I was introduced to Hollow Jan through Studiolovo’s YouTube account where the band played two songs. I was amazed at the hardcore/screamo music that the band played because it reminded me so much of Japan’s Envy.
It’s difficult to accurately describe the band’s music from their 2006 full-length. It has tones of shoegaze and post-rock in the breakdown verses, taking time to present melodic tones of the vocals and instrumentals. Once the vocals start, it’s a barrage of tight and precise layered guitar rhythms and aggressive drumming. The vocals could be simply considered screaming, but in the best hardcore music, there is a emotional connection that can be found.
Rough Draft in Progress may be a lost album from a band that only recently got back together. It’s their only full-length with a single releasing prior. It’s not surprising if most people didn’t know of the album unless they were staunch fans of the genre.
I haven’t heard hardcore that has this specific tone and that makes it much more special. It may sound like a lot of noise for listeners who don’t enjoy thunderous music, but this band is amazing in their performance on the album.
My second all-time favorite album, all categories. Until I came across Hollow Jan I could never enjoy any music with screaming in it, but with the gorgeous post-rock backdrop I was completely sold. I’m soooo happy they’re back together and even more so as they should have a new album out this month.
Hollow Jan is the best band in Korea, imo. They are super good live, and I feel like they capture a lot of Korean emotion that average citizens there don’t know how to express. This album was super special to me when I was living in Seoul.