Djo, the indie band led by Joe Keery, widely recognized for his role as Steve in “Stranger Things,” delivered an electrifying performance on the second day of Lollapalooza, captivating the T-Mobile crowd right from the start. The anticipation was palpable as the audience eagerly awaited the band’s entrance, and Keery’s genuine love for Chicago, a city he grew fond of during his time at DePaul University, shone through immediately.
Opening with gritty tracks like “Link” and “Basic Being Basic,” Djo showcased Keery’s powerful vocals paired with dark, driving instrumentals, captivating the audience’s attention. He then shifted to a more heartfelt tone with “Charlie’s Garden,” a ballad inspired by his shared experiences with co-stars Charlie Heaton and Natalia Dyer. This performance was further enlivened by a special video message from Heaton, which delighted fans and underscored the theme of friendship central to the song.
Djo’s set continued to impress with a nostalgic nod to one of Keery’s earlier songs, “Roddy,” which introduced a funkier sound with synth elements that provided a refreshing twist to their repertoire. Throughout the performance, Keery maintained an engaged connection with the audience, often expressing how deeply meaningful this moment was for him.
“Not something I ever thought I would do,” Keery said, reflecting on his journey from student to performer, “to be up here looking back at you means a lot to me.” This sentiment culminated in the veiled anticipation of his hit track, “End of Beginning,” which served as both a tribute to his college years in Chicago and the magical essence of the city.
Keery’s stage setup even featured a playful inflatable bean statue, symbolizing his affection for Chicago, while his warm interactions with the crowd transformed the performance into a reflective celebration of the city. His expressive personality, though unadorned with elaborate effects, elevated the performance, leaving festivalgoers with a memorable experience to cherish.
Djo’s compelling set not only highlighted their musical talent but also emphasized the relational bonds of friendship and nostalgia, resonating with the audience and promising a bright future for both Keery and the band in their artistic journey.