Tyler Glenn, Trash | Track Review 🎵

[usr 4.5]

Neon Trees frontman Tyler Glenn makes a bold, brave statement on single “Trash,” the promo single for his debut album, Excommunication.

Neon Trees frontman Tyler Glenn releases his debut album Excommunication on October 21, 2016.  While Excommunication isn’t a highly anticipated album commercially, it’s one of the most intriguing efforts of 2016.  Excommunication is about Glenn’s exit from the Mormon church.  He wasn’t excommunicated, but being openly gay, the Mormon church isn’t known for its openness in regards to LGBT people.

“Trash” was the first single released from the album. Previously, pre-release single “G.D.M.M.L. Grls” was reviewed on The Musical Hype.  “G.D.M.M.L. Grls” was also featured in our evergreen post, 20 Notable LGBT Songs Released in the Last Five Years.  “Trash” could’ve easily made the list as well.

“Trash” is among the biggest statements of Excommunication.  An accompanying music video is an event in itself. Glenn denounces the LDS Church with a passion, beginning from the jump:

“I think I lost myself in your new religion
You say a prayer for me like a superstition.”

Glenn proceeds to amplify the spiritual references, whether its “speak in tongues,” “seeing visions,” “seven deadly sins,” or “baptize” among others.  On the chorus, he lets her rip to say the least:

“Your friends think I’m a freak
What was in my drink?
I can’t even think, but we got history
In all of this, I lost myself
Maybe I’ll see you in hell
Okay, whatever
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

The chorus summarizes Glenn’s lot in life, the narrow views of the church he once loved by his estimation, and how he’s moving forward.   He’s gay, another man will love him even if the church won’t, and he’s done putting his faith into a church that doesn’t support him. The lyrics are the real treat of “Trash” – no trash in the least.  Even so, the production work complements the assertions of Glenn, intensifying the emotions.  When listening to “Trash,” it sounds something like an updated Depeche Mode record.  Therefore, controversial content aside – if that’s not your thing – it is awesome.

Final Thoughts 

Glenn pours his heart and soul into “Trash.” This record won’t appeal to everybody because of its message and lyrical content. It should resonate with the LBGT community, particularly those who are/were formerly Mormon.  While Glenn centers on the LDS church, “Trash” has a bigger message of acceptance applicable to a number of religions and organizations.  Thinking smaller, sans the message, slick production work and Glenn’s exceptional vocals should be enough to woo.

Tyler Glenn • Excommunication • Island • Release: 10.21.16 

Photo Credit: Island