Album Info
| Artist: | UB40 |
| Album: | UB44 |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | So Here I Am | 3:53 |
| A2 | I Won't Close My Eyes (Remix) | 3:44 |
| A3 | Forget The Cost | 4:21 |
| A4 | Love Is All Is Alright (Remix) | 4:58 |
| A5 | The Piper Calls The Tune | 3:48 |
| B1 | The Key | 5:05 |
| B2 | Don't Do The Crime | 4:13 |
| B3 | Hey Folitician (Remix) | 4:10 |
| B4 | The Prisoner | 5:55 |
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 third studio album, "UB44," released in 1982, is a testament to the band's ability to blend reggae with pop sensibilities, creating a sound that is both accessible and deeply rooted in the genre's traditions. The album's title, "UB44," is a play on words, referencing the band's name and the British unemployment benefit form, UB40, which the band members were familiar with before their rise to fame. This clever nod to their origins is indicative of the band's continued commitment to addressing social issues through their music.
"UB44" was released during a period when UB40 was gaining significant traction in the UK and internationally. The album showcases the band's signature style, characterized by smooth reggae rhythms, socially conscious lyrics, and a blend of both original compositions and covers. The production on "UB44" is notable for its clarity and polish, a step up from their earlier, more raw recordings. This was partly due to the band's growing experience in the studio and their desire to reach a broader audience.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "I Won't Close My Eyes," which exemplifies UB40's knack for crafting catchy melodies with a message. The song's lyrics speak to themes of perseverance and hope, resonating with listeners who appreciate music with a purpose. Another notable track is "Love is All is Alright," which combines a laid-back groove with an uplifting message, showcasing the band's ability to create feel-good music that still carries weight.
The album also includes "The Piper Calls the Tune," a track that highlights the band's instrumental prowess and their ability to create atmospheric soundscapes. This song, along with others on the album, demonstrates UB40's skill in blending traditional reggae elements with contemporary influences, making their music appealing to a wide audience.
Critically, "UB44" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the album for its polished production and catchy tunes, while others felt it lacked the raw energy and political edge of the band's earlier work. Despite this, the album was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the UK Albums Chart. This success helped solidify UB40's position as one of the leading reggae bands of the time, capable of crossing over into mainstream pop markets.
In terms of cultural significance, "UB44" is an important part of UB40's discography as it represents a period of transition for the band. It captures their evolution from a group of unemployed friends making music in Birmingham to international stars with a growing fan base. The album's themes of social justice and unity are consistent with the band's ethos and continue to resonate with audiences today.
While "UB44" may not have received the same level of critical acclaim as some of UB40's later works, such as "Labour of Love," it remains a key album in their catalog. It showcases the band's ability to innovate within the reggae genre and their commitment to producing music that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Overall, "UB44" is a solid album that highlights UB40's strengths as musicians and songwriters. It is a reflection of their journey and their dedication to using music as a platform for social commentary. For fans of reggae and those interested in the evolution of the genre, "UB44" is a worthwhile listen that captures a moment in time when UB40 was on the cusp of becoming one of the most influential reggae bands in the world.
