Customer Reviews

Best of 1980-1983

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From their first "double A-side" single 'Food for Thought' and 'King' to the singles 'I've Got Mine' and 'Dubmobile' this fine collection captures the UBs at their best. While many think of 'Labour of Love' as the best record, this is a must have in any collection.

'Food for Thought' and 'King' were released on February 1, 1980 on Graduate records (GRAD LP1). This single came out around the same time the UBs were touring with the Pretenders. This version of 'King' is better than any of the remixes, I think. These two tracks can also be found on the full length debut 'Signing Off' also released in 1980 on Graduate records (GRAD LP2).

'Present Arms', 'One in Ten' and 'Silent Witness' are from the album 'Present Arms' released in 1981. Be sure to look for 'Present Arms In Dub' a dub Masterpiece with an epic version of 'One In Ten'. How I got through High School with this record at home, I do not know.

'So Here I Am', 'I Won't Close My Eyes' and 'Don't Do The Crime' are from the album 'UB44' and were also released as singles. The mix of 'I Won't Close My Eyes' found on this disc is far superior to the version on 'UB44' - this is one of my favorite UB songs of all time and it alone makes the disc worth whatever it costs.

'I've Got Mine' and 'Dubmobile' never appeared on an album, but were released as a single in February 1983. 'I've Got Mine' is icing on the cake, really. With at least two must-have tracks already here, this classic just sweetens the deal.

(All that said, this is a hard disc to find. I don't think Apple sells any UB40 before 'Labour of Love' on iTMS, and while I'm writing this there are 3 used copies starting at $16.50 available. Hey, there's always vinyl!)

This has always been my favorite collection of UB40. These were the songs they were singing when I used to go see them, way before the "Red, Red, Wine" days. I was dumb enough to trust my vinyl to an ex and dumb enough yet again to lend out my CD to a "friend." So, I'm replacing it again. There are songs on here that are not available anywhere on the internet as far as I can tell so I don't mind the investment. If you like UB40 beyond just the most popular stuff, this is essential. "So here I am"...so beautiful...so sad.

IN my opinion i think it is a half decent choice there was a lot of songs to choose from, but a good representation of there early stuff. well worth putting it in your collection.


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