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 / 10Michael • February 25, 2006

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

Recently-posted album reviews

Kreiviskai

Motinai
Infinite Fog Productions (2025)

Kreiviskai's origins are deeply rooted in the neofolk sound and ethos. Their debut record, Zemmis : supnãi, focuses on the musical lineage of Tver, embracing the traditional instrumentation to produce a somber and moving piece. Their follow-up record, Nonregnum expands outward, focusing on various historical events and introducing further influences. The pull of neo-classical is palpable, while the abrasive industrial … Read more

Miller Lowlifes

Pinch Hitters
ADD Records (2025)

The debut album from Florida punk band Miller Lowlifes features a vintage baseball theme, best enjoyed with a can of cheap domestic beer in hand. The metaphor fits, as Pinch Hitters focuses on the American dream -- and where it stands in 2025. The vintage educational TV audio clips add to this past-meets-present theme. It's an album that's equally about … Read more

Art Brut

Sorry, That It Doesn't Sound Like It's Planned! Battling Satan, 2009 - 2020
Edsel Records (2025)

I’ve never reviewed a box set before but Art Brut released my favourite sprechgesang anti-art-punk album of the early aughts so I figured I’d give it a go. 2005’s Bang Bang Rock & Roll placed Art Brut among the “Art Wave” scene but was more post-punk revival than “Indie Sleaze”. Argos has cited Jonathan Richman and Axl Rose as his … Read more