Is Djo basic being basic, or a legitimate multi-hyphenate artist?

Is this the greatest album ever written? No. Is it going to be one of the best out this year? No. What it is, however, is very much a reflection of the qualities of Joe Keery and how he comes across in interviews – genuine, warm and likeable. ‘End of Beginning’ was clearly a massive breakthrough hit for Joe as a musician, though he had been plugging away in various ways for seven years prior to that. This is definitely not an actor (most well known for Steve Harrington in Stranger Things) on a vanity project.

The new album dabbles in various directions, a little bit lo-fi indie, a little bit Tame Impala… there are hints of 80s, 70s and even 60s sounds. It retains a coherency and Djo knows how to play to his strengths. ‘Basic Being Basic’ was the lead single and remains enjoyable, along with ‘Delete Ya.’ New single ‘Potion’ is a different affair, slower, acoustic guitar led compared to the effort and energy of the previous two. It is a very pleasant ditty with a real timeless quality to it.

Of the unreleased material there are no weaker links, this is a very competent collection. I particularly enjoyed the slower ‘Fly’ and the 60s/70s-esque stomp of ‘Charlie’s Garden.’ ‘Back on You’ almost has a T-Rex/Thin Lizzy vibe to it.

In a few months time all the fuss will be back on Joe the actor when the final season of Stranger Things arrives. Until then we can all celebrate and enjoy Djo the musician, a man who deserves success in all his areas of interest, very much not basic being basic.