Introduction
Most know him as Steve Harrington, the lovable babysitter and unlikely hero from the hit Netflix series Stranger Things. But Joe Keery’s creative pursuits extend far beyond the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. While his acting career has catapulted him to international stardom, Keery has consistently nurtured a vibrant musical life. From his early days in the psychedelic rock band Post Animal, to his current solo project as Djo, Joe Keery has established himself as a talented and multifaceted artist.
Keery’s journey from a small town musician to a global phenomenon is a testament to his passion, creativity, and dedication. This article explores his musical evolution, from his time rocking out with Post Animal to crafting unique soundscapes as Djo, examining how his acting career has influenced his music and vice versa. While Joe Keery is widely recognized for his acting roles, his musical journey as a member of Post Animal and later as a solo artist as Djo reveals a deeper, more multifaceted artistic talent.
Early Musical Beginnings
Before the fame and the Demogorgons, Joe Keery was a regular kid with a passion for music. Growing up, he immersed himself in a diverse range of sounds, drawing inspiration from classic rock icons, modern indie bands, and experimental electronic music. This eclectic mix of influences would later become apparent in his own musical endeavors.
Before launching his solo project as Djo, Keery was deeply involved in the Chicago-based psychedelic rock band Post Animal. Formed in the mid-two thousands teens, the band quickly gained traction in the local music scene for their energetic live performances and their unique blend of garage rock, psychedelia, and catchy pop sensibilities.
Post Animal consisted of a talented group of musicians who shared a passion for creating music that was both innovative and accessible. The lineup featured a combination of instrumentalists and vocalists, contributing to the band’s diverse sound. Each member brought their unique musical style to the table, which allowed the band to create something that was distinctly their own.
During his time with Post Animal, Joe Keery played a significant role, contributing as a guitarist and vocalist. He was actively involved in the songwriting process, helping to shape the band’s sound and musical direction. Keery’s talent and dedication were undeniable, as he honed his skills as a musician and performer, gaining invaluable experience that would serve him well in his future musical pursuits.
Post Animal released several albums and EPs during their time together. Their discography includes projects that showcase their musical versatility and experimentation. Some of the band’s notable releases include albums such as “When I Think of You in a Castle” and “Forward Motion Godyssey.” The band also released EP’s which were well-received by fans and critics alike.
Post Animal’s sound can best be described as a swirling kaleidoscope of genres. Imagine a blend of Tame Impala’s dreamy synths, The Strokes’ raw energy, and a dash of King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard’s experimental spirit. This eclectic mix resulted in a sound that was both familiar and refreshingly original.
Among Post Animal’s discography, certain tracks stand out as fan favorites and critical darlings. Songs like “Gelatinous,” “Special Moment,” and “Ralphie’s Demo” showcase the band’s ability to craft catchy melodies, infectious grooves, and thought-provoking lyrics. These tracks exemplify Post Animal’s ability to capture the essence of psychedelic rock.
As Post Animal’s popularity grew, the band embarked on several tours, playing shows across the United States and beyond. Their live performances were known for their high energy and the band’s undeniable chemistry. These tours allowed the band to connect with fans on a deeper level and solidify their presence in the music scene.
Critics and fans alike praised Post Animal for their unique sound, catchy songwriting, and energetic live performances. Many lauded the band for their ability to blend genres and create a sound that was both innovative and accessible. Post Animal’s albums received positive reviews, solidifying their place in the indie music scene.
Over time, Post Animal went through various changes in their sound and lineup, as they continued to evolve and experiment with their music. These changes allowed the band to grow and push their creative boundaries, while still staying true to their core identity.
Through touring, recording, and honing their craft, Post Animal gained valuable experience and built a dedicated fanbase. They performed at renowned venues and festivals, sharing the stage with established acts and up-and-coming artists alike. These experiences shaped their musical perspective and helped them develop a strong sense of identity as a band.
Transition to Solo Work as Djo
As Joe Keery’s acting career began to take off, particularly with the explosive success of Stranger Things, he faced a challenging decision: how to balance his growing responsibilities as an actor with his passion for music. Eventually, he decided to step back from Post Animal to focus on his solo project, Djo.
This decision was born out of a desire for greater creative control and the opportunity to explore a different musical direction. While he enjoyed his time with Post Animal, Keery felt the urge to express himself in a more personal and introspective way.
The name Djo itself is shrouded in a bit of mystery, with Keery himself offering only hints about its meaning. Some speculate that it’s a shortened version of his first name, Joe, while others believe it’s a reference to a more personal experience or idea. Regardless of its true origin, the name Djo has become synonymous with Keery’s unique musical style and artistic vision.
The sound of Djo marks a departure from the psychedelic rock of Post Animal. While elements of psychedelia remain, Djo’s music leans more heavily into synth-pop, electronic music, and introspective songwriting. Imagine a blend of Tame Impala’s production with the emotional depth of artists like Unknown Mortal Orchestra.
Keery’s debut album as Djo, “Twenty Twenty,” was released in two thousands nineteen and immediately garnered attention for its catchy melodies, retro-inspired production, and introspective lyrics. The album explores themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and the challenges of navigating modern life, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar struggles.
Keery followed up with his second album, “Decide” which was released in two thousands twenty two. With this album, Keery continued to explore themes of identity and the complexities of human emotion. The album showcases his growth as a songwriter and producer, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile musician.
Critics have generally responded positively to Djo’s music, praising Keery for his unique sound, introspective lyrics, and catchy melodies. Many have noted the influence of artists like Tame Impala and Mac DeMarco, but also recognize Keery’s ability to create a sound that is distinctly his own. While some fans of Post Animal may have initially been surprised by the shift in musical style, most have embraced Djo’s music and appreciate Keery’s willingness to experiment and evolve as an artist.
Joe Keery’s Musical Identity
Joe Keery’s musical influences are as diverse as his musical output. He has cited artists like The Beatles, David Bowie, and Brian Eno as major inspirations, along with more contemporary acts like Tame Impala, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, and Ariel Pink. This eclectic mix of influences is evident in his music, which blends elements of classic rock, psychedelia, electronic music, and indie pop.
For Joe Keery, music and acting are not mutually exclusive pursuits but rather interconnected aspects of his creative expression. Both art forms allow him to explore different facets of his personality, express his emotions, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
There’s no denying that Joe Keery’s fame from Stranger Things has had a significant impact on his music career. On one hand, his celebrity status has given him a larger platform to showcase his music and reach a wider audience. On the other hand, it has also brought increased scrutiny and the pressure to live up to expectations. Navigating the complex relationship between his acting career and his music career has been a challenge for Keery, but he remains committed to both pursuits.
Themes of identity, anxiety, and the complexities of modern life are prevalent in Djo’s music. His lyrics often explore the challenges of self-discovery, the pressures of social media, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. By tackling these universal themes, Keery creates music that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Conclusion
From his early days rocking out with Post Animal to crafting unique soundscapes as Djo, Joe Keery has proven himself to be more than just a talented actor. He is a musician with a distinct artistic vision, a passion for experimentation, and a commitment to creating music that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
While the future of his music career remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Joe Keery will continue to explore his creative passions and push the boundaries of his artistic expression. Whether he’s starring in blockbuster movies or crafting infectious indie-pop anthems, Joe Keery is an artist to watch.
Joe Keery is a truly multifaceted artist, and his dedication to his craft shines through in both his acting and his music. Through his involvement with Post Animal and his solo project as Djo, he has demonstrated his passion for music and his ability to create unique and innovative sounds. As he continues to evolve as an artist, it is clear that Joe Keery will continue to make a lasting impact on the world of music and entertainment.
