Columbus, Ohio-based noise-pop quartet Didi offer a contemporary take on '90s alt rock as demonstrated on their 2015 single "Styrofoam." Guitarist Kevin Bilapka Arbelaez, guitarist Meg Zakany, bassist Leslie Shimizu, and drummer Sheena McGrath all knew each other through Columbus' music community before Zakany eventually suggested they form a band together in 2013. Taking their name from Shimizu's grandmother, who was put into an internment camp in Idaho for two years at the age of 13 as an illegal alien, and with members of Colombian, Mexican, Polish, and Japanese heritage, the band offered a counterpoint to the predominantly white indie scene. Taking a democratic approach to writing and recording, the four-piece produced their debut self-titled record in 2015. The self-released album was imbued with the members' individual experiences, but also recalled the fuzzy melodicism of bands like the Breeders. Following the record's release, the band toured the album and played Melanincholy Fest in their hometown, whose aim was to inspire people of color to play music. In 2018, Didi returned with a follow-up to their debut. Like Memory Foam was released by British independent label Damnably, home of Shonen Knife and fellow Ohio band Wussy, and was a more accomplished work than their debut -- they developed a fuller sound incorporating cello and synth on some tracks. Much like their debut, the bandmembers shared vocal duties, and featured the Spanish-language song "Muerde." ~ Bekki Bemrose
