Djo begins a new era with “Basic Being Basic”

In the past five years, Djo, a.k.a. Stranger Things actor Joe Keery, has amassed a cult following – a circle that grew exponentially last year as his single, ‘End of Beginning,’ went viral on TikTok. A little over two years after the release of his last album, DECIDE, the indie prince is embarking into a new era with the release of “Basic Being Basic.”

The single’s 80's synth sound not only evokes a similar feel as ‘Gloom,’ one of Keery’s earlier tracks, but also Dayglow’s debut album, Fuzzybrain, in its distorted guitar sections. Despite these comparisons, the single is a clear elevation from Keery’s previous work that still retains all the bells and whistles that initially attracted fans. Keery’s breathy falsetto on the chorus is captivating and catchy – the hook stays with you long after listening. The verses are fierce in their bite, the chorus a taunting clock of character: you’re afraid of being basic, which is basic in and of itself – shallowly chasing what’s currently deemed “cool” is exponentially less authentic than genuinely enjoying things that could be considered cheugy. The speaker’s ex-lover was, presumably, so invested in not “being like other girls” that she herself became imitative.

From the bridge onwards is where Keery's artistry really shines – the last thirty seconds of the track gleefully deliver the final blow in his takedown. The spiteful listing of his ex-lover’s own “basic” qualities has a winding, satisfying setup and payoff as Keery launches into the outro, wrapping up the barrage neatly – “what an empty epitaph that is,” as in, what a sad existence it must be constantly chasing what’s “in.” ‘Basic Being Basic’ is magnetic and fun, a surefire sign that The Crux will be a brilliant record. The album will be released on April 4th – the same day Djo is set to begin his world tour. You can find tickets on his website, and listen to “Basic Being Basic” on all streaming platforms.