I've kind of stopped writing opinions being the lazy guy I am, but hopefully the one's I've written ...
I've kind of stopped writing opinions being the lazy guy I am, but hopefully the one's I've written will still prove to be helpful.
Member since:10.06.2001
Reviews:16
Members who trust:13
WEA Records have made the right decision in signing Linkin Park to their roster. Barring any label or band shake-ups, I see no reason why Linkin won't be the next huge act in the "nu-metal" field. Quite a strong statement, but one deserving of this band.
The first thing that strikes me about this CD is that, for 12 tracks, it's very short, at just under 38 minutes. This is a shame, as Hybrid Theory is chock-full of interesting music in that 38 minutes. Their single 'One Step Closer' is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what sorts of music they experiment with on the disc. A lot of it could be classified as heavy electronic as opposed to heavy metal, although tracks like "By Myself" and "Papercut" bring the power chords. And then they bust out the piano of all things for "In The End". The lyrics are rather "hip-hoppy" and not the best (that said they're still thought provoting), but the best part of Linkin Park is clearly the awesome electronic/rock medley.
Linkin Park is a fine blend of aggressive metal and hip-hop with a tinge of electronica. Behind the microphone Mike Shinoda and Chester Bennington share vocals duties to create an astonishing array of sounds. The span includes full out melodic singing to mild rapping, to near-hardcore screams. For those who may be alarmed with the hip-hop aspect to Linkin Park, there is no need to worry. The overall flavor is too impressive to pass them by.
The band consists of five members: Chester Bennington and Mike Shinoda on vocals, Rob Bourdon on drums and backing vocals, Brad Delson on guitars and backing vocals, and Joseph Hahn is the final member of Linkin Park. Hahn spins records, samples, and even does a little of the backing vocals.
Don Gilmore took the helm producing "Hybrid Theory." (The bands original name by the way) Don, whose previous clients include Pearl Jam and Lit, was chosen for his ability to push the band as songwriters, and more the more obvious job of making the record sound crisp. A definite success on all accounts I would say.
Memorable tracks include "By Myself," a highly volatile piece which showcases the bands vocal range and the chugging guitar of Rob Bourdon. "Cure For The Itch" is a display of DJ / Sampler Joseph Hahn's talent on the electronic side. "Papercut" also makes the list of happening tracks, seeing as though this song kicks off the entire Linkin Park vibe and I never looked back.
Sound-wise the band can be described as a mix of Nine Inch Nails, The Deftones, and pop rockers Savage Garden. No doubts an eclectic group of artists, but possibly a right combination. Linkin Park are trying to set themselves apart though, and rightly so with such an attractive and diverse sound. If you do not already own this record, then shame on you because this is a great album and I believe that Linkin Park will be around for a while.
If you do not have this record, I advise you to pick it up as soon as possible. Any rapcore fan will not be disappointed with this album. Even though there isn't any swearing on the CD and it doesn't bare a parental advisory sticker, this album is very aggressive. If you don't believe me, please, check it out for yourself.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
As cool as the previous commenter is it's one thing saying Linkin Park aren't great (They're not, I'm with him on that) but then to try and argue the point with Papa Roach (Also not a great album) sorta looses the point a little :) I'm not over keen on Linkin Park, don't like Paper Cut although One Step Closer is growing on me. There's more interesting bands than Linkin around though - just you have to go on a bit of a mission to find them :)
delboysimpson1 19.08.2001 20:48
as cool as the writer is he has no idea about rock if he thinks linkin park are originaland outstanding (maybe he hasn't heard of papa roach and the endless list of nu metal bands). it isn't a bad album but to say its brilliant is slightly going over the top. i recommend in uetro if he wants some real rock.
dagr81411 16.08.2001 19:46
Nice op, though i damn hate Linkin Park! Can't stand 'em. Your op made me think twice mate! My bro likes 'em...
It may be too cynical to assume Hybrid Theory changed its name to Linkin Park in order to ... more
appear right next to Limp Bizkit in your local record bin. But rock-rap workouts like "One Step Closer" and "Papercut" do make Linkin Park a comfortable fit with ...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 24 hours...
Jun 12th, 2001
very helpful by (100%):
![Meteora [Digipak] [ECD] - Linkin Park](http://imagesb.ciao.com/iuk/images/products/small/745/prod_small-5332745.jpg)
![Poison, The [ECD] - Bullet For My Valentine](http://imagesb.ciao.com/iuk/images/products/small/771/prod_small-6344771.jpg)
![Results May Vary [PA] - Limp Bizkit](http://imagesa.ciao.com/iuk/images/products/small/940/prod_small-5345940.jpg)
![Live In Texas (+DVD) [Digipak] - Linkin Park - review by boots_tart](http://images.ciao.com/ide/images/stars/2003/stars40.gif)
