I waited for my first interviewee, Skyler Rupnow, a fellow Texas State student. We were to discuss Stranger Things actor, Joe Keery’s first solo debut album named “Twenty Twenty”. Released in September of 2019, it is Djo’s (Keery’s artist name) debut album.
We met at The Coffee Bar, a downtown San Marcos cafe that is just the right size for a quick chat. The interior had an earthly feel from its decor of plants hanging from the tops of walls. It sort of reminded me of a tree house with a street view. Town goers can even stop by on certain days to check out local music artists!
However, I just came for the coffee and company.
"The Emporium"
Above, I drank a sweet vanilla, caramel specialty coffee served hot. I imagine a croissant would go well with the coffee, for the savory counters the sweetness.
Skyler Rupnow
Skyler’s drink of choice: “don’t be chai”
How did Skyler find Djo?
The first topic was about Djo’s acting career, most notable for his portrayal of Steve Harrington on one of Netflix’s most popular show, “Stranger Things”. But, Skyler found him via Apple Music and immediately liked his sound. She also has one friend that was a fan of his, but not as much as Skyler herself.
Is it possible to separate the artist and actor in either medium? Is there a bleed from one to another?
The short answer, no. Skyler made the point that she was a fan of him, but she was “…a separate fan in two mediums”. I think that’s fair enough.
Favorite tracks? Anything that stood out to describe it?
Skyler’s favorite tracks were “BNGB”, “Tentpole Shangrila”, and “Roddy”. She liked “Roddy” because it has a “classic bridge”, reminiscent of 70’s classic rock and keys. She also mentioned how all of the tracks had a unique sound to them; none sounded the same. In essence, “Twenty Twenty” is best described as Skyler put it, “a mixture of MGMT and classic rock”.
Do you recommend it to people?
Skyler actually shared Djo’s music with her friends. One of them became a big fan as well.
But, maybe it may not be for all. Skyler does recommend that any common person should listen to it. “Twenty Twenty” has a sound for those that can range from many genres. From alternative, to indie and the ties to classic rock are just some of the genres the project has taken from. But taste is subjective. We both understood certain people would like it, while others are keened to other genres. It is definitely not “mainstream” per say.
Beyond the album
Aside from where Skyler and I are now, her being from the vast Fort Worth area, we share a connection with the metroplex. Skyler grew up there while I lived there momentarily when I was younger.
We attended similar schools in the area, which influenced who we hung around and kept as friends. In high school, there were aspiring rappers that dominated the student body with hip-hop culture. Different from the alternative lifestyle she had experienced.
Skyler also appreciated the composition of music, sound and everything that went into producing such a project. Skyler was also part of her school’s audio-video production program. Her knowledge of the tediousness used to produce the album gave Skyler a much deeper appreciation for the work.
Skyler has also submitted projects to Austin’s SXSW Film festival recently, solidifying her credibility in multi-media productions. Props to her for that!
So, where do I land?
Strangely enough, I actually hadn’t (knowingly) listened to Djo’s music until I read her submission (which can be found here). As I sat down that morning, the track “Chataeu” was in my shuffle as she walked in. Coincidence?
I used our conversation as a foundation when I sat down and listened to “Twenty Twenty”. Everything mentioned was pretty accurate. From the genre-infusion to the continuity of songs, I found the project to be fun and versatile.
My favorite tracks would be the last two songs, “Flash Mountain” and “Mutual Future (Repeat)”. The former track felt surfy, sandy. As if I could conquer the flashy mountain Djo presented us with. The continuity of the two is a real pay off.
It’s a good listen. I also recommend The Coffee Bar, they have good coffee if you find yourself in San Marcos.
Coffee Shop Talk 