UB40

Who You Fighting For?

UB40 have spent three decades crafting politically charged original pop-reggae music while reimagining classic songs for a new generation. Now they have returned with their first new studio effort since 2003's Homegrown. Who You Fighting For? is a clever blend of original music and remakes. So each have to be looked at separately. The title track makes use of many of the media catch phrases wrapped tightly around a very catchy groove. "War Poem" and "Plenty More" seem to be lacking something and lack the inspiration of the title track but that isn't something that runs through the rest of the album with strong showings by "Sins Of The Father," "Gotta Tell Someone," "One Woman Man" or "Reasons." Their version of Dennis Bovell's "After Tonight" is thoughtful and invigorating and their cover of Gene Chandler's "Groovy Situation" (entitled "Good Situation" on the album) was begging for their reworking. They do a great service to The Jamaican's "Things You Say You Love" by picking up the tempo, kicking up the horns and adding lush orchestration. After hearing it, it's hard to believe that their rendition of the Beatles' "I'll Be On My Way" wasn't originally a reggae tune. The true gem of this collection is their version of the Manhattans infidelity anthem "Kiss And Say Goodbye."

This is a welcome addition to the shelves of UB40 fans who have been looking for a return to quality song choices and less filler material. Who You Fighting For? will also be a delight to the uninitiated as the covers are absolutely stunning.

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