Mike Shinoda has said everything he wants to say about the passing of his Linkin Park bandmate Chester Bennington. Shinoda recently told the Charlotte Observer, “There’s no magical thing that I’m gonna come up with today that’s unique. So all they’re doing (questions on Bennington’s death) is torturing me.” Shinoda says he can tell with a look that someone sympathizes with his grief, and he’s on the road as a thank you for all the fan support. He makes his statements musically right now, playing material from his latest album, Post Traumatic, in concert and mixing up set lists. There’s plenty of Linkin Park, but Shinoda intuitively adds deep cuts and B-sides as he’s feeling it, and what he’s feeling depends a lot on the emotion and energy of the audiences.
Post Traumatic reflects the mood swings Shinoda experienced in the wake of Bennington's suicide, ranging from grief-influenced melancholia to upbeat celebrations of acceptance. His concerts have become celebrations as well, with fans enthusiastically singing along to beloved songs at top volume. That’s Shinoda’s preferred method of receiving condolences.
House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 8 p.m. Oct. 30, starting at $29.50 plus tax and fee. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
