Joji is finally back! After a three-year hiatus, the singer-songwriter-producer makes his long-awaited return with “PIXELATED KISSES.” It’s his first new music since his 2022 album ‘SMITHEREENS,’ which included the RIAA 2x Platinum and #1 Spotify Global 50 hit “Glimpse of Us.”
The new single also represents Joji’s first release under his own imprint, Palace Creek, distributed by Virgin Music. This signals a fresh chapter in his artistic journey. Previously signed under 88rising since his 2018 debut EP, ‘Tongues Rising,’ the Japanese-Australian artist now takes full creative reins with the self-written and produced “PIXELATED KISSES.”
Inside “PIXELATED KISSES”
Built on gritty trap beats and pared-down vocals, “PIXELATED KISSES” showcases Joji’s signature ability to turn minimalism into something deeply emotional. Over earthquaking bass, he sings about the struggle of long-distance love: “Pixelated kisses got me goin’ insane / Replicate this moment from a million miles away,” reflecting the yearning and isolation of digital-age romance. Though clocking in at under two minutes, the track leaves a haunting impression that proves simplicity can still carry powerful depth.
As CLASH praises, Joji has “consistently reinvented himself and truly proves himself as one of the most interesting artists in the alternative ‘anti’ pop sphere.” Teen Vogue adds that his “empowering versatility is on full display.”
Joji’s Career So Far
Since his breakthrough in 2017, Joji has released three critically acclaimed studio albums. ‘BALLADS 1’ (2018) featured the RIAA-certified 5x Platinum hit “SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK.” He later followed up with ‘Nectar’ (2020) and ‘SMITHEREENS’ (2022), which produced his highest-charting single to date, “Glimpse of Us.”
Following these successes, Joji has toured across the globe and performed at major festivals such as Coachella, Lollapalooza and Reading & Leeds. In 2023, he embarked on his massive OBLIVION and PANDEMONIUM arena tours, performing 41 shows with sold-out dates at Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center, Kia Forum, Crypto.com Arena, United Center and London’s Gunnersbury Park.
“PIXELATED KISSES” is a haunting, moody and unforgettable song that captures the essence of Joji’s artistry. Above all, it reminds listeners what makes his music so distinct. After three years away, “PIXELATED KISSES” feels like both a reflection of how far he has come and a promise that there is still more to come.
Are you ready to get lost in Joji’s moody world with “PIXELATED KISSES”? Tell us how this long-awaited return hits you and what you’re hoping to hear from his next release on Instagram and X!
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Featured Image Credit: Evers Pund
