Disq

Disq, an indie rock quintet hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, occupies a curious space in the modern music landscape. Born out of the creative synergy between childhood friends Isaac deBroux-Slone and Raina Bock, who began as a duo, they have meticulously evolved over the years. Curiously, they started small—isolated notes and loose ends of ideas gradually solidifying into a full-fledged band with the addition of Shannon Connor, Logan Severson, and Stu Manley. Their eclectic sound, a mosaic of 90s slacker rock and jangle pop, probably reflects the diverse musical influences swirling around their Midwestern roots.

In 2016, their independent project Disq 1 piqued interest, leading to their signing with Saddle Creek Records. The release of their debut album, Collector, in 2020 was not just a milestone but a moment that marked their arrival in the indie scene. It is ever so interesting how they’ve managed to straddle genres, weaving a narrative that feels oddly contemporary yet nostalgically familiar. Their sophomore effort, Desperately Imagining Someplace Quiet, released in 2022, showcased a more collaborative spirit, hinting at an ambitious push further into creative territories, with four members contributing to lead vocals.

Concerts with heavyweights like Alvvays and Neko Case showcased not just their sound but their steadily growing presence in the indie circuit. As they shared stages, one can’t help but wonder if the expectations from the audience altered their songwriting process or if they continued drawing from that same well of youthful exploration they started with.

Looking ahead, whispers of new music in early 2025 reveal a band that is restlessly inventive—eager to explore familiar themes with fresh eyes. In a world that often demands immediate results, the quiet patience of Disq in nurturing their craft feels exceptionally refreshing, a reminder that not every story needs a rapid conclusion.