"**Ass**" is the fourth studio album by the British rock band Badfinger, released in November 1973. The record holds particular significance as it was the last project the band released while signed to Apple Records, a company notoriously connected with The Beatles. Production on the album faced several delays, partly due to tensions within the band and issues with the label.
The album reflects a turbulent period for Badfinger. It contains songs with a blend of rock and pop influences, showcasing the band's knack for melodic hooks and harmonies. Tracks like "Apple of My Eye," written by Pete Ham, are particularly noteworthy for their introspective lyrics, purportedly addressing the band's feelings about leaving Apple Records.
Despite these challenges, **"Ass"** demonstrated the band's resilience and creativity. The cover art, designed by Peter Corriston, features a donkey inside a pitchfork-shaped apple frame, symbolizing the group's strained relationship with the label.
Upon its release, the album received mixed reviews, but over the years, it has been reassessed more favorably by fans and critics, who recognize the quality of the songwriting and performances. Its historical context and the quality of its tracks make it an essential part of Badfinger's discography.