Bright Eyes and Cursive have joined forces to release a new collaboration tune, the incredibly-titled “Recluse I Don’t Have to Love. Seen above, it made its debut on Bandcamp only. This musical mashup comes out on the International Transgender Day of Visibility. It’s a historic moment for both bands and their beloved LGBTQ+ community.
The song is a creative blend of two tracks from the early 2000s: “The Recluse” from Cursive’s 2003 album, The Ugly Organ, and “Lover I Don’t Have to Love” from Bright Eyes’ 2002 LP, Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground. The two bands’ years-worth of inside joke has ignited the fuse behind this explodable collaboration. They’ve particularly highlighted the lyrical and melodic similarities to their songs throughout the years.
All proceeds from the sale of “Recluse I Don’t Have to Love” will go to the Poison Oak Project profits from sale. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to achieving equity for LGBTQ+ people, with an emphasis on service to and advocacy for the transgender community. This collaboration is a perfect fit for both bands’ dedication to social justice and uplifting marginalized communities.
The release of this song comes amidst Bright Eyes’ recent touring efforts in promotion of their new album, Five Dice, All Threes. Then the tour came through and set the world on fire. This newest sonic contribution is a testament to the band’s artistry and their desire to further the discussion about representation and inclusivity.
While music fans throughout the world rejoice at this unexpected collaboration, there’s something special about the timing of its release. Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) is an annual worldwide celebration of the transgender community and their many contributions, successes, and accomplishments. It not only combats discrimination, it educates, raising awareness and understanding.