1. Hybrid Theory EP-1999



Released when they were called Hybrid Theory instead of Linkin Park, Hybrid Theory EP is an excellent debut. It's a perfect combo of hip-hop, rock, and some electronica. The lyrics here are excellent, and have no evidence of record label tampering (not having a big time record label would do that). Mike Shinoda really shines on this. His delivery of some lines have a crazy amount of intensity that wont be seen again until his side project, Fort Minor, and LP's Minutes to Midnight. It's only 6 tracks and 22 min long (with some silence for a bonus instrumental) but it's worth seeking out if you can find it.