by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
Austin’s Variety introduced themselves to world back in January with their debut single “Plover,” a song that stands among the best we’ve heard all year (with a video that is definitely our favorite of 2024 to date). The recording project of Rhys Woodruff (Borzoi, Leche), Variety’s music presents itself like a kitchen sink of arty punk and fuzzy indie rock ideas, each one complimentary to the greater whole. With four singles released that show the depth of their sound, along comes Subtropical, the band’s full length debut, due out November 8th. Exceptional from start to finish, Woodruff’s songs are knotted yet focused, clamoring but catchy, with every jittery fuzz pop burst accented for accessibility while retaining a weird punk charm. It’s a special record, with a focus on the natural world and how we relate to it, captured with a raw warmth and sonic clarity (this is after all coming from one third of Borzoi).
“Subtropical,” the album’s title track and centerpiece was written by Woodruff about ”the desiccation of the Edwards Plateau in Texas,” bringing attention to environmental concern without feeling heavy handed. It’s a gift of Variety’s music, there’s a grave importance to their concerns, but the delivery leans toward lackadaisical, because not everything needs to be hammered into your head by sheer force. The single bops and weaves, riding an insistent drum pattern that pushes the momentum as Woodruff’s guitars tangle and surge in time with the motorik rhythm. It’s melodically detached but structured with immediacy, art punk that feels oddly meditative yet potentially combustable. Lungfish meets Sebadoh feels like an apt comparison, but Variety need no comparisons, the steady glow of Subtropical speaks volumes for itself.
Catch the band on tour this month. All dates below.
Variety Midwest Tour 2024:
9/18 - Denton, TX @ Andy’s Basement
9/19 - St. Louis, MO @ CBGBs
9/20 - Chicago, IL @ Reeds Local
9/21 - Cincinnati, OH
9/22 - Knoxville, TN @ Pilot Light
9/23 - Atlanta, GA @ Dead Echo
9/24 - Memphis, TN @ Lamplighter Lounge