According to a number of media reports coming out of the UK including stories in today’s NME and Mirror Newspaper, UB40 claim that ‘Ali Campbell tried to shaft us.’ If you have been following the ongoing saga, long-time singer Ali left the band earlier this year. He says it was because of poor management. They say he wanted to pursue a solo career.

Apparently Ali has recently announced his intention to continue touring the band’s songs – much to the annoyance of the other members of UB40. Robin Campbell, Ali’s brother and ex-bandmate, told the newspaper, “Ali is calling his tour ‘The Best of UB40 – 1980-2008’. That disgusts me, the people who made the songs are here in this room.” He went on to add, “It’s like a divorce… we are currently fighting for custody of the songs.” Drummer Jimmy Brown commented that the situation had become “just a bit Spinal Tap… Ali tried to shaft us”. Ali Campbell has himself released a statement, claiming that UB40’s actions “seem to be a very sad and desperate attempt to discredit me and manipulate the fans”. In the meantime, Campbell’s brother Duncan has taken on singing duties with the band.

Its all gone a bit pear shaped unfortunately, but I have the perfect remedy for fans of the UB’s looking for a reminder of happier times. Here is a video of the BBC broadcast of UB40 from the “Sight And Sound In Concert” live at the Regal Theatre in Hitchin on January 18, 1983. This is the band right before they released “Labour Of Love” so the set is heavy on earlier material that they don’t play much any more. Sit back, relax and enjoy the good old days….

Here is the set list:
1. Tyler
2. Present Arms
3. Love Is All Is Alright
4. Don’t Do The Crime
5. Dubmobile
6. I’ve Got Mine
7. Folitician
8. One In Ten
9. Roots and Culture (with Mickey Dread)