Review / 200 Words Or Less
Rubikon
The Hollow Men

Category 5 (2005) — Michael

Rubikon – The Hollow Men cover artwork
Rubikon – The Hollow Men — Category 5, 2005

Mainstream music is constantly changing. Congruently evolving with it are the numerous bands attempting to make it big by cashing in on whatever sound is currently popular. Assuming it is Rubikon's intention to make it big, they might need a little help from a time-machine to accomplish that task. Rather than trying to fit in with the countless bands that are attempting the 'screamo' trend, (this isn't a bad thing, but then again it's not a good thing) Rubikon play a style of music closely related to nu-metal acts like Disturbed mixed with more straightforward rock-n-roll. Vocally, the album moves through a variety of different styles, most likely due to the multiple vocalists - a blend of Brandon Boyd's crooning and Serj Tankian's throaty growls and eccentric vocalizations. All in all, Rubikon have produced a decent record that would likely appeal to the remaining fans of Ozzfest's past. But as far as longevity, I don't see the band garnering any new interest, especially with the powers that be at Clear Channel moving further and further away from nu-metal.

4.0 / 10 — Michael • February 25, 2006

Rubikon – The Hollow Men cover artwork
Rubikon – The Hollow Men — Category 5, 2005

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