Chris Sutton
Linkin Park have been blasting rock anthems since the late 90’s with their distinct composition and sublime vocal range.
Their sixth studio entry, The Hunting Party, is set to be released next week, with Shinoda stating a move back to the band’s heavier roots as opposed to an electronica format. This has pleased fans in a bid to rediscover rock in a world dominated by pop stars and easy tunes.
This time around they’ve called on help from Tom Morello (Rise Against the Machines), Rakim, Daron Malakian (System of a Down) and Page Hamilton (Helmet) to deliver 45 minutes of heavy beats, simplified lyrics and risks that reap the rewards.
Chester Bennington once again displays moments of calm bliss and others of raged screams to establish himself as one of the most talented front men on the planet. Mike Shinoda raps verses freely and the rest of the band pick up the tempo with memorable riffs and drum solos that attempt to bring back the type of energy a rock band should possess.
The first track released was Guilty All the Same, a raw and almost ‘garage rock’ style that featured rapper Rakim complementing the work of the usual band members.
The focus on instrumental synergy is recognised from the first few seconds, allowing minutes to pass before vocals kick in with powerful drumming and a charged chorus that allows individual talent to lead when required.
Until it’s Gone is the track most recognisable with the band’s previous work, in a similar style to What I’ve Done and New Divide, perhaps to please mainstream fans as well as rock enthusiasts.
The album features tracks without vocals to build into the album’s biggest songs, including Final Masquerade; Chester’s track to utilise a slower pace and relax the mind before the powerful A Line in the Sand, the epic conclusion to The Hunting Party.
Wastelands and Rebellion (which is strongly influenced by System of a Down) are tracks that are instant hits, while the opener Keys to the Kingdom presents the album with a hardcore opening to set the tone.
Living Things, the band’s previous album, wasn’t as well received as it should have been.
People lost faith in Linkin Park, one of the few acts willing to take risks and provide something unique to listeners away from the pop airwaves.
They are brilliant live, have gone through a number of phases and remain capable of bringing back the rock.
The Hunting Party may just be the album to do so.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nym1P-BO_ws
By Chris Sutton
