(Artist Report)

Written by: Ginny Gaines  

Dehd is an American three-piece indie rock band who come from Chicago, Illinois. Formed in 2015, the band consists of Emily Kempf (bass guitar, vocals), Jason Balla (guitar, vocals), and Eric McGrady (drums). Dehd began in 2015, birthed from Chicago’s buzzing DIY scene. Emily Kempf, a force of nature with a bass slung low, was already making waves in the indie circuit, while Jason Balla’s guitar work with Dream Eagles was equally magnetic. Their connection—both romantic and creative, was electric, and they knew it. But it wasn’t just the two of them. Enter Eric McGrady, who redefined the meaning of percussion with his stripped-down stand-up drum kit. Together, the three of them created something raw, intimate, and utterly unique.

Dehd's music is often characterized as a blend of surf rock, post-punk, and dream pop, infused with a DIY ethos. The band’s plain arrangements leave space for emotional vulnerability, allowing listeners to connect deeply with their music. Kempf and Balla’s vocal harmonies are a hallmark of their sound, swaying between tender and urgent. Their influences range from classic surf rock bands to post-punk pioneers as well. Additionally, their lo-fi style pays homage to the DIY nature of early indie rock acts. This wide ranging mix of inspirations results in a sound that feels both vintage and modern.

In 2016, Dehd released their self titled debut album. This album has 9 songs on it that include "Sunburn," "Thousand Times," "Lately," "Any Other Night," and "Love Song." This album set the tone for their future work, blending gloomy lyrics with upbeat melodies. The trio released a 6 track EP titled Fire of Love in 2017. Tracks from this EP include "Heaven," "Menace," "Everyone Knows," and "End." This EP helped Dehd continue to build their fanbase.

The band released their next album titled Water in 2019. This album has 13 songs on it that include "Wild," "Baby," "Wait," "On My Side," "Push The Crowd," "Happy Again," and "Long Way Home." This album was written during and after Kempf and Balla’s breakup and is the kind of record you play when you’re crying in your car but also when you’re ready to dance your way out of the storm. In 2020, Dehd released their next album titled Flower of Devotion. This album has 13 tracks on it that include "Desire," "Loner," "Drip Drop," "Disappear," "Moonlight," and "Flying." This album was touted as one of the best indie releases of 2020.

In 2022, Dehd released their album titled Blue Skies. This album has 13 songs on it that include "Control," "Bad Love," "Hold," "Memories," "Dream On," "Empty in My Mind," and "No Difference." It’s their most polished work yet, but it still feels deeply personal, like a conversation between old friends. The band released their latest alum titled Poetry in May 2024. This album has 14 tracks on it that include "Dog Days," "Hard To Love," "Mood Ring," "Light On," "So Good," "Don't Lock Down," "Shake," and "Forget." This album has been well received by both fans and critics alike.

Dehd has toured extensively, playing major music festivals such as SXSW and Pitchfork Music Festival. Their ability to captivate both small clubs and large festival crowds has solidified their reputation as a must-see live act. With their distinctive sound, emotionally charged lyrics, and captivating performances, Dehd has firmly established themselves as an exciting act in contemporary indie rock. Whether they’re breaking hearts with a ballad or lifting spirits with a chorus, Dehd continues to prove that less can indeed be more.

That will do it for this report on Dehd. In closing, please just know, Soundwave Music Media will be here and I will always do my best to bring you the rock music report! Please consider supporting me and the crew by purchasing a Soundwave shirt or hat and support our sponsors! Until next time...Keep rocking 🤘

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