The Birmingham lovers-reggae legends UB40 will be embarking on a 2009 tour to promote the forthcoming updated "Labour Of Love" album due out on November 23rd. As previously reported, they have enlisted the vocal talents of UK roots-reggae singer Maxi Priest (who is a good enough draw to go and see them - excellent voice) to support them on this tour. However, the addition of Duncan Campbell to the mic stand has added a familiar family feel to their sound, one which might please the stalwart fans out there who miss Ali (who left to concentrate on his solo work). Eddy Grant will warm up the crowd with his hits "Electric Avenue" and "Gimme Hope Joanna" on all dates.

Talking of which, Killarney, Kerry (INEC) and Dublin (O2) are the 2 Ireland starting points on November 19th and 20th respectively, before crossing the border to Belfast's Odyssey Arena on the 21st for the start of the UK leg. The usual cities are catered for along the way as well as their South-West stronghold of Plymouth on Dec 15th (trust me, they could ship a few units down there when I worked in Our Price and Virgin) and the coastal resort of Bournemouth (Dec 12th). They will be 'signing off' the tour in true home-style when the band will appear at the NEC in Birmingham on Dec 21st.

As well as songs from the million-selling series of cover version albums, "Labour Of Love", there will be renditions of songs from across their catalogue. Tickets are available now and cost £35 (€49/€55 for Irish concerts).