Mike Shinoda gives himself space to grieve and triumph on "Post Traumatic."

 Though their rap/rock aesthetic may not be to everyone's particular liking, the fact remains that Linkin Park kept one toe firmly dipped in the hip-hop pool. Few can forget when the group made crossover history, aligning themselves with the Jigga Man for "Numb/Encore"; though the remix failed to reach the heights of the original, it no doubt solidified itself as the more popular variant. So much so that Jay-Z closed his recent 4:44 tour with a spirited rendition, in homage to the late Bennington. Now, Mike Shinoda has returned to pay homage, coming through with his first solo album since the Fort Minor era. 

On Post Traumatic, Shinoda gives himself time to grieve, mourn, and respect the legacy of his fallen friend and collaborator. For those invested in the man's narrative, Shinoda's album provides ample development in that department, with production vastly different from ongoing musical trends. Lyrically, Shinoda is a capable writer, though his aesthetic may prove more suitable for a niche audience. Still, those who enjoy the man's vibes should no doubt check out Post Traumatic. 

RIP Chester Bennington.