With Linkin Park’s return to the music world, their fans are experiencing a real whirlwind of emotions. The new tracks are sparking a wide range of reactions, especially evident in the feedback on their latest releases. On one hand, many are excited about the new sound and energy brought by Emily Armstrong, the new vocalist, while on the other hand, some can’t help but notice that without Chester Bennington, the band sounds different, and that "different" isn't always to everyone's liking. "Over Each Other" has stirred up lively discussions. Some describe it as “wonderful,” “amazing,” and “heart-wrenching,” while others call it “weak,” “popish,” and “not in the spirit of the old Linkin Park.” For many fans, Chester is a symbol, and his absence raises questions about whether the new lineup even has the right to continue under the old name. Some people have even voiced opinions that without him, Linkin Park has become "just a new band" using a famous name to draw attention. Comparisons with other bands like Paramore or Dead Sara indicate that the new era is seen as a shift in direction, which not everyone is pleased with.
However, it’s worth noting that there are those who have already accepted Emily as a new part of the band. They emphasize that her voice adds a new dimension to their sound. Opinions on her vocal ability range from praise to skepticism: “She’s got an amazing voice,” “She’s cool, but this still isn’t the Linkin Park we knew” (though few dispute her vocal talent). This suggests that the band is evolving, rather than simply trying to replicate old hits. One of the key themes being discussed on social media is unity and community, something the band has always stood for. The phrase, “Race, religion, gender, politics, sexual preferences – none of that matters when it comes to Linkin Park,” perfectly captures the spirit that unites their fans, even when they disagree with each other. This universality may be what gives hope for the band’s future.
The metaphor of skyscrapers collapsing clearly conveys the conflict and sense of loss – as if the two who built something grand can no longer hold it together. This theme has always been one of the band's strengths, and here, once again, they manage to touch the most sensitive strings of the soul. The emotional depth hits home, especially considering the visual aspects, which enhance the atmosphere of tragedy.
Opinions are divided, and it’s understandable – some fans see this track as a continuation of the legacy, while others argue that it’s just not Linkin Park without Chester. Of course, he cannot be replaced, and Emily doesn’t aim to be his copy. This track is a standalone piece that needs to be understood in the context of progression. It’s more of an attempt to reinterpret the sound than to replicate the old. Even with the vocals, which some describe as too soft or flat, one can’t deny that the composition has its own uniqueness.
From a production standpoint, the instrumental here is indeed simpler than in their earlier works, but this gives more room for the vocals. Perhaps this was done intentionally to allow Emily to showcase her strengths. Nevertheless, fans of the older sound expect more variety, and there’s hope that the band will deliver more complex arrangements in the future.
The video is striking in its dramaturgy. It’s a story about guilt, loss, and an attempt to reconcile with the past. The visual component enhances the feeling of loss and despair, and the final scene, where the main character returns to life, carries an important message – don’t give up, even when surrounded by darkness.
Comparisons with past albums, especially Hybrid Theory, are inevitable, but time moves on, and bands change too. For many of us, this is a kind of test: accepting the new sound and realizing that, despite the loss, Linkin Park’s music continues to evolve. And while not all tracks ignite the same fire as before, the new album still generates interest and hope that it can unite both old and new fans.
Interestingly, there’s a notable opinion that the band is now more open to new ideas and interaction with modern culture, including LGBT themes. However, not everyone sees this positively, believing that such a direction contradicts the spirit of the original Linkin Park lineup and the ideals Chester advocated for. A rift between the old and new fan circles is evident, which clearly reflects the situation surrounding the band. Some fans hope that the new album will restore the old atmosphere, while others have already come to terms with the fact that LP, in its current form, is something entirely different.
It sounds completely different...
October 25, 2024