Music Discovery — DIIV

So, I’ve got some favorite bands, heavily leaning towards 90’s alternative and punk. I’ll make every effort to show up at concerts by the Pixies, the Foo Fighters, Social Distortion, the Offspring, and others.

I’m amazed at how long bands like these have lasted. These guys and gals, for the most part, are taking care of themselves well enough to keep things moving, keep putting out new material, and (of most importance to me) still go on tour. This year, I’ve done Throwback Shows including Spoon, Built To Spill, New Pornographers, and even Nada Surf (Popular!)

But year after year, I try to add to my collection. I’ve talked about my experiences at SXSW in hearing new bands that I love and now follow. (I poke fun at my brother Larry, whose musical range goes all the way from Loggins & Messina to Poco, which are permanently glued to his old-school turntable.)

A few years ago, my daughter Nicole introduced me to Spotify. “I think you’d like it, Dad.” Good call, Nicole! I’ve become a daily heavy user, a devotee, and something of a proselyte. It’s a great product, with a treasure trove of music from artists of all kinds, from the massively popular to the almost unknown. And it’s constantly serving me up music I like but never heard of before.

Which brings me to DIIV.

I’m not sure how the geniuses at Spotify pulled it off, but during some customized Daily playlist, they served up “Doused” by DIIV. It’s a catchy, upbeat, smooth tune that got me to stop whatever I was doing, hit the “Like” button, and make a mental note of the band’s name, which is a bit unusual.

Since that introduction, I’ve really gotten into the band’s catalog, which is terrific. Their style is a wonderful mix of easy-going surf guitars, overlaid with the kind of mellow melodies you’d hear from “War on Drugs”. It’s relaxing, invigorating, and addictive.

DIIV serves up a lot of instrumental work, with occasional vocals that are as melodic as the instrumentation. Some of their material I would consider “easy listening”, almost like an up-tempo cool jazz sound. Other tracks, like “Blankenship” or “Under the Sun”are straight-ahead rockers with wicked guitar riffs.

DIIV is a four-piece group, that’s been around since 2011. They’re currently celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the release of their first album, Oshun. Check them out.

I can’t wait to see them live. I’ve got tickets to their June 23 show at Brooklyn Steel, and I’ll be there early to get a primo spot.