Hybrid Theory
LINKIN PARK
Linkin Park has been one of my favorite bands since i started listening to the nu metal (thats what it was called in the 2000s; bands like korn, staind, rob zombie etc...) some time in the beginning of the new millennium. And their debut Hybrid Theory is probably my favorite. Meteora was the follow up to Hybrid Theory which is also amazing. I have always been torn to chose between the two; so, it's a toss up for the best. Becoming quite the fanatic after those albums, I was hoping their follow up album would be just as distinct and immense; however, after minutes to midnight was released, I was not impressed. They had some good singles but it was quite a bit softer than I would have hoped. It was a disappointment, and I subsequently lost interest in LP. However, they were still financially successful gaining more fans of all kinds. I have heard recently that they are trying to go back to the likes of Hybrid Theory for their 2010 album, by being distinct and creating heavier beats.
Hybrid Theory put these guys on the map. They exploded into mainstream over night and they were the new wave of rock/alt/pop. Their sound was a massive hit that spannee rock/pop/electronica/hiphop and whatever else there was out there. They were distinguished. Not only did they capture the attention of hard core rockers, but also, the teeny boppers (which is pretty hard to do when you have Chester Bennington screaming every other sentence). And its amazing, no swearing on any track, and still reeling in the fans of all sorts.
Each and every track on the record, I adored, you just could not complain that it was weak. It was heavy but melodic and loud but tasteful. It was a good mix of rap and hip hop. Bennington's vocals and [mike] Shinoda's rap kept it interesting. Rob Bourdon( drums), Phoenix (bass) and Brad Delson(guitar) all contributed to an abundance of creative sounds. Tracks like "one step closer," "in the end," "crawling" established their sound. Nothing, no one, sounded similar to them at the time. After all this revelling, all i have to say is its a great album to rock to, whether its on the road or at the beach. Also, pretty great when you are trying to blow off some steam.
Over all, it's heavy riffs("one step closer"), screaming at the top of your lungs passion("by myself"), and beautiful melodies("in the end") are perfect for any occasion. If you have not picked up a copy, shame on you! go grab one, please. If you have, go home and grab it and listen to it the old fashion way- pop it into the cd player and enjoy it all over again. And just for the hell of it, give yourself a good scream or whatever it is that relieves your stress.
I didnt get the chance to see them live during hybrid theory, but did get to see them during their 05' meteora live show. they were great. bennington's vocals sounds the same live. great screamer.
-k
