Variant-Beyond Jargon

The cover of the new Variant CD suggests that what they have to offer inside is Beyond Jargon. As I found out rather quickly, it lives up to its title. Jargon, defined as vocabulary of a group, is something every group has, in a musical reference. A sound or way of communicating is the best frame of reference concerning the new Variant CD.

There was a reason I was instantly attracted to this music, the lead singer Jerry Wengert has a similar style and tone to Andy Powell of Wishbone Ash. The music itself has some similarities as well with sound and subject matter. A good case in point would be “March To War” and “Deeds.” Some deeply emotional subjects close to many people in war torn countries gets some good coverage in the tracks.

Musically this band is very strong, vividly pounding home their lyrics with a mixture of rock, progressive, and metal. Since I enjoy listening to all three styles of music this was a lot fun to absorb. Upon my second listen, I took a closer look at the lyrics and heard many words that held meaning and importance to me. I found myself agreeing with the band’s point of view. The beginning of “Deeds” goes like thisâÂ?¦

The deeds of mankind are chilling
The needs of so many, so few
Mankind can’t seem to be willing
To look through the other man’s views

It gives you a few things to think about and makes you step back and look at the world at large and gaze into the mirror and ask yourself if you are living right. With this, I am sure the band feels they are able to ignite interest in their music and create some kind of an impact if people can glean this kind of information from one of their songs. This was one of those ‘play it again it will grow on you CDs’ and the reason you should check it out for all of the above reasons.

August 8, 2006

1. March To War (6:49)
2. Today I Tried (4:21)
3. None So Blind (7:10)
4. Deeds (6:10)
5. Carrin’ Carrion (10:20)
6. Going (6:58)
7. Regardless (9:24)
8. Reflections (1:17)
9. When the Lights On (4:17)

Credits:

Gary Langton: drums, blocks, chimes, and cymbalation
Erik Connolly: lead and rhythm 6 string guitars, lap steel guitar
Mike Herrel: 5 strings basses and piccolo bass
Jerry Wengert: vocals, 6 & 12 string rhythm and lead guitars