On Sept. 29, 2023, in Houston’s Toyota Center in Texas, the talented Japanese-Australian singer, songwriter and record producer Joji, kick-started his “Pandemonium – Fall World Tour.” This global sensation drew fans from all walks of life, uniting them to enjoy Joji’s enchanting blend of R&B and Soul music together. As the tour progresses, Joji has pledged to visit a variety of cities, ranging from Orlando, Florida, in the United States to as far as Hong Kong, leaving a lasting impression with his unforgettable performances on a global scale.
“Pandemonium” has been described as a remarkable compilation of Joji’s greatest hits. The tour’s setlist features 19 of Joji’s most iconic songs, including fan favorites such as “Sanctuary,” “Die for You” and the encore performance, “Glimpse of Us.” The lead single, “Glimpse of Us,” has achieved remarkable success in the past, debuting at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the ninth spot on Mediabase’s Top 40 chart. This marked Joji’s first-ever top 40 radio record.
Several of the other songs showcased in “Pandemonium” are also relatively recent, with four of them having been released in 2022 as part of Joji’s third album, “SMITHEREENS.” Each tour date also offers a unique set of opening acts and closing performances, ensuring that every show is distinct and surprising compared to its counterparts.
After performing two songs, Joji made it a goal to formally introduce himself to the audience, also introducing his drummer, keyboardist and electric guitarist. With each introduction, his supporting cast individually performed short solos to show off their musical talents, loosening up the crowd and impressing them before the main performances actually began. SavageRealm, Joji’s DJ and rapper, also performed a solo, filled with rhythms and goofy soundboard effects.
Joji, being the natural entertainer that he is, has also kept his performances amusing and funny with elements that could only be expected at a Joji concert. Throughout the show, Joji mixed the harmonious rhythms of his interludes and musical genius with goofy acts like firing his t-shirt cannon, getting a call from AI-generated former President Barack Obama and playing clips of someone lassoing a malfunctioning segway. Despite having moved on from his past as a satirical YouTuber, Joji still remains close to his roots, still the same person despite so much change.
Halfway through the show, Joji took a break from performing and gave the spotlight to Yebi Labs, Joji’s DJ group which debuted in 2022. The almost 20-minute DJ set mixed songs such as “1AM FREESTYLE” and “Glimpse of Us” while video game clips, memes and fancams played on the big screens.
Fading into the encore, the first note of “SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK” caused the crowd to collectively scream. A mirrorball slowly descended from the ceiling, sprinkling white light throughout the stadium. Only using a keyboard, Joji sang “Glimpse of Us,” bringing the night to a harmonious close with a blend of the audience member’s voices and Joji’s vocals.
