Mal Blum’s "The Villain": A Nuanced Exploration of Antagonism and Masculinity
Reimagining Villainy
On their fifth album, The Villain, Mal Blum redefines the archetype of the villain, particularly for those who identify with bad-boy imagery. This record delves into the personal aspects of villainy, stemming from Blum’s experiences in a trans-for-trans breakup. The album serves not only as a reflection of personal exhaustion but also as a commentary on a society that often vilifies gender non-conformity. Through their music, Blum challenges the binary understanding of victim and villain, urging listeners to reconsider their role in perpetuating this dynamic.
A Personal and Political Lens
The title track encapsulates Blum’s introspection: "I was too willing/To make you the villain…Does it make me the villain?" This lyric embodies the complex emotions tied to personal relationships while also addressing broader societal issues. Blum’s exploration of villainy is multifaceted, encouraging listeners to question their complicity in labeling individuals as the “bad guy” in their narratives.
A Shift in Tone and Delivery
Confidence in a New Sound
Gone is the playful, dysphoric tone of Blum’s earlier work. In The Villain, a newfound confidence emerges, marked by a post-testosterone tenor range. This vocal evolution allows Blum to tackle assumptions surrounding masculinity with an assuredness that invites deeper reflection.
Challenging Masculine Norms
In “Killer,” Blum confronts the anxieties associated with transmasculinity and internalized transphobia. They candidly sing, “Baby, I’m all wrong,” while simultaneously dismantling the harmful stereotype that links trans men to violence. With lines about “killing flies” and “pouring their corpses down the drain,” Blum highlights the absurdity of these associations.
On “Cool Guy,” Blum playfully subverts the typical confident persona, proclaiming, “Everywhere I go, I am somebody,” only to reveal the stark truth: “I’ve got nobody.” This juxtaposition exposes the hollowness of certain masculine performances and invites reflection on the societal conditioning that enforces such behaviors.
The Complexity of Masculinity
The Burden of Performance
Blum poignantly addresses the pressures faced by queer men and transmasculine individuals, who often feel compelled to embody traditional masculine traits while simultaneously rejecting their toxicity. Lines like “I don’t know him that well, he was always cool to me” and “I don’t wanna talk about/Anything I’m thinking” illustrate the isolation and emotional barriers these individuals encounter. Satire becomes a powerful tool for navigating this complex landscape.
Production and Musicality
A Polished Complexity
Produced by Jessica Boudreaux of Summer Cannibals, The Villain showcases a polished sound that adds depth to Blum’s lyrical explorations. Tracks like “Truth Is out There” and “Killer” benefit from guitarist Audrey Zee Whitesides’ vibrant contributions, providing a sharp counterpoint to Blum’s emotional weight.
The pop-punk anthem “I’m so Bored” features drummer Ricardo Lagomasino, whose precise playing enhances Blum’s incisive lyrics, such as “You don’t have friends/You have meetings.” This combination creates a lively soundscape that amplifies the album’s critiques.
Vulnerability in Simplicity
“Gabriel,” in contrast, strips back instrumentation to bare acoustic guitar and soft synth, creating an intimate space for reflection. This song serves as Blum’s direct address to an ex, highlighting the emotional aftermath of a relationship. Notably, the inclusion of a voice crack adds a layer of authenticity, challenging the stereotype that men must consistently present a steady demeanor. This moment of vulnerability stands as a radical act within the context of masculinity.
Conclusion
In The Villain, Mal Blum successfully navigates the complexities of villainy, masculinity, and the personal narratives that shape our identities. Through their exploration of trans experiences and societal expectations, Blum invites listeners to question their own perceptions of good and evil, vulnerability and strength. The album is a courageous reflection that resonates deeply in today’s cultural landscape.
FAQs
What themes are explored in The Villain?
The Villain explores themes of personal and societal villainy, trans identity, masculinity, and the emotional complexities of relationships.
How does Blum’s sound differ in this album compared to previous works?
Blum’s sound in The Villain showcases a polished complexity and a newfound confidence, moving away from the jokey dysphoric flair of earlier albums.
What is the significance of the song “Gabriel”?
“Gabriel” serves as an intimate reflection on a past relationship, highlighting vulnerability and authenticity through its stripped-back instrumentation and emotional delivery.
How does Blum challenge societal norms regarding masculinity?
Blum challenges societal norms by addressing the pressures to conform to traditional masculine traits while also critiquing the harmful stereotypes associated with transmasculinity.
