Japanese singer/songwriter, Joji, has been in the industry for quite some time now. His career took off as a comedian on YouTube known as “Filthy Frank” and “Pink Guy.” He released numerous songs that had a comedic touch to them. If any of you recall the famous trend known as “The Harlem Shake.” Joji was the creator behind it all. He has always had the ability to create music and entertain his viewers. His humorous videos as “Filthy Frank” were solely meant for entertainment purposes. Up until now, with the release of his sophomore album “Nectar,” Joji has taken a drastic turn in the industry.
Nectar was supposed to be released a couple months ago during the stay at home order. Considering the major turn of events the COVID-19 pandemic has given us, Joji had to push back his album release. It was officially released on September 25, 2020. The delayed release caused hysteria among his fans. Although the wait was definitely worth it. Nectar is heartwarming, real, and soothing. Associated with features such as, Diplo, BENEE, Lil Yachty, and others. His very popular song “Gimme Love” which has been all over the social media platform “TikTok” sparked interest among the Gen Z audience worldwide. As well as “Slow Dancing In The Dark,” which is not on his album, but granted Joji exposure on “TikTok” just in time for his release of Nectar.
Joji identifies himself with his listeners and is able to articulate his emotions through his music. Nectar is straightforward and carries an aesthetic appeal. It carries a sound that everyone can relate to and will be intrigued towards. Especially now, most of us are looking to find the next big artist that will have us on our feet and in our emotions. Joji, does just that.
Joji did not hold back from exploring different sounds on Nectar. He collaborated with numerous artists from different genres. “Pretty Boy” which features Lil Yachty, a rapper, and “Afterthought” which features pop artist BENEE. If any of you are familiar with the famous TikTok song “Supa Lonely” then you know who BENEE is. Joji then visited the EDM scene by collaborating with mainstream DJ, Diplo on “Daylight.” Joji was able to find the balance between his own sound as well as the other artists he featured on Nectar. That is what is captivating about this album. There are slow, somber songs, then some songs pick up with an upbeat tempo.
Listeners take a journey into Joji’s thoughts and impulses on Nectar. There is a song for every mood. He visits different sounds and feelings throughout the entire album. One moment you are getting emotional with “Like You Do” where Joji visits a heartache, which many of us can relate too. Then you are up and dancing with “777” where Joji is considered the heartbreaker. This takes a turn during his creative process because he expresses his perspectives and allows his listeners to know that he has been on both sides of the situation. Joji is not hiding, nor is he afraid to express these experiences into his music. Even if it makes him look like the good or bad guy. “777” has a strong presence throughout his album, it correlates with a specific lyric in “Afterthought” which is “Ooh, live fast, drive fast like two hundred on the dashboard.” In “Afterthought” he expresses mental health issues. He sings, “Don’t speed on that highway, we need you to shine bright.” Which was an interesting find within the album, because they contradict each other, yet are expressed in a beautiful manner through their own interpretations and messages.
Joji’s sound is his very own. You will hear piano, guitar riffs, and even some pop. You will visit a different emotion and vibe after every song. Nectar has its own unique touch. Each song tells a different story, you dive into Joji’s world. Nectar is an interesting find that you will not be disappointed.
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