Joe Keery of «Stranger Things» Unveils New Album «The Crux»

Joe Keery, best known for his role in «Stranger Things», has stepped back into the spotlight with his latest musical offering, «The Crux». This 12-track album features previously released singles like «Basic Being Basic», «Delete Ya», and «Potion», showcasing the actor’s talents far beyond the screen.

Keery doesn’t just lend his voice to the project—he’s the creative force behind it, writing and producing every song under his musical alias, Djo. On tracks like «Potion», «Delete Ya», and «Gap Tooth Smile», he even picks up the electric guitar, adding a personal flourish. The title track, «Crux», brings in members of the American psychedelic rock outfit Post Animal for a collaborative twist. Recorded at New York’s iconic Electric Lady Studios, the album’s sound was polished by mixing maestro Manny Marroquin, a veteran of projects with Rihanna and Kanye West.

«The Crux» marks Keery’s third studio effort as Djo. His 2022 release, «Decide», gave the world «End of Beginning», a track that unexpectedly exploded online. Though not initially a single, its viral surge in 2024 prompted an official release, propelling it to number four on the UK charts and earning nods for the Billboard Music Awards 2024 and Brit Awards 2025.

Early reviews of «The Crux» lean positive. DIY Magazine hailed it as «an ambitious, upbeat, and heartfelt collection» steeped in analog retro tones. AllMusic suggests Keery has carved out a cozy niche in pop’s landscape with this release. ClashMusic praised him for letting «his emotions shine through», likening the album to a «melodic journey». Meanwhile, Uncut drew parallels to MGMT’s early work but tempered its enthusiasm with a middling score of 6 out of 10.

As fans await the fifth and final season of «Stranger Things» in 2025—its premiere date still under wraps—Keery’s latest musical chapter offers a fresh lens on his artistry, blending nostalgia with raw, unshackled expression.