UB40 - Sing Our Own Song (DEP International)

Here we have the mighty UB40 getting back to their reggae roots. This bouncy little track has a playful melody with lots of sweet backing vocals but there is a moral to this story. 'Sing Our Own Song' has a strong anti-apartheid message with the chant of 'Amandla Awethu' (meaning 'power is ours') ringing out from behind the chorus. If this is a taste of what we can expect from UB40's forthcoming album then it is sure to be a biggie! 4/5 (Paige Kilponen, No 1, June 28, 1986)

Bubbling up-tempo anti-Apartheid anthem lacking the languorous, dragged out beat of their best work. I always like 'em better when they sound a bit miserable, a bit dour Midlands, but this is OK. (Jim Reid, Record Mirror, June 28, 1986)

At least this time it is their own song as they've thankfully resisted the temptation to lift yet another reggae "classic". A simple, catchy and pleasing song that wears its political heart on its sleeve and manages to do it without once using the words "revolution", "constitution" or "solution".  (Lola Borg, Smash Hits, July 2, 1986)

The Escape Club - Where Angels Cry (EMI)

A driving drum and the strum of an acoustic guitar sets the mood for this well-rounded single. It bursts into action with hefty vocals and a catchy chorus with a dash of orchestral sounding strings to keep it flowing along. Although a basic rock formula has been followed there are unusual touches in the lyrics and arrangement that give "Where Angels Cry" a newish sound. (Paige Kilponen, No.1, June 28, 1986)