5 Things You Didn’t Know About DARIU
Discover the sound. Feel the energy. Join the movement of DARIU, a groundbreaking East Jakarta indie band.
Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy DARIU
January 7, 2025
DARIU is back, and they’re bringing a sound that’s as electrifying as it is groundbreaking. With their latest single, ANIMAL, this East Jakarta-born band has boldly stepped into the global music scene with a fresh identity and an unforgettable message. From their humble beginnings in Bekasi to becoming a staple in Indonesia's indie circuit, there’s more to DARIU than meets the eye. Here are five things you might not know about this rising force in dark pop.
ANIMAL
Released on January 3, 2025, ANIMAL marks DARIU’s first foray into the dark pop genre, a thrilling fusion inspired by the theatricality of Marilyn Manson and the audacious artistry of Lady Gaga. The track is a sonic journey through intensity, vitality, and resilience. With lyrics like, “I’m alive, know that I’ll survive, I don’t have to try, like ANIMAL,” DARIU delivers an anthem of survival and strength. It’s a perfect Halloween anthem—or a slasher film soundtrack in the making—composed to empower listeners facing life’s toughest battles.
From Criticism to Comeback
DARIU has been a poster child for dark indie perseverance. Having faced criticism and doubt during their journey, the group has emerged stronger than ever. “Whether you like it or not, DARIU will always be in your ears,” they boldly proclaimed in 2024. This resilience is mirrored in their music, especially in ANIMAL, which symbolizes their evolution into a mature and fearless identity.
The Birth of “God’s Favorite Pop Band”
Known for their infectious energy, DARIU initially rallied fans under the hashtag #partywithDARIU. Now, with a more refined approach, they’ve adopted a new motto: “God’s Favorite Pop Band.” It’s a declaration of their confidence, their divine right to be heard, and their intent to leave an indelible mark on the indie music scene in Indonesia and beyond.
Accolades That Speak Volumes
DARIU’s journey has been peppered with significant milestones. After debuting in 2019 with their single Gone, they captured the hearts of indie lovers with And That’s Okay, which graced Spotify’s Cadas Bergema playlist for four months. Their competitive streak also shines, with wins at the Alternative Fest Vol. 1 and the Cultural Arts Festival. These achievements are a testament to their talent and determination to innovate.
Filling the Gap in Indie Music
With the release of ANIMAL, DARIU is addressing a gap they’ve identified in the indie music scene: the absence of a distinct dark pop presence. This new chapter of their career is about genre experimentation and creating something authentic and relatable for fans who crave something different. Dark, energetic, and unapologetically bold, DARIU is reshaping what it means to be an indie band in the modern era.
DARIU’s comeback single ANIMAL is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time listener, this track is your gateway to a band unafraid to challenge expectations.
