The Rising Tied [PA] (CD - 2005)

A hip-hop/electronica outing by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda (aka Fort Minor), THE RISING TIED features surging synth lines, tight beats, and moody string passages (arranged by Beck's father, David Campbell). In addition to Shinoda's own thoughtful and potent rhymes, this 2005 album boasts cred-boosting guest shots from Black Thought (of the Roots), Common, John Legend, and others. Far from a vanity project, the disc reveals Shinoda's behind-the-boards skills, particularly on the standout track "Believe Me," which also benefits from Eric Bobo's frenetic Latin percussion. Although THE RISING TIED will undoubtedly appeal to many Linkin Park fans, the inventive and eclectic record is likely to find enthusiastic listeners beyond the nu-metal set. minimize