Album Review: Variado by Eric Lindell & The Reds
If you’re a fan of raw, soulful blues rock with just enough grit to keep things interesting, then Variado by Eric Lindell & The Reds is worth your time. Released in 2000 under Sparco Records, this album feels like a love letter to the classic sounds of American and Canadian blues but with its own twist. It’s not trying too hard to impress—it just does.
The band nails that laid-back groove throughout, blending Eric Lindell’s raspy vocals and killer harmonica chops with tight instrumentation. You’ve got Steve Froberg holding down bass duties while adding backing vocals, Jake Brown keeping the beat steady on drums, and Jake Mackey shredding rhythm and lead guitar like it’s second nature. Oh, and let’s not forget Roger Tschann behind the mixing board—he really ties everything together.
Now, onto the tracks. There are some bangers here, but two songs stuck out for me personally: “Show Me Love” and “Queen of Louisiana.”
“Show Me Love” hits different because it’s so damn honest. It’s one of those tunes where you can almost picture Lindell sitting on a stool at a smoky bar, pouring his heart out. The lyrics aren’t fancy—they’re straightforward and real, which makes them hit harder. Plus, the harmonica solo? Chef’s kiss. It’s short, sweet, and leaves you wanting more.
Then there’s “Queen of Louisiana,” which has this swampy vibe that feels like a humid summer night in the South. Everything about it screams Louisiana pride—from the slide guitar riffs to Lindell’s storytelling vocals. It’s catchy as hell, and I swear I found myself humming it days after listening. Props to whoever thought of naming it; it rolls off the tongue perfectly.
One thing I gotta say—the credits show how much work went into this project. From Wendy Thompson and Eric Lindell handling design to Arden Cahill snapping photos, it’s clear they wanted every detail to feel personal. And honestly, it shows. This isn’t some mass-produced record; it’s handmade art.
So yeah, if you dig albums that sound like they were crafted in someone’s garage (in the best way possible), give Variado a spin. It’s not gonna change your life or anything, but it’ll definitely make your playlist a little cooler.
Random thought though—why don’t more bands these days include harmonica solos? Like, seriously. That’s what music needs more of. Harmonicas everywhere. Someone tell Eric Lindell he’s onto something big.
