The Musical Journey of Ron Jarzombek
Ron Jarzombek, a guitarist from San Antonio, has carved out a unique path in the world of music. While the stage is his playground, it’s the creative process that truly excites him. “To be honest, I like the aspects of creating, writing and recording music more than I like performing,” he shares. This passion for the behind-the-scenes work has allowed him to explore various avenues, from writing music theory books to designing instructional apps.
Jarzombek’s career spans multiple bands and projects. His work with Watchtower, a pioneering progressive thrash metal band, stands out as a significant achievement. The band, known for its complex compositions and technical prowess, recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of their debut album, “Energetic Disassembly.” The event took place at Fitzgerald’s on September 5, featuring performances by Metal Asylum and Wicked Angel.
The reissue of “Energetic Disassembly” included bonus material, showcasing Jarzombek’s contributions. This album, along with the follow-up “Control and Resistance,” helped define the progressive thrash metal genre. “Some of that early Watchtower stuff pushed a lot of boundaries back then,” Jarzombek reflects. He notes that bands like Dream Theater, Fates Warning, Death, Cynic, and Watchtower were the core of the progressive metal scene.
In addition to his work with Watchtower, Jarzombek has been involved with other notable groups such as S.A. Slayer, Spastic Ink, and Blotted Science. His solo work has also received critical acclaim, highlighting his versatility as a musician. Despite his success, Jarzombek remains focused on his creative pursuits rather than the spotlight.
A Legacy of Innovation
Jarzombek’s influence extends beyond his own projects. He has inspired many within the metal community, with figures like Lars Ulrich of Metallica and Gene Hoglan of Strapping Young Lad acknowledging his impact. A documentary about Watchtower is currently in the works, aiming to highlight the band’s legacy and influence on other musicians.
The recent resurgence of interest in Watchtower has led to appearances at major metal festivals, including Hell’s Heroes in Houston and Keep it True in Germany. There is also ongoing interest in the six unrecorded tracks from the 2016 EP, “Concepts of Math: Book One.” While these tracks may never see the light of day, their potential remains a point of curiosity for fans.
S.A. Slayer, another band Jarzombek was part of, is also experiencing a comeback. With Jason McMaster on vocals, the band has been playing at festivals and planning future shows in San Antonio. The band’s second album, “Go for the Throat,” was eventually released in 1988 after being shelved for four years due to label issues.
From Piano to Guitar
Before his rise as a guitar virtuoso, Jarzombek was a pre-teen piano student whose musical interests evolved over time. His fascination with harder-edged sounds led him to discover Kiss and Rush, which would later influence his approach to music. When he transitioned to guitar, he combined his love for electronics and woodworking to build his first instrument.
“I built my first guitar out of a door we had sitting around the house,” Jarzombek recalls. “It was a Flying V with a black-and-white striped Eddie Van Halen paint job.” This hands-on approach to instrument-making continues today, as he customizes guitars to suit his needs.
Rush, with their intellectual lyrics and innovative sound, played a significant role in shaping Jarzombek’s musical philosophy. He now leads a popular San Antonio Rush tribute band called Exit Stage Left. “The first album I heard from Rush was ‘2112′ and it just had such a big impact on me,” he says.
Educational Contributions
Jarzombek’s dedication to music extends beyond performance. He has spent decades as an in-demand guitar instructor, offering tutorials through his website and YouTube channel. His latest project, the book “The Application of 12-Note Writing Systems,” explores advanced musical concepts inspired by his studies of Rush and other influences.
As he continues to explore new musical territories, Jarzombek remains committed to his craft. Whether through teaching, writing, or performing, his passion for music is evident. “It’s just nice seeing that we had a little bit of impact on other bands,” he says, reflecting on the enduring legacy of his work.
