Debuting number four on iTunes Charts, Joji’s new album “Nectar” is a complex blend of synth-pop and soft piano. His second studio album, nondescript and soothing, is completed with 18 songs featuring six unique artists. 

The album starts off with the song “Ew,” an introspective piece where Joji questions the meaning of love. Throughout the album, Joji’s melancholic lyricism hints at a deeper message. Reaching the final songs, Joji’s growth is evident, as he reflects on his exploration and journey of love, finally answering the key question; to him, love means perseverance and honesty.  

Joji has a very deliberate way of ordering the songs on the album, spinning his personal story of fame and heartbreak to listeners. Following a space theme, the album transports the audience through a plethora of emotions and offers a brief escape from reality. 

In particular, I was curious about “Pretty Boy,” which featured Lil Yachty. I didn’t have high expectations for it considering how different Joji and Lil Yachty’s sounds are. Lil Yachty, a notorious rapper whose songs are usually characterized by a fast beat and comical lyrics seemed like an odd choice for this album’s ambiance. Once listening, I was surprised by the catchy hook and I honestly enjoyed what Lil Yachty brought to the song. Objectively, this song was one of the most upbeat of the album and I appreciated the change of pace. 

Due to the length of the album, I found that the songs in the middle fell flat and were executed lazily. Some of these songs felt like fillers, and that Joji was dragging it on for too long. 

The mellow soundtrack backed by lulling vocals makes a good background for studying, but not much else. Some songs, like “High Hopes,” featuring Omar Apollo, were underwhelming and didn’t inspire. The monotonous drag of the lyrics and crooning ballad fit awkwardly with the other songs. 

Ultimately, despite all the hype around this album, it wasn’t the most satisfying to me and didn’t blow me away, yet this album proves a step up from “BALLADS 1,” and shows Joji’s potential as he successfully combines many contrasting genres.

“Nectar” : ★★★☆☆