Local San Francisco trio DSTVV dub themselves as "grungegaze" among many, many other things. With hollow-sounding, subdued vocals layered over powerful, industrial riffs, they have developed an eclectic and almost eccentric sound. Such sounds can be heard on their latest EP, Underground Product (Wormhole Records).
When people usually think of Los Angeles based French-American post-punk trio DTCV, they think of Guided By Voices, simply because the former Guided By Voices bassist James Greer is a member of this band. DTCV, as an agent separate from GBV, and offers airy pop-infused post-punk tunes. Greer, sharing vocal responsibilities with the multi-talented Guylaine Vivarat, both differ in vocal stylings. While Vivarat’s voice can be compared to Debbie Harry of Blondie, Greer maintains rougher monotone vocal stylings, and trading off responsibilities has proved effective in their latest full length album, Hilarious Heaven (Xemu Records).
For those interested in catching DTCV, DSTVV and a solo set from Tommy Dietrick of Sky Parade, they’ll be playing TONIGHT at the El Rio in San Francisco. –Erin Dage