Minutes To Midnight
by Linkin Park
User Score
6.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 733 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 494 out of 733
  2. Mixed: 107 out of 733
  3. Negative: 132 out of 733

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  1. SamS.
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    This is a fantastic piece of work by Linkin Park, people who are slamming the album need to wake up, the guys have done fantastic and have already sold a load of these albums showing its popularity!
  2. Jimmy
    Sep 10, 2007
    8
    Lyrically improved but not musically.
  3. DaraghL.
    Sep 17, 2007
    8
    Different to their stuff, but a good album no matter what the critics say.
  4. JoshA.
    Sep 7, 2007
    10
    This is possibly the best CD Linkin Park has ever done. Forget those people who hated it, if you want to either rock out or calm down and sleep, then Minutes to Midnight is the right choice for you. "What I've Done" was a success, so that means the album is a very huge success. Don't waste your time thinking about it, just buy it! You'll thank me later.
  5. Dave
    Sep 8, 2007
    7
    It's different but not bad. It's softer and slower than previous releases but if you're a pretty open-minded music fan, you'd like this album.
  6. jakeb.
    Jan 5, 2008
    10
    this is one of the best cds that i've ever heard or owned on a scale to 10 every one of these songs are at least a seven out of ten. The lyrics are better than on other albums and i love the vocals
  7. WillA.
    Jan 7, 2008
    8
    i love this album think of it this way they are are making themselves a rememberable band with this you see i love their old stuff but face it they would eventually disapper from the spotline with that this way they can do stuff that will keep them famous like metallica but yes they didnt have some of the best stuff they couldve done but man bleed it outr and given up are alsome!!!
  8. fsl_hero
    May 30, 2008
    9
    Don't listen to the HATERS here - this is still your LP, just a more mature sound, which I personally like. There are always a few haters for something good, so don't just listen to the negativity. Listen to the album yourself and judge.
  9. SG
    Jun 16, 2008
    9
    Overall a great CD; absolutely worth purchasing. The whole album is quieter than Hybrid Theory or Meteora, but who says being quiet is bad? Besides, if you consider MTM from a lyric-wise point of view, you would see that they had matured. They're no longer talking about ex-girlfriends - the lyrics are much, much more deeper than that kind of stuff. *smile* Mike doesn't rap as Overall a great CD; absolutely worth purchasing. The whole album is quieter than Hybrid Theory or Meteora, but who says being quiet is bad? Besides, if you consider MTM from a lyric-wise point of view, you would see that they had matured. They're no longer talking about ex-girlfriends - the lyrics are much, much more deeper than that kind of stuff. *smile* Mike doesn't rap as much as before, but he did a perfect job on "Hands Held High", and he even sings on another track - "In Between". And Chester's 17 second scream on "Given Up" was beyond impressive. Buy it; you won't regret it.… Expand
  10. MikeR
    Sep 24, 2008
    10
    The band totally reinvented themselves for this album, and the music works so well.
  11. BrandoS.
    Sep 29, 2008
    7
    This was disappointing, but at the same time I realized that it was no secret they were chaning their sound. Releasing their single What I've Done basically summarized what they were doing. "In this farewell, there's no blood, there's no alliby. Because I've drawn regret to the truth of 1000 lies. So let mercy come and wash away what I've done. I've faced This was disappointing, but at the same time I realized that it was no secret they were chaning their sound. Releasing their single What I've Done basically summarized what they were doing. "In this farewell, there's no blood, there's no alliby. Because I've drawn regret to the truth of 1000 lies. So let mercy come and wash away what I've done. I've faced myself, to cross out what i've become." True Linkin Park fans would know about this change, and would still like Linkin Park. They showed if they want to do pop, they do pop, if they want to do nu-metal, they do it. If they want to do soft rock, or rock, they do it. If they want to talk about politics, they do it. You need to realize Linkin Park is way more then just Nu-Metal. NU-METAL IS DEAD. This album could've been better, but I'm sure the next one will be very good. You need to get off their ass and realize that Linkin Park has changed.… Expand
  12. MichaelK.
    Jan 22, 2009
    10
    The only reason every one is being critical and negative is because Linkin Park is trying out a new style in their music. Its different, and I like it. And some people complain that they are getting a little political. So what? It is just a few songs that contain suchg content. If you look at the last two Albums Greenday has produced, you'll hear a whiny Emo kid scream about how he The only reason every one is being critical and negative is because Linkin Park is trying out a new style in their music. Its different, and I like it. And some people complain that they are getting a little political. So what? It is just a few songs that contain suchg content. If you look at the last two Albums Greenday has produced, you'll hear a whiny Emo kid scream about how he dislikes the US Federal Government.… Expand
  13. tasha
    Feb 27, 2009
    10
    I loved it, yes different type of direction from the last ones, but all good. great album, people change over years and so do their tastes.
  14. Bryan
    Dec 19, 2007
    9
    I dont care what the critics are saying. This album is Unique because its different than Hybrid Theory and Meteora. They did a Good Job taking the risk and they got success at doing it. Good Work and keep on trying LP!!!! But why i voted 9 and not 10 is that I did not like the song "No More Sorrow" because its too heavy and did not "blend into" the album....anyway i think this album is I dont care what the critics are saying. This album is Unique because its different than Hybrid Theory and Meteora. They did a Good Job taking the risk and they got success at doing it. Good Work and keep on trying LP!!!! But why i voted 9 and not 10 is that I did not like the song "No More Sorrow" because its too heavy and did not "blend into" the album....anyway i think this album is worth listening and cheering to..God Bless… Expand
  15. v1nc3
    May 13, 2007
    7
    I think the CD is good, the rapping from Mike Shinoda is missed a lot in the album. Making this LP album cliche and similar to the other rock bands out there.
  16. BillK.
    May 15, 2007
    10
    I look at the "professional" reviews above and it reminds me why I am disgusted by reviewers. I wish I could make them pay me back the money for all the crap artsy-experimental CDs I bought over the years from listening to their advice. This Linkin Park CD is amazing. Its less digital sound than the prior two studio albums but that's not a bad thing. They do both styles extremely I look at the "professional" reviews above and it reminds me why I am disgusted by reviewers. I wish I could make them pay me back the money for all the crap artsy-experimental CDs I bought over the years from listening to their advice. This Linkin Park CD is amazing. Its less digital sound than the prior two studio albums but that's not a bad thing. They do both styles extremely well. This album is going to get a lot of playing time from me and I guarantee you will love it as well. Big thumbs up!… Expand
  17. CJB
    May 15, 2007
    9
    I thought this album was really a leap forward for LP and shows how they're willing to redefine their style for future albums.
  18. JosephW
    May 15, 2007
    10
    Linkin Park have redefined themselves in a much more melodic and mature way. Rick Rubin has managed to capture the 'raw' sound of LP on this CD, and has allowed LP to step up to a higher level.
  19. PO
    May 16, 2007
    10
    I think it's great! It really curesl! I'm glad they are not afraid to do the things the way they like it and the way they think everything should be. And I'm glad they decided to change their style. Because in old style they have already made there best album and it is Hybryd Theory
  20. CSchroeder
    May 16, 2007
    8
    No they didn't take that evolutionary step forward, but Linkin Park did make strived forward in the direction that they should. The problem with "Minutes to Midnight" is not that the rock doesn't rock, but that there's too many things held back. It's too much 30 Seconds to Mars meets Evanescence instead of Linkin Park. Mike Shinoda's smaller presence here also No they didn't take that evolutionary step forward, but Linkin Park did make strived forward in the direction that they should. The problem with "Minutes to Midnight" is not that the rock doesn't rock, but that there's too many things held back. It's too much 30 Seconds to Mars meets Evanescence instead of Linkin Park. Mike Shinoda's smaller presence here also seems to strike a negative mark on the album. Shinoda is the brains behind LP. His lyrical genius about oppression, overcoming adversity, and the way he vents is just so much more interesting than Chester screaming. If anything, they should have included perhaps a little more rap in the album, otherwise they should have just gone all out metal. The dancing in between is what cuts this album off. But in the end, you look back and say "that was actually pretty good". It's just not what we all were hoping for.… Expand
  21. ACDCritic
    May 16, 2007
    8
    I've been a Linkin Park fan for a while. While I'm not a huge fan, I've always liked their music and found their past CD's to have some really good songs on them. (I also thought a lot of it was pretty much filler.) Minutes to Midnight is different. It sounds entirely different. Had Linkin Park simply made this CD yet another clone of Meteora and Hybrid Theory it just I've been a Linkin Park fan for a while. While I'm not a huge fan, I've always liked their music and found their past CD's to have some really good songs on them. (I also thought a lot of it was pretty much filler.) Minutes to Midnight is different. It sounds entirely different. Had Linkin Park simply made this CD yet another clone of Meteora and Hybrid Theory it just wouldn't have been anything to get excited about. This new CD is quite a bit slower, (Although there are still some rocking songs,) and there's very little rap/rock in the same songs. (Usually it's one or the other.) Linkin Park fans will not necessarily enjoy this CD at first; as I said, it's entirely different and they may need to get used to it. But I hope they give it a chance because this is a very good CD. Would it have hurt the band to have thrown some Meteora/Hybrid-like songs on there? No, I guess not, and maybe they should have (at only 11 songs on here, it easily could have used more anyway,) but what is here is very good. After a couple listens it's pretty much my favorite CD in a while. Nice job, guys.… Expand
  22. rk
    May 16, 2007
    8
    This album is a welcome change from their previous efforts, I am a huge fan of Hybrid Theory and Meteora but its time for a change and I think they knew it to...no matter what they'll always be ppl who say its just right or either say they changed too much, can't please everyone.....I do miss their harder, electronic heavy tracks like 'Papercut' and This album is a welcome change from their previous efforts, I am a huge fan of Hybrid Theory and Meteora but its time for a change and I think they knew it to...no matter what they'll always be ppl who say its just right or either say they changed too much, can't please everyone.....I do miss their harder, electronic heavy tracks like 'Papercut' and 'Crawling'....but this album is a HUGE step in terms of lyrical content and melody... in this case, change for the most part..is a good thing… Expand
  23. SteveM
    May 16, 2007
    7
    Starts slow, but really kicks in once the rap portion of the rap/rock band does...not what you would expect from linkin park, but not altogether bad. There are very few stand-out radio songs (it definitely could have used some more songs like What I've Done and No More Sorrow), but have some patience and listen to this thing in order. Very meaningful, you tell they put a great deal Starts slow, but really kicks in once the rap portion of the rap/rock band does...not what you would expect from linkin park, but not altogether bad. There are very few stand-out radio songs (it definitely could have used some more songs like What I've Done and No More Sorrow), but have some patience and listen to this thing in order. Very meaningful, you tell they put a great deal of time into the song writing.… Expand
  24. BitBurn
    May 17, 2007
    7
    Linkin Park are getting older and you can hear that everywhere on the album, so that is good cuz you can't stop natural evolution although there
  25. ronaldW
    May 17, 2007
    9
    they have coulple of songs that were questionable but the music is great i love their new sound if they kept on with nu-metal then the band would be shooting themselves in the foot(they wouldnt be getting that many sells)
  26. Zacd
    May 18, 2007
    9
    Recommended! A great one...
  27. JosephA
    May 18, 2007
    8
    I think these guys worked really hard to make this album and I think it came out great. It's unfortunate that such negativity is being thrown their way because in the end, after gettting past the new direction/sound, and not comparing MTM to HT & M, the album sounds really good, and it's got some seriously excellent melodies. I love it.
  28. DerickA
    May 19, 2007
    10
    I found the compact disc very legal was not very a thing that I waited plus this Òtimo
  29. JenniferM
    May 22, 2007
    10
    This CD is awesome! Who cares if it is different from their other albums? If you people would actually give it a chance instead of complaining about how LP is "selling out" by changing their music style, you'd be able to see how awesome Minutes to Midnight really is.
  30. JuanCarlosM
    May 24, 2007
    10
    This album is the best linkin park's record
  31. JustinS.
    May 25, 2007
    10
    Just totally awesome. i dont care if lp changes their sound. They are too way too freaking awesome to suck. I hate all the haters of this album. just appreciate this and go. PS i ve been a fan of lp since hybrid theory
  32. JamieL
    May 27, 2007
    8
    Linkin Park brought me into the Rock scene and i've been a die hard fan for several years after listening to this album i thought "is that it?" but after listening to it again i found that this is a good step forward. Althought this album is diverserly different from both Hybrid Theory and Meteora it serves itself on a whole different plate. Linkin Park have grown to become more than Linkin Park brought me into the Rock scene and i've been a die hard fan for several years after listening to this album i thought "is that it?" but after listening to it again i found that this is a good step forward. Althought this album is diverserly different from both Hybrid Theory and Meteora it serves itself on a whole different plate. Linkin Park have grown to become more than just a Nu-Metal group that fades away along with the genre itself. Personally i believe the album has some amazing tracks (a majority of them) and some flops but you got that with the last two albums aswell. Embrace change, because it's good.… Expand
  33. LaurenB
    May 28, 2007
    10
    i love linkin park
  34. CoreyG
    May 31, 2007
    7
    It's a good change, but it might turn some off
  35. DanielO
    Jun 17, 2007
    7
    Needed more rap!!!!!!!!!
  36. Jake
    Jun 18, 2007
    9
    The problem with most people who review this album is quite simple: They try to compare it to the work of the Linkin Park of old. This is not the old scream your balls off band you knew with Hybrid Theory and Meteora. This is a new kind of band, and a new kind of music. Listen to it as such and you will find it to be quite good music. It has its flaws, but what album doesn't? Simply The problem with most people who review this album is quite simple: They try to compare it to the work of the Linkin Park of old. This is not the old scream your balls off band you knew with Hybrid Theory and Meteora. This is a new kind of band, and a new kind of music. Listen to it as such and you will find it to be quite good music. It has its flaws, but what album doesn't? Simply put: this album is great if you ignore the band name stamped on it.… Expand
  37. AydinA
    Jun 27, 2007
    10
    Meteora > Hybrid Theory > Reanimation > Collision Course > Minutes to Midnight.
  38. ThechineseDJguyfromLP
    Jul 21, 2007
    10
    I do not understand why are you talking trash about this album! This is the best album ever since the other one!!! pS: Star Wars RulEZ!!!
  39. AndrewV
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    Why is everyone hating this album, because it's not the same as the other 2? You need to grow up!! I applaud a band who is willing to challenge themselves instead of the same old "if it ain't broke" tactics that most bands use (that includes nickelback, and to the person who said LP is worse than them you need to go examine yourself cause that is the most ridiculous thing Why is everyone hating this album, because it's not the same as the other 2? You need to grow up!! I applaud a band who is willing to challenge themselves instead of the same old "if it ain't broke" tactics that most bands use (that includes nickelback, and to the person who said LP is worse than them you need to go examine yourself cause that is the most ridiculous thing i've ever heard) I really love this album, and am not afraid to admit that I do. I can't force you to like it but don't claim you know what true music is if all you like is generic, cliche, radio-friendly drivel… Expand
  40. EthanF
    Jul 27, 2007
    10
    This was a great album! I like most of the songs on this album. Good job on this album Linkin Park!!
  41. Sparxy
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    This album is one of they're best in my opinion. they are broadening they're music genre a little and trying new things and they have done a wonderful job with it
  42. DavidC.
    Aug 11, 2007
    7
    This is far from crap. I can see why most people are calling it that but you gotta understand that Linkin Park can't put out yet another album similar to Hybrid Theory. They decided to take a different route and came out with this. This album is indeed too soft for a lot of the older fanbase to listen to but if you can get past that, this is a very enjoyable record.
  43. Darnell
    Sep 13, 2007
    9
    It's a great album and it's not an emo album. Linkin Park actually got LESS emotional with their music. The lyrics have different layers of meanings. Some of it is POLITICAL. (i.e. "No More Sorrow", "Little Things Give You Away", etc)
  44. John
    Sep 15, 2007
    10
    I think it's not as good as HT but it's a much more interesting than Meteora.
  45. PhilipH.
    Sep 24, 2007
    9
    I, for one, applaud the band for taking risks. That's what they wanted to do, and I believe they succeeded. Do I like every song on the album? No. But I love almost all of them, and I love the album as a whole. I wasn't sure if I would at first, but I took a chance and was not disappointed. There is a lot more variety on this CD than on their previous two combined. The vocals I, for one, applaud the band for taking risks. That's what they wanted to do, and I believe they succeeded. Do I like every song on the album? No. But I love almost all of them, and I love the album as a whole. I wasn't sure if I would at first, but I took a chance and was not disappointed. There is a lot more variety on this CD than on their previous two combined. The vocals are amazing - who knew the band could actually sing! I highly recommend it.… Expand
  46. James
    Sep 29, 2007
    8
    Different but still good.
  47. KATHYxx
    Nov 2, 2008
    8
    Good, not hall of fame material, but good. The band needed to change, and the third album was the time to do it. The result is a pleasant album covering a range of ideas and sounds. And it innovates, unlike its predecessor Meteora which showed little artistic growth and creativity. All the songs, sans the uninspired Given Up, are great to listen through.. it's main flaw is that Good, not hall of fame material, but good. The band needed to change, and the third album was the time to do it. The result is a pleasant album covering a range of ideas and sounds. And it innovates, unlike its predecessor Meteora which showed little artistic growth and creativity. All the songs, sans the uninspired Given Up, are great to listen through.. it's main flaw is that Linkin Park's new identity removed everything unique about them and it blends into the mainstream. Interestingly, the biggest problems are simpleton fans who will only listen to the same thing rehashed over and over, making this album a bit underrated.… Expand
  48. MichaelH.
    Feb 24, 2008
    9
    For the first 17 years of my life I never had a band that I felt so passionate about than, Linkin Park. No matter what they make, no matter how harsh other people treat them, which I see that they do get treated badly. They will always be a band of true witty original men who tap into the most basic fundemental issues of society and world affairs. And they show that they are NOT For the first 17 years of my life I never had a band that I felt so passionate about than, Linkin Park. No matter what they make, no matter how harsh other people treat them, which I see that they do get treated badly. They will always be a band of true witty original men who tap into the most basic fundemental issues of society and world affairs. And they show that they are NOT celebrities but true musicians by changing their sound and style to explore music even further than even celebrity trash wouldn't even dare venture (like Rob Williams, Spears or Spice Girls).… Expand
  49. MehraziW.
    Apr 14, 2008
    10
    It's the most fabulous album in the 21 century (with meteora of course!!), the perfect hard rock songs within all somethings that give to you the pleasure to song with him.
  50. BryanW
    Dec 23, 2009
    8
    Personally, I think it's good for them to (partly) change their genre as what they showed in this album. I was never moved that much by Linkin Park music as the first time I listened to "Shadow of the day". Hope to have more chances to enjoy this kind of music from them.
  51. JanaF
    May 24, 2009
    10
    I really really really dont think this album is 'emo'. Linkin Park is not like others bands, they create new things and try diferent styles of music. I think these bands that keep the same beat and notes and melody in every album are really boring. Just because emo people enjoy Linkin Park songs doesnt mean that Linkin Park is emo. I am a bigbigbigbig LP fan, I have friends that I really really really dont think this album is 'emo'. Linkin Park is not like others bands, they create new things and try diferent styles of music. I think these bands that keep the same beat and notes and melody in every album are really boring. Just because emo people enjoy Linkin Park songs doesnt mean that Linkin Park is emo. I am a bigbigbigbig LP fan, I have friends that like LP too, and we arent emo. And why can't Linkin Park make some different songs? Just because they started as a x style doesn't mean they cant change it. … Expand
  52. TomG
    Jun 14, 2009
    7
    I love linkin park, and i love the new direction they're going in with this album. But while it has songs that are truly great like Bleed It Out and Given up, most of the songs just don't.... capture me like most songs in Hybrid Theory, i didn't like Meteora that much either regardless of Breaking the Habit being one of my favorite songs either. Once Linkin Park perfects I love linkin park, and i love the new direction they're going in with this album. But while it has songs that are truly great like Bleed It Out and Given up, most of the songs just don't.... capture me like most songs in Hybrid Theory, i didn't like Meteora that much either regardless of Breaking the Habit being one of my favorite songs either. Once Linkin Park perfects their new formula, they'll be on top again, and from New Divide from Transformers it seems they're going even further in the right direction.… Expand
  53. rollingstone82
    Aug 14, 2010
    7
    A little change doesn't hurt.

    I remember back in the 90s and early 2000s, nu-metal was at its height of popularity. Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Linkin Park were the most popular. Nowadays, the music scene has changed. Everything labeled "rock" has now become more alternative. Why? Simply because what was designated as a genre ultimately became a fad. People got tired of listening to nu-metal.    A little change doesn't hurt.

    I remember back in the 90s and early 2000s, nu-metal was at its height of popularity. Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Linkin Park were the most popular. Nowadays, the music scene has changed. Everything labeled "rock" has now become more alternative. Why? Simply because what was designated as a genre ultimately became a fad. People got tired of listening to nu-metal. It really didn't vary much. So nu-metal bands sold less and less. Eventually, Linkin Park decided they needed a new formula. And Minutes To Midnight is the result.

    On the first day I listened to it, MTM probably got a 5.5/10, a 6/10 at best. I didn't really feel the new sound. I was expecting something more aggressive with that nu-metal polish. The sound I listened to was alternative. Stripped down alternative. Nu-metal, according to LP, is dead.

    But I, being a fan of LP and music in general, decided to listen again. Let me tell you that Linkin Park and Rick Rubin have done a fine job in crafting such a good album. It's different yet it is a blessing because LP isn't repeating themselves like they did on Meteora. Instead, they start anew.

    But that doesn't mean LP has become soft. They only added more emotion. Witness LP shredding through tracks like Bleed It Out and Given Up with Chester Bennington giving painful shrieks to "take it deeper and just throw it away". "What I've Done" is a beautiful song about the search of redemption and "Shadow of the Day" and "Valentine's Day" are both melancholic love stories. And "Hands Held High" is a powerful tale by Mike Shinoda on the dangers of war and violence.

    The sound is not polished. It's slightly rougher and more stripped down a la Rubin style. This helps Linkin Park succeed on a lyrical level because the rhymes are more forefront.

    My biggest complaint with the album is that LP almost completely abandons their "hybrid theory". In other words, Shinoda raps on only 2 tracks. Change is alright, but cracking the foundation isn't especially if it has already been well established. LP's rap-rock style was the core of their music. And MTM destroys it.

    But that isn't to say that MTM is a bad album. Musically, LP has evolved and improved. But looking at the lack of rap verses, I fear that their next album may not even feature one.    … Expand
  54. TheQuietGamer
    Jan 22, 2015
    7
    A very different album from what came before in Hybrid Theory and Meteora. It's softer. The first half of the album is basically pop, while the second takes on a more melancholy tone. Only a small handful of the songs harken back to the more aggressive and rather rocking tone their previous albums had. Whether or not that will be a deal breaker for you just comes down to personalA very different album from what came before in Hybrid Theory and Meteora. It's softer. The first half of the album is basically pop, while the second takes on a more melancholy tone. Only a small handful of the songs harken back to the more aggressive and rather rocking tone their previous albums had. Whether or not that will be a deal breaker for you just comes down to personal preference.

    I personally didn't find any song particularly bad, but the slower sound the album possesses did make it harder for me to get into. I can definitely see myself enjoying the tracks more when I'm in a more emotional mood. Then maybe the lyrical themes will stick with me more. However a lot of people wanting the sound that made the band in the first place are going to view this as a very "emo" turn for the band. One that they are probably not going to appreciate.

    I personally think it's a solid album. Even if it is far from the best work they've done. It's an experiment that mostly succeeds. However it's one that has alienated fans from the band. If you have not yet experienced this album, but have some of the others from Linkin Park, it would be wise to expect something different. It's an album unlike any of the others they have done whether they came before or after this one. Whether or not that will cause this album to turn you away from the band I cannot say. It has done that for many. All I can say is that while I was not as impressed with this album as I have been with others from the band, it's one I did still mostly enjoy.

    My total score for it is a 7.5/10.    … Expand
  55. CRL
    Sep 12, 2011
    9
    Minutes to Midnight is a bit disjointed, but it showcases a more focused Linkin Park. This was when they realized the restrictions of their genre, and instead of sending out endless repeats of the same album they decided to change their sound into the more-rock, less-rap, more-sing, less-scream, piano-riff and raw guitar shown on M2M. And it's still undeniably them. Shadow of the Day,Minutes to Midnight is a bit disjointed, but it showcases a more focused Linkin Park. This was when they realized the restrictions of their genre, and instead of sending out endless repeats of the same album they decided to change their sound into the more-rock, less-rap, more-sing, less-scream, piano-riff and raw guitar shown on M2M. And it's still undeniably them. Shadow of the Day, What I've Done, Hands Held High... in the end I think Minutes to Midnight is the most unique they've ever been.… Expand
  56. ezio121
    Oct 3, 2011
    8
    there is some of the best known songs on this album that are wicked, some good ones nobody's ever heard of (like Valentines Day, Bleed It Out Or In Between) and there are some That I Hate, but on the whole, this album is brill
  57. Trickyeddy9
    Feb 29, 2012
    8
    this is not there best album but its really good shadow of the day,hands held high and leave out all the rest are the best songs on this album there so good it makes me wanna cry
  58. spadenx
    Jan 13, 2012
    7
    Its a shame to see LP go Pop but it works out for them well. There are quite a few good songs on this album and I would suprisingly recommend this album.
  59. dinoslayer6
    Jun 21, 2012
    9
    90/100
    Most of minutes to midnights singles was featured in Transformers, then one was featured in Twilight, I think that Linkin Parks albums are great, but the album exclusives are there best works, nevertheless, this album as a whole is very good.
  60. RedAFX
    Apr 11, 2012
    8
    Linkin Park go for a classic rock edge with this great album, after 4 years out they return with the same energy as they had before, contained and unleashed through instruments instead of production, Rubin's stripped down production really fleshes out the band and peels back the icing which previous producer Don Gilmore urged the band to utilise, the band challenge themselves and push awayLinkin Park go for a classic rock edge with this great album, after 4 years out they return with the same energy as they had before, contained and unleashed through instruments instead of production, Rubin's stripped down production really fleshes out the band and peels back the icing which previous producer Don Gilmore urged the band to utilise, the band challenge themselves and push away from that, becoming the best live act of 2007.… Expand
  61. Mab_987
    Aug 14, 2012
    8
    In my ranking of Linkin Park albums this is in a close 2nd behind Living Things. It shows a perfect & natural transition between the distorted nu-metal of their previous 2 albums and the more melodic, experimental and somewhat electronic style they would explore more of on A Thousand Suns. I admit that the overall quality fades a little toward the end of the album with Valentine's Day & InIn my ranking of Linkin Park albums this is in a close 2nd behind Living Things. It shows a perfect & natural transition between the distorted nu-metal of their previous 2 albums and the more melodic, experimental and somewhat electronic style they would explore more of on A Thousand Suns. I admit that the overall quality fades a little toward the end of the album with Valentine's Day & In Between but In Pieces & the epic & beautiful closer The Little Things Give You Away saves the end from being unsatisfactory. Another complaint I have is with Given Up; musically it's awesome but lyrically it's really cliche & almost sounds like a Linkin Park style parody without the comedy at some points. But other than that this is a fantastic listen, and I think it's a great album to get someone who wants something representative of everything Linkin Park has done in their first decade.… Expand
  62. ricco94
    Jan 2, 2014
    8
    Best album by Linkin Park. Many good songs, some of their best (Shadow Of The Day), less rap and rock sound. Unfortunately it is just an exception in a series of album that I don't like.
  63. Cryo_Suit
    Jan 19, 2013
    7
    Only good about this album is that it is different from HT and Meteora. Songs like WHAT I'VE DONE, NO MORE SORROW and GIVEN UP are really amazing but songs like IN BETWEEN and HANDS HELD HIGH really sucks.This album is not a masterpiece or amazing. I am a linkin park fan that's why I liked this album but I cannot love. After first 6 songs the remaining minutes on this album wereOnly good about this album is that it is different from HT and Meteora. Songs like WHAT I'VE DONE, NO MORE SORROW and GIVEN UP are really amazing but songs like IN BETWEEN and HANDS HELD HIGH really sucks.This album is not a masterpiece or amazing. I am a linkin park fan that's why I liked this album but I cannot love. After first 6 songs the remaining minutes on this album were nightmare (except NMS).… Expand
  64. nish123
    Apr 7, 2014
    8
    After exhausting the nu-metal sound in their first two albums, Hybrid Theory and Meteora, Linkin Park decided to stray away from the nu-metal sound which actually made them famous. They decided to go for a more mellower approach, minimizing the rap and the turntables which were prominent in their former albums. They went for a more 'alternative rockish' approach.

    I'm glad that Linkin    After exhausting the nu-metal sound in their first two albums, Hybrid Theory and Meteora, Linkin Park decided to stray away from the nu-metal sound which actually made them famous. They decided to go for a more mellower approach, minimizing the rap and the turntables which were prominent in their former albums. They went for a more 'alternative rockish' approach.

    I'm glad that Linkin Park's made the decision to change their sound and the fact that they made a solid rock album, but i felt that it lacked that little kick that was their in the albums before it. Some songs were really good while some were weak.

    1. Wake- This is the first track of this album.It is an instrumental piece and a really good one. It gives the listener a hint of the sound in this album.

    2.Given Up- This is the song that is known for Bennington's 18 second scream. I'm a huge fan of this song. It is really aggressive and has some heaviness of the previous albums.

    3.Leave Out All The Rest- Now, this is the first song that actually shows the change in the band's sound. It is soft, catchy and is meant for airplay. Chester's vocals are better than ever. 4/5

    4. Bleed It Out- This is the second single of this album and is the first song on this album that features rap in it. The rap verses are brilliant and the aggressive feel in this song is amazing. 4.5/5

    5. Shadow Of The Day- A U2ish song by Linkin Park. Nothing original about this song. The guitar riffs are good (although they're similar to U2's 'With Or Without You'). Chester's vocals are brilliant yet again. 4/5

    6. What I've Done - The lead single and one of my favourite songs from this album. Extremely catchy and I bet I'll never get bored of this song. 5/5

    7. Hands Held High - The second song in this album that has rap in it. A slightly slowish song and Mike talks about terrorism and stuff like that. I'm not a huge fan of this song and i feel that the 'amen' part at the end of the song wasn't required at all. 2.5/5

    8. No More Sorrow - Another aggressive song. The guitar breakdown in the middle of the song is slightly similar to that of Given Up. In short, it is a good song. 3.5/5

    9. Valentine's Day - Another weak song in this album. The first half of the song's boring even though the last 50 seconds or so make it up for it. A kind of a 'meh' song. 2.5/5

    10. In Between - The worst song on this album. Even though Mike's a good singer, the song's slow and it doesn't have that kick to make it a good song. This is the low point in all of Linkin Park's career up to date. 2/5

    11. In Pieces- A really amazing comeback song by the band. I love Brad's guitar solo at the end of the song. It is a bit surprising as the band is not known for guitar solos. One of the highlights of this album. 5/5

    12. The Little Things Give You Away- A brilliant finish to this album. It is 6 minutes long and is the first progressive rock song composed by the band. It starts out slow but has a really good guitar riff at the end of the song. I love the fact that they did something different on this album and this song proves it. An epic finish to 'Minutes To Midnight'.5/5

    However as compared to their previous albums and their later albums, this is one of Linkin Park's worst albums. Not that it is a bad album; it is a mediocre effort as compared to the band's other releases. I have a few reasons to justify this statement :

    1. After 'What I've Done' the album somewhat shows its mediocre side with songs such as 'In Between', 'Valentine's Day', although the next 2 songs make it up for it.
    2. I didn't like the order in which the songs were positioned. It was like one really aggressive song and then a really soft one. They could've instead placed all the aggressive songs first and then the soft ones or vice versa.

    Even though this album has its strengths and weaknesses, it is a stepping stone for the band's change in sound and for the band's next album 'A Thousand Suns', which is the best album of their career.    … Expand
  65. EljeroTV
    Dec 22, 2013
    9
    Maybe not like the older ones with "Hybrid Theory" and "Meteora", but it does not claimt to be and even if many older fans doesn't like it, that means not that this is a bad album. No, it is even an excellent album with many earwigs from the radio ("What I've done" or "Shadows of the Day") and rocky new-metal songs ("Bleed it out", "Given Up" or "No more sorrows"). "Bleed it out" avtuallyMaybe not like the older ones with "Hybrid Theory" and "Meteora", but it does not claimt to be and even if many older fans doesn't like it, that means not that this is a bad album. No, it is even an excellent album with many earwigs from the radio ("What I've done" or "Shadows of the Day") and rocky new-metal songs ("Bleed it out", "Given Up" or "No more sorrows"). "Bleed it out" avtually even is one of my favourite songs of all times for a reason. Every song is catchy, good and creative, while there are no misses.… Expand
  66. Steeliosis
    Mar 16, 2014
    8
    Minutes to Midnight is not perfect, but it fares well. Decent rock songs with some pretty energised riffs, and the occasional emotional downplay on the music gives the album a decent variation, and overall achieves a beautiful sound.

    Whilst there isn't much negative to say about it, I still feel there could have been more rock and metal aspects, but I can't really complain. This album    Minutes to Midnight is not perfect, but it fares well. Decent rock songs with some pretty energised riffs, and the occasional emotional downplay on the music gives the album a decent variation, and overall achieves a beautiful sound.

    Whilst there isn't much negative to say about it, I still feel there could have been more rock and metal aspects, but I can't really complain. This album is worth a buy, even if you're not deeply a rock fan. So much better than their new, overproduced BS.    … Expand
  67. Kai82
    Aug 10, 2014
    7
    Solid album. It is not as good as Hybrid Theory and Meteora but not a bad album. If you liked the other albums you might thing this is a change in style but after hearing the album a few times you will notice that it is still Linkin Park.
  68. royben14
    Mar 3, 2017
    9
    the bands most intimate album, with touches of Metal Rock and Pop this is an album everyone can relate, some songs are hauntingly sad, the vast majority of the songs are good but most don't add up in a consistent listen, not their greatest but for sure, its no a miss.
  69. CharlieBetterIs
    Jan 7, 2016
    10
    Não sei como a crítica dá uma nota dessas a um álbum maravilhoso como o Minutes To Midnight. Com certeza, esse é o melhor álbum da discografia impecável da banda, com letras muito bem escritas e instrumental maravilhosa. Com certeza uma bíblia do rock.

    Pontos Altos: In Pieces, Shadow Of The Day, The Litthe Things Give You Away
    Pontos Baixos: Given Up, Wake, Bleed It Out
  70. JKess207
    Jan 19, 2016
    9
    Okay I'm going to clear one thing up: anyone who thinks that this album has changed Linkin Park into a boy band either hates them for no reason or doesn't have a functioning brain. The problem with people is that they DON'T LIKE CHANGE. They think that Linkin Park is supposed to be an all-metal/punk rock band. Well, the band doesn't. They decided to take a slower approach, and I praiseOkay I'm going to clear one thing up: anyone who thinks that this album has changed Linkin Park into a boy band either hates them for no reason or doesn't have a functioning brain. The problem with people is that they DON'T LIKE CHANGE. They think that Linkin Park is supposed to be an all-metal/punk rock band. Well, the band doesn't. They decided to take a slower approach, and I praise them. Minutes to Midnight shows a different side of the band, one that's not all about blasting screams into your ears. I'm not saying that I hate their earlier music, because I think almost all of their music is good. But they thought, "Hey, let's slow things down a little." And hey, they still retained some of that old style that made them famous in No More Sorrow and Given Up, and added some more rap by the one and only Mike Shinoda

    1. Wake (8.5)- An instrumental song that foreshadows the album to come, with both slow music and good old fast-paced music in a perfect blend.

    2. Given Up (8)- This song makes the listener feel like this album is once again going to be filled with Linkin Park's usual metal sound. The chorus is strong and it includes a Chester Bennington trademark scream.

    3. Leave Out All the Rest (8.5)- The first hint at difference in this album. This song is slow and it shows the listener what their music has been lacking: the true vocals of Chester Bennington. (Side Note: This song was in the 2008 movie "Twilight")

    4. Bleed it Out (9.75)- This is Linkin Park at some of its finest. Mike Shinoda enters the album in impressive style, reminding the world that he is one of the top rappers of his generation. This song, with its aggressive tones, takes the lyrical style of High Voltage and combines it with the music style of Papercut (both from Hybrid Theory) Side Note: An 8-minute version of this song was used to close out their Milton Keynes concert (Road to Revolution album, released in late 2008).

    5. Shadow of the Day (9.25)- This song is similar to U2 and has that same mellow yet hard feel to it. Chester is 2/2 on vocals thus far

    6. What I've Done (10)- Easily the best track on this album. If there was ever a song on this track to combine the two styles of Linkin Park, I'm glad it's this song. Incredible vocals as well as guitar. This song is going to be one of the top Linkin Park tracks for the remainder of their career.

    7. Hands Held High (7.5)- It's back to slow for an okay track. Being my least favorite on the album, it's not that bad, but it sounds more of a PSA than a song. It literally starts with Mike saying, "Turn my mic up louder, I got to say something." Slow and having very little instrumental background, it's basically Mike talking about terrorism and stuff like that. The chorus has the exact same feel as the rest of the song, so I had initially had trouble distinguishing between the two. Also, the song has unnecessary and repetitive "amens" around the chorus.

    8. No More Sorrow (8.5)- If you're following the pattern (honestly, I don't like the pattern), then you should've realized that this would be another aggressive song. It has the layout of most of the earlier Linkin Park songs.

    9. Valentine's Day (7.75)- A faster (not by much, but still faster) version of My December, this song is repetitive and dull until the final minute.

    10. In Between (9)- An underrated track. It has Shinoda singing in the same style as Hands Held High (but this is a song) and after a minute or so Chester joins him and they harmonize for the rest of the song.

    11. In Pieces (9.5)- It may not be as good as What I've Done, but it still combines both of Linkin Park's styles to date. It starts off slow, but after the fist chorus it speeds up, and after the second chorus, listeners are rewarded with a rare treat: A Brad Delson guitar solo.

    12. The Little Things Give You Away (10)- The album closed with a bang. Like In Pieces, it starts off slow and gets faster, with a great guitar solo in the middle. This song shows the true potential that Linkin Park has performing slower music. A spectacular finish to a spectacular album. (Side Note 1: This song is about the devastating result of Hurricane Katrina, and the inspiration for the song came when the band visited New Orleans during the reconstruction process) (Side Note 2: Both the Milton Keynes (Road to Revolution album, see #4 Bleed it Out) and the Live in Shanghai, 2007 (Minutes to Midnight Live Around the World album) included different length intros of slow piano music provided by Mike Shinoda (Who else? The man does anything and everything for the band).

    Overall, although it doesn't compare to Meteora, this album is a great transition into A Thousand Suns, which is LP at its finest.    … Expand
  71. SBells27Reviews
    Feb 3, 2020
    7
    Overall a decent album but it has its share of flaws. There are times when the album feels inconsistent and some of the songs are... corny, forgettable or both. The worst song of the album is Hands Held High for sure. Don't get me wrong, lyrically wise is not bad but the sounds and overall tone feels unispired and boring, and the fact that the song comes right after What I've Done, it'sOverall a decent album but it has its share of flaws. There are times when the album feels inconsistent and some of the songs are... corny, forgettable or both. The worst song of the album is Hands Held High for sure. Don't get me wrong, lyrically wise is not bad but the sounds and overall tone feels unispired and boring, and the fact that the song comes right after What I've Done, it's just a dissapointed transition given the high stakes WID gave to the album. Then again, the album has its share of highlights, some which are even some of my favorite songs of LP's entire discography. Given Up is raw, exciting and sounds overall kickass, What I've Done is lyrically great and very climatic and fun sound wise, and In Pieces has a great guitar solo with some powerful instrumentals. Overall a B or B+.… Expand
  72. blum
    Apr 15, 2016
    9
    It's simpler than their other works but I really like it. I love how there are calm songs like "The Little Things Give You Away", "In Between" and "Shadow Of The Day" which are really different than HT's and Meteora's songs. Not their best album but for me it is very meaningful.
  73. Fendibull
    May 19, 2016
    8
    This album is a sleeper hit, as you compare it to Living Things and Recharged. By far this is a perfect Alt Rock Linkin Park ever made, they shift from Nu Metal to Alt Rock to Electronic Rock to Electro House and going back to Nu Metal/Alt Metal realm in Hunting Party. By far in retrospect this is a good album.
  74. Bryano
    Jan 3, 2017
    7
    The singles from this album are pretty good, whille less amazing than their previous releases. Among the other tracks, some tracks are ok, but Hands Held High, In between are bad. I think they started to produce mediocre track right from this album.
  75. weskergamer
    Mar 1, 2017
    9
    is good, but is not nu metal. Linkin Park lose thei way in the nu metal but still been a good album. Viva Given up and What ive done. the album has more good songs but...
  76. kappakappa
    May 2, 2017
    10
    The album that got me into Linkin Park when I was around 10 years old. Favorites: Given Up, Leave Out All The Rest, The Little Things Give You Away, What I've Done. And "No Roads Left" from the Tour/Deluxe Edition. Overall an amazing album that I'll remember and love forever.
  77. Decim
    May 24, 2017
    7
    This is not their best album, I agree, but I like it the same.
    Linkin Park shows that they can make mature and deep songs such as What I've Done, Hands Held High and The Little Things Give You Way, but at the same time they look like a boy band: Leave Out All The Rest and Valentine's Days are quite boring and avoidable, while Given Up and No More Sorrow show that the band still knows how    This is not their best album, I agree, but I like it the same.
    Linkin Park shows that they can make mature and deep songs such as What I've Done, Hands Held High and The Little Things Give You Way, but at the same time they look like a boy band: Leave Out All The Rest and Valentine's Days are quite boring and avoidable, while Given Up and No More Sorrow show that the band still knows how to make great metal songs.    … Expand
  78. MysticManiac
    Mar 10, 2018
    9
    One of Linkin Park's best albums and one of their most underrated. Tracks like Given Up, What I've Done, In Pieces, Little Things Give You Away and Hands Held High remind us why Linkin Park is one of the greats!
  79. clem666
    Jan 24, 2021
    7
    'Minutes to Midnight' surely sounds different from other Linkin Park albums. It sometimes lacks of consistence and originality. Violence through shoutings is raw, unsynthesized and disorganized. The band tried to experience more soft and chill songs (like 'Shadow of the Day', 'In Pieces' and 'The Little Things Give You Away'). Some of them are welcome and kind of bring some more depth to'Minutes to Midnight' surely sounds different from other Linkin Park albums. It sometimes lacks of consistence and originality. Violence through shoutings is raw, unsynthesized and disorganized. The band tried to experience more soft and chill songs (like 'Shadow of the Day', 'In Pieces' and 'The Little Things Give You Away'). Some of them are welcome and kind of bring some more depth to the project and the group's overall repertoire but others just miss their point and become dull and shallow. However, no one can contest the fact that Linkin Park made a terrific work on this album: some tracks will remain legendary, like 'What I've Done', 'Bleed It Out' and 'Shadow of the Day' (even if I know everybody will not agree on that point). The band managed to modify their musical approach and artistic direction even if it meant to lose a considerable part of their fanbase. With this project Linkin Park started a new page on their chapter, for the best and the worst.… Expand
  80. Codeling
    Aug 7, 2021
    9
    This album is incredible.
    Best songs: What I've Done, The Little Things Give You Away, Given Up, Bleed It Out, Leave Out All the Rest, No More Sorrow
    Worst songs: -
  81. NERo0o
    Mar 14, 2020
    10
    One of my favorite albums of all time, every song in this album is at the very least good, not a single bad tune. Amazing album!
  82. MisteRPrO2000
    Dec 3, 2020
    9
    Me sorprendio las bajas reseñas de este album, aunque comprendo que es cuestion de gustos. En mi opinion este es uno de los mejores albumes de nu metal que he oido, con algunas joyas como What ive done o Bleed it out. Nunca dejare de amar este album
  83. shoma-
    Apr 25, 2021
    8
    Довольно неплохой альбом, есть очень много хороших треков, в том числе "Bleed It Out" "What I've Done" "Leave Out All The Rest" и другие
  84. Mellowry
    Aug 18, 2021
    7
    This is definitely hard to rate. I think this and 'A Thousand Suns' were both LP albums where everybody had different opinions on, some acclaimed them, others didn't. There are some mean strings on here as well, such as songs like 'Given Up' with that long scream, 'Bleed It Out' with a new direction LP would go that would even be present 5 years later on 'Living Things', also i'm a fan ofThis is definitely hard to rate. I think this and 'A Thousand Suns' were both LP albums where everybody had different opinions on, some acclaimed them, others didn't. There are some mean strings on here as well, such as songs like 'Given Up' with that long scream, 'Bleed It Out' with a new direction LP would go that would even be present 5 years later on 'Living Things', also i'm a fan of the 'Shadow of the Day', especially the transition to 'What I've Done', which is also great. Sure it isn't everybody's everything, though i feel like they had fun producing it, so i don't really think it's bad, except for the few mediocre and boring parts like on 'Valentine's Day'. It isn't perfect but has some bangers.… Expand
  85. DonldTrump_45Th
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    Hello, this is a default review because i'm forced to use 75 characters. I'll edit this review in the future talking about the game, don't worry ;)

    My final rate is: 10
  86. Kostas_Spirou
    Aug 1, 2023
    8
    A pretty solid album overall, this is where everything changed, and Linkin Park decided to slowly shift into the Pop genre as well, a very creative and brave decision.
  87. DarkexMW
    Apr 28, 2023
    10
    Even if the album haves behind some of the greatest LP albums (HT and Meteora), for me its the best LP album ever made, haves some of the hardest LP themes (No More Sorrow and Given Up), underrated bangers like In Between or Valentine's Day and one of the best LP songs for end it (TLTGYA), 10/10, a masterpiece with the best LP themes and great unused songs like No Roads Left or Across The Line
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2007
16
#16 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
56

Mixed or average reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 15
  3. Negative: 3 out of 15
  1. The Guardian
    60
    The California rap-rockers are stymied by their decision to stay roughly within the shrieky boundaries of their genre (albeit with less emphasis on the rap).
    Read full review
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    50
    Amid the stabs at growth, every new effect sounds borrowed.
    Read full review
  3. The New York Times
    50
    As you might imagine, the band’s emo makeover doesn’t always go smoothly.
    Read full review
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