DECIDE by DJO

This Album has 4 Moose on the Moose Meter: 🫎🫎🫎🫎

Joe Keery's second album under the moniker Djo, titled "DECIDE," is a sonic representation of personal growth and change. Venturing further into the music world distinct from his acting career, this album is a testament to Keery's musical prowess and individuality. Infused with elements from late '70s new wave and '80s pop, the album showcases a rich range of stylistic influences. Keery's maturing songwriting capability shines throughout the album, with each track contributing to a coherent narrative of transformation.

The album's opener, 'Runner,' kickstarts the narrative with its striking blend of digital and analog sounds, while exploring the theme of personal change. Keery maintains an undertone of optimism across the album, regardless of the depth and complexity of the themes addressed in the lyrics. Songs like 'End Of Beginning' and 'Half Life' contribute to this hopeful tone, employing a mix of light and dark tones to depict hopeful transformation and the complexities of fame, respectively. The album cleverly intersperses humorous elements too, with 'Gloom' referencing Keery's famous hairstyle, serving as a recognizable touchpoint for the audience.

The extended tracks 'Half Life' and 'On and On' reflect Keery's ability to craft intricate soundscapes, engaging with the effects of social media and evolving from subtle tones to grandiose musical outbursts. Ultimately, the album aligns with Keery's intent to separate this persona from his acting roles, offering an unencumbered exploration of his musical identity.

"DECIDE" stands as a thoughtful and diverse exploration of personal evolution, with each song adding to a coherent narrative about change. The album undeniably affirms Djo as a distinct and continuously evolving musical entity. Keery’s work under Djo successfully manifests his exploration of personal growth, separate from any pre-existing on-screen character associations.

-Monty Moose