"Trans" is a studio album by Canadian musician Neil Young, released in December 1982. It was a departure from the folk and rock sound of his previous work and incorporated more electronic and technological elements inspired by the German group Kraftwerk. Conceptually, the album explores themes of communication and technology. The music includes both conventional songs and synthesized tracks that heavily feature vocoder-altered vocals.
This diversification was poorly received by fans and critics who were used to Young's earlier styles. It was a commercial disappointment upon its release. However, its critical reputation has improved in the decades since its release.
While recording "Trans", Young was inspired by the synthesizer-driven music of the new wave and electro-pop genres and the accompanying visuals which often featured robots and technology. He also used the technology of the time to emulate the limited speech ability of his son Ben Young who lived with cerebral palsy, hence the heavy use of the Vocoder.
The album was also recorded around the same time when Neil Young was trying to free himself from his record contract with Geffen Records. His stylistic deviations from his established sound created tension and led to a lawsuit from the label, which accused Young of making music that was uncharacteristic of his previous work. Despite these challenges, "Trans" remains a noteworthy piece of Young's discography due to its experimental nature and the conversation it creates regarding the translation and transformation of communication through technology.
