Sobacol
Los Mox!
The Stench of Neglect: A Humorous Take on Hygiene
Los Mox!, a Chilean punk rock band known for their humorous and often irreverent lyrics, delivers a satirical commentary on personal hygiene with their song 'Sobacol.' The title itself is a playful portmanteau of 'soba' (armpit) and 'alcohol,' setting the tone for a song that humorously critiques poor hygiene habits. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who neglects basic cleanliness, using exaggerated and comical imagery to highlight the consequences of such neglect.
The song opens with references to strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions, combined with a lack of soap and infrequent showers. This sets the stage for a character who uses minimal effort to maintain cleanliness, resorting to occasional shampoo and a quick 'cat wash' before social events. The use of 'Colonia inglesa' (English cologne) to impress others adds a layer of irony, as it contrasts sharply with the overall lack of hygiene.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the character's neglect extends beyond just body odor. The lyrics mention forgotten deodorant, neglected toothpaste, and dirty hands, creating a vivid and somewhat repulsive image. The humorous tone is maintained with lines like 'even the cats want to vomit' and 'bacteria are having a carnival,' emphasizing the extreme nature of the character's hygiene issues. The song concludes with a reference to the character's monthly bath, underscoring the infrequency of their cleaning routine.
'Sobacol' uses humor and exaggeration to address a common social issue, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The song's playful language and vivid imagery effectively convey the message while keeping the listener engaged and amused.