Released on March 21 2019 on Apple Music, iTunes and YouTube.
Cast-Off features Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals); Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon (vocals), Sean Carey (vocals, keyboards); Michael Lewis (saxophone); Jeremy Ylvisaker (guitar); J.V. Collier (bass); Brad Cook (bass); Chris Messina (loops); J.T. Bates (drums). Co-written with Justin Vernon.
“Manages to animate a rare style – miserablist polyrhythms – without skimping on the funk itself.”
“This song was put together in Eau Claire, WI last April, starting with an unused film cue, developed and expanded upon in the studio with spontaneous contributions from Sean Carey (who just walked in and started singing), Jeremy Ylvisaker (playing guitar that doesn’t sound like guitar!), Mike Lewis and J.T. Bates on sax and drums, Brad Cook (and later Noisemaker J.V. Collier) on bass, and Justin and I taking turns in the vocal booth trading ideas and melodies. Pretty much, mostly concocted right there at April Base! (Justin Vernon’s recording facility).”
Cast-Off meaning
Cast-Off” is a reflection on rejection, acceptance, and humility. The song delves into the idea of embracing being cast aside by others, but instead of resentment, there’s a sense of peace and even gratitude. Bruce has explained that this song is about accepting rejection, learning to be grateful for it, and embodying patience and humility in the process.
Exploring rejection and acceptance
The central theme of the song revolves around being cast off or rejected, yet still finding a way to embrace that experience. In the lyrics, the protagonist acknowledges that while being discarded might be seen as “terrible,” they manage to find a kind of peace, describing the feeling as not being so bad. This suggests a deep level of emotional maturity, where the pain of rejection is turned into an opportunity for growth.
Lines like “I’ll be your cast-off, be your discarded toy” show the speaker’s willingness to take on the role of someone who is no longer valued. However, instead of bitterness, there’s a quiet acceptance, as they declare, “I kinda ain’t shit, but I embrace it.” This line speaks to the idea of ego dissolution and embracing humility.
The back for stabbing
One poignant line in the song is “Here’s my back for stabbin’.” This suggests a resigned attitude toward betrayal or rejection. Despite the harshness of this image, it is presented as if the speaker is offering their vulnerability, almost with a sense of self-sacrifice or surrender.
Gratitude in rejection
The lyrics also touch on finding gratitude within rejection, as Bruce himself has mentioned. The repeated refrain of “I’ll be your cast-off” illustrates that the speaker has learned to accept being the “discarded toy” or the “maybe, sometime choice.” This could be interpreted as a metaphor for various life situations, whether in relationships, friendships, or career paths, where the speaker isn’t the first choice but is content with the role they’ve been given.
Self-loathing and acceptance
The phrase “self-loathing never felt so good” presents an interesting paradox. On the surface, the term self-loathing suggests a negative view of oneself, yet in this context, there’s a hint of liberation in fully embracing one’s flaws. The speaker isn’t fighting their rejection or trying to change the situation; instead, they take comfort in accepting their place as the “cast-off.” This idea aligns with themes of humility and egolessness, which Bruce has mentioned as central to the song’s message.
Final thoughts
“Cast-Off” presents a nuanced portrayal of how to handle rejection, shifting from feelings of self-loathing and betrayal to a place of inner peace and acceptance. The song encourages listeners to see rejection as not necessarily a negative experience, but as something that can foster growth, patience, and humility.