UB40 – Labour Of Love (2LP/180g)
Labour of Love is UB40’s breakthrough album and a defining moment in British reggae history. Released in 1983, it’s a collection of cover songs that pays homage to the Jamaican artists who inspired the band, reinterpreted with a smooth, pop-friendly touch. Featuring the massive hit “Red Red Wine” — which topped charts worldwide — the album also includes renditions of tracks by artists like Jimmy Cliff and Eric Donaldson. UB40’s sound here is laid-back and accessible, with lilting rhythms, soulful vocals, and rich brass sections that helped bring reggae to mainstream audiences. The album’s success not only solidified UB40’s place in the global music scene but also introduced a new generation of listeners to classic reggae. Labour of Love remains one of the band’s most beloved and enduring releases, a testament to their ability to bridge cultures and eras with warmth and style.