Kacey Musgraves continues to shine on the stylistically-ambiguous “High Horse,” the third promo single from her highly-anticipated third studio album, ‘Golden Hour.’

Kacey Musgraves is back at it! The two-time, Grammy-winning country artist returns with her first original material since Pageant Material (2015).  Unfortunately, Pageant Material was an incredibly underrated affair.  It shouldn’t have been.  “No need to cry over spilled milk,” as the old saying goes. Moving on, “High Horse” marks the third single from Musgraves’ highly-anticipated, third studio album, Golden Hour (March 30, 2018).  The teaser follows two rock-solid singles – “Butterfly” and “Space Cowboy”.

Starting with the elephant in the room (all these old-sayings and catch phrases, sigh). The question that comes in mind when listening to “High Horse” is, is this really a country song?  While Kacey Musgraves has a dash of country sensibility vocally, and the production has some subtle country cues and instrumentation, “High Horse” exhibits a wider appeal.  This record is incredibly groovy, potentially owing more to pop and old-school dance and soul.  Honestly, it takes a banjo sneaking in towards the end to confirm that this is a country record.

For traditionalists, country’s blurred lines might bother them. The definition and what is or isn’t acceptable musically within the genre’s confines have changed.  Kacey Musgraves showcases that clearly here.  For the more open-minded listeners, this ambiguousness is endearing.  But maybe most importantly, Musgraves still musters up a good ole narrative that is fitting for the country fans – someone who thinks they’re the…

“‘Cause everyone knows someone who kills the buzz
Every time they open up their mouth
Yeah, everyone knows someone who knows someone

Who thinks they’re cooler than everybody else…

And I think we’ve seen enough, seen enough
To know that you ain’t ever gonna come down
So why don’t you giddy up, giddy up
And ride straight out of this town
You and your high horse…”

Final Thoughts

Kacey Musgraves is like the 1976 Indiana Hoosiers team who went a perfect 32-0.  No, “High Horse” isn’t a perfect record, but in the context of her career and as a performer, Musgraves continues to intrigue.  Consistent, and the ambiguity stylistically is intriguing.

Kacey Musgraves • Golden Hour • MCA Nashville • Release: 3.30.18

Writers: Kacey Musgraves, Thomas Schleiter & Trent Dabbs « Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk & Kacey Musgraves 

Photo Credit: MCA Nashville