Espousing Americana-framed social commentary with the vocal style and rhythm guitar of Neil Young, Horse Feathers’ “Fit Against the Country” takes a no-nonsense look at the modern day experience of the American everyman.
For those of you that aren’t familiar with antiquated English slang, “horsefeathers” is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary as an “exclamation used to express disagreement, disbelief, or frustration.” These sentiments are epitomized in “Fit Against the Country” and are a common thread in Horse Feathers’ music dating back to their start in 2006. Having recently completed their fourth studio album, appropriately entitled Cynic’s New Year, this Oregon-based band continues to use their familiar sound to express their tired discontent.
Brutal honesty flows innocently out of the lyrics, which describe the plight of the weary hard-working American:
“Every night we all go to a house we’ll never own / Every night we are tired, we’ve been worked to the bone / But nearly every day we earn a lower wage / Does it tell you what we’re made of, or are we just what we’re paid? / It’s a hard country we made.”
The song assumes the perspective of a member of the vast but commonly overlooked population who are still pursuing the fruits of an expired American dream. Although there is an undeniable somber quality of their music, Horse Feathers are not entirely enveloped by it. If you’re in the mood for sampling, try “Curs in the Weeds” for more of an Iron and Wine feel or “Belly of June” for something a bit brighter.
Horse Feathers is that old friend that tells you how it is but not what you want to hear. They drift uninhibitedly past your ego, and despite the strange feeling of guilt that they evoke, their message is relatable; it sticks. Embrace the humbling effect of their music and experience a refreshing state of reflection.