Thursday, March 20, 2008

Hobo Humpin’ Slobo Babe


Song: Hobo Humpin’ Slobo Babe
Artist: Whale
Album: We Care





My good friend Mike reminded me of the existence of this typically odd “Alternative Nation” seeking Swedish band who had a sole hit with this single back in 1993. I wouldn’t look for deeper meaning, the song came from a time when being “different” meant you had a record deal. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy this song at the time… but it also didn’t make me run out and buy the record. I hadn’t heard from Whale before or since but a little research unearthed some interesting facts…

The band was formed back in 1987 (As Southern Whale Cult) and released a handful of albums in Sweden before signing a worldwide deal in the early 90’s and recording “We Care” with producer Tricky. No second single ever took hold, but they did record a second album, “All Disco Dance Must End In Broken Bones” (really?) in 1998 with famed producer Brad Wood. (Liz Phair, Veruca Salt, Pete Yorn, and Ben Lee.) I have neither heard anything else off of “We Care” nor any of the sophomore record. I am sure there is a used record bin somewhere that may have multiple copies of both.

This is a goofy song that might hit a few nostalgia buttons if played in the correct context. If nothing else, it reminded me how nut-so the video was…

Enjoy.

Hobo Humpin’ Slobo Babe

Doc Martins, check. Scream/shout vocals, check. Braces…. hot.

3 comments:

Mike Heffron said...

This song is actually about nuclear proliferation, it's in favor of it... think about it, I haven't.

Unknown said...

I had misheard lyrics syndrome and thought the song was a confusing Freudian schizo maker.... ie, baby we love you, baby we don't love you baby. Wrong. The lead singer was so fine, though, it was meaningless what it meant then to me. She was the only thing I remember. Lol.

Unknown said...

Best comment I've read probably ever.