In their debut album, “Body Building,” Tom Rasmussen, known for their drag alter-ego Crystal, delves into the multifaceted nature of queer identity and the violence faced by the LGBTQ+ community, specifically as a trans non-binary person in the UK.
Beyond the surface level of queer visibility, Rasmussen’s album questions what comes next, taking a deep dive into their own internal struggles and experiences with transness. They confront the ongoing transphobia in the media and politics and the discrimination faced by queer individuals in everyday life.
Through their music, Rasmussen hopes to create a safe space for queer listeners to embrace their “main character” energy, inspiring them to live their lives authentically despite the violence and challenges they face.
While the album is a reflection of their own experiences, Rasmussen’s work speaks to a larger conversation surrounding the complexities of queer identity and the violence and discrimination that queer individuals face. They present a multi-faceted approach to the issues, exploring similar experiences from different angles and responses to violence.
Through “Body Building,” Rasmussen communicates their experiences with violence and discrimination, with songs that are raw, vulnerable, and thought-provoking. They tackle difficult questions about the nature of transness, identity, and discrimination, and offer a space for queer listeners to see themselves represented and affirmed.
Overall, “Body Building” is a powerful and necessary addition to the conversation on queer identity, visibility, and liberation. By exploring the complexities of the queer experience, Rasmussen invites listeners to join them in the conversation, fostering a greater understanding and empathy for the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.