Can an artist embody two different identities while creating their work? Synth-pop and indie rock musician and actor Djo (or known as Joe Keery) delivered a wholesome razzle-dazzle at Fox Theater Pomona on April 15th, 2025. His performance at Pomona was a stop for his Back on You World Tour, traveling around North America, Europe, and Oceania – celebrating the release of his third studio album, The Crux. Djo’s performance at Fox Theater was filled with unparalleled uplifting energy, brimming with heartfelt reflection on his split identity as an actor and musician.

Despite being known for his acting roles in popular films (from Free Guy and Spree) and television shows (especially from Netflix’s horror fantasy series Stranger Things), Joe Keery in his early 20s began with his music career under another stage name ‘Cool Cool Cool’ and as a band member of Chicago-based psychedelic rock band Post Animal. In spite of his departure from Post Animal in 2019 due to his growing commitment to acting, Joe Keery has been slowly yet steadily releasing his awe-inspiring synth-pop songs as a solo artist, Djo – an alias created to separate his musical persona from his well-recognized acting career.

Because of this, it was a significant night at Pomona with Post Animal’s groovy opening act for Djo. Post Animal’s quirky yet dedicated band members delivered a nostalgic performance that was heavily reminiscent of the 70s rock scene (along with each band member dressed up with stylish button-ups and denims). The psychedelic rock band’s setlist was filled with rhythmically and melodically fluctuating songs, supported by their incredibly talented instrumental playing. For the finale of Post Animal’s phenomenal opening performance, Djo joined the band (while playing an electronic guitar) to perform the exhilaratingly fast-paced rock song Dirtpicker.

After the heartfelt collaboration performance with Post Animal, Djo took to the stage for his devoted fans. Along with ominous mist dispersed throughout Fox Theater, dim lighting merely illuminated Djo and his band members’ silhouettes upon their entrance, perhaps of Joe Keery’s intention to accentuate his musical persona. Amidst the fans’ anticipation, Djo began performing the first song of the night Runner – a hypnotic synth-pop song about the paradox of trying to change in an unchanging world. Djo’s conversational delivery of his vocal performance, uplifting goofball energy, and smooth instrumental playing of piano and guitar mesmerized the audience throughout the night.

Djo’s setlist was also ingeniously reflective of his split identity as a musician and actor, as each alternating song had a drastically different tone, rhythm, and message for the audience. Some of the night’s highlights included his quirky yet profound performances of a funky synth-pop song, Basic Being Basic, a calming soft-rock song, Delete Ya, and another finale collaboration performance with Post Animal of Flash Mountain. But especially, Djo’s sentimental performance on End of Beginning was highly touching to the fans at Fox Theater Pomona, as the song melancholically recounts his departure from Chicago (a city that’s closely related to his music career) due to his commitment to acting, yet again highlighting his two distinctive artistic personas.

Djo’s performance at Fox Theater Pomona felt like gathering around a campfire with long-lost friends while reconnecting through deep, late-night talks. The night at Pomona illustrated Djo’s passion as a vibrant storyteller and his boundless dedication to creating a variety of art as an artist. Because that’s what true artists do – the need to express their creativity and story in every way possible.

Setlist:

1. Runner
2. Gloom
3. Link
4. Lonesome Is a State of Mind
5. Basic Being Basic
6. Delete Ya
7. Fly
8. Roddy
9. Fool
10. Charlie’s Garden
11. Gap Tooth Smile
12. Chateau (Feel Alright)
13. Potion
14. End of Beginning
15. The Crux
16. Back on You
17. Flash Mountain