The Villain

Published: Friday, August 8, 2025 at 4:00 am

Mal Blum's "The Villain" Redefines Antagonism

Mal Blum's latest album, "The Villain," offers a nuanced exploration of villainy, particularly as it relates to gender non-conformity and the complexities of relationships. The record delves into the exhaustion of being cast as the antagonist, especially within the context of a trans-for-trans breakup. Blum challenges the simplistic binary of victim and villain, urging listeners to question their own complicity in seeking out the "bad guy" in their lives.

The album marks a shift in Blum's musical style, moving away from earlier work's more lighthearted approach. This evolution is evident in their newly-settled vocal range, which allows for a more assured delivery. Blum uses this confidence to confront societal expectations surrounding masculinity. Tracks like "Killer" address anxieties about transmasculinity and internalized transphobia, while "Cool Guy" playfully subverts the stereotypical "cool guy" persona, exposing the hollowness of masculine performance as a defense against loneliness.

Blum underscores the challenges faced by queer men and transmasculine individuals, who are often pressured to emulate traditional masculine traits while simultaneously guarding against its toxic aspects. The album employs satire to address this demanding situation.

The production, led by Jessica Boudreaux, provides a polished complexity to the album. The music features contributions from Audrey Zee Whitesides on guitar and Ricardo Lagomasinos on drums. These elements create a tight and energetic sound that amplifies Blum's critiques. "Gabriel," a more intimate track, offers a stark contrast with its bare acoustic guitar and soft synth, showcasing a vulnerable side.

BNN's Perspective:

"The Villain" is a thought-provoking album that encourages listeners to examine their own biases and assumptions. While the subject matter is specific, the themes of vulnerability, identity, and the complexities of human relationships resonate universally. The album's artistic merit lies in its ability to challenge conventional narratives and offer a fresh perspective on masculinity and societal expectations.

Keywords: Mal Blum, The Villain, album, trans, transmasculine, masculinity, gender non-conformity, relationships, music, queer, identity, vulnerability, satire, Jessica Boudreaux, Audrey Zee Whitesides, Ricardo Lagomasinos

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