The Crux

The Crux is the upcoming third studio album by Djo, the musical alter ego of actor and musician Joe Keery, best known for his role as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things. Set for release on April 4, 2025, via AWAL Recordings, this album follows his 2022 release DECIDE, which included the hit track “End of Beginning.”

The album’s first single, “Basic Being Basic,” dropped on January 24, 2025, with Keery describing it as a “shot fired at anyone trying to be of the moment.” He also performed the song live on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on January 28, 2025, marking a major moment in his solo career.

Produced alongside his longtime collaborator Adam Thein at Electric Lady Studios in New York, The Crux represents a departure from Djo’s earlier synth-heavy sound, opting instead for lush guitars and influences from 1960s and 1970s pop. The album explores themes of loss, yearning, and community, drawing from Keery’s personal experiences and global travels.

To support the album, Djo has announced the “Back On You Tour”, featuring Post Animal as special guests. The tour kicks off on April 4, 2025, in Portland, Oregon, and spans North America, the UK, and Europe, wrapping up with shows at Brooklyn Steel in New York City on May 5 and 6, 2025.