Linkin Park Returns with "The Catalyst"

Linkin Park a band from Southern California who has released numerous albums and projects since their inception in 2000. The multi selling sextet have returned from a 3 year album hiatus with the first single off their new album entitled "A Thousand Suns". How does it hold up?



The single is called "The Catalyst". Upon first listen you can tell the "nu-metal" rockers have changed their tune. No more is it teen angst ridden power. Instead the song shows musical talent. Mike Shinoda (MC,Producer,and co vocalist) has explained that they wanted to experiment with new sounds and ideas and make something new and unique. The song is driven by an electro beat that becomes embedded in your brain hours after hearing it.

Most LP songs have followed a format (verse,chorus.verse,chorus) but this song upon first listen doesn't seem to follow that format. The song also has somewhat of an identity crisis, meaning its almost like you are listening to more than one song.

Vocally the song is quite strong, containing lyrics like "God bless us everyone, we're a broken people living under loaded gun", which Mike Shinoda says isn't meant to be political. You sure about that Mr.Shinoda?

Chester's unique and powerful voice is what really makes this song shine. His voice mixed with the harmony of Mike makes this a standout song from their catalog of screams and raps.

If your looking for another "One Step Closer", or "Given Up" then turned around and walk away, because this song is anything but. They replaced heavy guitars with electro beats, almost rave like sounds, and DJ scratching.

I personally believe this to be a refreshing sound that the band and the rock genre needed. Linkin Park have released this song to say "We are here to stay." I for one am excited to hear the entire album.

I recommend any previous fans of Linkin Park check this song out. It may rekindle your love for them, or you my hate it and say "Oh man Hybrid Theory was their best". In that case click the X button in the top right corner and pretend you never read this review.

Verdict

LP is back and better than ever. I give it a Rated R rating!

Linkin Park is signed under Warner Bros.

"The Catalyst" is available now through iTunes and their myspace at www.myspace.com/linkinpark

The album "A Thousand Suns" will be available September 14th in the US. Pre-order it at www.linkinpark.com



Tim