Review Summary: Linkin Park puts out yet another solid LP with better songwriting and instrumentals.
Linkin Park is one of the more successful acts of the 2000s. With the huge mainstream success of the bands first LP "Hybrid Theory" Linkin Park obtained a large number of fans all around the world. Blending rock and rap together was a risky process but Linkin Park has been able to pull it off over the years. From the Hard Rock focus of "Hybrid Theory" to now the electronic vibe/rock sound of "Living Things", The band has changed it's formula over the years dramatically, which is bound to keep people attention with each album sounding independent. The last 4 albums have been solid, so now lets see how they did in their fifth effort "Living Things"
As I told you Linkin Park sounds a lot different now, and that's great. The songwriting is much more mature and instrumentals now have an electronic vibe that fits perfectly with songs like "Lost In The Echo" and "Burn It Down". Most songs on the album show incredible production quality such as the melodic instrumental and creative lyrics in "Castle Of Glass", my personal favorite on the album. There are a few odd numbers to be mentioned though. "Lies Greed Misery" tends to be obnoxious and feels extremely unbalanced with an instrumental that feels too light-hearted for the song's taste."Until It Breaks" suffers from awkward raps and never reaches a climax or interesting point.
"Living Things" takes a few listens to understand or maybe even slightly admire. However there are things to admire about this album, it's interesting instrumentals and better than average. Yes, better than average still not skyrocketing in greatness, but still quite enjoyable. You may think I'm being unfair not giving credit to Chester, and I give him credit where it is due. His strongest song in the album is probably "Roads Untraveled" also the strongest song on the album. The quality of the vocals on this song is outstanding and is a point of marvel in the album. However in a lot of songs you will find Chester's singing to sound childish. "Lies Greed Misery" being the prime example. The effort here is strong which I was why I give the band so much credit for the album. Some songs may feel awkward and misplaced but the whole package is well worth your money.
Pros: Instrumentals, Lyrics, Production Quality, Vocals (at most points)
Cons: Childish screaming, Lame raps
Track Ratings:
Lost In The Echo-3.5/5
In My Remains- 3.5/5
Burn It Down- 2.5/5
Lies Greed Misery- 1.5/5
I'll Be Gone- 4/5
Castle of Glass-4.5/5
Victimized-4/5
Roads Untraveled- 5/5
Skin To Bone- 3.5/5
Until It Breaks- 2/5
Tinfoil-4/5
Powerless-4.5/5
Recommended Tracks: Powerless, Roads Untraveled, Victimized, Castle Of Glass
