This week, two different albums caught my attention for two completely different reasons. One is a shimmering piece of shoegazing bliss, the other is a soul-bearing punk record that punches you in the teeth and pulls at your heartstrings. Shelter is French-bred Alcest's best work yet, as the band strays further and further away from its black metal roots. Transgender Dysphoria Blues' title states up front the issues discussed in the album's lyrics; the first Against Me! release since singer Laura Jane Grace began living as a woman. Obviously, there are some hugely emotional and personal topics for Grace to sing about, and she lets it fly on Transgender Dysphoria Blues. I've decided today to review both albums because I think each one is special for varied, but equally important reasons: Shelter sounds beautiful, while the content on Transgender Dysphoria Blues makes it one of the most unique, raw, and important albums in a long, long time.
