John Reuben - The Boy Vs The Cynic

Published Sunday 16th October 2005
John Reuben - The Boy Vs The Cynic
John Reuben - The Boy Vs The Cynic

STYLE: Hip-Hop
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 13442-25805
LABEL: Gotee GTD72947
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1
RELEASE DATE: 2005-07-01
RRP: £10.76

Reviewed by Steve Hayes

The white boy from Columbus, Ohio has been steadily improving his recorded output down the years. Several critics have already named this as John's best. We start with "Out Of Control", a catchy and lively rapcore crossover track. "Nuisance" sees John Reuben delivering the verses, with Matthew Thiessen of Relient K with a light and airy guitar-based chorus. By now the listener is fully engaged and the good cuts keep coming. On "Chapter 1" our man narrates insights into life over instrumental vibes, until a rolling beat kicks in while "Follow Your Leader" is a politicised track that urges people to know the truth before they follow blindly, warning of predators all around. In "Co-operate" John Reuben challenges people to grow up, be responsible, lose the costume and co-operate with the system while the title track closes the album with an introspective look at himself when he "used to be you before you became me" with a near U2 feel to the hook. A deep, thought-provoking album.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

Be the first to comment on this article

We welcome your opinions but libellous and abusive comments are not allowed.












We are committed to protecting your privacy. By clicking 'Send comment' you consent to Cross Rhythms storing and processing your personal data. For more information about how we care for your data please see our privacy policy.