UB40 performed at Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham

The iconic reggae band, UB40 was at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham on Thursday night, as the band delivered a first class performance that had the audience singing and swaying from start to finish.

The Motorpoint Arena, a spacious venue known for hosting large-scale events, provided an ideal backdrop for UB40’s legendary sounds.

The arena’s acoustics, balanced perfectly for reggae’s laid-back vibes.

Before UB40 took to the stage, the crowd was treated to two support acts.

Young Culture, described as a rising UK reggae band from Birmingham, took to the stage first and warmed up the crowd with a great set on a cold night.

We then had the sounds of Reggae and R&B/Soul legends, Soul II Soul, who are best known for their two major 80s hits, Back to Life and Keep on Movin certainly gained a few extra fans on the night.

At 9pm UB40 then took to the stage with their opening song of — Here I am — and the next two hours didn’t disappoint.

Songs followed from their latest album, called UB45, named after the band celebrating 45 years of success but the setlist was full of fans’ favourites — Red Red Wine; Kingston Town; Many Rivers to Cross; Cherry oh Baby; One in Ten and many more.

When original frontman Ali Campbell left UB40 after almost 30 years with the band, fans including myself didn’t know what to expect. Would they be able to carry on without him? Would they sound the same? And would I go to watch UB40 again without Ali?

The band's new frontman, Matt Doyle who took over from Ali’s brother, Duncan in 2021 has certainly kept the singing style and sound similar and I can honestly say, yes to the above. I would highly recommend watching them on tour.

UB40 proved why they remain one of the most influential acts in the reggae scene.

The Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham was the perfect setting for this unforgettable evening and the only song to finish the night on was (I can't help) Falling in Love with You. — Andy Swiffen.