I'm a freelance writer, scouting out Melbourne for all that is worth relaying to an audience. Visit my website at www.socialrevolt.com or contact me @ [email protected]
Published July 2nd 2012
Linkin Park have been releasing chart-topping hits regularly since the late 90's, with tracks such as 'In the End', 'One Step Closer', 'Numb' and 'Shadow of the Day' to name a few. Their last album, 'A Thousand Suns', was extremely underrated and overlooked by the industry and fans of the past. This was unfortunate as the quality of the 2010 release levelled with earlier work. But now, with 'Living Things', Linkin Park seems to blend the new with the old perfectly.
Burn it Down' is the first track off the new album to receive radio playback, sounding similar to the songs used for the Transformer movies and using a mainstream style. The rest of the album includes rapping, ballads, techno, metal, rock and pop in a combination only Linkin Park can boast. With the distinct vocals of Chester Bennington and Mike Shinoda, the band continues to impress with a vibe few bands these days seem to possess.
The only disappointment about 'Living Things' is the fact that there are only 12 tracks and the runtime is a shade under 40 minutes. The first five songs are capable of being number one hits, while 'Victimized' and 'Powerless' display the raw talent of the artists as individuals. A proper look at the lyrics demonstrates the intellect of Mike Shinoda, forever avoiding swearing and instead using poetic rhythm and rhyme. This is a CD not to be missed.
Whether you're a fan of the band or only enjoy the popular releases, this album is worth a listen. Everyone will find a selection of tracks they can relate to and enjoy, and expect many of them to feature on radio stations in the next six months. A unique sound separates Linkin Park from the rest, and I hope they plan another Australian tour very soon.
That will be an event not to be missed.
"They're acting like they want a riot, it's a riot I'll give 'em As the sound comes higher on this violent rhythm These snakes in the grass, supplying the venom I ain't scared of your teeth, I admire what's in 'em "