Peter Tosh

Equal Rights

BY Matt BauerPublished Jun 21, 2011

Originally released in 1977, Equal Rights is where the late Peter Tosh cemented his title as "the Malcolm X of reggae." From the iconic cover (which casts Tosh, replete with beret and dark sunglasses, in the revolutionary mould of Che Guevara) to the deadly riddims of Sly and Robbie, who power the most cohesive offering of Tosh's career, Rights isn't just one of reggae's greatest albums, it's hands down an essential musical and political document of the 20th Century. The "Bush Doctor" never sounded more forceful or rebellious on classics like "Get Up, Stand Up," "Downpressor Man" and "Stepping Razor," which still sting 34 years after the fact. Yet he never sounded more affable than on poignant and oft overlooked gem "I Am That I Am." The newly remastered sound sheds light on the earthshaking interplay of Sly and Robbie (arguably that era's greatest rhythm duo), and while the second disc of outtakes and dub mixes isn't particularly revelatory, it's perfect for a ganja-fuelled late night listen.
(Columbia/Legacy)

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