Erich Dylus - Varia

Erich Dylus

Varia
self-released; 2017

​3.7 out of 5

By Dan Weston

Erich Dylus is an artist from Washington, DC who recently released Varia. It’s an intense instrumental album blending elements of metal, post-rock and even ambient.

This was an enjoyable EP with impressive tones and aesthetics. HIs guitar playing was the highlight. My biggest issue were the programmed drums which didn’t go as well with the other organic elements. A organic drummer with real dynamics would have have elevated the experience for me.

Up first is “Smoke and Steam” which starts off very pretty but don't get too used to it. Swirling guitar patterns float about for the first minute or so. A little after the minute mark Dylus brings out some distorted guitar along with a mixed bag of experimental and metal territories. It was a nice pay off where the song is constantly evolving and changing. 

Up next is “Cherry Blossom” which is heavy throughout but also goes in unique and unexpected ways. One of Dylus' staples seems to be letting a solo instrument ride for a couple of seconds before layers of drums and other elements come into the picture. 

“Seven Hundred” certainly had some post-rock tendencies and was structured a little more like a traditional post-rock song with dynamic passages and crescendos. “Chiarezza” has some unexpected soulful moments while “G.K.D” is a short but impactful song. “Intermission” closes out the album with pretty piano rolls and blistering guitar solos.

There was a lot to appreciate on this album but I can’t help but wonder what Dylus would sound like with a talented bassist and drummer. That being said Dylus holds his own as a creative and technical talent on this album.

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