“Wе can’t be friends when this is donе / It’s over.” Djo explores the complex feelings that follow a breakup with the surprise deluxe release of his 2025 album “The Crux.”
Following the success of “The Crux,” Joe Keery, under the stage name Djo, revealed the titles of songs that were cut from the original album. Beginning in early September, Keery began mentioning these songs directly through his Instagram stories.
Then, to many people’s shock, Djo released the track “Carry the Name” on Sept. 8th with no prior announcement. “Carry the Name” tackles the feelings that follow a breakup in an introspective and melancholic song.
Following the release of “Carry the Name,” Djo released two more singles, “It’s Over” and “Awake.” Both follow in “Carry the Name’s” wake with slow instrumentals and an overarching theme of heartbreak.
After the release of “Awake,” Keery posted a teaser on Instagram that simply stated “noon EDT.” Many speculated that this would be another single release, but instead it was the full release of the deluxe version of “The Crux,” which included 12 additional songs, including the singles previously released.
The deluxe version of the album begins with the song “T. Rex Is Loud,” originally an outtake from Djo’s 2022 album “Decide.” “T. Rex Is Loud” deviates from the aesthetics of the earlier singles, as it’s a more upbeat song that talks about finding peace, and finally being able to relax. Throughout the song, Keery repeats the phrase “10-7,” which is a police code meaning the officer is out of service and unable to respond to any calls. This can be interpreted as Keery taking time for himself and not worrying about other issues.
The deluxe version of the album ends with the previously released single “Awake.” The track features Keery’s thoughtful vocals and lyrics to communicate a story of rejection, “Blue eyes made of plastic / How does it feel? / Rejection classic.”
“The Crux Deluxe” tackles a different approach to the themes present in the standard release of the album, which is pleasant for the listener. Having an album with two different sides helps provide a wider listening experience, and helps the album seem more in-depth and diverse.
Despite the unconventional release schedule of the album, “The Crux Deluxe” is a welcome addition to Djo’s discography and continues to showcase Keery’s musical talent and emotional lyrics through an indie aesthetic.
