The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for Djo. On September 4th, Tame Impala’s newest single, ‘Loser,’ was released with Keery playing a version of Kevin for the official music video. He’s been one of his inspirations for years, making this a full-circle moment for him. Will there be a music collaboration in the future? Who knows. In the meantime, we’ll be manifesting it!
Djo’s Surprise Releases
On September 8th, 9th, and 10th, Djo surprised everyone by releasing three singles without any press or warning. ‘Carry The Name,’ ‘It’s Over,’ and ‘Awake’ each had their own style. Every day brought something unexpected, and each track left us amazed. Even though the songs were different, they all shared a story about love and heartbreak.
The surprise releases concluded with The Crux Deluxe, which was released on September 12th. Nobody expected this, and we certainly did not expect another full album to follow his earlier release of The Crux in April of this year. The Crux Deluxe serves as a companion album, the darker and more emotional side, if you will. All the songs were written around the same time as Djo was making The Crux, but were fully completed this summer for this special release.
We thought nothing could top The Crux, yet here we are… We’ve had a few weeks to really take in the album, so let’s break down the songs and discuss why we are loving them!
Photography by Neil Krug
‘T. Rex Is Loud’
The opening track features lyrics about hoping things get easier, layered over a heavy guitar and complemented by acoustic strums. This song was originally intended for his 2022 album, DECIDE, but now serves as the album’s introduction. We think it fits perfectly here.
Let me introduce this sugar candy of mine
I turn it on, baby, when we take a ride
Drums and guitar, the simple things feel so right
A plastic baton, an imitation too tight
‘Love Can’t Break The Spell’
The intimate acoustic guitar sets a personal, vulnerable atmosphere, drawing the listener into the emotional core of the track. The focus of the song is heartbreak, specifically the pain and inevitability of relationships ending. The overall message is bittersweet; it recognizes the sadness of endings but also the strength required to let go.
I’m mad that you could live
And love me like you did
Take what I could give
Just to keep a secret hid
‘Mr Mountebank’
Djo has experimented with various vocal effects in the past; this is the first time he’s used autotune for an entire track. This track features a strong, rhythmic beat and incorporates “futuristic” sounds, which, when combined with the lyrics, produce a distinctive atmosphere. It has the vibe of a diss track, which the fans are loving!
Big man, who are you?
Are you gonna do what they tell you to?
Frame up, televise
Burnt out brother in his mother’s eyes
‘Carry The Name’
A vintage-style single that pays homage to Super Tramp. The lyrics are sincere and express a sense of yearning, focusing on the emotional impact a past lover can have. It evokes a familiar feeling that comforts you as you listen.
Because it’s pictures of you that I’m scared of
I try not to blame, I just carry the name
‘It’s Over’
A voicemail from an ex, a bluesy piano, and that heartbreak you can’t escape from, even if it is over and has been for a long time. Almost like a time loop, stuck reliving the same scenario. It’s a hauntingly beautiful track that you can envision as part of a movie soundtrack.
When morning comes, I don’t need wakin’ up
(Another sleepless night, why turn off the light?)
‘Purgatory Silverstar’
One of the more punkier tracks, this song delivers its message hard and deliberately. Some of the best guitar work on this album comes from this song. The song transitions from its punk energy to a softer, acoustic sound as it ends.
Only me, myself, and radio
Deep space, dеad weight
Body-breaking lonelinеss
‘Who You Are’
An intimate telling of feeling defeated by heartbreak, paired with a soft acoustic guitar and touching lyrics about learning to exist without a lover. A message of how coming out of a relationship can make you realise who you are, and who your partner really was.
Thought I couldn’t live without you, but I was wrong
And eventually, the clock was always gonna stop
And through it all, now you know
Who you are
‘Grime Of The World’
As the album flips to its second act, a wild, gritty anthem bursts forth. The atmosphere shifts in an instant: replaced by a rush of upbeat, unapologetic energy that demands your attention. This moody masterpiece isn’t just a track, it’s a shot of adrenaline for your playlist.
Man’s basic, I mean it
He’s vacant, gone fishin’
Eve needs a replacement
How did he get so confident?
‘Try Me’
This song bursts with energy, describing a standout song from an album that packs a punch. An instant mood-booster, featuring a lively, toe-tapping rhythm and clever, fast-paced lyrics. It’s the perfect soundtrack to jumpstart your day!
King’s got a little thing for Queens
I’m searchin’ for the great white whale
I’ll be your co-star captain
Trust me, I can fill your sails
‘They Don’t Know What’s Right’
This track, with its garage band vibe, helps deliver the final songs of the album. The electric guitar grabs your attention, and the drums will have you tapping your feet. It’s another sign of how much fun Djo has making music.
You’re primitive
Ideas are naïve
You leave much to be desired
‘Thich Nhat Hanh’
A very unexpected tune from Djo, but not one to forget. Titled after the Vietnamese mindfulness teacher, this serves as a meditation practice on its own. We imagine sitting by the sea as the sun sets with this track playing softly in the background.
Carry on
When the song’s
Just out of focus
‘Awake’
This single is very impactful. The song gradually intensifies, culminating in powerful drums and a prominent electric guitar, accompanied by the emphatic delivery of the lyrics “I’m awake.” It serves as a fitting conclusion to this era.
Brother’s off to college
Little sister’s sad
It’s a picture in his wallet
Djo Concludes U.S ‘Another Bite’ Tour
After the album release, Djo was on the road again throughout the U.S for his final tour leg of the year. We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate these releases and all the success he’s had this year already. The future of Djo is filled with so many possibilities, and we can’t wait to see what he gets up to next. If you saw him on tour or you’d like to share your thoughts about The Crux Deluxe, reach out to us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
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