From Zero“. The following six dates were also confirmed for their world comeback tour:
09/11 Los Angeles, CA – KIA Forum
09/16 New York, NY – Barclays Center
09/22 Hamburg, GER – Barclays Arena
09/24 London, UK – The O2
09/28 Seoul, SK – Inspire Arena
11/11 Bogota, COL – Coliseo Medplus
