UB40

Blickling Hall Estate

For a band on its 10th world tour, UB40 showed no signs of fatigue at Blickling Hall last night. Perhaps the setting helped - it is unlikely they've played by the lake of a Jacobean mansion too often before - but it was clear that the Brummie reggae-pop band are highly professional at what they do and know how to give a good show.

The band knocked out Red Red Wine for probably the millionth time in their career without seeming in the slightest bit bored, and introduced the crowd to one or two lesser-known numbers too, such as the rocksteady tune Good Situation from last year's Who You Fighting For? album.

The tour began last year, partly to promote that album but mainly to celebrate UB40's 25th anniversary, and the set spanned the length of their career, sticking largely to the hits. Rat in Mi Kitchen, Kingston Town and Can't Help Falling in Love were all present and correct.

Lead singer Ali Campbell's distinctive voice was on strong form, his brother Robin adding sweet harmonies and Astro adding energy to the stage with his toasting and dancing, and the band's rhythm section really hit home, the bass and drums as tight as you would expect from such a polished outfit.