Friends and musical kinsmen of recent Divebomb Records recruits Skeptic Sense, VARIX was first born in southwestern Germany in 1988 under the all-too-popular name of Suffocation. Eventually settling upon the less common moniker of VARIX in 1991, the group would gradually bolster its lineup with former members of fellow little-known Germans Annoy, Excruciator, and Toxic Refuse over the course of three demos (and a compilation appearance on Rave Music's Peace-Eater Vol. IV) between 1991 and 1995.
VARIX concocted a uniquely quirky brand of complex yet melodic thrash metal built upon an eclectic blend of influences that included rock, metal, hardcore/punk, alternative, and even blues. This breadth of musical interests was also represented in a range of lyrical topics that stretched from horror and psychological struggles to societal concerns and anti-war pleas for peace.
Beginning with Morbus Cron (1991) and Tribute to Fate (1993), the band's efforts culminated with 1995's Harmonic Distortion-focusing their energy into a heavier, darker, and more mature direction. Unfortunately, subtle disagreements over the technicality of the material-coupled with continual lineup instability-brought VARIX's days to an end by early-1995.
Now, more than two decades later, Divebomb Records is thrilled to present the complete 11-song discography from these sorely overlooked German thrashers-including a brand new, freshly recorded track called "Fear Of God"! Fully remastered by Jamie King at The Basement Recording, the package also incorporates lyrics, archival photos, and a retrospective band interview conducted by NoEcho.net co-editor Andrew Aversionline. For the fans, by the fans!
