It's been 25 years since the members of UB40 met in the unemployment line, then named their band after the unemployment form. The eight-piece British reggae supergroup is still at the top of its game on this new studio album. Weaving together their revolutionary roots, ska and pop fusion, UB40 delivers seven new originals and six covers, including a version of Lennon and McCartney's "I'll Be On My Way."

This band never ceases to justify its rightful place in reggae history with each and every CD released. Their consistency is again the defining characteristic of their new album. For UB40, not much has changed in the years since they first made their debut Signing Off: they still purvey an orthodox reggae style, unfazed by all subsequent developments, as though we were still in the late-70s era of British bands like Steel Pulse and Matumbi (the latter's "After Tonight" is one of the five covers here).

Long time fans of the band will recognize in Who Are You Fighting For? themes and sounds reminscent of the band's best work. The title track, for example, is a return to the activism and spirit of Present Arms and UB44. Sins of a Father offers social commentary of a similar vein. UB40 follows up with "After Tonight," a sweet, drowsy love song that will please old-school fans. Poignant political statements, romantic love ballads and rooty reggae dominates the remainder of this 13-song disc.

For long time fans of UB40, Who Are You Fighting For? reminds us of why we admired this band in the first place. The brilliance of this particular CD may add a few converts to the cause along the way. This CD reflects production excellence mixed with lyrical and musicical foresight. Ali Campbell's sensitive, sometimes fragile voice remains the focal point of the band, but tribute should also be paid to the horn arrangements of saxophonist Brian Travers, which are a source of great joy throughout. They epitomise the simple but impeccable standards of the band.






 by Quatty, ReggaeTrain.com
 E-Mail: info@reggaetrain.com