SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: UB40 – UB45

UB40
UB45
SRG RECORDS/UNIVERSAL

UB40 formed in 1978, with the Campbell Brothers, Ali and Robin, being two of the founding members. To say their history is nothing short of fascinating does not do their story justice. The By 1980 the band was making a name for itself with hits such as “King”, “Food For Thought”, and “My Way Of Thinking” and their debut album (Signing Off) was an instant UK top ten. By 1983, they broke worldwide with their version of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red Wine”. By 2008, the band split, but UB40 has carried on, and this is their 20th album, celebrating 45 years, hence the title UB45.

UB45 is an interesting album with the band, featuring new(ish) members performing new songs, covers and redoing their older hits. It is a mixed bag of reggae-pop songs that the band brings together for a very enjoyable trip down memory lane. The music is top notch, and the new members, especially vocalists Matt Doyle and Gilly G bring a great deal to the sound. UB40 has always given fans their money’s worth and has always delivered solid albums.

UB45 is trademark UB40. The band approach the songs as they always have, and the older members have incorporated all the new members to form the sound that fans have enjoyed over the years. The re-recordings of the older songs are very close to their originals and are fine. But it is the new songs that are the most interesting and the most exciting to hear. Songs, such as “Fool Me Once” have an energy to it, which elevates them to the same category as classic UB40. Great vocals, strong lyrics, and vocals. The same can be said for “Home”.  Their cover of Bill Withers’ “Hope She’ll Be Happier” is much livelier than the original and UB40 put their own spin on it, while maintaining the beauty of the original.

Overall, UB45 is a great album, with the new and old mixing together well, in both members and songs. The inclusion of re-recordings of songs like “Cherry Cherry”, “Food For Thought” and “Kingston Town” may be the attraction for fans, and then they will be able to hear new music from the group. It really is a good plan, and this band has the talent to pull it off.

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