Antony and the Johnsons

Antony and the Johnsons is a musical project founded by British-American artist Anohni, originally known as Antony Hegarty. The project was formed in New York City in 1998 and is renowned for its poignant fusion of chamber pop, baroque elements, and poignant, soulful vocals. Anohni's powerful and androgynous voice became the defining feature of the band's sound, addressing themes of identity, transformation, and the human condition. The group's second album, "I Am a Bird Now" (2005), won the Mercury Prize and earned critical acclaim, securing their place in the avant-garde music scene. The album features collaborations with artists like Lou Reed and Boy George, adding depth and versatility to its emotional resonance. Antony and the Johnsons have released several other albums, including "The Crying Light" (2009) and "Swanlights" (2010), both of which continued to explore similar themes with haunting orchestral arrangements. In 2016, under the moniker Anohni, the artist released the album "Hopelessness," which marked a shift towards electronic music and political commentary. Anohni remains a distinctive voice in contemporary music, celebrated for both innovation and powerful storytelling.