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The Crux Image
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews What's this?

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  • Summary: The third full-length release from Stranger Things' Joe Kerry as Djo was produced with Adam Thein.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 11
  2. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. Apr 4, 2025
    90
    With The Crux, Keery doesn't just prove he more than owns his space in the pop world as Djo, he's found a home.
  2. Apr 3, 2025
    90
    An ambitious, joyous, heartfelt collection that finds him revelling in analogue instrumentation, expansive arrangements, and unashamedly retro sonic touchstones.
  3. Apr 4, 2025
    82
    There’s a relaxed lean to The Crux and a confidence that emanates from Keery in a newly open way. His vocal performances are especially lovely.
  4. May 6, 2025
    75
    For the most part, the album is a well pruned garden of musical history centered around Djo’s charming storytelling and personality.
  5. Apr 4, 2025
    70
    “End of Beginning” might have been Djo’s big billion-stream break, but it was no fluke. The Crux marks the arrival of a fully formed artist who’s only just getting started.
  6. Record Collector
    Apr 17, 2025
    60
    Keery frequently channels synth-rockers The Cars (Link finds Keery doing his best Ben Orr impression, while Delete Ya is reminiscent of Ric Ocasek); ELO's crisp pop (Charlie's Garden); and Cake-meets-OK Go jauntiness (standout Basic Being Basic). [May 2025, p.103]
  7. Apr 8, 2025
    59
    Derivative as it is, it’s all performed with care and craft, a frictionless blend of styles that feels a bit uncanny, like music you could imagine in a faux Urban Outfitters at Starcourt Mall. But there’s a sense The Crux aspires to something greater.

See all 11 Critic Reviews