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UB44 is the fourth album by UB40, released in September 1982. The early release of the packaging had a hologram cover. It reached No 4 in the UK album chart. This album was effectively the last one in their early musical style, again mixing heavy, doom-laden reggae soundscapes with politically and socially conscious lyrics. In particular, "I Won't Close My Eyes" and "Love is All Right" utilize reverb, echoes, and stereo positioning for a shimmering, three dimensional feel indicated by the 3D cover. Droning rhythms- the 4th dimension of time- induce a trance, evoking reggae's substance behind the muse. "Love is All Right" is a slow number with close sounding, harmonized vocals. Sax and trumpet echo in a huge hall, sounding like some Caribbean band of long ago. A funky, effected, simple guitar twang adds to the old and new feel. The lyrics challenge the listener that "a little more hate" may be needed in polarized racial and class conflicts. It is a unique master work. Following this, the group's style turned far more overtly commercial with the Labour of Love album of reggae cover versions.
[edit] Track listing
- "So Here I Am"
- "I Won't Close My Eyes [Remix]"
- "Forget the Cost"
- "Love Is All Is Alright [Remix]"
- "The Piper Calls the Tune"
- "The Key"
- "Don't Do the Crime"
- "Folitician [Remix]"
- "The Prisoner"
