According to frontman Daniel Armbruster, he initially fought the idea of writing any new music during the pandemic, but eventually returned to recording in his home studio.

[7] Other tracks, including "Cyn City 2000" and "We Are All We Need", reject an attitude of cynicism or perceived failure in response to the pandemic and promote gratitude.

[9] On June 25, the Every Window is a Mirror EP was released, containing the previous two tracks and two additional songs, "Pray for the Reboot" and "The Inversion".

[7] Joywave performed their first live show in support of the Every Window is a Mirror EP on September 3, 2021, at BottleRock Napa Valley.

In a review for AllMusic, Neil Z. Yeung wrote, "The result is a mature and melodic work, one that's both as catchy as anything they've done in the past and softens their typical edge for a more soothing and encouraging experience.

This time, Joywave synthesize a slew of dance-pop touchstones—from classic Tears for Fears to LCD Soundsystem and beyond—into a fresh sound that brims with life.

"[2] Daniel J. Kushner of CITY Magazine also praised the album for its sincerity, writing, "With Cleanse, Joywave has absolved itself of its biggest sin: self-indulgent cleverness.