Joji’s latest album provides a captivating insight into his artistic evolution.
During those quiet, restless moments of lockdown, I found solace in the ethereal sounds of Joji's music. As a preteen confined to my room, his melodies offered a comforting sense of normality amidst the chaos around me. (Photo provided by bandcamp)
Joji—transforming solitude into art.
In those still hours of isolation, I immersed myself in Joji’s atmospheric tracks. The dreamy quality of his songs helped alleviate the discomfort of being stuck indoors.
Breaking away from the style that first captured my attention, Japanese-Australian artist George Kusunoki Miller, known as Joji, unveiled his aptly named album on February 6. This record reflects my own complex relationship with his ever-evolving sound: layered and intricate. While not every song resonated deeply with me, the occasional inconsistency did little to overshadow the brilliance of the album.
Joji’s music encapsulates the essence of growing up. As he experiments and adapts his sound, I find myself undergoing similar transformations. His compositions are rich with themes of heartbreak, longing, and insecurity, oscillating between passion and aggression—an essential blend that characterizes this new album.
The album kicks off with the edgy track "PIXELATED KISSES," where Joji's enthusiasm is palpable through the pulsating drumbeat and vibrant synthesizers. In this song, he reflects on thoughts directed towards a lover who's just out of reach.
The third track, "Last of a Dying Breed," introduces a drawn-out melody. The synthesizers evoke an aching desire—mirroring the intricate nature of love. The contrasting drum pattern, complemented by organ piano, creates a rhythm that feels both grounded and ephemeral, enhancing his lyrics that express a sense of flight.
Another standout on the album is track four, "LOVE YOU LESS." With its authentic drum kit and soothing rhythm, it bears resemblance to the indie rock anthems that resonate with me. The poignant lyric, "If I love you less, will you love me more?" serves as the crux of the album, encapsulating his main internal struggle.
Beyond these initial tracks, songs like the heartfelt "Hotel California," the fleeting "Love Me Better," the enchanting "Sojourn," and the closing piece "Dior" further deepen the emotional connection of the album. Without a doubt, this project showcases Joji’s most adventurous work to date. From booming bass lines to intricate, restless beats, the album unveils a fresh dimension of his melancholy—one infused with angst.
However, the album does have its shortcomings. Despite its extensive tracklist, some tracks like "Silhouette Man" feel somewhat ephemeral, acting more as elongated transitions rather than fully fleshed-out concepts.
Despite these minor flaws, Joji’s new album impressively pushes boundaries, leaving me eager for what lies ahead. The record feels sincere, embodying the indecisiveness and restlessness synonymous with adolescence. As I continue to grow alongside his evolving artistry, this album serves as a powerful reminder that change should be embraced and experienced. Joji remains an artist who truly understands the nuances of loneliness—and how to transform that solitude into something beautiful.
