Before I got into metal Linkin Park was my favorite band
I really don't "hate" thier stuff. In fact if it is playing I won't say anything. I know every word from thier songs on thier first album. I still remember the feeling I had when I listened to it. However, that feeling does not even compare to that of, lets say, Symphony-X.
When I heard Chester (lead singer of LP) mention that his favorite band was Metallica I immediately went on the computer and downloaded some songs. When I heard Unforgiven I was hooked. Linkin Park slowly faded away as Metallica became my favorite (until i discovered SX)
Linkin Park's "My December" is still a nice song in my book.