This month Linkin Park’s album Hybrid Theory turns 20! Man how time flies!. This makes me feel so old. I remember when I first heard “One Step Closer” back in 2000.
A lot of people joke that Linkin Park was put together by the record labels or were a nu metal boy band, but it’s no doubt they were something that made an impact on the music scene of the early 2000s. Of all the bands of that era Linkin Park really stuck with me.
With just a few notes and the catchy choruses, I was hooked. I reflect back and realize I had a lot of anger and teen angst cause now when I listen to this music feel like “man, I don’t feel this angry anymore lol.”
Music can evoke intense feelings and memories. Listening to Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory brings back all the concerts and good times I had listening to this band.
From the moment I heard “One Step Closer” I was entranced with Linkin Park. I was lucky enough to see them on a tiny stage back in 2000 at the Birch Hill Nightclub in Old Bridge NJ. The venue was known for hosting a ton of bands early in their career.
I even joined their fan club. With the burgeoning internet, you could sign up online and get a free t-shirt and early access to concert tickets.
I went out and bought this album. This was a big deal considering this was back when you downloaded most of your music off of Napster.
Linkin Park had a sound that was never heard before. Sure there were Nu-metal bands but there was something different that made them stand out. The combination of Mike’s rapping and Chester’s singing was so entrancing. It was exactly what I was looking for as an angry teenager.
This album will always have a special place in my heart. Listening to this music still gives me goosebumps, but also makes me sad to think about the loss of Chester Bennington.
Bask in the nostalgia and listen below. Get the anniversary album now on Amazon.