“New Divide” Review

Linkin Park has done it again.

Contributing to the score of a major summer film is no small task, but Linkin Park rise to the challenge magnificently. Their brand new single “New Divide” (available now on iTunes) is the lead record for this summer’s monumental sequel, “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”

Linkin Park’s last album was Minutes to Midnight, released in 2007. “What I’ve Done” from the soundtrack of the original “Transformers” film happened to be featured on this album. It’s not for sure whether “New Divide” will find its way onto a new Linkin Park record, which is expected in early 2010, but surely none would object.

Though “New Divide” has similar flare to “What I’ve Done,” it takes things to an entirely different level. It gets more edgy on guitar and drum work especially, boasting a heavy performance from the band’s drummer Rob Bourdon.

Chester Bennington’s vocals are as strong as they ever were. Even “Transformers” director Michael Bay praised the band for fitting the film’s heavy ambience.

If “New Divide” is any indication of where Linkin Park is headed musically, the record books could be shattered next year when the new album hits shelves.