Celebrating the release of his third album, ‘The Crux’ was Djo as he embarked on the UK leg of his tour and performed to a sold out O2 Academy in Glasgow. With his genre bending electronic pop music that often delves into some psychedelic sounds as his music transports us back to different musical eras like the 80’s and 70’s. Djo’s talent in music and his incredible ability to capture a crowd made it a memorable gig, especially for him and the band as it was their first time in Scotland.
Starting off the night was Post Animal who came on stage at 8pm to a full crowd, the electronic music that filled the room as they came onto the stage felt as if we were being taken to a new world that they create when they play. Composed of Dalton Allison, Jake Hirshland, Javi Reyes, Wesley Toledo and Matt Williams, the band brought a unique element as they alternated lead vocals and instruments which presented the crowd with talent. The powerful vocals that fuelled the set were paired perfectly with powerful instrumentals that flowed effortlessly with the keyboard blending with the guitar riffs. They had the crowd prepared for an amazing night as they had everyone clapping and doing the standard Scottish chants that ensured the Chicago 5-piece felt welcomed as they opened the gig.
It was finally time for Djo to come on at 9.15pm as the slow build to him and his band entering the stage began. The slow beat that built up to him entering filled the room as the crowd’s anticipation could be felt all around. As soon as he entered and his powerful vocals and the punchy instrumentals began, there was a burst of energy as everyone in the crowd could already tell the great night that was about to be promised.
The instrumentals in each song set his music apart from many other artists in the genre as he doesn’t try to fit within the expectations, instead combining elements from different genres which has allowed him to flourish and succeed with what he creates. With this being heard in songs like ‘Link’ as the electronic keyboard mixes with the loud and almost indie-rock element that the guitar brings into the song. The instrumentals do not disappoint either; with the array of talent in his band on stage, the large variety of instruments allow the music to be brought to life when played live and creates a totally different yet incredible experience to just sitting down and listening to the songs recorded. Which is exactly how Djo’s performance showcases the beauty of live music as every element is further uplifted and the band’s passion can be felt as the music is played live.
One of the most memorable things about a gig will always be the crowd; and it’s safe to say that Djo’s ability to capture the crowd and keep their energy up the entire gig is admirable. A clear standout was ‘Basic Being Basic’, a fan-favourite as it filled the room and caused cheers to erupt. It’s easily the perfect electronic dance song which you find yourself wanting to dance to, and that’s exactly what the crowd did as Djo’s passion when performing fuelled the crowd. From the build in ‘Lonesome Is a State of Mind’ which had the crowd clapping along and then a wave of energy flowed across the crowd as his dynamic and expressive vocals poured over the crowd.
Going viral in 2024 was ‘End of Beginning’, being constantly heard on social media and added to everyone’s playlists, the hit song was one that was clearly looked forward to as the roaring applause was heard from the crowd as the final notes of it were played. The slow instrumentals, especially the acoustic guitar, create a song that feels comforting as it’s filled with nostalgia and longing. When played live, the background vocals and instrumentals were perfect and sounded identical to the recorded version. When paired with the soft orange lighting of the stage, the song’s themes of saying goodbye to the past and looking forwards were only emphasised forward and added that extra level of emotion to the song.
Whilst at first glance, Djo’s song catalogue is filled with upbeat electronic music, he has songs filled with emotion that showcase his clear talent and versatility as an artist. ‘Fly’ was a change of pace in the setlist as it emphasised his range as he aced a slower song that overwhelmed the crowd with emotion as phone torches lit up the room. His success as an artist is directly reflected on his ability and range. A Lot of his songs are pure fun, with them spilling with joy, but his emotional songs are soulful and heartfelt as he performs them with raw passion.
Finishing the night by bringing out Post Animal for the final song, it was full of energy and the perfect way to end the night. By continuing to support the band he was formerly a part of by giving them opportunities, it emphasises why he has his well deserved success. Their final moments on the stage that night you could tell they were all having fun with their friends as they performed and were doing what they loved together. It felt like a full circle moment as the gig closed with both the headliner and support on stage and the pure power on that stage filled the venue and Djo felt unstoppable in that moment; after selling out the O2 academy and playing hit after hit the whole night, his success will only continue to amass and his music is only destined to grow and flourish even more.