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THE REVIEW
It was undoubtedly the most anticipated album of 2007, in every sense.
For months, rumors had been circulating about it, and as early as 2006, fake copies could be found on peer-to-peer networks: it's "Minutes to Midnight" by Linkin Park, arriving four years after the band's last studio album, "Meteora" (excluding the mash-up with Jay-Z "Collision Course"). The title refers to the Doomsday Clock, created in 1947 to symbolize the proximity of the end of the world due to a nuclear war: those expecting a shift in the nature of the lyrics by reading the title will be disappointed.
With a few exceptions ("No More Sorrow" and "Hands Held High"), the lyrics do not differ from those of the previous albums, and the dominant themes are still self-referential, sad, and angry at the same time. What has changed from previous albums is undoubtedly the music; the hip-hop parts have almost disappeared to make way for a more classic rock than "Meteora." As a result, Mike Shinoda certainly suffers, showcasing his flow only in "Bleed It Out" and "Hands Held High," in which the influence of Shinoda's side project, "Fort Minor," is clearly heard: try listening to "S.C.O.M." and "Where'd You Go" and you'll understand why. It seems like the album is in search of new sounds, with the band in a mood for experimentation both in terms of musical genres and the roles of its members (Chester Bennington becomes the undisputed leader, Mike Shinoda is barely heard as well as DJ Joe Hahn, relegated backstage); the resulting issue is the lack of a precise identity for the album, of an overall framework that encompasses the individual songs. All this makes the album certainly fresher and more original, but "dilutes" the band a bit, minimizing many of the characteristics that had made them a world-class band.
Ultimately, "Minutes to Midnight" is an undoubtedly good album, although after a four-year wait, more might have been expected.
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Summary by Bot
Linkin Park's 'Minutes to Midnight' was highly anticipated in 2007, arriving four years after 'Meteora'. The album features a notable shift from hip-hop to more classic rock sounds, with Mike Shinoda's rap parts largely reduced. Chester Bennington takes a dominant lead role, while the band experiments with new styles and roles. Though fresh and original, the album lacks the clear identity and cohesion of earlier works. Overall, it’s a good album but slightly disappointing given the long wait.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Linkin Park
American rock band formed in Agoura Hills, California. Core members include Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Rob Bourdon, Joe Hahn and Dave "Phoenix" Farrell; Chester Bennington was the band's lead vocalist until his death on July 20, 2017. Known for blending rock, hip-hop and electronic elements across major releases such as Hybrid Theory and Meteora.62 Reviews
Other reviews
By Gallagher87
"We will be original, no more nu-metal... these were the official statements... nothing more false."
"Titanic disappointment 'The Little Things You Give Away'... a sleeping pill."
By prince22
The Linkin guys have mellowed.
Credit must be given to Linkin Park for having had the courage to change their style and not having done what most artists do.
By P@ne
"An album that will change the Linkin Park universe forever."
"The change happened, and I’m not sure whether to define it for the better... but it’s clear that the value of this band remains and will remain unchanged forever."
By Mariano90
It’s like a hand gives me such a strong slap on the ear that it liquefies my eardrums and the entire auditory system.
The essential element that had distinguished them is missing: the ROCK.
By wish
An ugly release therefore, perhaps the worst of Linkin Park’s career; a boring extended play from start to finish.
A true insult to my ears.
