I’ll start by saying I have a love/hate relationship with folk-punk. Done right, it’s one of the most authentic styles out there. But it has a lot of genre tropes that annoy me too. Fortunately, She/Her/Hers plays it right, because the genre is also a great fit for the theme of this record.
She/Her/Hers began as a solo project from Emma Grrl, first capturing a minimalist, acoustic journal-style take of her experience coming out as a transgender woman. Grrl released a couple EPs in this format, leading up to this self-titled debut LP, which takes those older songs but adds new perspective, accompanied by a full band and wider range of sounds. In other words, this starts as a very personal, intimate experience about a defining experience and it grew into something more outward. The final product is undeniably folk-punk, but with a lot of variety from song to song. Sure, there are old school Against Me! moments, but also big poppy choruses, sincere ballads, and tinges of metal and cabaret. It’s a very diverse record, yet it’s intensely Grrl’s personal story, with ups and downs along the journey.
A few songs are big singalong, peppy jams (that contrast with themes of isolation), like “Sweaters in Summer” or “Gender Is Boring,” while “Transitioning (to a life without you)” is more dramatic with elements of ‘80s rock, and even a little piano in the big finisher: “I Think I Finally Love Myself.” Many songs begin with that stripped down folk-punk core, then build instrumentation over the top for chamber pop highs. This gives a raw and personal feel that is simultaneously uplifting and big.
This record covers serious and personal issues, while taking the listener along on a complex journey. It’s an open book that both enlightens to Grrl’s experiences, while demanding empathy as trans people are increasingly targeted in the wider culture. The reason this record strikes such a chord is because it balances complex issues with real human emotion. It’s not just a message; it’s never preaching to the choir. It’s personal. It’s art.
