Who Me?, out May 12th on Captured Tracks, is the next chapter in the ongoing story of Juan Wauters. Whereas his debut solo record was recorded casually over the course of one year, his sophomore album was crafted in under two weeks at Future Apple Tree in Rock Island, Illinois. Inspired by both the arrangements of Uruguayan songwriter Jaime Roos and the production of American master Dr. Dre, this collection of songs presents his continued approach to existential questioning through pop music. Tracks like “She Might Get Shot” and “I Was Well,” which may seem like wisdom addressed to the listener, are in fact part of Juan’s reciprocal process of self-actualization through songwriting and performing. Bringing new sounds to his repertoire, “This Is I” and “Through That Red” add a spiritual tone with ethereal string arrangements. Juan’s voice — which has risen to the forefront of his music since his first recordings with The Beets — intensifies with added nuance. Listen to “She Might Get Shot.”

Despite the expansion musically, one thing stays the same: Juan continues to find inspiration in his everyday life. Familiar themes — 90s hip hop, and, of course, his beloved Queens, NY — are still prevalent here and the cover of Who Me?, which was shot on the Queensboro Bridge that goes from midtown Manhattan into the neighborhood that gave us Nas, represents his home borough with the pride we’ve come to expect from Juan. The album’s title refers to catchphrase by regular Howard Stern “Wack Pack” member Beetlejuice, a radio show that Juan religiously has been listening to for years. The other thing that hasn’t changed: expect to see Juan playing soon, as he continues to tour the world in support of his second solo record. Watch the teaser for the album below!