Post Traumatic EP cover

Post Traumatic EP

Mike Shinoda · 2018

9 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A raw and introspective fusion of alternative rock and hip-hop, reflecting on personal loss and resilience.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Place to Start — This opening track sets the tone for the EP, encapsulating themes of vulnerability and the difficult journey of healing after loss. Its concise structure effectively introduces listeners to Shinoda's emotional landscape.
  • →
    Over Again — In this standout track, Shinoda reflects on memories and the cyclical nature of grief, delivering heartfelt lyrics over a blend of electronic and rock elements. The dynamic shifts throughout emphasize the emotional weight of revisiting past experiences.
  • →
    Watching as I Fall — This song captures a moment of surrender amidst struggle, marked by haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. Its layered production enhances the sense of isolation that accompanies personal turmoil.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The EP effectively blends personal themes with varied vocal styles, creating a distinct sound within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a sparse arrangement, gradually layering in instrumentation that builds emotional intensity.
  • The EP concludes with a reflective tone, as the final track fades out on a sustained note, leaving a sense of unresolved emotion.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This EP marked Shinoda's first solo project after a significant personal loss, gaining wider recognition.
Themes
grief processing· Chester Bennington tribute· introspective healing· personal turmoil
Career context
Post Traumatic EP marks Mike Shinoda's first solo project following the death of Linkin Park's frontman Chester Bennington in 2017. This release came as Shinoda sought to process his grief and reestablish his artistic identity outside the band, showcasing a pivot from collaborative work to individual expression.
Stylistic neighbors
Linkin Park· Fort Minor· Breaking Benjamin

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Place to Start 2:13
  • 2 Over Again 3:50
  • 3 Watching as I Fall 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata