Ahead of his debut LP Giver Taker out later this month on Father/Daughter, Anjimile s
Like many of Giver Taker’s tracks, “In Your Eyes” offers one of Anjimile’s epiphanies about their identity. This time, the artist confronts others’ perceptions of himself, defying their categorizations as he bemoans their shallow worldview. What begins with just him and his guitar swells as additional vocalists enter the fray for a call-response in the second verse, all of the elements anchored by a thick bassline.
“This is another song about grappling with homophobia and ultimately recognizing that I am what I am,” Jimi says on the track. It’s a somber song, but the sorrow is for those who would live their lives constricted by such bigotry.
Stream “In Your Eyes” HERE
A day after the album’s release, Anjimile will host a virtual release show on their YouTube channel. The virtual release show is just one of a few virtual performances Anjimile will give this Fall. As part of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts’ September Nights series, he will perform a livestream from the museum’s courtyard. Later in October, he’ll appear on Save Stereogum’s Zoom event, where the compilation’s artists will perform a cover song of their choice from the ‘00s.
Stream “Baby No More” HERE
Anjimile’s newest record Giver Taker culminates after years of study, practice, and lived experience. Inspired by faith, addiction, and Anjimile’s own transition, the album tells a small story in each song that encompasses a larger voyage of self-discovery. Because aspects of his faith and his own trans identity can clash, he uses this album as a way to explore these dichotomies.
In “1978”, named the Best Boston Tiny Desk Submission of 2018 by WBUR, Anjimile describes the loss of a family member using a dark and psychedelic sound. The lyrics reflect the shame Anjimile felt and his desire to fall asleep “in the love of a mother.”
The enticing piano ballad “Giver Taker”, rightfully designated as the title track, provides a sendoff to the person he used to be. As the singer puts it, Giver Taker captures his ability to not only survive hardships, but grow into the person he was always meant to be.
Much of the recording was accomplished thanks in part to the Live Arts Boston Grant by the Boston Foundation and was produced by Gabe Goodman and bandmate/collaborator Justine Bowe.
