InternetEd
Reanimation is essentially a new album, though it consists of remixes from Linkin Park’s powerhouse debut CD, Hybrid Theory. In almost any other band’s case, it would seem a bit too early for a remix disc, given the short supply of material to choose from after only one album. However, Linkin Park pulls off Reanimation perfectly, giving each of their songs an entirely new feel. Unlike most remix albums, this one doesn’t feel like filler between the actual albums. Instead, you can see the hard work that went into Reanimation– forming an album that combines hardcore rap, metal guitar chops, record scratching, dissected beats, and a host of guest vocalists including Aaron Lewis (Staind) and Jonathan Davis (Korn). All Linkin Park fans will find something to enjoy on this monster of a remix album.
Interestingly, the disc starts off with the aptly-titled “Opening,” which is a quiet intro full of familiar melodies. The chopped up beats in “Pts.Of.Athrty” give the song a more jagged feel than on Hybrid Theory, and “Enth E Nd” is given a strong hip-hop vibe with a rapping verse, while Chester Bennington’s original vocals are mixed way down. One of the most drastic remixes, the eerie “Frgt/10” is almost unrecognizable when compared to its counterpart on Hybrid Theory, and “X-Ecutioner Style” is a hardcore rap track that adds to the unique character of Reanimation. As far as remixes go, “Rnw@y” is pretty tame, sounding much like the original, while “Kyur4 Th Ich” is given a funky twist with a plethora of noise samples thrown in. Linkin Park’s radio mainstay, “1Stp Klosr” gets mutated on Reanimation into a totally new song, and the big-hit track,“Krwlng” is reworked with a symphonic backing and a generally calmer, but equally emotional performance. Simply put, Linkin Park’s Reanimation proves that remixes can be an artistic and original, rather than mediocre between-album filler material.
Summary: One of the most interesting remix CDs of all time–essential for all Linkin Park fans
