Record Heat: Why the Hell Are You So Sad? by Brad Dwyer

See also: Six Against Me! Songs We Can't Wait to Hear Tom Gabel Sing as a Woman In an election year, it's normal for the national conversation to get heated. "War on Women," "War on Marriage," "War on Healthcare" -- you get the idea. Last week, Tom Gabel of Against...

By Jason P. Woodbury

May 14, 2012

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In an election year, it's normal for the national conversation to get heated. "War on Women," "War on Marriage," "War on Healthcare" -- you get the idea.

Last week, Tom Gabel of Against Me! announced plans to begin living as a woman. Fans dug into his lyrics looking for clues, and comment sections on sites like Punknews.org became a fevered ground for back-and-forth dialogue, with some decrying his decision and even more vocalizing their support.

The move -- coupled with President Obama's historic and controversial endorsement of gay marriage -- sparked a whole bunch of conversations.

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Jason P. Woodbury is a music and pop-culture writer based in Phoenix. He is a regular contributor to the music blog Aquarium Drunkard and co-host of the Transmissions podcast.

Contact: Jason P. Woodbury

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Twitter: @Jasonpwoodbury