KEXP at CMJ 2012, Day 2: DIIV

By KEXP | Published: October 18, 2012

photo by Lauren Slusher

Dark and dreamy indie-rock sensation DIIV started out in 2012 as the solo project of frontman and Beach Fossils guitarist Zachary Cole Smith. A year and one critically acclaimed debut album later, DIIV has emerged as the latest ambassador of Brooklyn’s sound, although they pack a significantly heavier punch than some of their forgotten predecessors. Blending subdued shoe-gaze stylings with a songwriting approach more akin to their grunge forefathers, DIIV’s guitar heavy music is at once enchanting and enthralling.

Playing to a packed Union Square Ballroom Thursday afternoon as part of the 2012 CMJ Music Marathon, DIIV played songs off of their 2012 release Oshin. Anticipation surrounded the jam-packed room for one of the most sought after acts of the week. Tracks ”Wait” and “Doused” screamed with rebellion while their single “Sometimes” showcased former Smith Western’s drummer Colby Hewitt’s strength. DIIV drenched everyone gathered with a wave of swirling sound that burst forth with each song.