Darkwater and Stars began in 2019 as a solo music project by multi-instrumentalist Melissa Griffin , quickly evolving with musical experimentation showcasing combined genre exploration and collaborations with other artists . Darkwave , Post Punk , with strong 80s and 90s Alternative and Indie Rock influences as well as Blues and ethereal soundscapes have been interwoven . DWAS became known primarily through a supportive musical community coming together during the 2020 pandemic on Instagram  . It wasn’t until January of 2024 that Griffin would transform DWAS into a trio and explore live performance with her partner TJ on drums and friend Allison Cohen on bass . The band has kept the initial roots of studio based DWAS in tact , with a stronger focus on heavier 90s alternative rock . Bringing together Cohen’s  strong love of DC hardcore and punk music with energetic and melodic lines  , TJ’s inherent feel for all things rhythm and her burning hot blues harp skills, melding with Griffin’s moody and emotionally driven vocals and gritty rhythm guitar , Darkwater and Stars delivers a live experience enveloped in retro/grungy indie rock tones, and shoegazey atmosphere . Griffin’s  in-your-face lyrics often revolve around heart heavy emotion / or angsty failed relationship themes . These three women born in the 1970’s bring together a few decades of retro alt goodness to the stage and a passion to keep it fresh , raw but still timeless . Some huge influences have been Concrete Blonde, Johnny Marr, PJ Harvey , Sonic Youth , Moss Icon, Rites of Spring, New Order,  The Violent Femmes, Dead can Dance , Mazzy Star, The Cure and Sebadoh .