Catman Cohen has been criticized sharply for taking an extremely atypical approach in presenting himself as a music artist. Critics have suggested that he has "something to hide," possibly a sordid past of some kind, hence the absence of photos and bio details. Various theories have included the possibility he is everything from a hideously deformed freak; a burn victim embarrassed by his wounds; a throat cancer patient; or simply an elderly, silver-haired baby boomer far too aged to be a new artist in a very youthful music industry. The more outlandish speculations have included the possibility he is a once famous musician who faked his death and now records under the Catman name; an underage 15-year-old computer whiz kid who utilizes a digital synthesizer to effect the bizarre Catman bullfrog voice; and a member of a witness protection program.
In terms of his songs, Catman has received heated criticism from both sides of the eco-socio-politico spectrum: liberals have objected to songs deemed to be reactionary, in terms of their focus on God, family, and strong support of the military. At the same time, he has been a target of scorn from conservatives who reject song themes considered to be pro-homosexual; pro-animal rights; and pro-environmental activism, particularly in regard to the bottled water industry. His only official comment to such criticisms is that he is a universalist who does not view life entirely in terms of black and white, instead leaning toward perspectives that recognize the many shades of grey.
On September 8, 2005, Catman Cohen issued a press release denouncing How I Want to Die suicide websites and blogs appearing on the internet. Having been alerted about various teenagers creating such suicide websites/blogs, Catman went on record, stating that, "although dark and downbeat in tone, How I Want to Die is not a music CD advocating suicide, nor was it ever designed to be."
Catman further stated: "I created the music CD, How I Want to Die at a time in my life when I was severely depressed about personal matters and the state of the nation - and no doubt the CD reflects that fact. It serves as a personal confession of my darkest secrets - and it resolves in favor of life, not against it. How I Want to Die urges a path toward implementing solutions, not a path toward surrender."
Catman urged despondent young kids embracing How I Want to Die as a tribute to suicide to seek counsel of friends, family, or mental health professionals.
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