In an interview with Billboard, Mike discussed the return of the nu-metal heroes and introduced two new members: co-vocalist Emily Armstrong and Colin Brittain drummer. After a 20-plus-year tenure starting in 1996, longtime drummer Rob will no longer be part of the band’s upcoming album.
Mike explained, “Rob told us a couple of years ago that he wanted to distance himself from the band. He became less involved, and fans noticed it too. He didn’t participate in the Hybrid Theory or Papercuts releases. As a friend, it was sad to see, but I want him to be happy, and we all wish him the best.”
On Colin’s involvement, Mike shared, “I met Colin in 2021 during a writing session, and we clicked right away. He’s playing drums live, but he also plays guitar, bass, and keyboards, and he produces and mixes as well. We’ve been working together ever since, bouncing ideas off each other. We’ve collaborated with artists like Grandson, Bea Miller, and Sueko, just creating music together. When Linkin Park started working on new material, it felt natural to have Colin join us.”