Anohni and the Johnsons “my back is a bridge for you to cross” Rough Trade

September 2023 | MUSIC, 23/09

The transgender singer with the unique voice made a name for herself in the early 2000s under her birth name: Antoni. The Johnsons are named after Marsha P. Johnson, an American transgender activist. The album cover is a portrait of the latter, whom Anohni met a few days before her death, and who was to have a decisive influence on her career and the positions she took. Musically, even if you’ve never studied her discography, chances are you’ve already heard her sing, as she’s taken part in tracks by so many renowned artists, including Björk and Lou Reed. With this album, Anohni moves into a new style: after the neo-folk of her debut and the electro of “hopelessness”, we’re here in a very soulful universe with a decidedly trendy sound. The themes addressed, such as ecology and the position of trans people, are always committed and demonstrate the artist’s sensitivity. The tracks, often quiet, sometimes upbeat, allow the artist’s distinctive voice to hit the mark once again.