Dad's Best Friend

The Rubberbandits' song 'Dad's Best Friend' is a satirical and darkly humorous exploration of a character who embodies a chaotic and morally ambiguous lifestyle. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is deeply flawed, engaging in a series of questionable and often illegal activities. From stealing cocaine to lying about his father's death, the protagonist's actions are a mix of absurdity and tragedy, reflecting a life that is both out of control and deeply unsatisfied.

The song uses a variety of metaphors and cultural references to highlight the protagonist's disarray. For instance, his purchase of a tarantula from a Swedish guy who helped him with a DUI in Stockholm is a bizarre anecdote that underscores his reckless behavior. Similarly, his stalking of Ian Brown, a well-known British musician, adds a layer of surrealism to his character. The repeated mention of taking 'your dad' to Amsterdam for a stag weekend, involving activities like doing ketamine, serves as a metaphor for escapism and the pursuit of a misguided sense of freedom and masculinity.

The Rubberbandits, known for their satirical and often controversial style, use this song to critique societal norms and the concept of the 'mid-life crisis.' The protagonist's actions, such as watching gay porn in his garden shed and crying in a hooker's toilet, reveal a deep sense of loneliness and a desperate search for meaning. His strained relationships, particularly with his wife and her family, further emphasize his isolation. The song ultimately serves as a darkly comedic yet poignant commentary on the lengths to which people will go to escape their mundane or troubled lives, and the often destructive consequences of such actions.