Cop Shoot Cop

The Profile

Cop Shoot Cop were an American noise rock/industrial band from New York City, active from 1987 to 1996. Led by singer/bassist Tod Ashley (Tod A.), they emerged from the post–no wave scene with a dual-bass, sampler-heavy sound and evolved toward more melodic structures by Release.

NYC-origin industrial/noise outfit associated with the post–no wave underground; instrumentation often centered on two basses, sampler, and metallic percussion; members include Tod Ashley (aka Tod A.), Jim Coleman, Jack Natz, and Phil Puleo. Their discography spans Consumer Revolt (1990), White Noise (1991), Ask Questions Later (1993), and Release (1994), with later incorporation of guitar on Release. Noted tracks include “Room 429” and “$10 Bill.” Tod A. later formed Firewater.

Five reviews trace Cop Shoot Cop’s evolution from the abrasive Consumer Revolt to the more melodic but still caustic Release. Ask Questions Later emerges as a cult peak, with standout tracks like Room 429 and $10 Bill. The band’s NYC post–no wave roots, dual-bass attack, and sampler-centric method frame dystopian, cyberpunk-tinged themes.