Music
A CUT ABOVE: LINKIN PARK ON GREATEST HITS, RARE GEMS, CHESTER’S LEGACY AND MORE
It’s been nearly 24 years since Linkin Park burst into the spotlight with their debut single “One Step Closer” — a defining anthem from their groundbreaking album Hybrid Theory. This release established the Agoura Hills, California quintet as pioneers of nu-metal for the 21st century.
The impact was immediate and explosive, as both the band and Hybrid Theory dominated radio and MTV. The unique dynamic between Chester Bennington’s intense, emotional vocal style and Mike Shinoda’s rap-infused delivery set them apart.
Now, two decades and over 100 million record sales later, it’s clear that Linkin Park’s legendary status is not tied to a single sound. Hybrid Theory was just the beginning of their string of hugely successful albums. With the release of Papercuts (Singles Collection: 2000-2023), the band’s first comprehensive greatest-hits compilation, we can see a more complete picture of Linkin Park’s musical evolution.
The collection captures the exhilarating energy of the early rap-rock era with tracks like “Crawling” and “In the End,” while also showcasing their hip-hop crossover moments, such as the Collision Course collaboration with Jay-Z. It features arena-filling pop anthems like “Bleed It Out” from Minutes to Midnight and the tender, minimalist guitar work of “One More Light.”
In addition to being packed with hits, the 20-song compilation brings two lesser-known tracks into the spotlight. The first, “QWERTY,” is a high-octane blend of chromatic, moto-metal intensity and brash rap that stands out in Linkin Park’s discography. The second, “Friendly Fire,” is a delicate, previously unreleased track from the One More Light sessions in 2016, which Shinoda and guitarist Brad Delson have thoughtfully included in this collection.
In an interview with Revolver, Shinoda and Delson reflect on Linkin Park’s journey, their chart-topping hits, their hidden gems, and the enduring legacy of their late bandmate Chester Bennington.
How did you decide that now was the right time for a career retrospective like this?
MIKE SHINODA: After celebrating the anniversaries of Meteora and Hybrid Theory in 2023, we received such a warm response that it felt like the perfect moment to look back and share something new. We had this track, “QWERTY,” which is a heavy song from the era leading up to Minutes to Midnight. We also had “Friendly Fire,” a newer, previously unreleased track. It just seemed like the right time to bring them into the spotlight.
Since this collection isn’t arranged chronologically, how does it flow from track to track in telling the story of Linkin Park?
SHINODA: The flow isn’t chronological or evolutionary; it’s more like the energy of a Linkin Park concert. It’s not exactly like one of our shows, but there’s a nice progression to it. We get to look back and think, “Wow, we made all these songs.” It’s pretty amazing.
BRAD DELSON: When we discussed “QWERTY” and “Friendly Fire,” it struck me that, apart from the vocals, these two tracks could belong to entirely different bands or genres. The album showcases a diverse range of sounds. What’s always intrigued us about making music is exploring different worlds and blending genres in unexpected ways, which is evident across these 20 songs.
“Friendly Fire” was recorded during the One More Light sessions. Why did it take so long to release it?
SHINODA: During the album-making process, some songs are on the edge of making the cut but don’t quite make it. “Friendly Fire” had some structural issues; it was slower and didn’t quite fit the energy we were aiming for. We felt it wasn’t as strong as it could be at the time.
We revisited it later, with Brad and I making adjustments. Brad’s ideas focused on tightening it up and shortening it, while I added more live instruments. The original version lacked prominent live drums and guitars.
DELSON: For me, the growth as a songwriter and producer involves understanding how the guitar fits into the overall mix. Sometimes it’s front and center, and other times it plays a supporting role. One of the last additions to “Friendly Fire” was the acoustic guitar at the end, which we added just a few months ago. We worked on the song in 2016 and 2017, then put it aside because it wasn’t quite right. When we revisited it, we realized it was really special.
How does completing the song make you feel now?
DELSON: I’m thrilled with it. Finishing the song felt like sculpting—it required chipping away at some of its rough edges to let its true form emerge. It’s incredibly beautiful to me, and I’m very proud of how it turned out.
Given that “Papercut” is now the unofficial title track of this singles collection, what makes it stand out at this moment?
SHINODA: “Papercut” was our definitive statement more than even our first single, “One Step Closer.” It perfectly captured the essence of what Linkin Park was about at the time. It blended the hip-hop influences I loved with the rock and alternative sounds of the moment. It started out more rap-driven, but evolved into something with explosive melodies by the end.
“One Step Closer” was chosen as the first single from Hybrid Theory. What do you remember about that decision?
DELSON: “One Step Closer” is one of my favorites. It’s a track where the guitar is front and center, which made it a great introduction to our band’s raw energy. Although we initially thought “Papercut” should be the first single, we ultimately deferred to the expertise of the Warner Radio team. Even though “One Step Closer” was the single, “Papercut” was the track that introduced our sound on the album.
Linkin Park rose to fame during MTV’s peak, and you produced numerous music videos. Any memorable moments from those shoots?
DELSON: Video shoots can be grueling. Chester often had to endure some uncomfortable situations, but he always handled it like a trooper. I never envied what he went through. One standout moment was the shoot for “Faint” with director Mark Romanek. The complex lighting rig failed in the middle of the shoot, leading to a long, exhausting wait with a crowd of extras. It was a challenging day, but we pushed through.
You had been working together for a few years before Chester joined the band. What do you recall about evolving into Linkin Park?
SHINODA: Initially, we were called Xero, and it was just me and my friend Mark Wakefield. We started making music and eventually brought in the rest of the band. When Mark decided to move into music management, we met Chester. He was drawn to how we mixed different elements together and loved our chemistry.
At the time, Chester was a raw talent—he wasn’t the iconic voice people know now. He was a skinny, underdressed guy with a softer voice and hadn’t yet developed his signature screaming style. We worked together to hone the band’s sound, learning and evolving as we went. It was a lot of trial and error, but some of those early experiments turned out to be exactly what we were looking for.
With that dynamic in mind, what’s the first song that comes to mind when you think of Chester?
DELSON: I think of Chester’s raw passion, fearlessness, and incredible talent. For me, it’s a mix of tracks like “One Step Closer,” which is intense and undeniable, and “Breaking the Habit,” which is heartbreakingly beautiful. The blend of power and vulnerability in his voice was truly remarkable, reflecting the duality of strength and fragility, much like the soldier with butterfly wings from the Hybrid Theory artwork.
SHINODA: I can’t pinpoint just one song. Chester’s voice was so versatile that I immediately think of several tracks. Initially, we focused on creating an aggressive, high-energy sound, but as we progressed, especially with Minutes to Midnight, we aimed to showcase our range. Songs like “Leave Out All the Rest,” “Hands Held High,” and “Little Things Give You Away” were a departure from what fans were used to. Looking back at tracks like “Waiting for the End,” “Castle of Glass,” or even “Friendly Fire,” it’s clear that our sound evolved far beyond what was evident in our first albums.
How does “QWERTY” fit into this evolution?
DELSON: While working on Minutes to Midnight at Rick Rubin’s studio in Laurel Canyon, we took a break to play shows in Japan, which felt counterintuitive at the time.
SHINODA: During the Minutes to Midnight sessions, we had been evolving our sound, having done Meteora and the Collision Course with Jay-Z, and my side project Fort Minor. “QWERTY” was one of the heaviest tracks from that period, showcasing our shift towards a more aggressive sound. Despite its intensity, it was one of the few heavy songs on Minutes to Midnight, which featured more mellow tracks, leaving some fans puzzled at the time.
We actually debuted “QWERTY” months before its release. Chester and I wrote the lyrics on a flight from L.A. to Japan and performed it live before it was officially released.
DELSON: I remember the intro to “QWERTY,” where we hit an open chord. Our instinct was to play it four times, but Rick suggested we extend it, so we ended up hitting it 16 times. It felt extravagant, but it turned out to be a really cool choice for the song.
Given the rarity of tracks like “QWERTY” and the newly released “Friendly Fire,” is there much Linkin Park Xmaterial that we haven’t heard yet?
SHINODA: Yes, there is more, but it’s important to note that among any band’s recordings—demos and outtakes—much of it might not be worthwhile. Fans often wonder how much unreleased material will actually see the light of day, and that’s something we’ll have to see unfold.
Given that the title Papercuts (Singles Collection 2000-2023) is quite definitive, what does it say about the future of Linkin Park in 2024?
SHINODA: There are always rumors and questions about the band’s future. The best answer I can provide is that when there’s something to share, we will announce it on LinkinPark.com. Until then, any information you hear from other sources is speculative. I still see the guys regularly, and we enjoy creating music together, which is why Papercuts exists.
DELSON: This collection is a beautiful reflection on our 24 years together. It might as well be titled 2000-2024 since both “Friendly Fire” and “QWERTY” are coming out this year.
Mike, you recently released your solo single “Already Over” and the Crimson Chapter EP. What’s next for you?
SHINODA: I’m currently in a bit of a reclusive phase. After promoting “Already Over,” I enjoyed doing sessions with musicians from around the world. Each city brought its unique flavor to the music, and the differences were remarkable. Even if you’re not a musician, you can sense how the people involved influence the sound.
Will you continue with these kinds of sessions for future songs?
SHINODA: I’m not planning to do more of those sessions at the moment. I had a great time with them, but now I’m focused on experimenting with new things in the studio and am excited about what I’m working on.
Brad, are you working on any other projects currently?
DELSON: Right now, I’m fully focused on celebrating this collection and sharing it with everyone. I’m excited about the work we’ve put into it.
This interview has been edited and condensed for flow and clarity.
Frequently Asked Question
What is A Cut Above?
A Cut Above* is a comprehensive look at Linkin Park’s greatest hits, rare tracks, and the legacy of their late lead vocalist, Chester Bennington. The collection showcases a blend of popular singles and previously unheard gems, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the band’s evolution and impact.
Why did Linkin Park decide to release this collection now?
The decision to release A Cut Above followed the warm reception of anniversary celebrations for their albums Meteora and Hybrid Theory. The band saw it as an opportune moment to reflect on their career, share rare tracks like “QWERTY” and “Friendly Fire,” and honor Chester Bennington’s lasting influence.
What makes this collection different from previous releases?
Unlike previous albums, A Cut Above includes a mix of well-known hits and rare tracks that have never been widely released before. It offers fans a chance to experience the band’s sonic range and evolution over the years, as well as highlights Chester Bennington’s diverse vocal abilities.
Are there any tracks on this collection that fans haven’t heard before?
Yes, the collection features previously unreleased tracks such as “QWERTY” and “Friendly Fire.” These songs offer a fresh perspective on Linkin Park’s musical journey and provide fans with new material to enjoy.
How does A Cut Above reflect Chester Bennington’s legacy?
The collection captures Chester’s dynamic range and emotional depth, showcasing both his powerful and vulnerable sides. Songs like “One Step Closer” and “Breaking the Habit” illustrate his ability to convey intensity and heartache, reflecting his significant impact on the band’s sound and legacy.
How was the tracklist for this collection chosen?
The tracklist was curated to represent the breadth of Linkin Park’s career, featuring a mix of iconic hits and rare tracks. The goal was to highlight the band’s evolution and the various musical styles they explored over the years.
Conclusion
A Cut Above: Linkin Park on Greatest Hits, Rare Gems, Chester’s Legacy, and More serves as a compelling retrospective of one of the most influential bands of the 21st century. This collection not only celebrates Linkin Park’s iconic hits but also shines a light on rare and previously unheard tracks, offering a deeper insight into their musical evolution and creative process. By combining fan favorites with new material like “QWERTY” and “Friendly Fire,” the collection provides a comprehensive view of the band’s dynamic range and Chester Bennington’s profound impact on their sound. It reflects both the power and vulnerability that defined their music and continues to resonate with listeners.
Music
HEALTH’S JOHN FAMIGLIETTI HAILS SLEEP TOKEN
HEALTH had the fortune of opening for Sleep Token at their monumental Wembley Arena show in December 2023. Since the mid-2000s, the L.A.-based band has been blending metal, industrial, pop, and electronic elements. Over the years, they’ve toured with Nine Inch Nails, collaborated with Lamb of God, and composed music for Grand Theft Auto games. Despite their extensive experience, multi-instrumentalist John Famiglietti had never encountered anything like Sleep Token.
“Sleep Token is just so incredible. In heavy music, or even rock in general, there are so few stories of bands breaking through in the last decade or 15 years,” he says. “This is one of the rare instances where I’ve seen a band go from a club to an arena in six months. I can’t remember the last time that happened.”
Famiglietti finds it both thrilling and perplexing that Sleep Token achieved such rapid success while defying traditional success metrics in the streaming era, characterized by short attention spans and soulless playlist curation.
“They blew up with a seven-minute song, defying all expectations,” he says of the unexpected virality of “The Summoning.” “The fact that it went viral on TikTok illustrates just how unpredictable the current landscape is. What I appreciate about them is that there’s nothing retro about their sound. Their album feels very contemporary.”
He finds it exciting that modern heavy music is thriving with bands like Sleep Token. “It’s not just a rehash. It’s genre-bending, produced with modern influences from pop and R&B. It resonates with people without being alienating. This vitality in the heavy music scene hasn’t been felt in a long time.”
Pick up Sleep Token merch, vinyl, and magazines at Revolver’s shop.
John Famiglietti Praises Sleep Token’s Unprecedented Rise
John Famiglietti of HEALTH marvels at Sleep Token’s rapid ascent in the music industry. He notes that it’s rare for a band to transition from playing small clubs to large arenas in just six months, highlighting the uniqueness and significance of their success.
HEALTH’s John Famiglietti on Sleep Token’s Historic Wembley Performance
John Famiglietti reflects on the significance of opening for Sleep Token at their historic Wembley Arena show in December 2023. He emphasizes the impact and scale of this event, marking a major milestone in both bands’ careers.
Famiglietti: Sleep Token’s Success Defies Streaming Era Norms
John Famiglietti discusses how Sleep Token’s rise to fame challenges the norms of the streaming era. He points out that their success, driven by a seven-minute song that went viral on TikTok, defies expectations in an industry often dominated by short, attention-grabbing tracks.
The Exciting Modern Wave: John Famiglietti on Sleep Token
John Famiglietti expresses excitement about the modern wave of heavy music, exemplified by Sleep Token. He appreciates their contemporary sound, which blends elements from various genres, and sees them as a refreshing and innovative force in the music scene.
HEALTH’s Multi-Instrumentalist Applauds Sleep Token’s Genre-Bending Sound
John Famiglietti praises Sleep Token’s ability to blend different genres, from metal to pop to R&B. He admires their modern production and genre-defying approach, which resonates with a wide audience and keeps the heavy music scene vibrant.
John Famiglietti Reflects on Sleep Token’s Impact on Heavy Music
John Famiglietti reflects on the positive impact Sleep Token has had on heavy music. He notes that their success brings a renewed sense of vitality to the genre, proving that innovative and genre-blending music can still captivate and grow a substantial audience.
Frequently Asked Question
Who is John Famiglietti?
John Famiglietti is a multi-instrumentalist and a member of the L.A.-based band HEALTH, known for blending metal, industrial, pop, and electronic music.
What is John Famiglietti’s opinion on Sleep Token’s rise to fame?
Famiglietti is amazed by Sleep Token’s rapid ascent from playing clubs to arenas in just six months, calling it an unprecedented achievement in the music industry.
How does John Famiglietti describe Sleep Token’s sound?
He describes Sleep Token’s sound as modern, genre-bending, and free from any retro influences. He appreciates their unique blend of metal, pop, R&B, and other genres.
Why does Famiglietti find Sleep Token’s success surprising in the streaming era?
Famiglietti finds it surprising because Sleep Token’s success defies typical streaming norms, especially with their seven-minute song “The Summoning” going viral on TikTok.
What event did HEALTH and Sleep Token share in December 2023?
In December 2023, HEALTH had the honor of opening for Sleep Token at their historic Wembley Arena show, a significant event for both bands.
What does Famiglietti say about the current state of heavy music?
He is excited about the modern wave of heavy music, emphasizing that it feels more alive and innovative with bands like Sleep Token leading the charge.
How does Famiglietti view Sleep Token’s impact on heavy music?
Famiglietti believes Sleep Token’s success brings a renewed vitality to heavy music, showing that innovative and genre-blending music can captivate and expand audiences.
Conclusion
John Famiglietti’s reflections on Sleep Token offer a compelling perspective on the evolution of heavy music. His admiration for Sleep Token’s rapid rise and their ability to blend genres highlights a transformative moment in the music industry. Famiglietti sees Sleep Token as a beacon of modern innovation, demonstrating that even in an era dominated by streaming and short attention spans, there is room for bold, genre-defying artistry. Sleep Token’s success, marked by their transition from clubs to arenas and the viral impact of their music, challenges conventional norms and signals a revitalization of the heavy music scene.
Music
THOU: HEAR GNARLY LEAD SINGLE OFF FIRST NON-COLLABORATIVE ALBUM IN 6 YEARS
Doom experimentalists Thou have announced the release of new music created entirely by themselves for the first time in several years. Following recent collaborations with Emma Ruth Rundle, the Body, and Mizmor, their next album, titled Umbilical, marks a return to their roots.
The LP, due out on May 31st via Sacred Bones, is Thou’s first full-length collection of original, non-collaborative work since 2018’s Magus. The 10-song album is introduced by the strikingly raw and unexpectedly rhythmic single, “I Feel Nothing When You Cry,” a haunting track that occupies a central place in an album focused on “exploring what it means to exist within and without a rigid morality.”
“Clearly, the ‘Thou’ experiment is never going to appeal to audiences who demand that art rigorously enforce a coherent and righteous worldview,” the band explained in a statement. They added, “This record is for the radicals, the crackpots, the exiles who have escaped the wasteland of capitulation. This record is for the militants and zealots refusing to surrender to comforts, to practicalities, to thirty pieces of silver. And this record is most especially for the weaklings and malingerers, burdened by capricious indulgence, hunched by the deep wounds of compromise, shuffling in limp approximation, desperately reaching back towards integrity and conviction.”
Alongside the new LP, Thou has scheduled a handful of U.S. dates and a summer tour of Australia and New Zealand with Full of Hell.
Thou Unveil First Non-Collaborative Album in 6 Years
Thou, the doom experimentalists, have announced their first non-collaborative album in six years. Titled Umbilical, this release marks their return to producing original music solely by the band, following a series of collaborations with artists like Emma Ruth Rundle, the Body, and Mizmor. The album is set to drop on May 31st via Sacred Bones.
Listen to Thou’s Gnarly Lead Single from Upcoming Album
Thou has released a lead single from their upcoming album Umbilical. The track, “I Feel Nothing When You Cry,” showcases the band’s signature gnarly sound and serves as a powerful introduction to their first non-collaborative album in six years. The single is now available for streaming.
Thou Returns with Original Music After Six Years
After six years, Thou is back with original music in the form of their new album Umbilical. This marks their first collection of non-collaborative work since the release of Magus in 2018. Fans can expect a fresh yet familiar sound from the band, with the album’s release slated for May 31st via Sacred Bones.
Hear Thou’s “I Feel Nothing When You Cry” from New Album Umbilical
Thou has dropped a new single, “I Feel Nothing When You Cry,” from their upcoming album Umbilical. The track is a standout with its raw intensity and forms part of their first non-collaborative album in six years. The full album will be available on May 31st via Sacred Bones.
Thou Announce New Album and Release Lead Single
Thou has announced their latest album Umbilical, along with the release of its lead single, “I Feel Nothing When You Cry.” This album, set for release on May 31st via Sacred Bones, is the band’s first non-collaborative effort in six years, promising a return to their original, unfiltered sound.
First Look: Thou’s New Album Umbilical and Lead Single Revealed
Thou has revealed their new album Umbilical, marking their first non-collaborative project in six years. The album, which is set to be released on May 31st via Sacred Bones, is preceded by the lead single “I Feel Nothing When You Cry,” offering fans a first taste of the band’s latest creative direction.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the title of Thou’s new album?
Thou’s new album is titled Umbilical. This is their first full-length collection of original, non-collaborative work in six years.
When will Umbilical be released?
Umbilical is set to be released on May 31st via Sacred Bones.
What is the lead single from Umbilical?
The lead single from the album is titled “I Feel Nothing When You Cry.”
How does “I Feel Nothing When You Cry” sound?
The single is described as awesomely acrid and oddly galloping, showcasing Thou’s signature raw and intense sound.
What themes does Umbilical explore?
The album explores themes of existing within and without a rigid morality, reflecting on the complexities of integrity and conviction in a world of compromises.
Why is this album significant for Thou?
Umbilical is significant because it marks Thou’s return to producing original music entirely by themselves, following several collaborative projects with artists like Emma Ruth Rundle, the Body, and Mizmor.
Will Thou be touring in support of Umbilical?
Yes, Thou has scheduled a handful of U.S. dates and will be touring Australia and New Zealand with Full of Hell this summer to support the release of Umbilical.
Conclusion
Thou’s new album Umbilical represents a significant milestone for the band, marking their return to creating original, non-collaborative music after six years. Set for release on May 31st via Sacred Bones, the album is introduced by the lead single “I Feel Nothing When You Cry,” which captures their signature intensity and raw sound. With themes exploring the complexities of morality and conviction, Umbilical promises to resonate deeply with fans and new listeners alike. Additionally, the band will support the album with tours in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand, bringing their powerful new material to a global audience.
Music
HEAR LORNA SHOW’S WILL RAMOS JOIN AUGUST BURNS RED ON NEW VERSION OF “THE CLEANSING”
August Burns Red, a band renowned in the metalcore scene for their dynamic compositions and relentless energy, has once again proven their versatility and creativity. This time, they have reimagined their standout track “The Cleansing,” originally featured on their 2023 album “Death Below.” The new version includes a collaboration with Will Ramos, the frontman of the rising deathcore band Lorna Shore. Ramos’ distinctive vocal style adds a new dimension to the already powerful song, elevating it to unprecedented heights.
“The Cleansing” in its original form is an eight-minute epic that showcases August Burns Red’s wide-ranging capabilities. The track stands for “Death Below” not only for its length but also for its intricate structure and emotional depth. From the intense, neck-snapping breakdowns to the soaring melodic passages, the song is a testament to the band’s ability to blend aggression with beauty seamlessly. The composition weaves through various tempos and moods, keeping the listener engaged and on edge throughout its duration.
The collaboration with Will Ramos brings a fresh and brutal energy to “The Cleansing.” Ramos, known for his bestial and versatile vocal style, has been making waves in the deathcore scene with Lorna Shore. His addition to the track infuses it with a new level of confidence and power. Ramos’ vocals are not just a layer on top of the existing song; they transform it, pushing the boundaries of what “The Cleansing” can convey. His guttural growls and piercing screams add a deathcore brutality that complements August Burns Red’s intricate instrumentation.
This reimagined version of “The Cleansing” is a perfect example of how a song can evolve and take on new life through collaboration. August Burns Red’s willingness to experiment and bring in outside influences speaks to their commitment to innovation in the metalcore genre. By incorporating Ramos’ talents, they have created a version of the song that feels both familiar and entirely new. The contrast between the original melodic elements and the added deathcore intensity highlights the strengths of both bands.
For fans of August Burns Red, this reimagined version offers a fresh perspective on a beloved track. It showcases the band’s ability to adapt and grow, even with their well-established style. For fans of Lorna Shore and Will Ramos, it provides a glimpse into how Ramos’ unique vocal abilities can enhance and transform a piece of music. This collaboration is a meeting of minds and talents that results in a powerful and memorable musical experience.
The decision to rework “The Cleansing” with Ramos was undoubtedly a strategic one. In the current musical landscape, where collaborations often lead to cross-genre pollination and broader audience reach, this move positions August Burns Red to attract new listeners while giving existing fans something exciting and fresh. Ramos’ viral popularity and distinctive vocal style bring a different flavor to the song, potentially drawing in fans of the more end of the metal spectrum.
The production of the reimagined track maintains the high standards set by August Burns Red. The mix balances the complex instrumentation and the brutal vocals, ensuring that each element shines through. The song’s dynamics, from the soft, melodic interludes to the crushing breakdowns, are preserved and enhanced by the additional vocal layers. The result is a rich and textured listening experience that captures the essence of both bands.
In summary, the reimagined version of “The Cleansing” featuring Will Ramos is a bold and successful experiment. August Burns Red has taken an already powerful song and elevated it with the addition of Ramos’ vocal talents. This collaboration not only showcases the strengths of both artists but also pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved within the metalcore and deathcore genres. Fans of both bands will find much to appreciate in this new version, and it stands as a testament to the creative potential that lies in collaboration. August Burns Red and Will Ramos have created something truly special with this reimagined “The Cleansing,” a track that will undoubtedly resonate with listeners and stand the test of time.
Epic Collaboration: Will Ramos Joins August Burns Red for “The Cleansing”
In a move that has thrilled fans across the metalcore and deathcore communities, August Burns Red has released a reimagined version of their track “The Cleansing” featuring the powerful vocal talents of Lorna Shore’s frontman, Will Ramos. This epic collaboration blends the technical prowess and melodic sensibilities of August Burns Red with the intense, guttural vocals of Ramos, creating a track that pushes the boundaries of both genres. The original “The Cleansing” was already a standout on the band’s 2023 album “Death Below,” but this new version takes the song to a whole new level of intensity and complexity, showcasing the unique strengths of both artists.
Reimagined Brilliance: Lorna Shore’s Will Ramos and August Burns Red Team Up
August Burns Red has long been known for its ability to craft intricate, emotionally charged songs, and “The Cleansing” is no exception. However, the reimagined version featuring Will Ramos from Lorna Shore brings a fresh, brutal energy to the track. Ramos’ vocal style, characterized by his beastly growls and screams, complements the band’s dynamic instrumentation perfectly. This collaboration highlights the creative synergy between the two acts, resulting in a brilliant reimagining of an already epic song. Fans of both bands will appreciate how Ramos’ addition enhances the track’s power and depth, making it a standout piece in both artists’ discographies.
The Cleansing Revisited: August Burns Red and Will Ramos Unite
In revisiting “The Cleansing,” August Burns Red has teamed up with one of the most exciting vocalists in the deathcore scene, Will Ramos of Lorna Shore. This new version of the track takes the listener on a journey through a blend of metalcore and deathcore elements, with Ramos’ ferocious vocals adding a new layer of intensity. The collaboration showcases the versatility and adaptability of August Burns Red, who have successfully integrated Ramos’ unique style into their complex musical framework. The result is a powerful and cohesive track that pays homage to the original while exploring new sonic territories.
Metalcore Meets Deathcore: Will Ramos Enhances August Burns Red’s “The Cleansing”
The melding of metalcore and deathcore is perfectly executed in the reimagined version of “The Cleansing,” featuring Will Ramos. August Burns Red’s technical proficiency and melodic elements are complemented by Ramos’ raw, brutal vocal delivery. This collaboration is a testament to the band’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of their genre. Ramos’ addition to the track brings a new level of aggression and depth, enhancing the song’s impact and making it a must-listen for fans of heavy music. The seamless integration of both styles highlights the strengths of each artist and creates a powerful, memorable listening experience.
A New Dimension: Will Ramos Brings Brutal Vocals to August Burns Red’s “The Cleansing”
With the reimagined version of “The Cleansing,” August Burns Red has introduced a new dimension to their music by incorporating the brutal vocals of Will Ramos from Lorna Shore. Ramos’ distinctive growls and screams add an element of deathcore brutality that elevates the track’s intensity. This collaboration not only showcases Ramos’ vocal prowess but also highlights August Burns Red’s ability to adapt and evolve their sound. The new version of “The Cleansing” is a powerful fusion of melodic complexity and raw aggression, offering a fresh take on a fan-favorite track. This partnership between two powerhouse acts in the metal scene is a shining example of how collaboration can lead to innovative and exciting musical creations.
Frequently Asked Question
How does Will Ramos’ vocal style enhance “The Cleansing”?
Ramos’ vocal style adds a new level of aggression and depth to “The Cleansing.” His guttural growls and high-pitched screams complement the intricate instrumentation and melodic elements of the original track, creating a more powerful and intense listening experience.
What has been the fan reaction to the reimagined version of “The Cleansing”?
Fans of both August Burns Red and Lorna Shore have expressed excitement and appreciation for the collaboration. The reimagined version has been praised for its innovative approach and the seamless integration of Ramos’ vocals, which have brought fresh energy to the song.
Will there be more collaborations between August Burns Red and Will Ramos in the future?
While there is no official confirmation of future collaborations, the positive reception of this reimagined version of “The Cleansing” suggests that both artists may consider working together again. Fans are hopeful for more projects that blend their unique styles.
How does the reimagined version fit within the broader context of “Death Below”?
“The Cleansing” was already a standout track on “Death Below,” showcasing August Burns Red’s range and complexity. The reimagined version with Will Ramos fits within the album’s theme while offering a new interpretation that enhances its emotional and musical depth.
Where can I listen to the reimagined version of “The Cleansing”?
The reimagined version of “The Cleansing” featuring Will Ramos is available on major streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Fans can also find it on August Burns Red’s official website and social media channels.
What impact does this collaboration have on the metalcore and deathcore genres?
This collaboration bridges the gap between metalcore and deathcore, highlighting the creative potential that lies in blending different subgenres of metal. It showcases the versatility of both August Burns Red and Will Ramos, setting a precedent for future collaborations within the metal community.
Conclusion
The reimagined version of “The Cleansing” featuring Will Ramos from Lorna Shore is a testament to the power of collaboration in music. By blending August Burns Red’s intricate metalcore compositions with Ramos’ brutal deathcore vocals, the track reaches new heights of intensity and complexity. This partnership not only enhances the original song but also demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of both artists. Fans of metalcore and deathcore alike have embraced this innovative reworking, which bridges genres and showcases the unique strengths of each contributor. The success of this collaboration sets a promising precedent for future projects, underscoring the creative potential that lies in genre-blending partnerships.
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