So I've spent the past couple of weeks listening to the new Against Me! - Transgender Dysphoria Blues... it only took one listen for me to realize that I needed to learn more about Laura Jane Grace (born Thomas James Gabel).
Before I type another letter, I need to point out that I arrived at the foot of this record from a point of complete ignorance.
I was vaguely familiar with the band Against Me!, but never went out of my way to listen to anything they've released since the album Reinventing Axl Rose. I was completely unaware that that Thomas came out as a transgender in Rolling Stone in 2012... so I sorta had my bell rung when the opening lyrics of the album start with:
Your tells are so obvious: shoulders too broad for a girl.
It keeps you reminded, it helps you to remember where you come from.
You want them to notice the ragged ends of your summer dress,
You want them to see you they see every other girl; they just see a faggot.
They hold their breath not to catch the sick.
The bell ringing doesn't stop in the opening track... I've poured over every lyric on the album and haven't been this moved by an artist sharing a genuine story since I heard Perfume Genius - Put Your Back Into It.
Can't recommend this album enough. It's likely going to be the most courageous albums I'll get to listen to in 2014.
Stand Out Tracks:
- Against Me! – Transgender Dysphoria Blues
- Against Me! – True Trans Soul Rebel
- Against Me! – Osama Bin Laden as the Crucified Christ
- Against Me! – Fuckymylife666
- Against Me! – Dead Friend
- Against Me! – Two Coffins
- Against Me! – Paralytic States
- Against Me! – Black Me Out
Artist: Against Me!
Album: Transgender Dysphoria Blues
Producer: Laura Jane Grace
Label: Total Treble Music
Recorded: Total Treble Studios, Studio 606, Earthsound Recording, Motor Studios