Against Me!
Against Me! have announced a UK tour to support their album Transgender Dysphoria Blues, which was released earlier this year. Over the years Against Me! have struggled with fans challenging them over their ideologies as a band, as they seemed to be losing their punk-anarchy roots.
Unsurprising when you have a catalogue of six albums and demos dating back to 1997. This latest album moves away from arguments of ideology, and into true identity.
As suggested by the title, the album deals with gender dysphoria, following the journey of vocalist Laura Jane Grace, who came out as a transgender woman in 2012. Grace wrote many of the songs on the album around that time, and brought them together with a sprinkling of punk distortion to form the 10 tracks of Transgender Dysphoria Blues.
A realm of insightful song-writing
Musically, the album jumps up and down with straight up punk, metal blends, and even acoustics on “Two Coffins.” Humbled under the sounds and shouting is a realm of insightful song-writing. Alongside the well-known laments of loss and love, the deeper journey of gender dysphoria tackles misogynistic culture, self-discovery and acceptance.
The critical reception for Transgender Dysphoria Blues praised Grace for coming out in a genre that was once often criticised. While we have come a long way in challenging misogyny, Against Me! are definitely joining the forefront of the movement.
There’s an overpowering sense of aggression and rage within the vocals, no doubt Grace’s release for everything she has overcome over the last two years. Going through a few line-up changes since their 2011 release White Crosses, Grace’s strong vocals are backed by guitarist / vocalist James Bowman, dummer Atom Willard, with Fat Mike of NOFX adding bass for “FUCKMYLIFE666” and “Unconditional Love.”
Hitting the road and taking to the stage
Against Me! are known for bring their punk antics to the stage and delivering a memorable show. Their UK tour sees them hitting a series of locations around the country, appearing at some renowned venues including Birmingham’s 02 Academy and the Electric Ballroom in Camden. Tickets are on sale now for the following dates:
13 November: Bristol: Bierkeller
14 November: Birmingham: 02 Academy
15 November: Glasgow: King Tuts
16 November: Leeds: Cockpit
17 November: Portsmouth: Wedgewood Rooms
18 November: Manchester
19 November: London: Electric Ballroom
Are you planning to catch Against Me! on their tour? Let us know in the comments below!
