Changes to the line-up of a band can have catastrophic effects, especially when the change is as drastic as losing your frontman of almost 30 years.

But UB40 didn't let Ali Campbell's departure to focus on his solo career affect them.

In fact, they decided to recruit his brother Duncan to take his place.
And according to Astro, things couldn't be better for the soft reggae group.

"It has been great so far," Astro said as he took a break from his London studio to chat for the first time since Ali left.



"It has been a long process but it's been very enjoyable and it's great having Duncan on vocals.

"It's kind of like starting all over again, but we know what we're doing so it has been okay."

After Ali's departure, the remaining members, including Ali's other brother Robin, decided to carry on and despite the temptation to shake up the band's image and direction, UB40 stayed firmly with its roots.

"We have always been a reggae band and will continue to be a reggae band. It's too late in the day now to try and change to something else," Astro said.

"We decided to stick with what we know, which is playing reggae music.

"Duncan has been with us nearly two years now and so far the reaction has been totally positive.

"We've been around Europe and American and a lot of people have been saying you can't tell the difference, so that's a big boost."

Formed in 1978, famed Brummie band UB40 found worldwide success with number one hits Red Red Wine, Can't Help Falling in Love and I Got You Babe.

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Now, 30 years and 54 UK hit singles later, the band is still going strong.

In February, they released compilation album Love Songs, which brings together 20 of the band's best-loved tracks.

They're currently in the studio putting the finishing touches to Labour of Love VI, to be released early next year, and they're gearing up to hit the road next month, with a stop-off at Newcastle's Metro Radio Arena.

"The crowd up in the North East are just great," Astro said.

"It's one of those places where you don't have to try and convince the audience to get up and have a good time together.

"We can't actually wait to start touring because that's the final piece in the recording process.

"You write songs, you record them, then you go out and perform them in front of an audience. It's like the baptism of fire."

As well as treating fans to some of their new material, UB40 have invited a special guest to help them get the party going.

Fellow British artist Eddy Grant, of Do You Feel My Love and I Don't Wanna Dance fame, will be their special guest on the tour.

He said: "Look out for an amazing show. The mixture of British reggae from UB40 to my hit-laden spot of ringbang music will have everybody dancing in the aisles."

You can see UB40 at the Metro Radio Arena on November 24.

For tickets, visit www.metroradioarena.co.uk