Artist: Aswad Album: Too Wicked

Year: 1990
Duration: 0:0-1

A of the Album 'Too Wicked' by Aswad

Aswad is a British reggae band that has been entertaining music enthusiasts for over four decades now. They debuted with their single 'Back to Africa' in 1976 and have since released several hit albums, including 'Too Wicked.' 'Too Wicked' was released in 1985 and was well-received by fans and critics alike. In this post, we'll delve deep into the album, its genre, the best songs, the most innovative parts, and a review of the album as a whole.
The album 'Too Wicked' represents the fusion of reggae with funk, pop, and R&B. The band experimented with different styles, trying to break away from the traditional reggae sound. The result was a modern, vibrant, and energetic sound that appealed to a broader audience. While some of the tracks maintain the classic reggae rhythm, others incorporate different elements like electronics, keyboards, and drum machines. The fusion of these styles makes the album stand out and sets a benchmark in the reggae genre.
'Too Wicked' has some exceptional tracks like 'Next to You,' 'I Need Your Love,' and 'Rockers Medley.' 'Next to You' is a funky groove, with a catchy chorus that sticks with you. 'I Need Your Love' is a slow, soulful track, highlighting the versatility of the band. 'Rockers Medley' is an eight-minute long track that combines four different songs, each with a distinct style. The fusion of different sounds and rhythms in this track is a testament to the band's creativity.
One of the most innovative parts of 'Too Wicked' is the introduction of electronic drums and drum machines. Electronic drums were not widely used in reggae music at the time, but the band's experiments with them added a new dimension to the music. The track 'No More Living a Lie' is a perfect example of the creative use of electronic drums. The drums complement the bassline and create a distinctive sound that sets the track apart.
In terms of criticism, the track 'World of Confusion' could have been better. The lyrics lack the depth and soulfulness that the rest of the album has. It feels like an afterthought in a well-crafted album, and the band could have put more effort into making it match the standard of the other tracks.
'Too Wicked' is a phenomenal album that showcases Aswad's creativity and experimentation with different music styles. With a mix of reggae, funk, pop, and R&B, the album stands out in the reggae genre for its innovation. The fusion of different elements, the creative use of electronic drums, and the exceptional tracks make the album a must-listen for music enthusiasts. While there may be a few weaker tracks, it does not take away from the overall quality of the album. As a whole, 'Too Wicked' is a masterpiece that deserves a place in every reggae music lover's collection.