"Wanted Dread or Alive" by Ashley Allred
Peter Tosh’s 1981 release “Wanted Dread or Alive” is one of my all-time favorite albums. I find myself choosing this one more than any of the rest. Don’t get me wrong, Peter Tosh couldn’t make a bad song if he tried but there’s just something about this upbeat, drum and bass infused album I just can’t get enough of.
Classic Pick Edition
Peter Tosh – Wanted Dread or Alive
Review by Ashley Allred
Peter Tosh’s 1981 release “Wanted Dread or Alive” is one of my all-time favorite albums. I find myself choosing this one more than any of the rest. Don’t get me wrong, Peter Tosh couldn’t make a bad song if he tried but there’s just something about this upbeat, drum and bass infused album I just can’t get enough of.
Tosh’s sound is more “pop” than his formers Wailers members Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer but that is part of its appeal. This album gives a new meaning to the phrase “full length.” With 14 tracks, 5 of which are longer than 5 minutes (the longest is a whopping 7:43!), you get more music in one album than you usually get out of three – and that is in no way a bad thing.
You may recognize the song “Wanted Dread or Alive” from the recent stoner flick Pineapple Express. I was surprised to hear this song in the movie. Even though it is one of Tosh’s more popular songs they still had to dig deep to find it. I don’t know how many times I can listen to this track on repeat before I get sick of it, but it doesn’t seem like it’s happening anytime soon. The screeching keys are impeccable and with the world-renowned duo Sly & Robbie on drums and bass it doesn’t get much better.
The track “Reggaemylitis” is about a disease in which reggae music is the only cure and I think we can all relate to that. The song is not only fun, upbeat, and danceable, but the incorporation of a full horns section sets Tosh apart from his peers. I’ve said it before, I’m a sucker for a solid upbeat horns section and this song helps me remember why.
Overall, this is upbeat pop reggae done right. The songs are complex but not over produced, and the lyrics are carefree not pined over. “Wanted Dead or Alive” is definitely a must-have for any true reggae lovers collection.
By Ashley Allred
Click here to purchase the album
