Chicago’s hidden quartet, The Daisy Heaves have been creating a psychedelic tapestry of transcendental sounds for nearly a decade. Since their inception in 2015, the talented group has mastered the art of ethereal soundscapes, weaving together hypnotic synthesizer melodies, bone-shaking bass-lines, and soulful guitar riffs. Their music is a journey—one that bridges the classic tones of psych-rock pioneers with fresh, contemporary vibes that linger long after the last note fades.
The Origin Story
The Daisy Heaves began as a solo project by Chicago-based musician Ryan Dahl in October 2015. Initially envisioning the endeavor as a solo expedition of psychedelic-inspired music, Dahl’s plans evolved quickly with the addition of guitarist and vocalist Danny Branske. Soon after, Will Stratford joined on drums, and Mike Regan took up bass, forming the group’s original lineup. Together, they brought Dahl’s vision to life, blending groovy, mind-bending tunes with a touch of nostalgia, drawing inspiration from icons like The Beach Boys and The Beatles. Much like their music, The Daisy Heaves’ journey has been a dynamic story, marked by twists, turns, and reinvention.
Lineup Changes and Musical Evolution
Like the city they call home, The Daisy Heaves have undergone significant transformations over the years. As time marched on, the band’s lineup shifted, with Ryan Dahl remaining the only constant and driving force behind their ever-evolving sound.
The group’s most recent single, “As Above So Below,” released on March 11, 2024, showcases a refined lineup featuring Steven Kobylinski on Moog synthesizer, Carlos Escalante on guitar, and Esteban Martinez on drums and MIDI programming. Martinez also collaborated with Dahl to mix and master the track, ensuring every note resonates with their signature depth and intensity.
This isn’t the first time this lineup has made waves. Their 2022 album release, Phantom-Love-Happiness, marked the debut of what many consider The Daisy Heaves’ definitive configuration. The project’s layered tracks and experimental textures highlighted each member’s unique touches: Dahl’s atmospheric vocals and synth programming, Kobylinski’s resonant bass, Escalante’s intricate guitar work, and Martinez’s innovative drumming and programming.
Standout songs from Phantom-Love-Happiness include “Telephone, Television, Radio,” “Rippled Noon,” and “Threefold.” The album offers a myriad of sonic explorations that encapsulate the soul of psychedelic rock and ethereal tunes. From glossy new wave vocals backed by energetic rhythm guitar in “Telephone, Television, Radio” to low-fi beats layered with catchy bass lines in “Rippled Noon,” there’s something for every listener seeking a genre-bending experience.
Why You Should Listen
The Daisy Heaves aren’t just another band dabbling in psychedelia; they’re pioneers of immersive, emotional experiences. Their music feels like a guided exploration—perfect for anyone who loves nu-psych, shoegaze, or simply discovering bands that defy modern trends and algorithms. Whether you’re diving into the dreamy layers of Phantom-Love-Happiness or some of their solo tracks, The Daisy Heaves offer a gateway to another dimension.
For fans of mind-expanding melodies and hypnotic rhythms, The Daisy Heaves are a gem waiting to be unearthed. Despite the challenges of lineup changes, this Chicago quartet seems to have found a renewed sense of consistency and shared vision. Don’t miss out—their music might just become the soundtrack to your next adventure.
