No.63 - ‘Meteora’ by Linkin Park (2003)

“I don't know what's worth fighting for, or why I have to scream; I don't know why I instigate and say what I don't mean; I don't know how I got this way, I know it's not alright; So I'm breaking the habit tonight…”

In my early teens, I would sneak into my oldest bro’s room and pull out Hybrid Theory to listen every now and then, specifically the song “Crawling”. Soon, he gave me the album saying “this is crap; it’s now yours…” or something along those lines. It was my first proper foray into heavy metal music and a very influential album for me, in more ways than just the music.

Hybrid Theory almost took this spot, and not just because of the sentiment; it’s a fantastic album! But we look to their sophomore release, Meteora, which just pips it to my list. Whilst their debut gave us excellent songs and a new style in nu-metal, Meteora takes it to another level. There is more variety to the songs, the production is superb, and the vocals are far superior.  

Lyrcis focus on depression, anger and recovery. Not particularly singing about situations, but the emotions behind situations. Musically, they mix metal, rock, rap and electronica. The introductions are some of the best out there. ‘Somewhere I belong’ is just incredible, the broken style and speed of ‘Breaking the Habit’ and epic synth/piano in ‘Numb’. The soaring chorus in ‘Easier to Run’ is just sublime. The rapped lines in these songs work brilliantly, and feel so much more powerful. Linkin Park can bring beautiful, calm verses and smash them between huge, ripping choruses, to very great effect. These are incredible songs, and Meteora is an incredible album.

Linkin Park formed in 1996, California. Originally named, Xero they became Hybrid Theory, before considering ‘Plear’ and ‘Platinum Lotus Foundation’… they finally settled on Linkin Park. They’ve sold over 100 million records worldwide. Meteora went straight to No.1 in the US Billboard chart when released, as well as the UK and many other countries. Meteora is available on vinyl, and was recently released on ltd edition blue vinyl for Record Store Day 2021…which I regrettably missed out on.

Favourite songs -  Breaking The Habit, Easier To Run, Numb, Somewhere I Belong

Other great albums - Hybrid Theory (2000)




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