Joe Keery, known for his role as Steve Harrington in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, has successfully transitioned into the music scene with his third studio album, The Crux, released on April 4, 2025. The album has already generated significant buzz, particularly following the viral success of his 2022 single, "End of Beginning," which became the sixth most streamed song globally with over 1.5 billion plays.
Keery, who performs under the moniker Djo (pronounced "Joe"), has crafted an album that blends modern renditions of classic rock with nostalgic elements, appealing to a broad audience. The album’s opening track, "Lonesome Is A State of Mind," sets the tone with a minimalistic intro that quickly evolves into a rich, instrumentally complex sound reminiscent of The Beatles’ Magical Mystery Tour.
"The Crux" is not just another album; it reflects a significant period in Keery's life, both personally and professionally. He describes the album as being born from a time when "the ground was shifting seismically beneath him." This is evident in the themes of identity, nostalgia, and growth that permeate the album. Keery notes, "Crux literally means cross, so it represents that crossing point, you know?" This concept of transience is mirrored in the album’s loose narrative structure, which revolves around a hotel where guests are merely passing through.
After leaving his former band, Post Animal, in 2019, Keery released his debut solo album, Twenty Twenty, followed by the synth-laden DECIDE in 2022. However, it was the unexpected success of "End of Beginning" that catapulted him into the spotlight, allowing him to perform in front of thousands who sang along to his music. "I realized something had shifted when I played live and saw 50,000 people from across the world singing this song. It’s not just something you did for yourself anymore," he reflects.
As the final season of Stranger Things is set to air in the autumn of 2025, Keery finds himself at a crossroads, balancing the weight of fame with his artistic ambitions. He describes the album as an exploration of love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, familial, and self-love. Songs like "Back On You" pay homage to his sisters, who contributed backing vocals on several tracks, emphasizing the importance of family ties. "They’ve always been there for me—siblings know you like nobody else," he shares.
One of the standout tracks, "Delete Ya," serves as a sequel to his earlier song "Chateau," referencing a pivotal moment in his romantic life. The lyrics draw a vivid contrast between memories and reality, illustrating his ability to weave personal narratives into his music. Keery’s collaboration with his Stranger Things co-star Charlie Heaton adds another layer of depth to the album, with Heaton providing a voicenote-style interlude on the track "Charlie's Garden," which was inspired by their time together in Atlanta.
Throughout the album, Keery grapples with the complexities of fame and its impact on personal relationships. In "Basic Being Basic," he critiques the superficiality of fame, stating, "I don’t want your money, I don’t care for fame," and ends the song with a poignant reminder of the emptiness that can accompany such pursuits. The album's themes resonate with listeners, as Keery candidly navigates the challenges of maintaining friendships and a sense of self amidst the whirlwind of celebrity life.
Musically, The Crux marks a departure from his previous work, leaning into a more classic rock sound while retaining his signature style. The song "Potion" serves as a melodic palate cleanser, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Keery’s growth is evident as he embraces the collaborative spirit of the album, inviting friends and family into the creative process. His younger twin sisters’ contributions further enhance the album's emotional resonance, creating a familial bond that is palpable in the music.
As he reflects on his journey, Keery acknowledges the importance of community and connection. "You’re always trying to root yourself a little bit," he says, emphasizing the need to maintain relationships as one navigates the complexities of adult life. His philosophy of putting in the effort to nurture friendships shines through in the album, which serves as a testament to the power of love and connection.
In a world that often seeks to define artists by their most recognizable roles, Keery embraces the multifaceted nature of his identity. While he acknowledges that many may always see him as "that guy from Stranger Things," he remains focused on enjoying the creative process and the small moments that contribute to happiness. "You can think about happiness as this big thing that you need to have in your life, or you can think about it as this small goal that you try to achieve every day," he explains.
The album cover, inspired by the 1954 Alfred Hitchcock film Rear Window, reflects Keery's artistic vision, which aims to provoke thought and invite listeners to engage with the music on a deeper level. The visual elements complement the album's themes, creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with fans.
As The Crux continues to garner attention, it’s clear that Joe Keery, through his music as Djo, is carving out a unique space for himself in the industry. With a blend of nostalgia, introspection, and vibrant storytelling, he invites listeners to join him on a journey of self-discovery and connection. As he moves forward, one thing is certain: Keery's artistic evolution is just beginning, and his future endeavors will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the music scene.
