Wanted Dead or Alive

I agree with the reviewer who mentioned "national treasure." This is a largely, but not entirely, studio version of David's incredible approach to everything great in American music, with some Bromberg originals, a Dylan song, a song co-written by David with George Harrison, great horns, and Grateful Dead members at their best along for the ride. Very great.

This album features more of David's, including favorites of mine, The Holdup, Send Me to the 'Lectric Chair, and The New Lee Highway Blues. His "backup band" on this album includes a guy named Jerry Garcia, a bass player named Phil Lesh, and a drummer named Bill, and they undoubtedly learned a lot from playing from the masterful David Bromberg.

Been a big fan of Bromberg's for many years. His snide, almost "sneering" attitude towards odd aspects of society could place him in the comedy section if not for his technical expertise on the instruments he plays, his excellent songwriting skills, and unique vocalizations. A real American folk treasure, his music will surely be appreciated generations from now. An album like this is all too rare - it swings, it rocks, it gets jazzy, it gets bluesy, it punches you in the face and buys you a beer. A must-have album for any serious music collector, and an enjoyable choice for casual entertainment.

I first heard David Bromberg play at Cholmondeley's (the small venue at Brandeis University) in 1974. Subsequent to that I heard him in Passim's in Harvard Square probably a year or two later. My freshman roommate had introduced me to his music and I became a lifelong fan. I'm not a musician or a music critic so I'll do the best I can do to explain why I love Bromberg's recordings. Bromberg is a big city kid from the north and he plays blues, country, and folk music with an urban sensibility. That is he brings a slightly self-concious, intellectual awareness to the music and the lyrics (espcially) rather than performing them "straight". And he sees the humor in the music and the lyrics and isn't afraid to include those insights in his performances. I don't see how anyone could listen to Bromberg's Kansas City without smiling or outright laughing. And how do you do a rendition of Send Me to the 'Lectric Chair that's so catchy you'll hum it to yourself for years and smile everytime you do? The virtuoso playing and great backing band carry the day and keep the light heartedness from becoming parody. Once you listen to this album you'll want Midnight on the Water, too, which is a great companion to Dead or Alive. Enjoy!