Album Info
| Artist: | UB40 |
| Album: | Signing Off |
| Released: | Australia, 1980 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Tyler | 5:53 |
| A2 | King | 4:32 |
| A3 | 12 Bar | 4:25 |
| A4 | Burden Of Shame | 7:00 |
| B1 | Adella | 3:27 |
| B2 | I Think It's Going To Rain Today | 3:46 |
| Written-By - R. Newman | ||
| B3 | 25% | 3:34 |
| B4 | Food For Thought | 4:12 |
| B5 | Little By Little | 3:44 |
| B6 | Signing Off | 4:28 |
| C | Madam Medusa | 12:51 |
| D1 | Strange Fruit | 4:02 |
| Written-By - L. Allan | ||
| D2 | Reefer Madness | 5:09 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
UB40's debut album, "Signing Off," released in 1980, is a seminal work in the reggae genre, marking the band's entry into the music scene with a powerful statement. The album is notable for its blend of reggae and dub influences, combined with socially conscious lyrics that reflect the political and economic climate of the time. "Signing Off" is often celebrated for its authentic sound and the way it captures the essence of reggae while infusing it with a distinctly British perspective.
The album was recorded at Bob Lamb's home studio in Birmingham, England, and its raw, unpolished sound contributes to its authenticity and appeal. UB40, named after the unemployment benefit form in the UK, was formed by a group of friends who were unemployed at the time, and their music reflects the struggles and frustrations of the working class. "Signing Off" is a reflection of the band's experiences and observations, with tracks that address issues such as unemployment, racism, and social injustice.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Food for Thought," which was UB40's first single and became a hit in the UK, reaching number four on the charts. The song is a poignant commentary on famine and poverty, showcasing the band's ability to tackle serious subjects with both sensitivity and urgency. Another notable track is "King," a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., which highlights the band's commitment to addressing racial issues and promoting equality.
The album also includes "Tyler," a song about the wrongful imprisonment of Gary Tyler, an African American teenager in the United States. This track further underscores UB40's dedication to social justice and their willingness to use their platform to raise awareness about global issues. The instrumental tracks "Adella" and "12 Bar" demonstrate the band's musical versatility and their ability to create compelling reggae rhythms.
"Signing Off" was well-received by critics and audiences alike, praised for its innovative sound and meaningful lyrics. The album's success helped establish UB40 as a major force in the reggae genre and paved the way for their future success. It reached number two on the UK Albums Chart and remained on the chart for 71 weeks, a testament to its enduring popularity.
The album's cover art is also significant, featuring a replica of the UB40 unemployment benefit card, which ties into the band's name and the themes of the album. This imagery resonated with many listeners who were experiencing similar economic hardships, further cementing the album's cultural relevance.
"Signing Off" did not win any major awards at the time of its release, but its impact on the music industry and its influence on future generations of musicians cannot be overstated. The album is often cited as one of the greatest reggae albums of all time and is considered a classic in the genre.
In conclusion, "Signing Off" is a powerful debut that showcases UB40's unique sound and their commitment to addressing important social issues through music. The album's blend of reggae and dub, combined with its socially conscious lyrics, make it a timeless work that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its success laid the foundation for UB40's long and successful career, and it remains a landmark album in the history of reggae music.