Early Rhythms and Post Animal
The Upside Down isn’t the only world Joe Keery has conquered. While the world knows him as the lovable, hair-product-aficionado Steve Harrington from the hit Netflix series *Stranger Things*, many are unaware of Keery’s serious dedication to music. This isn’t just a celebrity dabbling in a side project; Joe Keery is a legitimate and talented musician with a past rooted in the psychedelic rock scene and a present carving its own space within indie and electronic music. From his early days with the band Post Animal to his current solo venture as Djo, Joe Keery has proven that his artistic abilities extend far beyond the screen.
Before battling Demogorgons and navigating teenage drama, Joe Keery’s passion for music was already burning bright. Like many aspiring musicians, his journey began with high school bands, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. He immersed himself in various instruments, honing his skills and cultivating a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of creating music. This early experience would prove invaluable when he later joined the Chicago-based band Post Animal.
Post Animal, a collective of multi-instrumentalists and songwriters, was a band known for its dynamic blend of psychedelic rock, garage rock, and art-rock sensibilities. They created sprawling sonic landscapes, characterized by swirling guitars, layered vocals, and a raw, energetic delivery. Keery joined Post Animal relatively early in their development.
Within Post Animal, Joe Keery’s role was multi-faceted. He primarily played guitar, contributing to the band’s signature sonic textures. He also lent his vocals to certain tracks, further enriching their sound. More importantly, Keery was involved in the band’s songwriting process, bringing his own unique perspective and contributing to the creation of their music. Some notable tracks and albums by Post Animal during Keery’s tenure included *When I Think Of You In A Castle* and various early singles. His presence within the band solidified their sound and allowed them to progress further.
While Keery was an integral part of Post Animal, his burgeoning acting career began to demand more of his time and attention. Balancing the demands of a rapidly rising television role with the commitment required by a touring and recording band became increasingly difficult. Ultimately, Joe Keery made the difficult decision to leave Post Animal to fully pursue his acting career. However, this departure did not mark the end of his musical journey; instead, it paved the way for a new and exciting chapter.
Djo: Carving a Solo Path
Stepping away from Post Animal allowed Joe Keery to explore his musical vision without compromise, leading to the birth of his solo project, Djo. As Djo, Keery takes full creative control, meticulously crafting a sound that is distinctly his own. His Djo project has a distinct sound that differs from his work in Post Animal. His music offers a different experience for his fans.
The music of Djo is best described as a captivating blend of psychedelic pop and indie rock, infused with electronic elements and a touch of vintage synth nostalgia. Keery’s signature sound is characterized by its infectious melodies, dreamy soundscapes, and introspective lyrics. He seamlessly blends classic influences with modern production techniques, creating a sonic tapestry that is both familiar and refreshing.
His vocal style as Djo is often characterized by a slightly detached and almost conversational tone, which adds to the overall atmospheric and introspective feel of his music. The production choices are equally important, with a heavy emphasis on layered synths, driving drum beats, and experimental sound effects. One can hear elements of Tame Impala or Unknown Mortal Orchestra in his music, but the unique Djo experience is still unique and original.
Djo’s discography currently consists of two full-length albums: *Twenty Twenty* and *Decide*. Each album offers a unique sonic experience and further solidifies Djo’s artistic vision. *Twenty Twenty*, his debut album, was released in and immediately generated a buzz among indie music fans. This record introduced listeners to Keery’s distinct songwriting style and his penchant for crafting catchy melodies and immersive soundscapes. The album’s lyrical content is introspective, touching on themes of youth, identity, and the anxieties of modern life. Standout tracks include “Roddy,” an upbeat and infectious synth-pop anthem, and “Chateau (Feel Alright),” a dreamy and atmospheric track that showcases Keery’s vocal talents.
*Decide*, Djo’s second album, was a confident step forward, showcasing a more refined and mature sound. The album sees Keery delving deeper into electronic and experimental textures while retaining the core elements that made *Twenty Twenty* so appealing. Lyrically, *Decide* is more introspective, exploring themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating life in the digital age. Several tracks stand out on *Decide*. Critics have praised its innovative sound and thoughtful songwriting. While some critics believed *Twenty Twenty* was better, *Decide* has had more success and has been streamed more.
Beyond the studio, Djo comes alive in his live performances. His shows are known for their high energy, engaging stage presence, and a genuine connection with the audience. Keery clearly relishes the opportunity to share his music with fans in a live setting. He has performed at music festivals, and sold-out shows around the world. He fully immerses himself in the experience, making it a memorable and engaging performance for both himself and his fans.
The Actor Musician Balancing Act
One of the most fascinating aspects of Joe Keery’s career is the intersection between his acting and music. He has to make decisions on how to split his time between the two careers. As his acting career continues to grow, Keery has to balance his passions. He is not the first actor to venture into music, but he is one of the few to garner genuine respect and recognition in both fields.
The fame he has gained from *Stranger Things* has undoubtedly opened doors and created opportunities for his music career. It has given him a platform to reach a wider audience and to connect with fans who might not have otherwise discovered his music. However, it has also presented challenges. Some people tend to dismiss his music as a mere celebrity vanity project, failing to recognize the genuine talent and dedication he brings to his craft.
It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact ways in which his acting influences his music, or vice versa. However, it’s likely that both creative outlets feed into and inform one another. His acting experience may help him connect with audiences on a more emotional level during his live performances, while his musical sensibilities may bring a unique perspective to his acting roles. He takes his career very seriously and has a very strong work ethic that allows him to succeed. He is dedicated to both endeavors.
The Future Soundscape of Djo
Looking ahead, the future of Djo appears bright. Joe Keery has proven his talent and dedication as a musician, and fans are eagerly awaiting his next moves. While concrete details about future projects are scarce, there are rumors that he is currently working on new music.
Regardless of what the future holds, one thing is certain: Joe Keery is a musician to watch. He has proven his talent and dedication, and his unique sound is sure to continue evolving and captivating audiences for years to come. He has many fans that are supporting his efforts and his goals. The fans make it easier for him to continue with both his acting and musical performances.
Conclusion: More Than Just Steve Harrington
Joe Keery is far more than just Steve Harrington from *Stranger Things*. He is a talented and dedicated artist who has carved out his own unique space in the music world. From his early days with Post Animal to his current solo venture as Djo, he has consistently pushed creative boundaries and proven his passion for music. He has two successful albums and has performed at festivals all around the world.
His journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision. As he continues to explore new sonic territories and connect with audiences around the world, Joe Keery is poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene. He has plenty of room to grow and expand his experiences.
