Fresh off an electrifying set at Coachella, Djo descended upon The Van Buren in Phoenix, Arizona for a sold-out show that felt like both a celebration and a homecoming for fans who have followed his sonic evolution. Known offstage as Joe Keery — actor and former Stranger Things star turned alt-psych rock innovator — Djo has carved out a distinct musical identity. His latest album, The Crux, brims with kaleidoscopic textures, introspective lyricism, and a flair for the theatrical, all of which were brought to life in dazzling form on this unforgettable night.

Long before the doors opened, anticipation was crackling in the air. A line wrapped around the venue like a ribbon of electricity — fans adorned in handmade Djo-themed bracelets, clutching creative signs, and chattering excitedly about their favorite tracks. The moment the doors swung open, the space was quickly filled with a swarm of devoted fans, many of whom made a beeline for the sprawling merch table or posed in front of the glowing The Crux album backdrop.

The evening opened with an incredible performance from Post Animal, Djo’s former band, whose psych-rock roots perfectly set the tone for what was to come. The crowd, clearly familiar with their work, echoed lyrics with joy. 

When Djo finally took the stage, it felt as though the venue exhaled — then immediately inhaled again in unison. Opening with the luminous and sprawling “Runner,” the stage was bathed in immersive lighting that pulsed and shimmered with each beat. From the very first notes, Djo’s presence was magnetic — a blend of enigmatic cool and genuine connection with the audience.

The brooding tones of “Gloom” deepened the atmosphere, grounding the set with emotional weight, before the infectious rhythms of “Basic Being Basic” from The Crux ignited a wave of dancing throughout the venue. Throughout the evening, Djo’s vocal control and dynamic stagecraft elevated each song beyond its studio version. The crowd erupted during “Roddy,” chanting the iconic instrumental breakdown with such fervor it felt like a ritual.

Other standouts included the beautifully wistful “Charlie’s Garden,” the anthemic “Gap Tooth Smile,” and the swirling, cinematic “Potion.” Each song was paired with visual elements — strobes, and shifting colors — that transformed the performance into a multisensory journey. Just when it felt like the energy couldn’t climb any higher, Djo launched into “End of Beginning,” a swelling, cathartic anthem that had the entire room singing along in a moment of collective euphoria.

Before taking his final bow, Djo gave the crowd two last songs — the heartfelt “Back to You” and the explosive “Flash Mountain” — closing the night with a mix of nostalgia and exhilaration.

This performance wasn’t just a concert — it was a fully immersive experience, a window into the mind of an artist whose vision continues to evolve and expand. For those lucky enough to be at The Van Buren that night, it was more than a show. It was a moment of artistic transcendence.