There is a new soundtrack to summer and it is courtesy of Southern California’s own DENM. His debut album is out this week, and DENM is ready to hit the road and celebrate with all of us.
DENM recently released the video for his new song, “Califas,” which features Jared Watson of Dirty Heads. This reggae/rock mix is just one facet of his genre-hopping album, “Slum Beach Denny.” With 22 million global streams of songs like “My Wave,” “Blow It Up,” and “Fallin,” DENM has been able to remind us of California bands like Sublime and Slightly Stoopid, yet have his own sound.
OC Music News was able to check in with musician, songwriter, and producer DENM to find out more about the album and his agenda for 2021.
Traci: In your own words, who is DENM?
DENM: In my own words, I am DENM. Nice to meet you.
Traci: You were working as a producer, so what led you to jumping out front as the artist?
DENM: I’ve played in bands and stuff since I was a kid. I just love music and singing, so I just wanted to become a solo artist. I don’t have to worry about asking anybody’s permission for a bass part I wrote. (laughing)
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Traci: “Slum Beach Denny” is your brand new debut album. What does this record mean to you?
DENM: It just means getting my foot in the door. Gettin’ to get out there and tour and finally just do my own thing feels really special.
Traci: How did you decide to work with Jared (Jared Watson of Dirty Heads ) for “Califas?”
DENM: He just was down to get in the studio and I had this idea for a new song and it just came about so effortlessly. Jared is a legend!
Traci: Are there other guests on the album?
DENM: Casey Veggies, JAG, Sword Beach, The Patten, Darnell Williams.
Traci: Nice! Was having time in lockdown last year helpful or were you going crazy? Did you drive your family crazy being home?
DENM: Honestly, it’s been pretty rad. Just slowed down a lot, real thankful for everything I already had versus chasing all the b.s. I thought I needed.
Traci: What other bands or artists are you listening to these days?
DENM: People Under the Stairs, Yellowman, Dominic Fike, Grateful Dead, Peter Tosh, The Pharcyde.
Traci: Now that things are opening up, what are your plans for the rest of 2021?
DENM: Festies and shows and having fun!
Traci: That sounds perfect to me! What can fans expect at your shows?
DENM: Party time! Excellent! Woooo!
Traci: Sign me up! What do you like to do on tour? What places do you always have to visit?
DENM: I like to find good food. Low key watch “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” and take notes for what city you’re in! (laughing) Every town is Flavortown if you’re doin’ it right!
Traci: Ok, sign me up for that too!
Thank you DENM for chatting with me and if you want to put yourself in a summer mood, get his debut album, “Slum Beach Denny” immediately!
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Also, check DENM out live at Bayfest 2021 on July 10th in San Diego with Dirty Heads, Sublime with Rome, Fortunate Youth, The Aggrolites, and KBong.