This review covers the nu metal track Linkin Park – Crawling.
This track was released in 2000 on the album Hybrid Theory.
Previously, we reviewed the track Papercut. That track got a great score. After that, we listened to In the End. That track also got a great score. Finally, we listened to One Step Closer which also got a great score. So, we thought we’d try this track to see if that continues the streak of great scores.
The track starts off with an effect. Shortly after, there is a chime melody that comes in. Some scratch effects are thrown in before the guitars pop in. The vocals then come in for the main chorus right away.
The lead guitars then drop out, leaving with the bass guitar and drum kit. Shortly after, the vocals come in softly for the first verse. Backup vocals then make an appearance briefly. After that, the vocals take the track into the main chorus with the lead guitars joining in.
Again, the lead guitars drop out after, leaving elements of the drum kit, bass guitar, and main vocals taking over. Backup vocals briefly join the track before the vocals lead the track into the main chorus with a particularly long note. Lead guitars re-join the track as well. The main chorus is extended at this point.
The main vocals then serve as backup vocals at the same time. The track then drops out, leaving the effect at the beginning to lead the track out.
One thing that is definitely distinct is just how dynamic the sound is. At one point, the vocals are soft with only the lightest of touches from the instruments. At other times, the vocals utilize scringing backed by the cinematic lead guitars. This track really maximizes that audible range from beginning to end and it manages to work quite well.
The bass guitar was well used in the more quiet parts. It was subtle, but adds that nice warmth which gives the track a calming effect. It works quite well.
Meanwhile, the lead guitars also work very well. They really gave the track a nice shot of energy to help propel that dynamic sound.
Giving the track a nice way to tie everything together is the vocals. They were soft when they needed to be an turned things up when they needed it to be. With those vocals, everything ties together quite nicely.
Overall, this is a great track. It’s got great vocals, an interesting use of the bass guitar, nicely done effects, great cinematic lead guitars, and a nice dynamic sound throughout. No complaints from me, it’s a great track.
Score
8/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Facebook.
