DE’WAYNE

june

Rock

By: Bryn Van Horne

Saturated in elements of 80s jukebox rock, electrifying pop hooks, and echoes of the hair metal era, LA-based artist DE’WAYNE’s third studio album, “june”, is a confident, feel-good ride that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. It’s raw, honest, unapologetic, and just waiting to be danced along to. 

The album kicks off with “lady lady,” a high-energy opener that sets the tone for the party to come. With pounding drums, exhilarating guitar, and vocals that will immediately capture your attention, this introductory track signals to listeners that this album is going to bring endless energy, joy, and a little chaos. The title track, “june,” follows as a standout moment of the album. It’s a lovestruck anthem drenched in 80s-style production that recalls icons like Cyndi Lauper, Prince, and The Go-Go’s.

Though influences of the 80s are woven throughout, tracks like “take a picture” slow things down with a bit of late 70s-style funk, while “highway robbery” delivers infectious guitar riffs, reminiscent of an early 2000s alternative anthem. In Track 8, there’s even a dash of Bowie’s beloved, theatrical flair in “Forever.” While the record does dip into some retro aesthetics, DE’WAYNE avoids falling into pastiche. Instead, he uses these influences through his own, distinctly unique lens. 

Daring to change up his sound on this project, which in the past leaned itself more into pop punk on his first two albums, “My Favorite Blue Jeans” (2022) and “Stains” (2021), it's clear that DE’WAYNE was ready to shake things up. It's a risk well paid off, for this album is an absolute stand-out in his discography. The energy DE’WAYNE brings to this project is contagious, and his flair and pure confidence radiate throughout the entire body of work. 

Despite the genre-blending this project brings, “june” never loses its sense of direction. DE’WAYNE’s magnetic presence and powerful vocals anchor the album, while thematically, it remains rich with personal reflection. “june” shapeshifts between pop, rock, funk, and alt with ease, all while maintaining a uniquely inspiring sound and an undeniable vibrancy. 

Recommended track(s):

“i’ll be there” is my favorite track on the album for its passionate lyrics, which express a deep sense of loyalty to a lved one, and for its electrifying guitar solo that floats through the back half of the song with a perfect balance of intensity and emotion.

“biological” earns an honorable mention. It’s a brilliantly fun, upbeat testament to real human connection and the joy of spending time with someone you love and cherish. As DE’WAYNE puts it: “Every time we get around each other, it's so iconic.”

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)