Released June 13, 2014 Genre Nu metal, rap metal Writer(s) Linkin Park | Recorded 2013–2014 Length 3:38 | |
Label Warner Bros., Machine Shop | ||
"Keys to the Kingdom" is a song by American rock band Linkin Park from their sixth studio album, The Hunting Party. It has entered the UK Rock chart at number 33, although it hasn't been released as a single. The song was written by the band and produced by co-lead vocalist Mike Shinoda and lead guitarist Brad Delson.
Contents
Composition
"Keys to the Kingdom" is explained in an early preview for the album as, "Right off the bat this track has an old-school punk vibe with a new twist. The hasty drums and explosive riffs [add] a hardcore element to it. Vocalist Chester Bennington unleashes melodies and the balance of Shinoda’s rap verses makes for a powerful combination. Although the band will be playing arenas on their forthcoming Carnivores tour, this song has an underground feel that would welcome them to a small, beat up venue in Brooklyn, N.Y." The song continues its outro into the album's second track, "All for Nothing" featuring Page Hamilton of Helmet.
Reception
In a track-by-track review for the album, by Billboard the song is given positive review and explained as, Quite fittingly, the album opens with Bennington's hysterical screaming — "No control! No surprise!" — and hammering drums from Rob Bourdon. Then the guitars hit, and Linkin Park are off on a hardcore punk tear, at least for the intro. Shinoda's verses pull things back into nu-metal terrain, and as he does his best to sell Linkin Park's back-to-basics approach.