Simple Minds - 2025 - 06

By: Ken Kohlmeier

Simple Minds have one fundamental request for their fans: "Don't you, forget about me". On behalf of all the true and long time fans, I can assure them that we haven't. After nearly 50 years together founding members Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill are still "Alive and Kicking", giving us both new music and a new tour.

I was very excited for this tour. Not only have Simple Minds been among my favourite bands for years, but I've also been a fan of both Modern English and Soft Cell for pretty much as long as I've been listening to music. Having all three on the same bill meant I was definitely coming to see this tour.

Simple Minds gave us a fantastic 17 song, 90 plus minute set. It was perfectly designed to give each band member an opportunity to shine. There was of course the traditional guitar and bass solos, but one of the highlights of the evening was the hard hitting drum solo by Cherisse Osei, which Jim Kerr described as real girl power!

Of course, the set had to include their most iconic songs, "Sanctify Yourself" and "Alive and Kicking" and an ultra extended rendition of "Don't You (Forget About Me)" which had the audience singing back the outro in English, French, Spanish and Italian. It was a different from the album version, but so much fun as a live experience.

Head to simpleminds.com for all things related to Simple Minds and tour details.

After all these years I was finally able to see Soft Cell live in tour. As "Tainted Love" has been a favourite song for pretty much as long as I can remember, it's normal to assume that I at some time I would have heard most of their other songs too. But honestly, once the set started I felt like I was hearing the band for the first time. It's not a bad thing, it was a great introduction to a band I thought I have always known.

Head to softcell.co.uk for all things related to Soft Cell and tour details.

It was a hot night on a Michigan Amphitheatre stage and Modern English just wanted to stop the world and Melt with all the early fans that came out to show their support. I was glad to find myself among them. Having now seen Modern English multiple times I can honestly say they have never disappointed, They continue to make new music, but also know their long time fans love the classic tracks.

Head to modernenglish.me for all things related to Modern English and tour details.