By Keith Walsh
Capturing a moment of realization that comes too late – though it’s never too late, Female President’s new tune “Oh Darlin’ What Have I Done?” has much to say about the necessary loss and regret that comes with testing boundaries, while finding one’s way in a relationship — or so it seems. Looking more closely at the lyrics, it’s a gothic western tale.
“Oh Darlin What Have I Done” is a song originally by Jake Smith. As performed by Dréa Atkins and Female President, it’s a powerfully dark and beautiful alt country tune. The misadventure in the lyrics is stereotypical of fictional toxic masculinity, as portrayed in Western films. Three minutes in and Atkins’ vocal delivery accelerates in exciting ways, as the music climaxes. There’s a small element of campiness to the whole thing, but not much. The tone is more gothic western, with super sharp video work, conceptualized and edited by the entire band.
Female President are from North Carolina, formed during the pandemic, and comprised of members of DSR, Farewell Albatross and Vacant Lights.
Atkins also adds guitar work, while Johnny Moss delivers bass, Jasper Cunningham plays drums, and Geoff White adds violin. The song mixed and mastered at Catalyst Recording.
Jake Smith is a singer songwriter who works with the pseudonym The White Buffalo. He’s based in Los Angeles, originally from Oregon.
Music | Female President on Bandcamp
Female President On YouTube
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