Description
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ANOHNI, the British-born, New York-based artist, returns with her highly anticipated sixth studio album, My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross. Following her 2016 release, HOPELESSNESS, this album is a transformative exploration of personal and political themes, embodying the artist’s unique perspective on the world.
In discussing the album, ANOHNI reveals her admiration for Marvin Gaye’s seminal work, What’s Going On, and its influence on her creative process. She sees My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross as a response to What’s Going On, but from the perspective of the present day. It is an echo from the future, reflecting on the societal issues that still persist 50 years later.
The album delves into ANOHNI’s personal experiences and her observations of the world around her. It questions the intersection of personal and political, and the album’s heartfelt music serves as a means of self-expression and critique. ANOHNI recognizes the inherent contradictions in our cultural mythologies and aims to challenge established power dynamics through her lyrics.
To create this album, ANOHNI collaborated with producer Jimmy Hogarth, known for his work with artists like Amy Winehouse and Duffy. This collaboration allowed ANOHNI to explore new avenues and embrace a different approach to songwriting. Together, they crafted a collection of songs that are intimate, thought-provoking, and sonically rich.
With Hogarth’s intuitive guitar leading the way, My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross traverses various genres, including American soul, British folk, and experimental music. ANOHNI’s sensual and emotive voice carries the weight of her lyrics, tackling subjects such as the loss of loved ones, inequality, privilege, and the power of nature. The album’s themes also touch on Future Feminism and the potential for transformative change in our societies.
The album cover features a portrait of gay rights activist Marsha P. Johnson, a symbol of ANOHNI’s longstanding connection to her memory and the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the artwork includes paintings by Sylvester Hustito, a Zuni Two Spirit artist, providing a queer and indigenous perspective on America’s history.
ANOHNI’s intention as a lyricist is to challenge power structures and promote self-awareness. The album’s artwork boldly declares, “IT’S TIME TO FEEL WHAT’S REALLY HAPPENING,” inviting listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and imagine a different future.
My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross is a testament to ANOHNI’s evolution as an artist and her commitment to amplifying the voices of those on the front lines of social change. She hopes that her music can provide solace and inspiration to listeners, fostering a sense of unity and empowering them to confront the challenges of our time.
As an artist, ANOHNI recognizes that her work is part of a larger process of transformation. She hopes that future generations will build upon the ideas presented in her music and use them as a catalyst for positive change. In a world facing significant challenges, ANOHNI’s album serves as a call to action, urging us to dismantle destructive systems and embrace a life-sustaining sensibility.
My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross is a poetic and political masterpiece that showcases ANOHNI’s ability to fuse introspection, activism, and musical artistry. Drawing inspiration from Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On, ANOHNI’s album transcends time, offering a poignant reflection on the state of the world. With each heartfelt track, ANOHNI challenges societal norms, encourages self-reflection, and advocates for transformative change. My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross is a powerful reminder of the unique role that music plays in shaping our understanding of the personal and political landscapes we navigate. ANOHNI’s artistry invites us to confront uncomfortable truths and work towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.
