Well, here we go again
You’ve found yourself a friend that knows you wellBut no matter what you do
You’ll always feel as though you tripped and fellSo steady as she goes
I have been hopelessly obsessed with this Raconteurs song. And the surest way I have found to quash an obsession is to attempt to write about it. The exquisite appeal of a perceived masterpiece, tethered to the base expression of an amateur? Buzz kill guaranteed. So, “Steady As She Goes“:
[link]
Okay, first of all, a leading bass line is a reliable hook in the heart. In this case, the rhythm section modestly lures me in, the twang of the guitar beckons… then those whiny vocals pounce, and the trap is sprung. I love how the catchy jostle of the verse releases into the charging momentum of the chorus. Ride the wave of emotion, whee! The inevitable yearning for steadfast companionship. The nauseating dread that it will sour. Because, to review: I found myself a husband and settled down. I tried the simple life in a quiet town. Now what? Steady as she goes…
Besides all those good old-fashioned desires and delusions played out in the song, several other of my weaknesses are present and accounted for in the video. Solid Midwestern boys of a certain age. The practiced shagginess and affected moodiness of adorable musicians. The dry humor and laconic blues of Jim Jarmusch (who is responsible for wrangling the skittish cattle and claustrophobic farmhouse). So, giddy on up! But steady as she goes…



