Ted Nugent—gonzo guitarist, unabashed American patriot, shameless meat-eater/ hunter—cranked out a sure-to-become-classic with Craveman. The album is full bluntal nugity: over-the-top, sex-fueled lyrics and anthemic compositions featuring bluesy undercurrents that have guitars roaring with rock’n’roll fury. But those who know it’s all in the name of fun realize that therein lies the Nuge’s charm. “My Baby Likes My Butter on Her Gritz” is the seductive grind of the seediest striptease, whereas “Damned If Ya Do” could be any working Joe’s lament; “Sexpot’s” wah-wah effects gleefully channel Jimi Hendrix’s funkiness, and surprisingly mellow closer “Earthtones” has the free spirit of an improv jam session. On the battle cry “Rawdogs & Warhogs,” Nugent, a National Rifle Assn. board member, proudly attests, “I’m American made, American born/From my hands my flag will not be torn away . . . And I’m ready to fight/Just pick out the night.” Strangely, the thought of this man legally owning a weapon actually makes me feel safer about national security.—CLT
