Linkin
Park always sells millions of records. I suppose that they
have a “original sound” if you consider them
in their context of top 40. This newer record, Meteora,
sounds like a continuation of Hybrid Theory, which was not
necessarily a horrible record just overplayed. The overall
sound quality on Meteora is great, the hip-hop-rock mix
is extremely listenable and catchy, and the two-singer thing
still works to give a good vocal variation.
The best songs
on the album are Breaking the Habit (which also has a pretty
hot video), Faint (which has an awesome opening hook), and
Nobody’s Listening. As per Linkin Park tradition,
each song is a sample and guitar heavy pop treasure of emotional
strife. People try to cry ‘oh those Linkin Park guys
suck’, but clearly they don’t. The vocals have
a great range and are emotion-filled, the instruments are
equally as good, and the samples are mixed in appropriately
and flawlessly. In addition, Linkin Park has a great production
team; a little over-produced, but what do you expect considering
their target audience.
The guys have
made a record that potential every song on it could make
a hit single- then again so did the New Kids on the Block.
My problem with Meteora is that Linkin Park doesn’t
seem to have made an attempt to grow as song writers. It’s
the same thing as Hybrid Theory with a tad more instrumental
depth. If you like Hybrid Theory than Meteora is for you.
If your looking for expansion and growth, don’t hold
your breath.
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