UB40 - Red Red Wine Tour

UB40 at The Hordern Pavilion: A Night of Timeless Reggae and Nostalgia

Wednesday 16th October 2024

Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion played host to the legendary UB40 as they brought their iconic sound back to Australia, much to the delight of an eclectic crowd. From young fans to seasoned reggae lovers, the audience embodied a mix of cultures and ages, all ready to soak in the band’s timeless tunes. As the band took the stage for their Red Red Wine tour, it was clear that their appeal remains as strong as ever.

The stage itself was a sight to behold, housing an impressive 11 band members, each contributing to the rich, layered sound UB40 has perfected over the decades. The relaxed but confident energy radiating from the band members created a seamless flow throughout the night. The crowd was especially touched by a poignant moment where lighters and phone torches illuminated the venue in remembrance of the band’s past members, adding a layer of emotion that connected the band’s past with their present.

While UB40 has always been about collective harmony, certain members stole the spotlight in their own right. MC Gilly, a smooth operator with an undeniable stage presence, added a dynamic flair to the show. Whether taking centre stage or blending in with the group, his moments elevated the performance and kept the crowd engaged.

Musically, UB40 didn’t miss a beat. The setlist was a perfect mix of hits, from the upbeat energy of “Here I Am” to the crowd-pleasing “Kingston Town.” Each song seemed to draw a louder cheer than the last, but it was the unmistakable opening of “Red Red Wine” that sent the venue into overdrive. As the room bathed in red light, the audience swayed, sang, and let the good vibes wash over them.

The encore was a treat for all. While a few concert-goers made for the exits after “Red Red Wine”, they quickly returned as the band launched into their final few songs. With the stage awash in Rastafarian colours—red, orange, yellow, and green—the encore was a vibrant and fitting end to a night of reggae royalty.

After the show, the atmosphere lingered long after the music ended. Fans took photos in front of the stage, clearly in no rush to let the night fade away as if holding on to a slice of UB40 magic for just a little longer.

UB40 also made it clear that this wouldn’t be the last time they’d play in Sydney, hinting at a return in 2026—a promise that will surely have fans counting the days until their next reggae-filled night.

Review & Photos by Andy Kershaw (andy.kershaw.photography) for Music Kingdom Australia