Dead or Alive

Two Tone may have begun as a British phenomenon, but its impact was worldwide, stretching across the Atlantic to the U.S., around the Pacific to Japan, and deep into the heart of Europe. The Busters were one of a myriad that grew up in its wake, forming back in 1987 and slowly growing over the years into Germany's premier ska band. As with all the best third wavers, this aggregate fused a variety of past styles into a thoroughly contemporary sound that's utterly unique while simultaneously paying tribute to those that came before them. Like the original Two Toners, the Busters plunder freely from Jamaica's rich archives, and although they define themselves as "ska," it's really the early years of reggae that provide their inspiration. But it's not reggae as Islanders know it, but a hybrid that takes one step beyond not just Two Tone but reggae itself.

At their frenetic best, on songs like the title track, "Rude Vibrations," "Sharp Dressed Girl" and "More Fun" to name just a few, the Busters bring to mind the wacky joie de vivre of Madness and Bad Manners, but that's merely one facet of their sound. "Rum & Coca Cola" adds a splash of soca to their styling, "Illinois State Police" a healthy dose of roots, and "Gangster of Love" is riddled with '80s big hair keyboards, while "Banana" is a speedy steppers cum ska classic. But beyond the intriguing mix and match arrangements are the band's strong melodies, infectious hooks, and phenomenal musicianship, the brass section in particular is extraordinarily tight, but all dozen members of the band shine within, their skills beautifully showcased across this set. A fabulous record, and oh yeah, their lyrics are in English, so feel free to join in and sing along.