Linkin Park: 'The Sound Should Be Epic'

Though Linkin Park have only been around for a dozen years or so, they have already sold 50 million albums and earned a place at the front of the nu metal line of bands. Hybrid Theory, their debut record, sold a ton and brought them instant recognition and cache. The albums that followed - Meteora and Minutes To Midnight - also scored big and they are right now working on material for their fourth CD.

Mike Shinoda, Linkin Park’s rapper and multi-instrumentalist found a few moments in a busy schedule to talk about the new record and other projects. These various other ventures include writing the "New Divide," the title theme for the Transformers film; a solo art show; music for video games; and more.

UG: Let’s open with the “The New Divide” single – is there a different approach to writing a movie song versus a regular album track?

Mike Shinoda: We don't usually write a song to fit with a story like this one. Trying to find a way to make it our own was the challenge; to keep it true to the spirit of the movie, but true to our band's intentions as well. It was a careful balance.
 
Does writing a movie song present any unique problems not associated with album songs?

It's similar, but there's more of a time constraint and a focus on more moving parts.
 
Do you consciously strive for a “bigger” or more “epic” quality in a movie song? A bigger chorus or a more memorable chorus perhaps?

I guess the sound should be "epic," at least for this movie. When we were looking through our existing demo material, in deciding how to approach this song, we had a lot of more complex stuff, and more introverted stuff. Transformers isn't exactly an introverted film!
 

"We don't usually write a song to fit with a story like this one."

Will the sound/direction of “New Divide” likely be heard on the next Linkin Park album?

The new album actually doesn't sound a lot like "New Divide," but it sounds great. We've got about 40 song ideas so far. We're trying to do something different from our other albums, with a focus on making some stuff that's more experimental, and hopefully more cutting-edge. There actually might be more rapping. I'm putting all my Fort Minor energy into the new Linkin Park album...you never know which tracks will make the final cut, but hopefully there will be more rapping, and some great beats on the new record.

Can you reference what some of the early material for the new LP album will sound like? Will it include any of the elements of Minutes to Midnight?

One characteristic of Hybrid Theory and Meteora was their distinctive sound. It was a function of the writing; the gear we used; the way we recorded; the studio; the engineer and producer combination, and many other subtle choices along the way. Minutes To Midnight was an effort to break out of that "sound" and make an album full of new sounds. I think the new album will be a return to the idea of making "a sound," but it will be a sound unlike any of the other albums.
 
Please talk about how the band works up a track in the studio? Is there a sort of blueprint by which the band records? Or does it evolve and change depending on song/album?

We tend to record and write in one movement. We record every note we write. Our biggest challenge is keeping organized and making sure no good idea gets lost in the shuffle. Some people want to play a part on every instrument in the studio--guitars, keyboards, etc. We tend to write a part on an instrument and move on. We structure the song as we go, tweaking composition, performance, lyrics, and sounds until it sounds right to all six guys in the band.
 
Has the change in studio gear/applications impacted the sound of the band? How has digital technology and infinite tracks allowed Linkin Park to more fully realize their sound?

There isn't really a trajectory for us when it comes to gear. Sometimes we keep it minimal; sometimes we want to use everything in the studio. But I can say definitively that we're children of the digital recording age. We've recorded to tape, but our writing style definitely benefits from being able to playlist lots of ideas in the computer, and put the best ideas together. The tricky part is knowing which ideas are the good ones. To solve that problem, we have weekly band meetings to listen to--and vote on--all the changes to the songs. Luckily, all our guys have a good ear for the songs, and a pretty consistent view of how they are progressing.
 
How much experimenting do you do in the studio? Are you always looking for different vocal treatments/textures?

Lately, we're doing a ton of experimentation. I don't want to give too much of it away, but we're having a lot of fun making new sounds.

"The new album actually doesn't sound a lot like "New Divide," but it sounds great."

Linkin Park have been successful right out of the gate – how did it feel to achieve that type of success so early? Did you ever have to live up to your own celebrity?

In retrospect, it was pretty weird. We had worked for a long time to make an album and make a name for ourselves, and suddenly we were blowing up bigger than we had ever imagined. I feel like our guys have done a pretty good job of keeping their heads on straight, in spite of everything that's happened. 

Can you address some of the more challenging moments for the band? In other words, if you had to pick a song or two that were most difficult to record in terms of translating the band’s ideas onto a record, what might they be?

There are tons of examples of songs that were a challenge for one reason or another. Each one seems to have its own complication! Most recently, "New Divide" was tough because, being a song for a big summer movie, it had a tight deadline. To be honest, the movie people had other bands they were considering in the beginning; all were successful bands worthy of having a song teamed with this movie. We were constantly under the time pressure to show Michael Bay and his team that our song would be the best one. Once we delivered it and they came back with a positive response, it felt we had won a race.
 
Feelings about the Projekt Revolution tour – did you achieve what you set out to accomplish?

It's been great so far, and we look forward to seeing where it goes. It was amazing to finally take it outside the U.S.--and see it succeed. A lot of hard work from a lot of people goes into it, and we are appreciative of everyone involved. Once we get the next record done, we'll be looking to bring Project Revoution out once again, hopefully better every year.

Closing comments: Any other news? Next tour? Videos? Game music?

We're always really busy. Chester's Dead By Sunrise solo album will be coming out in September this year; I'll be doing a solo art show called Glorious Excess Dies in August here in L.A.; we're doing a video game for the iPhone; and meanwhile doing tours and working on the new record. Things are always busy, but the best way to keep up with everything is on linkinpark.com and mikeshinoda.com.

Interview by Steven Rosen
Ultimate-Guitar.Com © 2009

Check out a video for "New Divide" at this location!

Comments

[CoBRaGe]

I hope this isn't going to be like M2M.

[JKMV11]

ya, i want to hear more Hybrid Theory/Meteora-esque stuff. I'm not a big fan of rap, but LP actually incorporates it into their music in a way that makes me like it.

M2M was ok, but not as good as their first two. lets hope for something great.

[SMB13]

*Facepalm*

Sheesh, the people are never happpy

[apoorvajsh]

I'm actually hoping they'd go for some heavier material in this album, but by the sounds of it i doubt its going to happen.
M2M was too generic, they'd lost their trademark sound. I'm glad they're experimenting

[Jet_Black88]

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

[uk.mace]

I preferred M2M to their previous works.
@Jet_Black88 - yes, they did reanimation, but that was a compilation of a a few remixes (of which there are thousands)

[threedaysgrace9]

LP amazing in whatever direction they go. glad to see we gonna get more rapping and "a sound" on this new one. if they can combine the amazingness of the first two records with songs like New Divide and What I've Done, they'll be golden.

[Linkinaddict88]

It'll be cool when Mike starts rapping again, I've got no problem with that but hopefully they'll return to a more heavier sound like their first two albums. I totally understand they're looking for a new sound, but they shouldn't change their style so much...
Anyway, rock on LP!

[limpidgreen345]

They started as a Rage Against the Machine knockoff...
They became gods of commerical rock...
Now what should they do?
Maybe they can record an album with Taylor Swift.

[LP4EVR]

old style please

[transplants182]

I don't think Minutes To Midnight was bad by any means,it was just a lot different from the first 2. It seems like the good songs off M2M were the ones they didn't play on the radio

[PSM]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

They started as a Rage Against the Machine knockoff...
They became gods of commerical rock...
Now what should they do?
Maybe they can record an album with Taylor Swift.

Not once in my years of listening to them did any of their music ever strike me as a Rage Against The Machine knockoff. I guess everyone hears things differently...

[AdenZerda]

SMB13 wrote:

I doubt over 50 million albumsqualifies as "sucks."

The Jonas Brothers et al. would like a word with you.

Anyway, glad Mike seems like a nice dude. Not a fan of M2M, but I still give Hybrid Theory a listen every once in a while.

[pigmaggots]

Oh come on, lets be nice.

Talented guys and he seems really nice!

[limpidgreen345]

PSM wrote:

limpidgreen345 wrote:

They started as a Rage Against the Machine knockoff...
They became gods of commerical rock...
Now what should they do?
Maybe they can record an album with Taylor Swift.

Not once in my years of listening to them did any of their music ever strike me as a Rage Against The Machine knockoff. I guess everyone hears things differently...

I guess so... that's what I've always heard. I've never been a big fan but I like some of their stuff. Just the whole rap/rock thing... it all sounds the same to me. Which is fine, they don't have to record for me. Their more commercial approach lately would seem to suggest they don't have a great deal of artistic integrity but again if that's what they want to do, fantastic, they can record whatever they want.

[silent caution]

title was kinda misleading...i thought he was being a cocky douche when i read the title but that wasnt the case...not a fan of them at all but i will give it a listen

[Shabalaba]

M2M didn't appeal to me at all, unlike the majority of people on UG who seem to just jump on the "I hate LP!!11!!" bandwagon, I was a big LP fan prior to the release and bought it. It just was too different and they seemed to have created an entirely different fanbase which is more mainstream as they get played on mainstream radio, whilst i don't care for it they have done well out of their new sound.
Experimental in terms of this release can only go for a similar sound in terms of 'heaviness' but more rap as that was lacking in M2M

My 2 cents

[KnotParkDay]

Jet_Black88 wrote:

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

Reanimation was a remix album, it doesn't count. I hope this record is heavier, and I hope they keep the guitar solos.

[Guitarfreak777]

I just hope they have been bitched at enough by their hardcore fans to actually look an rethink where the band is going. It looks like they listened.

[sam_osborne]

yes everyone forgets reanimation

Jet_Black88 wrote:

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

[BurningTheLives]

I really liked their first two albums, but after I heard their new single, it feels as though they are selling out. New Divide left absolutely no impact on me. A very forgettable and generic song. I just hope that the rest of the album is totally different.

[wertherrr]

GODhimself37 wrote:

i just hope they go back to their old ways.... first...

i really, really hope so

[randomdude2010]

Jet_Black88 wrote:

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

Reanimation was just a remix album technically it is a studio album, but shouldn't be considered a studio album.

[ratmblink123]

It's good that he says there will be more rap on the new album. I missed it on the last one. Mike seemed sort of... invisible on the last album.

Hopefully we get some good stuff.

[TheSoupDragon]

Comparisons to RATM are just... wrong.

[limpidgreen345]

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Comparisons to RATM are just... wrong.

So Linkin Park has no rapping and simple guitar riffs?

[vartanspartan]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

[quote]
TheSoupDragon wrote:

Comparisons to RATM are just... wrong.

So Linkin Park has no rapping and simple guitar riffs?[/quote]

Yes, they are both nu-metal but just very different approaches to nu-metal.

[Andy2k64]

GODhimself37 wrote:

i just hope they go back to their old ways.... first...

i want a good mix. i love the new and old. same rap would be cool again.

[anjan14]

man i love linkin park but i dont like rap that much but in hybrid theory and meteora the rap was amazing with a mixture chester and mike a=but if theres gonna be more mike and less chester then it isnt good i love miike dont take me wrong but i am die hard fan of rock metal music

[limpidgreen345]

They have generally the same style and the go in different directions from there. Linkin Park has a bit more "depth" to their sound and it's structured alot differently.

I actually can't stand RATM for the most part. For me at least, listening to Morello play rookie-level riffs while Zack de la Rocha yells about how much he hates everything got old a LONG time ago.

[dudewithapen]

Agree about RATM. Morello never really stopped rookie level riffs imho.

Minutes to Midnight sounds like an attempt to become the next U2. The Fort Minor album is what Minutes to Midnight should have been. Bringing back the rapping will help extremely, and trading in Ibanez for Fender was a big mistake for Delson. Hopeful the new stuff will be good... the lyrics were still good but the new sound was too much for me to handle.

[con job]

Well that dashed my hopes that the new album will be "New Divide"-esque

As long as it'll sound different to MTM. I didn't hate that album like most people, but it had a lifespan of about two months....I haven't felt the urge to listen to a song from it for at least the last six months.

Hopefully the new direction will be more interesting.

[Tordyboi]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Comparisons to RATM are just... wrong.

So Linkin Park has no rapping and simple guitar riffs?

Simple guitar riffs? Tom morello's riffs are 100% more technical than LP.

[con job]

Look, I'm a massive fan of Tom Morello and Brad Dielson, but they both do incredibly simple riffs(Dielsen more than Morello, but not by much).

Comparing the two guitarists/bands is a retarded comparison anyway. You lot just lump the two under "rap-metal", but they're two totally different bands.

[limpidgreen345]

Tordyboi wrote:

Simple guitar riffs? Tom morello's riffs are 100% more technical than LP.

My cat can play Morello riffs.

[Caleb B]

I loved Reanimation, it was one of my favorite albums. Probably in this order: Hybrid Theory, Reanimation, Meteora, M2M, and the Jay-Z Collaboration last.

[TunaFish]

"There actually might be more rapping"

Yes! The only good thing on the interview! Now lets back to the old style or something similar.

[jax113]

i don't belief in thing called nu-metal, for me heavy metal or no metal at all, as many members said this band is not close to a decent rock band , really it's only for teenagers, there music have no work not lyrics or riffs , 3 chord in one song and that is a achievement for them , it is just awful to read in one sentence "likin park and epic"
that is my opinion

[Habs]

New Divide is great!!

[ineXx]

sorry but to put RATM into the list of "nu metal" bands is stupid

[mosh_rocker2006]

Why do so many people want them go back to their Hybrid theory sound. Remember last year when Shinoda said they had wasted that sound. You can't keep making album after album with the same sound...if that's what you're looking for you need to listen to as many emo bands as you can.

[tmarkov1]

mosh_rocker2006 wrote:

Why do so many people want them go back to their Hybrid theory sound. Remember last year when Shinoda said they had wasted that sound. You can't keep making album after album with the same sound...if that's what you're looking for you need to listen to as many emo bands as you can.

How does one "waste" a sound? As a musician and composer, I am curious to know? I believe they were purposefully avoiding songs that sounded like "Hybrid Theory" material for M2M so that they can prove to themselves that they could write stuff that's not "nu metal". However, I believe that it's not a choice between "repeat yourself" or "change style completely". You can stay true to your style and still experiment. I mean, check out "Death Magnetic". Sure, is has some old school riffs and feel to it, but it is fresh. So it can be done. You don't have to chose between one or the other, my friend.

[hellraiser1133]

I think everything they've ever written is great. If you can't appreciate the changes they make, than that's your problem, but regardless of what genre or style they play, I can honestly say they've never written a song I would consider bad. Props to them on that, considering the other major bands of our era. Can't wait for any new material from them.

[jtaylor]

Jet_Black88 wrote:

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

o.O I don't like linkin park very much, but that's easily one of my favourite albums. I guess I like the electronicas. I know it's weird that people ignore it sometimes though, it was waaaaay more than a remix album.

[oO KPH Oo]

I'm not that big of a Linkin Park fan in general, I have all their albums (except reanimation because the album makes me want to shoot a kitten with a luger), aren't really that into them, but I REALLY don't like New Divide. Along with What I've Done, those two songs really just tend to aggrivate me.

[TheSoupDragon]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Comparisons to RATM are just... wrong.

So Linkin Park has no rapping and simple guitar riffs?

Linkin Park and RATM sound NOTHING alike.
They both have rapping? Wow, they must be the same.
Don't be stupid.

[nickrawkz1]

They should really take Projekt Revolution to Hawaii.

[jbone_sg]

Love LP's old stuff, hope they go back to that...who cares if rap/rock is played out, they are great at it, and mike shinoda is the most talented man in the music business for all who doubt him

[Logan_B]

I think its good that they are branching out again and doing more rapping i thought that was really cool and Mike comes up with some really cool hip hop rappy parts for their songs but he is also a good melodic singer

Checked.

[tbrown8890]

MORE RAPPING?!?!

YES!

[southpaw_tdg]

new sound? cool, just no more m2m sound

[limpidgreen345]

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Linkin Park and RATM sound NOTHING alike.
They both have rapping? Wow, they must be the same.
Don't be stupid.

Linkin Park and Dolly Parton sound nothing alike. LP and RATM sound a lot alike.

http://www.miracle-ear.com/

[b]dudewithapen[/b ] wrote:

Agree about RATM. Morello never really stopped rookie level riffs imho.

He got ranked #26 on the Rolling Stone top 100 guitarists of all time... Bullshit.

[shwilly]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

He got ranked #26 on the Rolling Stone top 100 guitarists of all time... Bullshit.

1- Since when do people above the age of 12 care about any of those lameass Rolling Stone lists?
2- Let's hear you play the solo from "Know Your Enemy"
3- Or in fact, let's hear you come up with any song that has made millions of festivalgoers bounce in unision to such an extent that people have even registered small earthquakes during their performances

Why are we even bringing up guitar skills at a Linkin Park interview? If you can play One Step Closer you can play them all, really. That doesn't necessarily make them shitty tho...

[limpidgreen345]

shwilly wrote:

limpidgreen345 wrote:

He got ranked #26 on the Rolling Stone top 100 guitarists of all time... Bullshit.

1- Since when do people above the age of 12 care about any of those lameass Rolling Stone lists?
2- Let's hear you play the solo from "Know Your Enemy"
3- Or in fact, let's hear you come up with any song that has made millions of festivalgoers bounce in unision to such an extent that people have even registered small earthquakes during their performances

Why are we even bringing up guitar skills at a Linkin Park interview? If you can play One Step Closer you can play them all, really. That doesn't necessarily make them shitty tho...

Oh, get off it...

1- That's OBVIOUSLY my point.
2- I didn't get ranked #26, did I, wiseass, and if "Know Your Enemy" blows your mind you apparently don't listen to very much music.
3- I might not be able to come up with a song that makes a bunch of mindless fist-pumping suburban white kids go crazy but if you have the capacity to count frets and you don't have advanced rheumatoid arthritis you can do pretty much whatever Tom Morello can do.

Linkin Park never pretends to be a "guitar band" in the technical sense. It's just not the style of music they play, which is perfectly fine.

[sajn]

1 thing that scared me a bit is bringing the "fort minor" sound in the new album...am not trying to bash FM or anything, just let the linkin park thing remain Linkin Park u noe..

[SexoKat]

i cant wait for the new album. ^^
but yeah... the old albums are the best...
hope they'll make a better album this time.
still i love all their works... ^^

Linkin Park RULZZZ!@!$

[ckmma]

I think they should do a kid A, or achtung baby, I feel if any band could completely change their sound and do something original they deserve popularity. I loved their first 2 albums, but I think the fame got to them and they just wanted to maintain their popularity with a safe album. not saying m2m was bad, just imo not as genuine

[<slash>]

i think "linkin park" are awesome...but my favorite band are Guns N' Roses.

[Seakle dude]

I hate to think that bands like these might represent the future of rock´n roll for the masses. Fortunately there still is a little hope left with bands like Lamb Of God and Trivium.

[02thomaf]

Having read this and all the comments above, I can safel voice my opinion. Having been introduced to Hyrbrid Theory at 10/11 years old by my older brother I reckon its one of THE greatest albums ever made

there music have no work not lyrics or riffs

To say they have no lyrics is ridiculous! They first album is all about Chester's drug addiction - the lyrics are freakin' gold!
I'm not looking for LP to re-invent their sound as they did with M2M - just develop the older sound.
You don't have to create eactly the same stuff.
To me M2M was more of a concept album.
Some bands can change their style drastically then go back to a similar sound to previous albums...
FFAF did it with tales don't tell themselves - new album is a development of the old sound.
LP should remember which sound and albums put them at the top, give the fans that lifted them that high what they want! Even if its only a couple of songs

Linkin park isnt a guitar band. Its just a band, with each members interests in their particular instruments taken into account.

Those who think they suck purely because "tEh GeeT4R i$nT Gr8" need to grow up and look past the end of their nose.

Their a team of highly dedicated musicians, artists, directors etc. They love what they do, and thats all that should matter. Even if they only have 2 fans, thats all that should matter in a band. The more people that like their music the better.

And that applies to other bands too.

Not only do linkin park perform music they do alot of other things, that people barely know about. they are constantly donating to charities. Working with people, they set up a charity to help with the katrina storm.

Hell, Brad delson also has a 4-year scholorship charity set up for UCLA.

What other bands that heavily involved in music, charities, art and making people happy.

[devilex121]

nah i do like linkin park
they just turned me off with M2M
i also personally dont like rap but i like linkin park's approach to rapping

its quite "different"

[MonsterOfRock]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

shwilly wrote:

limpidgreen345 wrote:

He got ranked #26 on the Rolling Stone top 100 guitarists of all time... Bullshit.

1- Since when do people above the age of 12 care about any of those lameass Rolling Stone lists?
2- Let's hear you play the solo from "Know Your Enemy"
3- Or in fact, let's hear you come up with any song that has made millions of festivalgoers bounce in unision to such an extent that people have even registered small earthquakes during their performances

Why are we even bringing up guitar skills at a Linkin Park interview? If you can play One Step Closer you can play them all, really. That doesn't necessarily make them shitty tho...

Oh, get off it...

1- That's OBVIOUSLY my point.
2- I didn't get ranked #26, did I, wiseass, and if "Know Your Enemy" blows your mind you apparently don't listen to very much music.
3- I might not be able to come up with a song that makes a bunch of mindless fist-pumping suburban white kids go crazy but if you have the capacity to count frets and you don't have advanced rheumatoid arthritis you can do pretty much whatever Tom Morello can do.

Linkin Park never pretends to be a "guitar band" in the technical sense. It's just not the style of music they play, which is perfectly fine.

The "Know your Enemy" solo is actually a very clever one. Technical and cool. Tom Morello doesnt show half the skill he possesses either (he is taught by Batio, btw). Hes a guitarist that uses the same notes/power chords that any novice players can use, but indeed give em as much attitude as they can get, thats an achievement regardless of what anyone thinks. If ur unhappy with him being #26 in the Rolling Stones list, then go discuss why Kurt Cobain is #12 in the list @ the pit, if that list is THAT important to you.

[FredZor]

People... Give these "super-bru's" (thats south-african slang for super artists) a break. they were pioneers in nu-metal and in my opinion, even though the new sound was a drastic change, it was a valid move. nu-metal especialy here in S.A is an excuse for slightly talented oke's to try and make it big in the music scene. they are failing...

[flame843]

I was a big Linkin Park fan in middle school back when I thought they were the be-all-end-all of rock music, but they got old and stale for me after I started listening to more different kinds of music. That being said, I enjoyed Minutes to Midnight because they sort of "played outside the box" and tried different styles than what was essentially the formula for their first two albums. I think if these guys continue to try out new ideas and don't limit themselves to being radio-friendly, they'll be more worthwhile musically.

I mean, I can appreciate people wanting them to sound like they did on the first albums for nostalgia's sake, but I'd honestly be happier with them if they keep surprising me.

Also The New Divide sounds exactly like What I've Done which I found kind of funny.

[metallica144]

since minutes to midnight i consider LP just as sell-outs. Of course you can experiment with your sound but why would you destroy a sound/style that made you big? and i dont believe that they're going to go back to the style of the 1st 2 albums, they prefer the mainstream and not the hardcore LP fans

[TwistedLogic]

Based on what I have read about the band, what I have heard from Minutes to Midnight, I think LP should be focused on writing sold songs, rather than experimenting with their sound. Without a strong core of songs to work with you can experiement to the cows come home but will still have crappy tunes. There first record was not all that great adn the song writing became a lot better on Meteora, then seemed to slip on Minutes. They need to get back to song writing basics because if they lay another stinker like Minutes it will be hard to come back.

[Vin2254]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

They have generally the same style and the go in different directions from there. Linkin Park has a bit more "depth" to their sound and it's structured alot differently.

I actually can't stand RATM for the most part. For me at least, listening to Morello play rookie-level riffs while Zack de la Rocha yells about how much he hates everything got old a LONG time ago.

rookie level riffs? black sabbath had rookie level riffs. tons of metal guitarists have made a career out of rookie level riffs. and not one of them is nearly as creative at morello. technique and speed can be taught. but creativity can not.

[ElDiabloMuerte]

I have two points to make. Firstly, I am a big fan of Linkin Park and I enjoyed all their albums equally, agreeing with Hybrid_Bullet's statement. However, I think New Divide is a ridiculuosly generic song and hope to **** that it won't be anything like their new album. Secondly, in response to the Tom Morello argument, I'm pretty sure a great guitarist is one who knows how to utilise their playing (Such as Tom) rather than one is super fast or super complex.

[Obie]

i was into hybrid theory when it came out because that was one of the few cds i had access to as a wee lad, but mark my words, linkin park will not last.

and mike shinoda is definitely NOT the most talented man in the music business... jesus christ, anyone who thinks that needs to listen to more music, and not the radio.

[limpidgreen345]

flame843 wrote:

Also The New Divide sounds exactly like What I've Done which I found kind of funny.

Yeah, when I heard it on the radio the first time, that's exactly what I thought. "Oh, it's not What I've Done?"

Vin2254 wrote:

rookie level riffs? black sabbath had rookie level riffs. tons of metal guitarists have made a career out of rookie level riffs. and not one of them is nearly as creative at morello. technique and speed can be taught. but creativity can not.

MonsterOfRock wrote:

The "Know your Enemy" solo is actually a very clever one. Technical and cool. Tom Morello doesnt show half the skill he possesses either (he is taught by Batio, btw). Hes a guitarist that uses the same notes/power chords that any novice players can use, but indeed give em as much attitude as they can get, thats an achievement regardless of what anyone thinks. If ur unhappy with him being #26 in the Rolling Stones list, then go discuss why Kurt Cobain is #12 in the list @ the pit, if that list is THAT important to you.

Uh, yeah, Sabbath had rookie-level riffs, therein lies my point, what exactly has Morello done that wasn't being done when he was a fetus? I'm not saying nobody's ever played rookie-level riffs... you're exactly right, TONS of metal guitarists have done the same thing. That doesn't make them good. But whatever, they can play whatever pleases them.

Tom Morello is a GOOD guitarist. Not GREAT. There's a difference, just as there's a difference between FAST and GREAT as applies to so many metal guitarists.

[xXChimairaXx]

Hopefully this new album won't be a depressing piece of junk. Stop trying to please teenagers and go back to the roots that made you famous.

[j-walk]

Everytime a new album comes out the comments all read the same " dont like as much as thier old stuff" you cant re create. It just doesnt happen.Take these albums for what they are. Im sure these artists new albums are pretty good. Either that or youll just have to keep looking for new bands to listen to thier first couple of albums.

[Vedicardi]

Pop rarely, if ever makes for epic. Most epic pop songs are just ripping off classical music though, very few of them are original.

[§ynysterSte]

epic guys i so cant wait for the new album, i hope it hes right when it doesnt sound like M2M.

But the old LP sound will be missed, i hope this new sound will be great as i have alot of expectations for the upcoming album.

Chester more screaming in this one, ur voice wasnt tested on M2M apart from like 3 songs

LP RULEEE

[limpidgreen345]

j-walk wrote:

Everytime a new album comes out the comments all read the same " dont like as much as thier old stuff" you cant re create. It just doesnt happen.Take these albums for what they are. Im sure these artists new albums are pretty good. Either that or youll just have to keep looking for new bands to listen to thier first couple of albums.

Yeah, no kidding... some of these people here complaining about wanting the "old stuff." EVERY group's sound evolves over time. These people should try listening to groups that have more than 4 albums to see how groups can turn into something totally different over time. They don't have to like it... and they still have the old stuff to listen to.

[Patrijz]

I guess I'm just waiting for them to create a new unique sound like we've never heard before... like they did with Hybrid Theory! I like a more heavier approach, but my personal problem was that M2M was to 'simple' and 'flat'... Without all the effects and tight producing I felt like the 'simple' guitarplaying exposed too much, letting it sound kind of 'talentless'... So I guess my hopes go to a heavier and more technically challenging new album!

[bla556]

morello is basically playing rap beats on guitar, so of course his riffs are simple...but he's extremely innovative

[bla556]

sorry for double post

plus morello wrote the solo for settle for nothing, which easily owns him a place in guitarist's heaven

[loganpwns]

The new album actually doesn't sound a lot like "New Divide,"

YESSSSS

[limpidgreen345]

I just don't think he's that good, technically or melodically. Sorry.

[TheSoupDragon]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

flame843 wrote:

Also The New Divide sounds exactly like What I've Done which I found kind of funny.

Yeah, when I heard it on the radio the first time, that's exactly what I thought. "Oh, it's not What I've Done?"

Vin2254 wrote:

rookie level riffs? black sabbath had rookie level riffs. tons of metal guitarists have made a career out of rookie level riffs. and not one of them is nearly as creative at morello. technique and speed can be taught. but creativity can not.

MonsterOfRock wrote:

The "Know your Enemy" solo is actually a very clever one. Technical and cool. Tom Morello doesnt show half the skill he possesses either (he is taught by Batio, btw). Hes a guitarist that uses the same notes/power chords that any novice players can use, but indeed give em as much attitude as they can get, thats an achievement regardless of what anyone thinks. If ur unhappy with him being #26 in the Rolling Stones list, then go discuss why Kurt Cobain is #12 in the list @ the pit, if that list is THAT important to you.

Uh, yeah, Sabbath had rookie-level riffs, therein lies my point, what exactly has Morello done that wasn't being done when he was a fetus? I'm not saying nobody's ever played rookie-level riffs... you're exactly right, TONS of metal guitarists have done the same thing. That doesn't make them good. But whatever, they can play whatever pleases them.

Tom Morello is a GOOD guitarist. Not GREAT. There's a difference, just as there's a difference between FAST and GREAT as applies to so many metal guitarists.

Yeah, that's not at all an incredibly stupid thing to say.
If you honestly think LP and RATM sound the same you need to listen to more music.
Morello is not like other guitarists in that he approaches the guitar from a completely different angle. Some of his riffs are simple, yes, but they sound REALLY good. Some are not, using multiple effects and unusual techniques. His solos are very unique.
Also, you complain about Zack's lyrics... on a LP article? Really?

[Jawkster]

Whatever their new sound will be, as a fan I'll appreciate it for the right reasons.

[philrox]

Thank GOD It won't sound like M2M or A New Divide

[screamsoftly]

I liked this band a lot when I was younger, and then I grew up. And now they're still here. I think they're cool guys though.

I performed Shadow of the Day at an art show for my school and I got to write a cool guitar part for it which was fun.

A new album could be cool.

[limpidgreen345]

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Yeah, that's not at all an incredibly stupid thing to say.
If you honestly think LP and RATM sound the same you need to listen to more music.
Morello is not like other guitarists in that he approaches the guitar from a completely different angle. Some of his riffs are simple, yes, but they sound REALLY good. Some are not, using multiple effects and unusual techniques. His solos are very unique.
Also, you complain about Zack's lyrics... on a LP article? Really?

Did you even read my post or do you just look for my name, quote it, and disagree by default?

And seriously, LP and RATM are in the same basic genre of music. Did I say they sound "the same?"

limpidgreen345 wrote:

They have generally the same style and the go in different directions from there. Linkin Park has a bit more "depth" to their sound and it's structured alot differently.

Do try to keep up. I defy you to explain exactly how LP and RATM differ so dramatically that I can't even make the comparison without being "stupid" as you put it. If I said that Linkin Park sounded like ABBA I'd be a blithering idiot and you would be entirely accurate in saying that they sound NOTHING alike.

Finally, yeah, I made one passing comment about how I don't really like RATM at all, because RATM came up in the discussion. Hopefully you already gathered that. And for the record, yeah, I think Zack de la Rocha is a ego-masturbating hypocrite.

Checked.

[GDrock!]

I hope this album is more like Hybrid Theory. M2M was nothing like their old stuff. And like it says "The front of the new metal bands".. thats crap. they used to be new about 2 albums ago. now they're pop.

[GDrock!]

I mean compare "Place For My Head" to "Leave Out all The rest" u can really see a difference

[TehPsychoChef]

Cool to the album info...I like all their music, but don't like M2M as much.

And my thoughts on the LP and RATM discussion...they DO sound a lil similar, not much, linkin park definitely has more depth to it..

[Freedomfight3r]

This better not be another MTM...
And I see a few comments about RATM: LP =/= RATM. Never will. RATM surpasses them by MILES. RATM's live shows have so much more energy to them. More than LP is ever capable of producing (Coming from the experience of being in the Pit for BOTH bands, seperate gigs of course).

[Wolverine76]

Wow. It seems EVERYBODY on this comment section is completely and utterly biased. With everybody whinging about which album THEY like, and which albums Linkin Park SHOULD be making, it's unbelievable that everybody thinks Linkin Park cares about what THEY want.

As Mike Shinoda and the rest of Linkin have mentioned so many times, they love to make music. And it is because of this love that they make this music. Anyone who knows Mike Shinoda or reads his blog, knows that he HATES the idea of artists selling out, and constantly gives information on how to avoid falling victim to destructive labels with money on their minds.

[Wolverine76]

If any of you believe that "ohh but Hybrid Theory sounded better so do more of the same so i'm happy" is going to effect anyone but your own inability to accept a band growing (not "changing dramatically"), then you should give up on music forever. Where Linkin Park grew from Hybrid Theory to Minutes to Midnight, Metallica grew to create Death Magnetic.

I am not saying "well i like linkin park and if you dont then screw you", but that everyone should widen their minds and accept that bands GROW.

And as a personal note- LINKIN PARK= AWESOMENESS.

[Zalcron]

Wolverine76 wrote:

If any of you believe that "ohh but Hybrid Theory sounded better so do more of the same so i'm happy" is going to effect anyone but your own inability to accept a band growing (not "changing dramatically"), then you should give up on music forever. Where Linkin Park grew from Hybrid Theory to Minutes to Midnight, Metallica grew to create Death Magnetic.

I am not saying "well i like linkin park and if you dont then screw you", but that everyone should widen their minds and accept that bands GROW.

And as a personal note- LINKIN PARK= AWESOMENESS.

sorry for the double post but...QFT man....that's what i've been trying to point out to all the ignant haters out there.

[SERLITZ]

wow i got goosebumps when i heard the new album isnt gonna be like new divide..man i kind of hate that song lol i hope the new album sound like old LP

[Lackesse]

jax113 wrote:

i don't belief in thing called nu-metal, for me heavy metal or no metal at all, as many members said this band is not close to a decent rock band , really it's only for teenagers, there music have no work not lyrics or riffs , 3 chord in one song and that is a achievement for them , it is just awful to read in one sentence "likin park and epic"
that is my opinion

You're right!!Linkin park is only for mainstream listeners and radio and TV!!!It's a joke,that some peoples take them seriously.Delson??Don't make me laugh..Someone here says:My cat plays Morello riffs..But Delson??I can only hear some detuned chords,which is not "epic".But that's my opinion..

[nix4u]

minutes to midnight was a gr8 disappointment for us. we don need such "different things" again. we're xpecting something like hybrid theory n meteora..!

[TheSoupDragon]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

TheSoupDragon wrote:

Yeah, that's not at all an incredibly stupid thing to say.
If you honestly think LP and RATM sound the same you need to listen to more music.
Morello is not like other guitarists in that he approaches the guitar from a completely different angle. Some of his riffs are simple, yes, but they sound REALLY good. Some are not, using multiple effects and unusual techniques. His solos are very unique.
Also, you complain about Zack's lyrics... on a LP article? Really?

Did you even read my post or do you just look for my name, quote it, and disagree by default?

And seriously, LP and RATM are in the same basic genre of music. Did I say they sound "the same?"

limpidgreen345 wrote:

They have generally the same style and the go in different directions from there. Linkin Park has a bit more "depth" to their sound and it's structured alot differently.

Do try to keep up. I defy you to explain exactly how LP and RATM differ so dramatically that I can't even make the comparison without being "stupid" as you put it. If I said that Linkin Park sounded like ABBA I'd be a blithering idiot and you would be entirely accurate in saying that they sound NOTHING alike.

Finally, yeah, I made one passing comment about how I don't really like RATM at all, because RATM came up in the discussion. Hopefully you already gathered that. And for the record, yeah, I think Zack de la Rocha is a ego-masturbating hypocrite.

You said "it all sounds the same to me."
Rap-Rock isn't even a proper genre.
Just because you rap over a guitar doesn't mean you're nu-metal or the same as another band that does the same.
Linkin Park has no depth. It's just unimaginative, incredibly simple guitar, over a computerised beat. The bassist is pointless.
RATM riffs aren't as simple as you suggest. They just aren't. Certainly when compared to LP.
If you can listen to a song like Calm Like A Bomb, Take The Power Back, etc and claim it sounds like Linkin Park, then yeah, to me, you're stupid.
Obviously they sound more like LP than Abba, and bands of COMPLETELY different genres. They're both rock bands, way to clear that up.
This argument is just ridiculous, I honestly can't see how you can justify saying they sound alike past them both having rapping.
By your logic Slipknot and Incubus are the same because they both have a DJ.

[scarfacesuit]

Jet_Black88 wrote:

Don't they already have 4 albums? Does everyone forget "Reanimation"? I mean, I haven't listened to "Minutes to Midnight", but Reanimation was my least favorite album by them.

Not only Reanimation, but Meteora even had a remixed album after that (I think), and let's not forget Jay-Z/Linkin Park's "Collision Course".

I liked their studio albums (Hybrid, Minutes, and Meteora), but their remixed stuff is terrible.

[RaZiAx]

con job wrote:

Look, I'm a massive fan of Tom Morello and Brad Dielson, but they both do incredibly simple riffs(Dielsen more than Morello, but not by much).
Comparing the two guitarists/bands is a retarded comparison anyway. You lot just lump the two under "rap-metal", but they're two totally different bands.

I believe that if a guitarist who can create a really cool tune out of a really simple riff, then he/she has a very good ear for catchy MUSIC. Good ear= talent.. You dont need to be a jimmy padge to create amazing music. Btw I like both BFMV and LP. so its not a biased comment.

[masterometal666]

Ok, gonna bam this out.

Morello: The dude can shred with the best of them. End of story. But he just doesn't choose to play like your Batio's or your Romeo's or any of those guys, because it's not his style and it doesn't fit the music. Some of the solos off of the self titled album are absolutely INSANE. Don't doubt this fact.

Sound alike?: Absolutely not. They both mix rap and rock, and that is the end of any and all possibilites of comparison.

Reanimation: Terrible album. Remix albums generally suck, and this one is no exception. But it doesn't technically count as a full LP.

M2m: Terrible album. I'm not against experimentation and change, but that was indeed a step in the wrong direction. If they can incorporate some new ideas into their Hybrid/Meteora era sound and make it work, you won't find me complaining. But M2M fell far short of doing this, and ended up being a cop-out album to increase their fan base from mainstream listeners. Plain and simple. I hope they fix this on the next album.

I love both bands.

[limpidgreen345]

TheSoupDragon wrote:

You said "it all sounds the same to me."
Rap-Rock isn't even a proper genre.
Just because you rap over a guitar doesn't mean you're nu-metal or the same as another band that does the same.
Linkin Park has no depth. It's just unimaginative, incredibly simple guitar, over a computerised beat. The bassist is pointless.
RATM riffs aren't as simple as you suggest. They just aren't. Certainly when compared to LP.
If you can listen to a song like Calm Like A Bomb, Take The Power Back, etc and claim it sounds like Linkin Park, then yeah, to me, you're stupid.
Obviously they sound more like LP than Abba, and bands of COMPLETELY different genres. They're both rock bands, way to clear that up.
This argument is just ridiculous, I honestly can't see how you can justify saying they sound alike past them both having rapping.
By your logic Slipknot and Incubus are the same because they both have a DJ.

1. You may or may not be surprised to learn that "it all sounds the same to me" is actually a rather common figure of speech in the English-speaking world.
2. Elements of rap + Elements of rock = Rap-rock. Pretty simple, really.
3. RATM riffs are incredibly simple. That's perfectly acceptable, read RaZiAx's post. But come on, RATM riffs are simple. And yes, LP is simple to the point that saying they play riffs giving them a lot of credit.
4. I wrote "depth" instead of depth because terms like that mean different things to everybody. I'm trying to say that RATM has a "purer" sound--usually a three-piece setup with Zack on vocals--while LP does alot with synthesizers and that sort of stuff.

I don't think there's much else in your post that I haven't already addressed at least once, though I suppose it's already well-established that you aren't going to be bothered to read them, and you'll probably pick three or four words out of this one and ignore the rest, but I'm at least making a good-faith effort to have a discussion here, which makes one of us.

Finally... I again defy you to explain exactly how LP and RATM are vastly different, because they aren't. Either you listen to an exceptionally narrow variety of music or you're here because you think it's fun to call people "stupid" when they won't kiss your ass.

[BoxCarMothra]

Based on of these comments, I can tell a lot of Linkin Park fans didn't like their sound change. Honestly, if you want to hear Hybrid Theory/ Meteora.....then listen to Hybrid Theory/ Meteora. There's no need for them to keep releasing the same album over and over. If every band kept the same sound they started with, music would get boring fast.

[obgem]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

TheSoupDragon wrote:

You said "it all sounds the same to me."
Rap-Rock isn't even a proper genre.
Just because you rap over a guitar doesn't mean you're nu-metal or the same as another band that does the same.
Linkin Park has no depth. It's just unimaginative, incredibly simple guitar, over a computerised beat. The bassist is pointless.
RATM riffs aren't as simple as you suggest. They just aren't. Certainly when compared to LP.
If you can listen to a song like Calm Like A Bomb, Take The Power Back, etc and claim it sounds like Linkin Park, then yeah, to me, you're stupid.
Obviously they sound more like LP than Abba, and bands of COMPLETELY different genres. They're both rock bands, way to clear that up.
This argument is just ridiculous, I honestly can't see how you can justify saying they sound alike past them both having rapping.
By your logic Slipknot and Incubus are the same because they both have a DJ.

1. You may or may not be surprised to learn that "it all sounds the same to me" is actually a rather common figure of speech in the English-speaking world.
2. Elements of rap + Elements of rock = Rap-rock. Pretty simple, really.
3. RATM riffs are incredibly simple. That's perfectly acceptable, read RaZiAx's post. But come on, RATM riffs are simple. And yes, LP is simple to the point that saying they play riffs giving them a lot of credit.
4. I wrote "depth" instead of depth because terms like that mean different things to everybody. I'm trying to say that RATM has a "purer" sound--usually a three-piece setup with Zack on vocals--while LP does alot with synthesizers and that sort of stuff.

I don't think there's much else in your post that I haven't already addressed at least once, though I suppose it's already well-established that you aren't going to be bothered to read them, and you'll probably pick three or four words out of this one and ignore the rest, but I'm at least making a good-faith effort to have a discussion here, which makes one of us.

Finally... I again defy you to explain exactly how LP and RATM are vastly different, because they aren't. Either you listen to an exceptionally narrow variety of music or you're here because you think it's fun to call people "stupid" when they won't kiss your ass.

At the end of the day, Linkin Park is still Linkin Krap.

And I think you're the one who listens to NARROW VARIETY OF MUSIC because you won't appreciate LP if you love diversity in your music (from classical music to electronica to metal to shoegaze, etc...) I don't know anyone who likes LP as much as Opeth or Mozart or OverClocked Remix.

[masterometal666]

BoxCarMothra wrote:

Based on of these comments, I can tell a lot of Linkin Park fans didn't like their sound change. Honestly, if you want to hear Hybrid Theory/ Meteora.....then listen to Hybrid Theory/ Meteora. There's no need for them to keep releasing the same album over and over. If every band kept the same sound they started with, music would get boring fast.

There's bands that have made empires off of never changing. Take KMFDM for example. Or Cannibal Corpse. Primus still sounds like Primus of the early 90's, and they have a ridiculous following. Change is fine, as long as it's good change. If change improves your music (Radiohead's Kid A being a wonderful exapmple) then by all means, tweak the crap out of it. But a new sound with a lesser quality of songwriting is what makes me (and others like me) say, "What the hell happened?" Taking a chance is one thing, but you can over do it.

[masterometal666]

obgem wrote:

At the end of the day, Linkin Park is still Linkin Krap.

And I think you're the one who listens to NARROW VARIETY OF MUSIC because you won't appreciate LP if you love diversity in your music (from classical music to electronica to metal to shoegaze, etc...) I don't know anyone who likes LP as much as Opeth or Mozart or OverClocked Remix.

I do. Like them just as much as I like Metallica, Bob Marley, Ice Cube, Dimmu Borgir, Anberlin, Primus, James Brown, Waylon Jennings...

But then again, I'm more diverse than the majority of the people I know.

Sorry for the double.

[limpidgreen345]

LP has sold 50 million albums NOT because they're on the cutting edge of musical innovation but because they make catchy music people want to listen to. Don't be surprised when they keep playing music that people want to listen to. "What I've Done" was a chart-topper. "New Divide" is a chart-topper. People obviously want to listen to that. Here he seems to be saying they'll go in a different direction on the new album. But some of the people here will just have to come to grips with the fact that they're going change like the other posts are saying.

I'm not a huge fan of LP's music or anything but I like listening to them... they're just easy to listen to. Mike Shinoda seems to be pretty cool, they all seem to be pretty good guys.

[huevos]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

LP has sold 50 million albums NOT because they're on the cutting edge of musical innovation but because they make catchy music people want to listen to. Don't be surprised when they keep playing music that people want to listen to. "What I've Done" was a chart-topper. "New Divide" is a chart-topper. People obviously want to listen to that. Here he seems to be saying they'll go in a different direction on the new album. But some of the people here will just have to come to grips with the fact that they're going change like the other posts are saying.

I'm not a huge fan of LP's music or anything but I like listening to them... they're just easy to listen to. Mike Shinoda seems to be pretty cool, they all seem to be pretty good guys.

It's not necessarily that they want to listen to that, it just happens to be easy to listen to.

I'm not one for Linkin Park (I don't find them entertaining), but Mike Shinoda has some sick rhymes in Ft. Minor. If he gets more vocal time on this record, it might be worthwhile.
I would prefer him as the frontman of LP, no doubt about it. Of course, they probably wouldn't have become as famous, but Idc about that either way.

[masterometal666]

Finally... I again defy you to explain exactly how LP and RATM are vastly different, because they aren't. Either you listen to an exceptionally narrow variety of music or you're here because you think it's fun to call people "stupid" when they won't kiss your ass.

OK and sorry for the triple too. I'm too ADD I guess. Lol.

But allow me to explain:

RATM: More funk-based and more hardcore hard rock than LP. Lyrics are all political in some way. Rapping dominates the foreground of the music. Tempos are usually mid-paced grooves that highlight De La Rocha's rants by hitting hard and leaving little room for a whole lot of melody, which gets the listener pumped up and ready for action. I always feel like I want to burn a building down or something after hearing "Down Rodeo" or "Calm Like a Bomb" and LP just doesn't do that for me.

LP: I like the comment of having "more depth," because that describes it well. There's more allowance for melody and complexity. Rapping is used as an accessory rather than a main focus, because Chester is the frontman, he sings neraly all of the chorus lines and his voice dominates all of the singing parts. The sound is more alt-rock based as opposed to funk. Lyrics are based upon emotions and angst and al of that stuff. (Much more personal.)

[limpidgreen345]

masterometal666 wrote:

RATM: More funk-based and more hardcore hard rock than LP. Lyrics are all political in some way. Rapping dominates the foreground of the music. Tempos are usually mid-paced grooves that highlight De La Rocha's rants by hitting hard and leaving little room for a whole lot of melody, which gets the listener pumped up and ready for action. I always feel like I want to burn a building down or something after hearing "Down Rodeo" or "Calm Like a Bomb" and LP just doesn't do that for me.

LP: I like the comment of having "more depth," because that describes it well. There's more allowance for melody and complexity. Rapping is used as an accessory rather than a main focus, because Chester is the frontman, he sings neraly all of the chorus lines and his voice dominates all of the singing parts. The sound is more alt-rock based as opposed to funk. Lyrics are based upon emotions and angst and al of that stuff. (Much more personal.)

WOW... somebody here can actually articulate what they think! Thank you!!! LOL.

Thanks to the TheSoupDragon who is far too obtuse, and functionally illiterate on top of that, I've been having to focus on what they have in common rather than what sets them apart. I have little to add... you nailed it on the head.

[DoomsdayArsenal]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

Tordyboi wrote:

Simple guitar riffs? Tom morello's riffs are 100% more technical than LP.

My cat can play Morello riffs.

Haha I will admit when I took my first few months of guitar lessons, Audioslave was ALL I learned haha. It made me feel so badass to be able to play "Cochise." He makes it sound pretty good in the context of the song and Cornell's amazing vocals, but I will admit it is easy stuff to play.

[limpidgreen345]

DoomsdayArsenal wrote:

Haha I will admit when I took my first few months of guitar lessons, Audioslave was ALL I learned haha. It made me feel so badass to be able to play "Cochise." He makes it sound pretty good in the context of the song and Cornell's amazing vocals, but I will admit it is easy stuff to play.

That's what I mean... I'm not trying to say he's awful, because he uses the simplicity of the riffs to his advantage. You listen to it and then go try to play it and you're left thinking, "Wow, that's all it is?"

skateboard49 wrote:

To get free prizes like an iPhone 3G, PS3, Blue-Ray player, gift cards, and many more for just searching the internet.

Go to:http://swagbucks.com/refer/guitar49

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Go advertise somewhere else.

[TheSoupDragon]

I don't see why a description of the two bands is even needed, I mean, surely ears are all you need? But yes, whatever, 'argument' ended. I hope.

Oh, and 'limp' - I listen to a very varied amount of music. I liked LP a few years ago, I still love RATM.

[arnob_oblique]

limpidgreen345 wrote:

flame843 wrote:

Also The New Divide sounds exactly like What I've Done which I found kind of funny.

Yeah, when I heard it on the radio the first time, that's exactly what I thought. "Oh, it's not What I've Done?"

Vin2254 wrote:

rookie level riffs? black sabbath had rookie level riffs. tons of metal guitarists have made a career out of rookie level riffs. and not one of them is nearly as creative at morello. technique and speed can be taught. but creativity can not.

MonsterOfRock wrote:

The "Know your Enemy" solo is actually a very clever one. Technical and cool. Tom Morello doesnt show half the skill he possesses either (he is taught by Batio, btw). Hes a guitarist that uses the same notes/power chords that any novice players can use, but indeed give em as much attitude as they can get, thats an achievement regardless of what anyone thinks. If ur unhappy with him being #26 in the Rolling Stones list, then go discuss why Kurt Cobain is #12 in the list @ the pit, if that list is THAT important to you.

Uh, yeah, Sabbath had rookie-level riffs, therein lies my point, what exactly has Morello done that wasn't being done when he was a fetus? I'm not saying nobody's ever played rookie-level riffs... you're exactly right, TONS of metal guitarists have done the same thing. That doesn't make them good. But whatever, they can play whatever pleases them.

Tom Morello is a GOOD guitarist. Not GREAT. There's a difference, just as there's a difference between FAST and GREAT as applies to so many metal guitarists.

go ahead and make a so called rookie-level solo which makes us jump, hell go ahead and create a guitar tone which hasnt been heard before, just be sth/sumone to comment on a legend. If ur cat can play the tom morello riffs and still people love them thats because the greatness of his music comes from the simplicity! sick of these wannabes in ug.

[ark1294]

They shud make an album very similar 2 Hybrid Theory and Meteora, but this time the Nu Metal shud b much heavier!

[Flints]

You shouldn't be so closed minded and say"rarara I want Heavy rarara" It is true they should re-introduce heavy riffs into their music but should keep heading in the direction they started when they did m2m which is the element of a matured sound that the band has now developed

[[max105]]

i'm actually not a fan of lp but i kinda like some songs like faint papercut bleed it out and stuff but i think they're changing too much...
no more rap and no more yelling and that kinda sucks

[knifeline98]

oi i love linkin park, they were my first heavy band that i ever got into, back when i was in 3rd grade (haha), but i just hope they truly are TRANSFORMING their sound back into heavier and more catchy stuff. M2M made me want to gag. They sold out completely and i did not like it. They need to go back to basics and figure out what they really want to do, and stick with that sound. I think they sounded best on Meteora, with Hybrid coming up in a very close second. But either way, i just want the new album to come out so we all can put the old one behind us...it was such a nightmare. But, hopes high for the new album!

checked

[TOASTYTIME]

I'm anticipating new stuff from LP. This upcoming album should be great.

[ark1294]

in the eyes of LP's old skool fans, 4 most of their old skool fans the new album will make them or break them. Cause if this album isnt a step closer or heavier than their old stuff, bye bye the real old skool LP fans that made them popular. but its never 2 late 2 hope 4 something better. so, if they really care about their old and real fans, they really shud go bak 2 their original sounds!