As you examine the naked body of Hank von Helvete in the Ass Cobra liner notes, notice the sleek but powerful tone of the thighs, the unwavering comeliness of the face and neck, the body hair - the intoxicating and formidable figure as a whole. Indeed, as Hank lay there with a snake draped over his fair body, it does not take one long to realize
this is the pinnacle of human beauty. Unfortunately, the crotch is not visible.
The image is a fairly accurate forecast of Turbonegro's sound: the power and freedom of rock, the daringness of punk, the glamour of the big stage. All of this punctuated with a hint of danger.
Ass Cobra often takes a backseat to Apocalypse Dudes in discussions of Turbonegro's best work, but this album is at least close to the same tier. The combination of the great music, the fearless taboo humor and their depraved, denim-clad image is just too good to be true.
This album is rougher and more punk than the albums that would follow. The big stage party-dudes theme present in the band's more recent work is mostly absent here in favor of a more mosh-friendly sound and unabashed perverseness. You might point out that Turbonegro is always perverse, but nothing comes close to "The Midnight NAMBLA," a reference to the Rolling Stones' "Midnight Rambler." Very few artists can boast a lyrical line as grand as, "The fondler of the nobbler / The nemesis of the toddler." The 'NAMBLA!' chorus sung in falsetto is just too much.
Two absurd yet superb and moshable tracks are "Mobile Home" and "I Got Erection." "Mobile Home," a brilliant cover of The Lewd, depicts a tragic tale of being born into and eventually dying in a trailer park. "I Got Erection" tells a story about becoming aroused while murdering a stranger and disposing of the body to the tune of high quality rock and roll. Hilarious.
One of the bonus tracks not on the 1996 release, "Screwed & Tattooed," is also a highlight. The song is more melodic and upbeat than the rest of the album, but still is entirely suitable for rocking out.
Ass Cobra isn't a dazzling display of talent, but it's pretty close. Even without the hilarious fat-guy-in-denim image and the entirely inappropriate lyrical genius, the music is pretty solid. Still, this album is brilliant because the humor and aesthetic baggage it comes with puts it over the top. This band is immensely entertaining and Ass Cobra is a one of a kind.
