"PAPA LOVES LADYBOYS" By ReeToxA
By By Karen Scott
"Papa Loves Ladyboys," new Melbourne alternative rock artist, ReeToxA, easily manages to catch people's attention with his opening line, something that is quite difficult to pull off. This is not so much due to shock factor, but rather it speaks to the human condition. Danceable, cheerful, belonging to the more catchy rock/pop genre, the song, in fact, is a juxtaposition. It tells the story of an elderly man, sick of the moonlighting, a masquerade in dealings with particular family members. He musters the courage to tell them the family secret: He is a member of the LGBTQ+ community. ReeToxA takes consummate resourcefulness around a polarizing and sensitive subject and breathes a constructively counterpoint positive air to it, albeit with realism and added joyous sarcasm, achieving a distinct, refreshing relatability.
The song's production sees a heavy mainstay influence of alternative rock, one of ReeToxA's well-embraced styles. While the more up-to-date pop radiance of the song may give a less rock overall feel, the production is easily an homage to the ‘60s grunge era rock band greats. The guitar features a pleasing friction and chopped to excellence bits that help one of the main goals of the song be easily achieved: it's remarkably danceable. While on the surface level this song may sound like an overall very upbeat song, the song is one of ReeToxA's more emotional. The instrumental arrangement mirrors the core message: identity may be difficult, but embracing it can be joyful, liberating, and even fun.
Like much of ReeToxA’s music, "Papa Loves Ladyboys" is a personal story told with disarming lyricism, and is, on its face, a nostalgic little tale. Its opening lines, and really throughout, self-reflect with a disarming wit, charm, and a sense of frigidity, yet manage to frame what is in fact a playful narrative. In this case, aimed to tell the story, set to a playful title, of an older gentleman finding his ID without an expiry, and full self-acceptance. It is, of course, an unfiltered narrative to some degree, but it is by no means narrated from a height above; rather, it is a false sense of positive self-reflection via wit and charm simply made to protect a fragile narrative, and it strikes the exact harmonic balance this piece is aiming for.
If any of the above resonates, it’s simply thanks to ReeToxA’s wonderfully expressive storytelling, delivered in and through the comfort of his own voice. One that resonates with an appropriate amount of vintage and contemporary grit, just enough to say, “I’ve lived this so fully,” without blurring comfort for either the story or the recipient. If truth and emotional depth, or simply lived experience and pain, take the form of a voice, that voice would simply belong to ReeToxA on this track. This lived depth is what really makes it an emotional ride every step of the way for the listener.
“Papa Loves Ladyboys” got my attention for yet another reason, which is the growth of ReeToxA as an artist. He has been writing for a long time, but this time, for the first time, he has released a project that is fully his. No filters, fully brave, humorous, and deeply human. His previous works, starting from the debut single, "Bobbie," which was raw, and his 14-track album, "Pines Salad," showed his authenticity and his willingness to take on difficult issues with real emotion. He is a fearless storyteller, and this new track continues that in a new way, with celebration. It is the kind of song that makes you want to dance, and also makes you appreciate the beauty of self-acceptance, no matter the age.
Bottom line, for a catchy rock/pop song, "Papa Loves Ladyboys" is a great family musical moment that turns into a celebration of self-identity and self-expression. It is also for those who struggle with family expectations. ReeToxA combines joy and depth with an infectious beat. This song is definitely one to add to the playlist. Go stream it, it’s the message of authenticity and acceptance that is quite worth it.