Original Anvil Guitarist Dave “Squirrely” Allison Dies at 68

Original Anvil rhythm guitarist Dave “Squirrely” Allison has died at age 68, reportedly after a battle with cancer according to Blabbermouth. The news was first shared by Tyler Reiner, son of Anvil drummer Robb “Robbo” Reiner on Facebook. The band similarly released a statement and also made individual tributes on the band members’ personal social media accounts.

In a statement reported on by Blabbermouth, the band said:

“We’d like to send our deepest condolences to the Allison family and friends. Dave passed away this morning. He was a close friend and we will miss him. He was proud of his early contributions to ANVIL, and his name and legacy live on. Rest in peace, Dave Squirly Allison.”

Wrote Steve “Lips” Kudlow on Instagram:

“Rest in peace Dave Allison January 5, 1956 to September 30, 2024…we will miss you brother!!”

Robb Reiner’s tribute was a little more lengthy, posting on Facebook:

“The word just reached me…Original band mate R.I.P. Dave Allison has passsd away…

Had the opportunity this Spring to pay a unplanned surprise visit

to Dave’s isolated cabin …Loneliness was no stranger to him:

“To say he was in shock was an understated fact..blown away was more like it:…and so was I..

“The visit covered memories(many)and exposed his dire state:..

He was not well ..clearly:

“Together we planned a dinner that unfortunately never happened:..

“R.I.P. my old friend

Robbo”

Allison appeared on the first five Anvil LPs from 1981’s Hard ‘n’ Heavy through 1988’s Pound for Pound, their 1985 compilation album Backwaxed with its five unreleased tracks, and their 1989 live album Past and Present – Live in Concert.

We’d like to extend our deepest condolences to the friends, family, bandmates, and fans of the great Dave “Squirrely” Allison.