Customer Reviews

Unquestionable Truth Part 1

5 star:		(66)
4 star:		(44)
3 star:		(29)
2 star:		(19)
1 star:		(88)

 

 

Limp Bizkit is back with their fifth album "The Unquestionable Truth, Part I" which is a surprisingly good effort.

Limp Bizkit were never a great band, but they did know how to make good frat-boy rock. Their first three albums "Three Dollar Bill Ya" (1997), Significant Other (1999) and "Chocolate Starfish" (2000) are a lot of fun. They were one of the better bands of the Nu-Metal genre, and cranked out heavy songs, with good hooks, and sing-along-choruses. It was perfect music for High School and College kids. "Nookie" was like the "Cherry Pie" of the late 90s.

After reaching their plateau with "Chocolate Starfish," the Bizkit Empire started to crumble. First, guitarist Wes Borland left the band. He was not only the most creative member of the band and their biggest talent, but was their guiding force. Then there was Fred Durst's embarrassing public infatuation with Brittany Spears. The bands search for a new guitar player, in which they had the contenders sign a contract forfeiting any music they played at the tryout, further damaged their reputation. Then after hooking up with guitarist Mike Smith, the band released the horrific "Results May Vary" album. Although it went platinum, it was almost universally panned by both critics and all, but the most hard-core of fans. Add to this the fact that by the mid-`00s, the whole Nu-Metal genre was passé. Limp Bizkit, were, like, sooo 1999. By the release of "Results" Limp Bizkit was going down. They were about as cool as Warrant and their future looked bleak...

But then guitarist Wes Borland returned to the fold, so it seemed that all was not lost. Could his return revitalize the band? The answer is, quite simply, yes.

"The Unquestionable Truth, Part I, is a strong comeback for the band. One thing that "Results May Vary" lacked was good riffs. Well, "The Unquestionable Truth, Part 1" is not lacking there. In fact, this album contains some of their finest, most catchy collection of songs to date. It's mostly fast and furious. The ending ballad, "The Surrender" is one of the best, most honest songs they've ever written. These songs sound less fun, more urgent, and darker than their previous releases. The band has both returned to their roots, and also matured. It's more than just about breakin' stuff and nookie, it's more serious, but without sounding preachy or pretentious. So they've grown up, but without forgetting what made Limp Bizkit, Limp Bizkit.

Wes Borland's presence is what ultimately makes this CD work. Say what you will about Limp Bizkit, but there is no denying that Borland is a creative guy.

This album is probably Fred Durst's finest hour. On the first three Bizkit albums, his obnoxious, odious presence was tolerable because of his charisma and because he was backed by a pretty good band, especially Borland. On the fourth album, "Results May Vary," Durst came across as so obnoxious, and so self-pitying, the album was barley listenable (that and the fact that the songs had no real hooks or riffs). On "The Unquestionable Truth, Part I" Durst steps outside himself and his trivial self-pitying problems, and actually has something to say. He takes on issues like morality, the church, Hollywood, etc. Ok, he may not be Bob Dylan or John Lennon, but at least he's trying.

Some people have stated their unhappiness with the length of the album (it's only 29 minutes, seven songs). I have no qualms with the shortness of the album. It's like an old-school rock album, like Van Halen or KISS. And to be honest, if it were longer, it may overstay its welcome. A half hour of Fred Durst is about right.

The heyday of Limp Bizkit is long over, but this CD is definitely a respectable comeback. This is what the band should have put out in `2001/'02, as the follow-up to "Chocolate Starfish." This album has received almost no hype, which is a good thing. After being overexposed and reviled, a small scale comeback with a strong collection of songs is just what the band needs.

First off, I'll admit I'm not a fan of Limp Bizkit nor have I been. The only album I have of them is Chocolate Starfish and that's because my friend gave it to me because he was tired of it. Over time I became tired of it and only 3 songs from that album amuse me anymore. I checked out their other stuff starting with their debut album, I flat out didn't like it so I tried their second album, not great at all, some of the songs from those albums were alright but Durst killed the music either from his voice or lyrics. My friend lent me Results May Vary and after the first listen I gave it back because to me it was the worst of them all. So after that brief history, when I heard this album was coming out I wasn't sure what to think, to be honest buying it rarely crossed my mind. When it did come out I notice a lot of people said it was a different sound because Wes was back, and that got me interested so I bought it. To say the least I was impressed after listening to it, this is a different Limp Bizkit than the past, this for me is a improvement on a band that should have produce something like this from the start. Wes is back and it shows, the guitar riffs are more aggressive (I wont say heavier because I don't classify nu metal as heavy) and tolerate. Another thing I notice was they used strong bass lines such as in The Truth and The Priest, something that was nearly obsolete in their previous works. About the vocals and lyrics, a much improvement. Durst doesn't wail as much if at all, and he keeps his voice level. Also, when he "screams" he growls, it's not the old "cry" like it used to. With the lyrics you can't expect Durst to write perfect lyrics but these lyrics are a step up and show that he does have the ability to create good lyrics. With all that said let's get to the songs:

The Propaganda: The way an album should start, aggressive and fierce and this is what this song brings. Wes really shines on this song and you can see why he was missed. Around the 230 mark is when the riff becomes a tad repetitive but keeps the aggression. I personally think they could have either cut this song in half or produce a variety near the end, but it's their call.

The Truth: A great title track and proof that Durst stepped up from what he did in the past. The beginning has a solid bass line that leads to explosive guitar riffs. This is where it shows Limp Bizkit has brought something different and it sounds impressive.

The Priest: Starts almost the same way as the previous two tracks but then becomes more mellow. Durst seems to have a lot of aggression in this one as you can tell teh way he "sings" this song. Another favorite.

The Key: This song is about Durst admitting that he knows his time in the light has passed but that he'll keep going (bad news for a lot of you I know) but this songs is just a drum beat and some guitar distortions in the background. For those who say he swears a lot in this one, he only says the "f" word 6 or seven times in it's within the first 20 seconds of the track, it may be much for some to bare but it's Limp Bizkit.

The Channel: If you heard Mudvayne's "Tv/Radio" then you'll get a feel of what this song is about. I love the musicianship in this one (if that's even possible to say with this group) but I just did. Another aggressive track where Wes takes over.

The Story: Probably the only song that hasn't grasped me yet, it's alright, starts with a strong guitar riff but the lyrics are a downer in this one. It'll probably grow on me but I'll let you be the judge.

The Surrender: A ballad, from Limp Bizkit? Yep and it's a good one too. Very mellow and Durst actually sings in this one. One of my top favorites of this disc and after it's all said and done, I'm ready for part II.


With a different sound and direction, Limp Bizkit has seemed to have found their formula. Fans of the old may not like this album but to those who were hesitate to but this album should give it a shot. With all the good things that came with it there are some spots where it doesn't shine: Only seven tracks, probably just wanted to keep the strong material or that's all they had, in any case it's a good way to make people want more; The Key seems outta place, I think they should have made it longer with either a bass line or guitar riff to make it fit, otherwise it seems like a filler; the time this album was released, right when the new NIN album came out which may be a reason this album does not sell much (though if people gave this a shot it may sell many copies). Most of the one star reviews you will read are from people who just don't like Limp Bizkit or nu metal in general, please, dont listen to them if you are thinking about buying this album. Remember, I didn't like them either and I took a shot and was satisfied with the results. This album is a great improvement from the old Limp Bizkit and if they continue to produce music like this they will shine once again with a better sound.

This review is the unquestionable truth. Like it or not.

From Vanilla Ice, to Milli Vanilli, to Ashlee Simpson - Fads come & go, & out of every fad comes the "musician" or band to represent how embarrassing that fad was. Limp Bizkit is unquestionably, unarguably the Vanilla Ice of the late 90s/early 2000's...

Much like Vanilla Ice, they were everywhere & moronic young kids thought it was cool to like them... Now, just as many people do with Vanilla Ice - Young adults & people in their early 20's look back on Limp Bizkit the same way... With pure embarassment

They may of been one of the biggest bands on earth at one time.. But good luck finding anyone today that admits to once liking Limp Bizkit. You're more likely to find someone who confesses to being a child molester.

Fred Durst is undeniably the cause of the downfall. The funny thing is... Fred Durst doesn't know why so many people hate him, he just doesn't get it.

It doesn't occur to him that having a reality show on MTV about the making of 'Results May Vary' - Or singing with Christina Aguilaiaialaiarelalia (however the hell you spell her name) - Or insulting Trent Reznor (who has infinite more credibility than Fred ever had) might backfire on him.

Fred Durst has a huge ego. He cannot dare believe how someone couldn't like HIM?! "WHO!?!? ME?! Fred Durst?! The guy who makes fish faces & gawks at cameras & calls himself the Kurt Cobain of his generation!? ME?!" -

Yes YOU... MORON - He just can't believe Limp Bizkit is hated. The pathetic thing is, I read parts of a recent interview lately, where Fred says he doesn't even want to be big anymore... DUDE, you got REJECTED by EVERYONE.. You even went so far as to promote a new album with a MTV reality show.. and THAT album bombed badly... So now that you're rejected by everyone & everything, you make it look like it was your choice?!!?! This guy is such a phony, so ignorant & arrogant & completely stupid, it is truly unbelievable. This guy just cannot see himself from another persons point of view.

Fred Durst wanted to become legendary all right... And he did. He is today one of the most insulted, laughed at, embarrassing people to become famous of all time.

(Now.. If you want to know anything about the album, just listen to the samples. It sounds like a 4th rate Rage Against the Machine cover band gone horribly wrong.)

What I am about to say is directed towards those of you who hate Limp Bizkit without having any real reason to...

First, I shall say this. I am a huge music fan. I listen to all kinds of music, from metal to electronica to acoustic to you name it. My musical taste expands from all realms, including Marilyn Manson, Prince, Bjork, Green Day, etc. I am not some teenage punk who spends his days in Hot Topic looking over the newest "The Used" t-shirts. But I am a teenager, 16 years old.

Limp Bizkit was introduced to me back in 1999. Since then, I have fallen madly in love with them, disliked them (as well as all other nu metal bands), and then matured. My musical tastes had drastically changed over time, and I didn't even want to give this band or my once favorite, Korn, a second chance. Then, one day, out of pure curiosity, I listened to these bands again, especially LB with the release of this new EP, and discovered that I liked them for a reason. I wasn't some dumb little kid who didn't know good music from bad, though I would agree that I listen to much better music now overall. But these bands had a heart, a reason, something to say (even if they didn't say it in the best way they could have). And that's something these new "punk" bands like New Found Glory, Simple Plan, Good Charlotte, etc. could never say about themselves without crossing their fingers behind their backs.

Now, later nu-metal overall did become watered down and repetitive. But look at LB and Korn's earlier works and you'll feel a raw energy, something much deeper that most people seem to overlook. The music isn't only heavy, but funky, head bobbin. The number one fault of everyone who has become a typical LB hater is that they look at the band and especially Fred Durst in the complete wrong light. You cannot look at Fred Durst as a rock singer and give him much credit. Instead, you must look at him as a MC in a rock band. Think of that for awhile. Everyone complains about how his lyrics and vocals aren't that great for a rock singer. Well, check him out as an MC. His lyrics and vocal abilities far surpass those of most rappers, and though Fred's lyrics can seem quite shallow at times, they're insanely catchy, funny, and clever. That is what makes Fred Durst the heart of this band, and a very good one at that. Limp Bizkit is a RAP rock band. If you can't listen to rap, then of course you'll dislike most LB, cause Fred RAPS for crying out loud. To me, however, and those who gained interest in this band in the first place, that's what made this band special. Good rhymes. Badass guitar riffs. Funky bass licks with tight drumming. That's what LB stands for. And with Wes back, that's what this EP holds within its unquestionable grip.

Ok we all know that the return of Wes Borland is the best thing since sliced bread. The REAL question is, after ruling the late 90's like Guns n Roses did during the late 80's, would Bizkit with this new release be able to ressurect their career better than the Guns did?

And the answer is...No.

However, this album is an intriguing try- that's for sure. Wes Borland- the only reason Bizkit sounded cooler than all the other Nu metal bands (thank GOD this "rage against the suburbs" music known as Nu Metal is gone)- returns to kick some serious ass, Fred delivers a passable Zack from Rage imitation (kinda like if you don't dig the Stones you dig the Black Crowes) and the band kicks out the jams fine and dandy.

But this whole "lay low" strategy to try to get some street cred back is comical. Bizkit NEVER HAD street cred, and either you took the band for what it was (not a meal, but a damn good candy bar) or you thought this band sucked, and there was no in between. In fact, the label, NOT the band, probably orchestrated some of this charade to cut their losses in case the record goes south. (Call me an Oliver Stone JFK conspiracy type, but this promotion plan- or LACK OF PROMOTION PLAN- is weeeiiiirddddd...)

People who liked this band during the 3 Dollar days and who dig Wes Borland- the Mick Taylor of his generation- will dig the record. No one else will, but nice try fellas.

BUT! after listening to this crap known as indie rock (these bands in suits are about as exciting as watching paint dry) it DOES make one long for the Nookie days.

Sad but true.

This CD started with driving riffs from Wes, however, take a second. Throw on a Rage Against the Machine CD. It sounds like Fred is trying to be zach from Rage, and that the band is trying to model Tom and the guys. I am not against bands trying to replicate sounds of bands that influence them, but between the lyrics, the "rapping", and the arrangment of instruments: this is NOT A GOOD ALBUM.

This album is about as good as passing a kidney stone the size of a basketball. Just take that 11.99 and buy yourself a couple of porno magazines at your local adult store.

Sorry "Steve", but if you bought Results May Vary, and "loved every song on the CD", you're not a LB fan to begin with. That was not LB, it was just LB digging themselves further into the overexposure/cliche hole they started when Nookie was released. Unorganized, choppy riffs? Maybe you should stick to Def Leppard or some other hair bands with some nice long solos for you to enjoy.

I honestly don't know if I can stand Fred's voice for any longer than 29 minutes, so I was glad to see how short the album is. Instrumentally, I like the aggressive simplicity of the tunes, and while I don't think I can really get into LB again, overall this was a nice effort and at least a step in the right direction. Hopefully, they'll keep looking forward to progress musically instead of financially, like they did with their last couple albums.

In reading these reviews, I have found two things that I disagree with. One, anyone who uses the word "Hater" in their review, I usually bypass, because in general, they are probably some young punk who would rate Limp's album a 5 no matter how bad it was.

I also found that a lot of people are comparing this album to St. Anger from Metallica. I do not think this is a fair comparison whatsoever. Although it wasn't Metallica's best, St. Anger is a much better album musically/lyrically than The Unquestionable Truth. If you watch Some Kind of Monster, you can appreciate every single song on the album much more. I guess the difference between these two is that James speaks from HIS OWN experiences through his music, while Fred lives through someone else', which you can see in the music.

Are the people on here listening to the same album I am? I cannot fathom that they are. I am a fan of both Limp and Metallica and personally I believe The Unquestionable Truth is one of the worst albums I have ever heard from a band with past success like Limp Bizkit. I honestly wouldn't even recommend downloading it for free if you have the option. There isn't a single "catchy" song of the entire SIX songs on the album.

On a side note, what is with Limp going after NIN's sound on the last song on the album? I also see they are supporting them on their website. Wasnt the first track on Starfish written to trash NIN? When did they kiss and make up?

Once again. I am not "hatin" on Limp Bizkit. I am just stating that this is their worst album to date.

If you hate the music so much then do NOT write a review on this stuff. Avoid it, and don't ever speak of it again if you hate it so much.

If we were to totally block out all of Limp Bizkit's previous works (including Chocolate Starfish, Significant Other, Results May Vary, etc.), you can say that this band actually has musical talent. You can tell the lead singer is a bit shaky with this new material, but at least he's trying his best to make music.

This is not slop passed over by some infamous band, but rather a new beginning for those who just want to rock and have fun making music. This stuff is actually good, and I'm surprised that it is not receiving substantial airplay.