Ninth Key's Ekoh + Lo Spirit Open Up About New Music + More

Emerging as one of 2026’s most compelling new acts, Ninth Key is the product of a creative partnership between Ekoh and Joshua Landry, who also records under the name Lo Spirit. Their collaboration has not only reinvigorated their passion for music but has rapidly placed them on the radar of nu-metal audiences and rock radio alike.

Before Ninth Key’s inception, Landry had extensive experience in the music industry, primarily as a songwriter and producer for other artists. His early career was marked by involvement in various bands during his teenage years and twenties, but it was his behind-the-scenes work that shaped his understanding of the music business. His transition into a solo project, Lo Spirit, yielded promising outcomes that significantly altered the course of his career.

The partnership between Landry and Ekoh began through a social media collaboration, initially sparked by Landry’s invitation to Ekoh to contribute to a short-form cover on TikTok. This interaction evolved into joint creative efforts, merging Landry’s musicianship with Ekoh’s roots in independent hip-hop. Ekoh, a longtime admirer of Landry’s voice and songwriting, embraced the opportunity to work together, leading to a deepening of both their artistic and personal connections.

Their decision to form Ninth Key arose from a mutual realization that the joy of making music had diminished in their previous endeavors. The project became a refreshing outlet where creativity was both enjoyable and meaningful. This dynamic helped them overcome the challenges and frustrations often encountered in the music industry.

Ninth Key’s sound, blending Landry’s instrumental skills with Ekoh’s hip-hop influences, resonates strongly with fans of the nu-metal genre. Their track "Happy Feels Like" has maintained a steady presence on rock radio charts for nearly half a year, underscoring the band’s growing appeal. Additionally, Ninth Key has secured a spot as a supporting act on the 2027 Rise of the Roach tour, sharing the stage with established names Papa Roach and Ice Nine Kills.

Both members express a profound commitment to the band’s success, with Ekoh reflecting on the project as a pivotal artistic endeavor. He acknowledges the unique excitement and creative satisfaction Ninth Key has brought, differentiating it from his previous experiences.

Landry echoes this sentiment, highlighting how the collaboration has rekindled their enthusiasm and provided a renewed sense of purpose within the industry. The partnership has acted as a stabilizing force, helping them navigate the often volatile nature of music careers.

While the full extent of their future plans remains under wraps, their recent activities and tour announcement indicate a trajectory poised for continued momentum. Ninth Key’s formation and rapid ascent exemplify how collaboration and shared vision can reignite artistic passion and foster fresh success in the competitive landscape of contemporary rock and metal.

Listeners interested in exploring Ninth Key’s journey and sound can find their recent interviews and music across various platforms, including the Loudwire Nights show, which featured Ekoh and Landry discussing their experiences and outlook in early November 2026. Further updates on tour dates and releases are anticipated as Ninth Key continues to build its presence.