Many people are confused with British pop band UB40. The first version of the band was disbanded when lead singer and vocalist Ali Campbell quit the original member group to seek a brand new solo career. In 2013, Mickey Virtue, the lead keyboardist and Astro, the lead percussionist joined Ali to form a new band named We Are UB 40. Tickets purchased for UB40's live performances will actually be performed by We Are UB 40 members. The new group has one original member of the UB40 cast. There is some legal complication behind the change in group name but many are not concerned as long there are good music produced.
The 2nd reincarnated UB40 version headed by the three group team live up to their expectation as they put up a wonderful and amazing Saturday night performance at Marina Bay Mastercard Theatres, back in 2016. The trio was supported by a seven member band and they put up a glorious performance for two full hours filled with reggae music with a mix of fusion pieces. They went from their past golden chart topping music right to music materials from a brand new album called Silhouette.
The opening was full of energy and dynamism. UB40 started the evening performance with a lovely cover of their 1991 hit song, followed by the wonderful melody of Chi-Lites and Homely Girl. The group's main 3 member team and the seven member band played their respective instruments with extreme precision. Jaunty grooves accompanied the songs that pierced right through the soul. Perfect equilibrium was maintained for the rhythm of each song. The concert presented a revitalized and renewed UB40. In the concert, they updated many popular 80's music materials with modern patches and at the same time preserving the original tune and flavor. This new UB40 version was delighted to carry on the name of the band. They had lots of fun on stage and long queues can be seen outside the drink counter. Every single member of the audience had been enjoying with them.
Astro shouted a question asking the member audience whether they were having a great time. Everyone screamed “Yes” in agreement and threw their support physically by raising their hand high up. Red wine was almost spilled on the table. The band's latest materials were pleasing to the ears. Silhouette was a great cover as well in the classic segment. However, the most popular song is from their Labor of Love album. Campbell showed his affection to the audience by screaming the he wants to listen to louder cheers, before starting on the many hit songs such as Cherry Oh Baby.
The band enjoyed commercial success by re-producing existing music and songs. They have also many original covers in their production room such as Fijian Sunset. Cyber Bully Boy, a new song as well received heartwarming reactions as it is about lead singer Campbell's past experience of being bullied by the original member of the UB40. Despite the harsh meaning behind the songs, the band never displayed any grouses publicly and continued performing with class.
The highlight of the performance was specially booked for the finale which includes “I Cannot Help To Fall in Love”, Red Wine and Kingston Town. UB40 had a very huge avid fan base and many could not believe their own eyes to see their musical heroes on stage giving their best. Even only 3 authentic members present, it was as close as anyone can get to UB40. It does not matter which band name they select, it will always be clear UB40 will resume their career and glory by making a good name within the reggae and pop music scene for many years to come.