A band of brothers

The Birmingham-based reggae band kept things close to home when they found a replacement, with Campbell's brother Duncan stepping into the breach.

But for the new singer, and Campbell sibling Robin - the band's guitarist - Ali's acrimonious departure is still baffling.

"We're not sure what his reasons were for leaving," said Robin. "He's not talked to us since he left, but if we had a choice it would be different. He's our kid brother and we want him to stay in touch. It's very strange."

Duncan's arrival has not radically altered UB40's sound and both brothers feel it's pepped things up a bit after a career that has seen them notch up more than 50 chart hits, including their first UK number one Red Red Wine in 1983.

Robin said: "It feels like we've been going for a lifetime, to be honest. Actually, come to think of it, we have. But we've got more enthusiasm now.

"Duncan has reinvigorated the band and even though he's got big shoes to fill he's doing a great job. It's very demanding, although I think he's secretly terrified."

For Duncan the challenge is less daunting, despite a tour coming up which includes a date at The O2 on December 12.

He said: "Inevitably there's a different style but there are a lot of similarities too. Being Ali's brother our voices are not that different so I'm able to sing the old songs much as he did.

"We've also got some new material from our next album, Labour Of Love Four, and singing that makes me feel I'm not just filling in any more."

The band are looking forward to their O2 show, according to Robin.

He said: "It's a great venue and it's nice to get the chance to play there. We've got a great live show, and as long as we are doing new stuff it's easy. It could be a bit cabaret otherwise, so the new stuff keeps the excitement.

"Classic UB40 is what fans expect so we'll be playing the old songs but we'll be throwing in our personal favourites too. It should be quite a party."

That party will be joined by veteran reggae star Eddy Grant as support act. Their paths have crossed before, albeit a long time ago, and for Robin, in particular, it's a chance to catch up.

He said: "We've not seen him for a long time, not since 1980 in fact. We supported him at a gig in Ibiza, so it's really nice to have a reunion this year."

- UB40 play The O2 on December 12. Go to theo2.co.uk.