Reviews (page 2 of 8)
Title track goes HARDDD. Carries the album for me
Was alright, nothing really stood out
A lot of these songs just trail off for way too long for me and overstay their welcome. Cool atmosphere, but too much lingering.
Simple Minds are better than I remember them. Maybe not surrounded by all the eighties crap their qualities come to the fore and their generic elements fade. This sort of post-New Wave, post-post Punk mainsteam stadium rock was so horrid - think INXS or U2 or Billy Idol - that to go there and emerge with a three star album is a modest achievement.
It was WAY 80's, there was no doubt about that. My biggest complaint is half the time I can't understand him. He sings like he has marbles in his mouth and that he is five steps away from the microphone.
I like their sound, but there wasn't a lot of variety from song to song, and nothing was particularly catchy. Good vibes though, and bonus points for being from Glasgow!
such a strange, esoteric title and album cover for such a bland 80s synthpop album, but they did make one really good song that one time
Fine. It is nothing fancy, but it works. I was surprised to see the group had 10.2M monthly listeners on Spotify, and than I saw they were the "Don't You (Forget About Me)" band.
not bad, i guess, just completely forgettable. i guess when you let british people compile a list of must-hear albums, they're bound to include some shit that literally no one else in the world (aside from scottish people in this case, maybe; idk how they feel about this record) wants to listen to. that makes me wonder: did they include this and o'connor (and whatever else i'm forgetting) to placate their neighbor countries who hate them?
3.5
Just not for me. First song is a classic, though!
WHY DOES EVERY BRITISH SYNTHPOP GUY SING LIKE THAT
2/5
# Simple Minds' *New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)*: An In-Depth Review Simple Minds' fifth studio album, *New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)*, released in September 1982, is widely considered the band's magnum opus—a shimmering, pivotal work that bridged their avant-garde past with mainstream success. It represents a perfect storm of artistic ambition, commercial breakthrough, and sonic innovation, leaving a profound legacy on the music of the 1980s. ## The Music and Production: A Tapestry of Light and Sound The most immediate and striking element of *New Gold Dream* is its sound. Moving away from the stark, angular post-punk of their earlier work, the album is bathed in a warm, radiant glow created by a unique confluence of factors. The production, helmed by Peter Walsh, is central to this transformation. Walsh's approach was to create a sound that was "slightly out of focus," not bringing everything out too much . This is crucial; instead of a sterile, clinical new-wave sheen, the album has a lush, organic feel. A lot of effects were used during mixing—flanging on the bass, echo, and reverb on Jim Kerr's voice—but they are applied subtly, creating a rich, immersive atmosphere rather than a gimmicky one . The musicianship on the album is exceptional and perfectly suited to this new sonic palette. The rhythm section is key to the album's dynamic feel. Drummer Mel Gaynor brings a powerful and steady presence to most tracks, while Mike Ogletree and Kenny Hyslop contribute to others, giving the album a varied percussive texture . A standout aspect is the bass playing of Derek Forbes; his melodic, driving basslines are frequently cited as a defining feature of the album's sound and a major influence on a generation of bassists . Charlie Burchill's guitar work also underwent a significant change. He shifted to a cleaner, more melodic, and lighter style, moving away from his earlier, harsher textures and using new effects and amplifiers that "drastically changed the colour" of the music . This is perfectly complemented by the rich, atmospheric synthesizer arrangements of Michael MacNeil. The interplay between guitar, bass, synths, and drums creates a sound that is both anthemic and intricately layered. This production approach gives the album its signature "dreamy" tone, where pulsating rhythms and steady drums create a feeling of euphoric melancholy . ## Themes and Lyrics: Dreaming of Success The album's lyrics, penned by frontman Jim Kerr, move away from the more abstract and pessimistic themes of previous records. *New Gold Dream* is widely interpreted as being about the band's own burgeoning success and the intoxicating, often paradoxical nature of fame . The title itself is a self-referential summation. The "New Gold Dream" is not about a fantasy but a tangible reality: achieving the pinnacle of the music industry. The years in the title (81/82/83/84) are thought to refer to the span of their recording contract with Virgin Records, the "gold" standard label of the early 80s . The band's newfound fame inspired these lyrics, yet it was also the reason for the departure of original drummer Brian McGee, who grew tired of the touring and pressure . Kerr drew inspiration from various cultural sources, including films and literature, which infused the lyrics with a sense of romance and possibility. A key influence was the Werner Herzog film *Fitzcarraldo*, with its central line: "It’s only dreamers who ever move mountains." This resonated deeply with Kerr and encapsulates the album's theme of audacious ambition . Lines like "Everything is possible" from "Promised You a Miracle" perfectly capture the band's exultant mood . While some critics find the lyrics to be "hazy" or "opaque" , this ambiguity often adds to the album's ethereal, dreamlike quality, allowing the listener to project their own interpretations onto Kerr's visionary words . ## Influence: Lighting an Unforgettable Fire The impact of *New Gold Dream* on the music landscape cannot be overstated. It is regarded as a milestone of the New Wave and synth-pop era, a "timeless classic" whose influence reached far and wide . Its most famous admirers were U2. Bono has explicitly stated that the album was instrumental in U2's evolution, saying, "Without the album, I don’t believe there would have been an *Unforgettable Fire* or a *Joshua Tree*" . U2 would even walk on stage to the title track and adopted stylistic cues from Simple Minds during this period . The atmospheric, anthemic soundscapes on *New Gold Dream* were a clear blueprint for the direction U2 would take. ## Pros and Cons of *New Gold Dream* ### Pros * **Timeless Production:** Peter Walsh's lush, organic production has aged incredibly well, sounding fresh and immersive decades later . * **Exceptional Musicianship:** Features some of the band's finest moments, with Derek Forbes' melodic basslines and Charlie Burchill's atmospheric guitar work being particular highlights . * **Cohesive and Evocative:** The album flows perfectly, with a consistent dreamy and euphoric atmosphere that is both captivating and transportive . * **Pivotal and Influential:** A landmark album that defined an era and directly influenced major artists like U2 . * **Contains Multiple Classics:** Features career-defining tracks like "Promised You a Miracle," "Someone Somewhere in Summertime," and the magnificent title track . ### Cons * **Occasionally Hazy Lyrics:** Some critics and listeners find the lyrics to be too vague or "opaque," drifting into a visionary but ultimately insubstantial territory . * **Potential for Indulgence:** A few tracks, such as "Hunter and the Hunted" and "The King is White and in the Crowd," are seen by some as veering into the kind of "cerebral meandering" that harkens back to the worst excesses of early-70s progressive rock, lacking spirit and focus . * **Hit-or-Miss Quality (for some):** While often hailed as a masterpiece, some contemporary reviews noted a dramatic variation in quality across the album, with some tracks being "dreary" and ephemeral . --- *New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)* is more than just a great album; it is a document of a band at its artistic and commercial peak, successfully translating their ambitious dreams into a sound that was both critically acclaimed and universally appealing. It remains a shimmering, essential touchstone of 1980s music.
Like most ’80s synth-pop / new wave records, this one took a while to grow on me. The Bryan Ferry-esque vocal delivery and the icy instrumental backbone are a great match. Having been (musically) raised in an era when Editors were hailed as the next big thing, it’s hard not to hear the lingering influence of Simple Minds on the rather pop-oriented, sonically unadorned bands of the early 2000s. Oddly enough, this album really takes its time, at least to my ears, and the songs themselves unfold at a fairly leisurely pace. Call me ignorant, but I’d label this a mood record: it settles into laid-back yet tight grooves and lets the production flourishes shine (with the obvious exception of the uptempo banger “Promised You a Miracle”, whose synth line stayed in my head for days). Unfortunately, though, it loses a lot of momentum in the middle section, which, pardon my French, is (…) boring.
Solid album for lovers of 80s synth pop
It’s decent. It’s not particularly noteworthy. Just typical new wave synth music of the time.
It's OK early 80's pop music, but with no real standout songs.
This entire album plays like B-sides for an 80s movie soundtrack. Not so much bad as unmemorable and thus: Why?
80s dreck. Does not even belong on a list of subpar 80s music to listen to before you die.
Meh
3 out of 5. I wanted to like this more than I did because I generally enjoy Simple Minds' sound.
*Standard new wave sound
Weird how I like this album as this is not a genre I normally appreciate. Not sure why but a solid four.
Surprised by this one as my perception of the band was they were a wannabe U2 but this is anything but that. The album has alot of funky base and new wave synth with Jim Kerr's Bowie/ferry style delivery and theres alot of variety in the set. Dated but great.
Super funky, fell off a bit on the b-side but solid listen
2/10
Novice songwriting; timid performances; thin, unimpressive synth sounds. Promised You a Miracle caught our ear back in the day. It holds up OK. The rest of this, to these ears, is weak soup.
Oh look a melodramatic 80's album. Great. Hope it's not boring! Fuck.
Suena bien, pero tampoco es algo increíble. Es un álbum simple y facil de escuchar
Fairly generic. I had hoped for so much more from the Alive and Kicking band
Kinda ambivalent to this one. Not their best record imo.
Well-crafted 80’s Britpop that does not make me feel…ANYTHING. I can’t believe this soulless pap makes the cut, and yet there’s no room on this list for “The Wicked Pickett” or maybe a second Otis Redding album? Come on, curator. Do better.
Just not the vibe for me
better than I thought
pretty standard 80s synth pop. pretty good but nothing all too notable imo
This was great, I listened to it twice, but I was kinda done with the Simple Minds vocal quality by that point. Music was awesome. Four stars.
Probably the peak album in Simple Minds' career. I'd been following the band through their first four or five albums as the progressed from the more conventional "Life In A Day" to the more experimental "Real To Real Cacophony" and "Empires And Dance", by which time they'd ended up with a motorik style, and then the Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call double package. This album is where all this came together in a monster-selling album. Perhaps a little dated now, but it still wins out.
Very forgettable early 80s pop. Reminds me of Duran Duran or Spandau Ballet.
Pretty dull. Lacks the florish and interesting exploration that an album should have. This is basically one song on repeat
こういう曲調で、こういう声で、どうも好きになれない。こんなんいくらでもいるやんと思ってしまう、多分自分が浅いだけなんだろうなー。 自分の好みからは圧倒的に遠いからここまで来るのにすごい時間かかりそう。
This is a good early new wave album, and I do enjoy it and am glad I have listened to it, now, as I had not heard all of it before (maybe only heard one or two of the singles). Overall, it doesn't hit levels that I think other bands of the time hit, but I do see the value. I'd like to know more about how other bands were influenced or viewed this record, if it was just part of an existing "scene" or did start something new.
Feels like early 80s music. Definitely not a banger but actually enjoyable as background music. I think 3 stars is bang-on accurate.
This album caught me of guard. The brooding vocals with the groovy bass lines is a killer combination.
Obviously, The Breakfast Club caused this group to explode on the scene (at least on this side of the pond). Nothing about this particular album stands out for other Brit synth pop of the early 80s.
Simple Minds – New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84) (1982) On Day 224, I wasn't the biggest fan of New Gold Dream, but I could definitely see the vision behind it. The production was grand, and that New Wave / post-punk crossover energy was lowkey hitting in moments. I was especially fond of the title track "New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)" and "Glittering Prize," but beyond those standouts, the rest of the tracklist didn't fully capture me. A decent, ambitious effort. A middle-of-the-road 3/5.
Another example of just the weird UK bias of this list. No one in the US ever heard any of these songs. They got massive later because of the Breakfast Club and follow up album. But for some reason Dimery thinks this is the one the hear. Oh well.
Okay album will not listen again
surprising!
I just don’t like this style of synthpop. Very floaty and lacking in melodies (except for some annoying synth lines), with a breathy moany singer. I’ve never liked their one hit single either.
fav was glittering prize
Mediocre 80s
Pleasant enough, but nothing that really left an impression on me.
More British bull shit. Chalk another one up for MI6.
Herbie Hancock is the only reason I'm going back to re-listen to Hunter and the Hunted. I thought this was a Talking Heads album. I have a simple mind. Well, it's no Headhunters.
Rätt gött, ångrar nästan jag gav bort vinylen.
3★/5 [08.02.2026] 09.23.2026
The most 80s 80s that ever 80s and completely bored me.
More generic 80s Joy Division wannabe dross. Nothing special, nothing interesting and definitely nothing original.
its fine
I've been on a break for the last month. But that's ok. This is a marathon, not a sprint. July is home to the absolute best three weeks of the year to live in Galway. The Film Fleadh kicked off the first of those weeks with a premiere of an interesting music documentary called “The Best Summer”. Tamra Davis’s shaky home-video footage from Australia’s Summersault Festival in 1995 featured Kathleen Hanna interviewing a loose collection of friends who just so happen to include Beastie Boys, Beck, Bikini Kill, Sonic Youth and Foo Fighters. The following two weeks made up the Galway Arts Festival: visual art, theatre, old-school circus acrobatics, a terrifying multiverse flight simulator inside a pitch-black shipping container, and a fifty-person dance troupe moving as a single hive mind. In the sweltering Big Top we saw Patti Smith, Mercury Rev and the psychedelic spectacle of a Flaming Lips gig. There was enough going on without trying to squeeze music reviews in as well. But I kept dipping in and out of “New Gold Dream” throughout it all. So, without quite meaning to, I've lived with this album for the last thirty days. That worked in its favour. I didn't think much of it at first, but over time it started to grow on me. The album exists somewhere midway between dark, introspective post-punk and the brightness of eighties new-wave pop. Simple Minds are the same band who would go on to soundtrack a freeze-framed teenager thrusting a fist triumphantly into the air. While there are a lot of hints of the direction they'd move in, the closest thing to a Breakfast Club soundtrack on this album is “Promised You A Miracle”. The run of songs from “Big Sleep” to “New Gold Dream” feels much darker. More Joy Division than Human League. Synth textures and airy fragmented guitars create atmosphere while the bass drives the songs forward with momentum. That bass really sticks out in particular, feeling almost “rubbery” at times. “Somebody Up There Likes You” is the peak of the album. Again the bass is the star, flying off in unexpected directions. They're locked into a groove here, almost giving Talking Heads vibes. There's no space for lyrics, and no need either. Distorted guitars provide feedback in the background, blending with glistening synth. It’s dark, dense and takes its time. I like that track in particular because it avoids the shinier pop instincts that dominate a lot of the rest of the record. That’s where “New Gold Dream” loses me overall. I’m not a fan of glitzy eighties pop, and although Simple Minds give it more atmosphere and substance than most, the album still feels very much of its time. Those middle tracks surprised me, though. Had I only listened a couple of times, I might have dismissed the album altogether. A full month of dipping in and out of it took me from indifference to appreciation. I’m back in the game. Show me what you got, algorithm!
This is very generic. Like a less interesting Echo and the Bunnymen. Do people remember Simple Minds beyond The Breakfast Club?
I enjoyed this but it’s just not memorable for me. Will want to listen at least a couple more times to see if it catches.
they say never judge a book by its cover, i judged the fuck out of this books cover (ugly ass MS paint album art) but ended up really enjoying it!
1.5
This is worse than boring. At least with a boring album you can forget that it's on and zone out..
Good album. Someone Somewhere was really good.
Not unpleasant, but not desperately memorable either.
As an avid Radio 2 listener…I recognised a number of these songs, but familiarity alone does not breed desire. This album felt very typical of an 80s sound that I’m more than happy was left behind. Not one to revisit.
I listened to this for 30 minutes and stopped noticing after 2.
This seemed to be a minor pop album to me. Mystified why it’s on this list.
This album was a good example on how this band was more than just the song from breakfast club. Pretty good
Another album I had never heard of before this list. Nice solid New Wave, reminiscent of The Cure
This was ok, but compared to some of Simple Minds other albums (Street Fighting Years / Once Upon A Time) is a fairly dull disappointment. It might not deserve the 2 I’ve given it, but I think I’ve deducted it a point due to my enjoyment of some of their other work and thus knowing they are so much better than this.
I was very interested to listen to this, Simple Minds is yet another band which passed me by. In the end I was a little disappointed - it felt like an album of intros that never really got started.
Not a bad album, but not their best stuff. Enjoyable listen, but a bit more 80s background than anything else.
Sounds like every new wave album I’ve ever heard.
meh
A perfectly fine soporific.
it was good.
This was forgettable. If they wanted to be remembered they should have told me not to forget about them.
5/10 Best songs: Someone Somewhere, New Gold Dream Yet another obscure new-wave act in an endless lineup of them. This one is peak 80s: heavy synths, that forced vocal aesthetic styling so common to new wave, and uneven production that obfuscates the vocals enough that half the time you can't even understand the lyrics. But truthfully, by new-wave/music standards, this album is perfectly fine. Not great (although there are a couple songs I enjoy) but definitely not bad.
This sounds like everything else in the 80s pop scene. Well...I guess everything else sounds like this since this album was one of the early defining new pop movement. I'll admit that I judged this album by it's cover. But after listening I enjoyed it more than expected.
Продукт своего времени
A couple fine songs, but just too 80s.
Never heard of this band before, and fucked if I know what genre this album is going to be when going by the cover. My one and only guess is 80s rock. Many of the 80s rock covers have this specific style and look to them. If I'm to go even more specific, I'm expecting something jangle-poppy given that this album is both obscure (therefore British) and released in the first half of the 80s. Anyways, time to spin this puppy. Here goes. "New wave", "art pop", "synth pop". Fuuuuuuuck, I was so close with my prediction. I didn't mind this. I favoured the looming, melancholic guitars which hung in the background along with the charmingly dated 80s percussion and sleek digital effects. There's also a commendable level of variety and a respectable runtime to boot. The vocals are nothing to write home about, though they are adept for this style of music (albeit a little silent). All in all, I didn't mind this album. It's solid, and for that reason I'm tempted to revisit it. Book time. This album was the breakthrough release which established Simple Minds as "...one of the big rock names of the late 1980s." That's about it. Wikipedia says this album "...is considered one of the defining albums of the new pop movement of the early 1980s." The album also had three successful singles, was liked by critics and performed very respectably on the charts. Of the eight countries where it charted, four peaked in the top ten (#9 in Sweden, #8 in Australia, #3 in the UK and #2 in NZ). New Zealand especially liked this album, with it being their 13th best selling album of 1982 and the 50th of 1983. The album also re-entered the charts in 2016 when a deluxe edition of the album was released. Yeah, I'm favourable to this pick. I was expecting this style of music to be grossly overrepresented on the list, though I've been surprised by the tactful number of nominations thus far. The band also appear to be fondly remembered. Critic reviews have been mixed for their successive releases, though their audience have largely stuck around when going by the chart placements for their albums. For these reasons, I cosign this inclusion.
This was ok but not sure I see it as a new wave classic. Promised you a Miracle and Glittering Prize were quite catchy but some of the other tracks were pretty samey. I also found the mixing odd and the vocals a bit hard to follow so a mixed bag
They say never judge a book by its cover which for this album could not be more true. The artwork for this album is god awful but the songs are very good. I don’t know that I’ll ever return to this album but if you’re looking some really good 80s Synth Rock look no further than New Gold Dream.
Banger
Amazing album
It’s listenable. That singing style was quite trendy and I do not like it. Bass lines are solid.
Its difficult for me to like 80s pop rock in general. The 4 disc mega box set nature was an extreme turn off and none of the songs stuck with me
Growing to love this era of music. Had never really heard of these guys but 4 or 5 songs I’ve bookmarked to come back to.
A really good synthpop album! saved 6/9, but may shelve a couple of those. shelved 1/9.
i love you simple minds
For reasons of age and geography, I guess, I’m more familiar with the band’s later work. But the band had already developed a strong, mature sound by this time. So smart. 3.5?
Looking at reviews and I enjoyed thos album way more than average. Those driving beats and the synth owned the 80’s. Simple Minds got it.
Don't you forget about them
Хорошее
nice :-) added 1 song
The perfect follow-up to The Blue Nile's album on this list. I'm very rarely not in the mood for 80s New Wave Synth-pop; it's dated, it's often cheesy and stupid, it's songs are similar to every other song in the genre, but, like country music, it's comforting to know that I'm most likely going to enjoy what I'm about to listen to. I'm immediately in a movie: it's 1982, New York City, at night, the ground is still wet after a recent bout of rain, the many lights of the city are reflected in every casual pool of water, like a universe exists in each puddle. I'm running home from my desk job, because I fear I'm being stalked by a secret criminal that I accidentally discovered. I'm fervently checking every alley I run past, making sure there's not some suspicious character that keeps appearing, getting closer. I have to get home, I have to get these codes to a safe place, because the fate of someone's life may very well rest upon my shoulders. There's footsteps behind me - someone is gaining on me. Yes, this is the plot to the film "Jumpin' Jack Flash", because I love that film, and I want to live in it. Sue me. This is a 5, by the way.
Pretty much what you’d expect an album from this time period to sound like. All of the styles are more varied than expected, yet I kept expecting the next lyric to always be Don’t You Forget About Me.
Sauceless. Genren't. The last track was kinda interesting, but this is just so... Ugh. Context matters but this did not stand the test of any time or deserve to be on any "greatest" list.
I tried not to pre-judge it, but I knew from the first chord what I was in for: generic and boring eighties pop rock. While I did catch myself tapping my foot on occasion, it was more in an effort to stay awake during the listen. I really won't gain anything from tearing into a 44 year old album that genuinely does have effort put in it because of some individual instrumental parts being good and the production being nice, so I'll just leave it at the fact that this can be entirely skipped for most people.
Good sophisticated 80s pop. Need more time with this.
At first I thought the list was sending me Christian gospel music so I had to ask AI what in the heck this came from. Simple Minds famous for their fist pumping song on the Breakfast Club, Don't You (Forget About Me). Which was an amazing song for that movie, but unfortunately for Simple Minds, this album doesn't have the same statement. I'm choosing to forget about them.
Ah! After a spate of terrible selections, this! So good. How is this 44 years old? Singles are still great, album cuts great listens. Yes yes yes.
This album came and went but wasn't too memorable. Nothing stood out to me but nothing was horrible, either. I suppose the worst thing an album can be is forgettable, but I enjoyed listening to it when it was on even if I won't revisit. This is closer to a 2.5/5 than a 2/5.
Some songs are really boring to me but there are a couple good ones that bring the score up from a 2 to a 3
Not sure this 1980’s sound has aged so well, fine but not necessarily to revisit.
Pretty forgettable
Der Sound der 80er
my 50th album! was raised on depeche mode so of course i love synths :)
Sure, I guess
Haven't heard Someone Somewhere in a while, still great so surprised it does show up more on 80s radio stations. Ot quite enough to push the album up to 4
Enjoyed
Not unlistenable but just forgettable. That Frankie Goes to Hollywood album was a far better way of doing this synth sound in a memorable way. This album on the other hand just has no ear wormy hooks or anything interesting going on, plus the vocals being completely drowned out in the mix doesn't help either. 2/5
This was good. Very of it's time, but the melodies were good. 3.0/5.0: Good
as far new wave goes this is decent but there is a reason these guys were one hit wonders.
No ... just, no.
Good stuff
kind of fun at first, repetitive after a while. decent, not great
This is definitely new wave pop of the 80s. Not much variation of sound.
I wanted to like this album, it started strongish, and felt of it's time and more to the point, like I was in an 80's soundtrack but I just couldn't get into it. The music just couldn't get past 1st gear. The lead singer is great. The synths are on point for the 80's but they remain a One hit wonder for me and that one hit wasn't on this album.
I really love the 80s synth vibes of this entire album. My 16-year-old self would be disgusted with me.
4/10
Unmemorable. A day later and literally nothing from the album stands out.
5/10
Overly synthed up and boring
ok
I actually enjoyed this. It wasn't the most overwhelming thing I heard, but it was a good one. Very 80s sounding.
Very 80’s. Interesting listen, although I don’t know if I’d revisit it. Rating: 6.5/10 Favorite Songs: hunter, hunted, promised you a miracle, new gold dream
Promised You a miracle
New wave no way Also (what the hell are these numbers)
There are so many New Wave albums on the list. Fucking insane. Only 3 of them are good, and this isn't one of them.
I had fun feeling like my parents listening to this, but I gotta say this decade is getting tired and as a society we gotta sit ourselves down and be honest that 80’s music just isn’t that good
This album warps the space time continuum. Makes 46 min feel like 90 min. Ground breaking. Maybe their minds aren’t so simple.
The band was very good at making great music….a lot of talent 🎸
Such a great album of synth pop, consistent all the way through and filled with vivid imagery. I was especially enamoured with the bass lines, and I've honestly no idea why I hadn't listened to this one before. Excellent stuff. Favourite track: Glittering Prize Least favourite track: Big Sleep
By the end it all just sounded the same.
Ok
Quite instrumental led dreamy new wave pop.
starts off strong then gets boring
Bunch of new wave bollocks
got my interest right from the opening track and peaked with the big hit, and then right in the middle i got hit with a pure instrumental and it was hard for the momentum to come back. great authentic 80s sound and a handful of songs that i really enjoyed.
It’s fine, easy to see why the Rolling Stones are remembered and they aren’t.
Make it stop. 1/5.
Really fun melodramatic melancholic 80s synthpop. Great example of the style, and very catchy. Will definitely be coming back to this.
Wasn't into Simple Minds at the time but I did like this album at the time of its release. And I still like some of the tracks on it to this day. It does have quite a few classic pop tracks on it and at the time, I couldn't get enough of the closing instrumental track, not a radio favourite but it got me hooked. Somehow it sounds different these days but overall, the album has an undefinable something about it that stays with you. It's stripped down but enveloping.
Liked it. Very 80s
Hmm... I'm not crazy about this album, but it was nice to listen to...🙂 Honestly, I was feeling bored until I heard Somebody Up There Likes you❤️One of the best songs despite being purely instrumental. My favorite song must be Hunter and The Hunted! Herbie Hancock's synthesizer solo was great!!! Oh and I also enjoy the cover art💛💛 Thank you 💛
Just couldn't really find anything here that interesting at all today. Not sure what it is. Maybe washed out 80s production? Slightly excentric sprawling songwriting? Dunno. Just didn't sit great today
I like some Simple Minds songs, and this album has a very intriguing title, but I simply didn't like it very much. It was just kind of... boring? I'm not sure how to describe it, but nothing really stuck and I wasn't expecting that to be the case with this one. Maybe they chose the wrong album from this band? I don't know. Key tracks: Someone Somewhere in Summertime Promised You a Miracle
i'm biased (i love this style and era) but yeah there's sadly not a lot of memorable stuff in this album. really solid, nonetheless! i like to imagine these albums in the context of where the artist intended people to listen to them. if i was in an 80s club tweaking on blow, this would definitely be a 5/5.
Some lovely music on this. Just not a fan of the vocals. The vocalist just doesn’t match the vibe of the music. Plus it has one of the ugliest album covers I’ve ever seen
Nice early 80s synthy pop. There really isn't much more to be said. I can't think of a reason people need to hear this before they die.
I like the music almost universally. The bass is awesome and they write good pop songs. The lyrics kinda suck. They don’t write any hooks and the vocals are kinda generic. Very processed and a lot of reverb makes the vocals sound very dated to the era. The reverb makes them sound like they were recorded in a cave. It’s just not a catchy pop record. It sounds more like alterno music of the 90’s or early 2000’s where the intention was to NOT be catchy - it makes it somewhat challenging to listen to and not think “art-rock”. It definitely reminds me of other bands like this (The Fall comes to mind...). Critics LOVE them. I don't care much for the style. It doesn’t suck and it’s worth a listen, but I won’t be coming back anytime soon.
As a teenager in Scotland I always resented how it seemed like your national duty to like Simple Minds. This album is a weird nexus of 80s sounds. I hear Mick Karn of Japan's bass playing, Simple Minds' own post-punk origins, pop keyboards of Scritti Politi and you can clearly hear its influence on U2's next couple of albums after War.
I've always hated this band for no particular reason.
Started good . Then turned into jam session
5 disc album...over 4hrs long...definitely did not listen.
So unexpectedly good that I'm going to go back and downgrade a U2 rating from yesterday 😅 In a fairer universe, Bono would have stayed at Jim Kerr's level. The cavernous echo and synth sounds here are certainly quite dated but also still epic. A great energy about this.
"Simple Minds, OK, I know a song by them." *proceeds to look at the track listing and find nothing familiar* "OK, maybe not." This album isn't actually objectively bad. It's actually pretty ok. It's totally fine. The entire album really feels like it doesn't go anywhere though. Very strait up the middle, not super emotive, early british 80s new-wave. A lot of bands did it better. A lot of bands did it worse.
It always feels bad when an album starts off with points against it before I even know anything about it. I know people say not to judge a book by it's cover, but I cannot ignore how ugly the cover of New Gold Dream is. Although, I will say, to it's credit, upon seeing this I knew *exactly* what kind of album this is. In short, it's gothy synth pop. And honestly, it's pretty good. Although I don't think the "goth-yness" is that strongly wound into their DNA, at a lot if times, this is just synth pop. But still, the songs are strong, and the synths themselves are inspired and icy. The mix is a little weird, but it's mostly just an artifact of the time. This was enjoyable, but I don't have a ton to say about it, which may be indicative that New Gold Dream is a little more style than substance. But still, it is cool enough that it earns the low 3.
It's all pretty good!
I think I’m a Simple Minds fan now. This was great. Very 80s in a good way, and a strong mix of different instruments and synth sounds. My dad likes them too. He’s right on this one.
3 / 5 Best: Promised You A Miracle Worst: King Is White And In The Crowd Weirdest: Somebody Up There Likes You Honorable Mentions: Colours Fly and Catherine Wheel, Big Sleep Not typically a big fan of 80s pop, but this one surprised me. Tracks 2-4 (Colours Fly, Promised You, Big Sleep, Somebody Up There) were the strongest - great mixture of styles with funky bass lines, disco-like synths, and reverb-washed guitars. The typical 80s pop aesthetic is maintained throughout, but I'm pleased with the variety of songwriting. I'll probably re-visit this one in the future.
#24 A prime example of 80s synth-pop, with some really good bass guitar work shining above everything else. The overall sound is pretty one-dimensional, which isn't surprising given the genre and age of it. I did like this more than I expected to. "Big Sleep" and "King Is White" are both highlights for me. Terrible album cover.
I'm not sure I've ever really given Simple Minds a fair hearing - I just mentally filed them under 'poor man's U2' and left it there. Based on this album, they are less U2-esque than I orginally thought, but this album is essentially a couple of decent singles and quite a bit of filler.
Lush new wave and synth-pop built from shimmering keyboards, melodic bass lines, atmospheric guitars, and soaring vocals feels like staring into a glittering kaleidoscope that never stops turning—beautiful at first, but eventually dissolving into a single blur of color and light. The album is obsessed with atmosphere, layering texture upon texture until individual songs begin to lose their shape. Its dreamlike consistency is admirable, though for me it comes at the expense of memorability and emotional impact.
3/5 Favorite Song: Promised You A Miracle
Jeg liker lydbildet og stemningen, men vokalen blir til tider parodisk.
Hadde på i bakgrunnen mens jeg satt ute og jobbet. Funket helt greit, men veldig forglemmelig plate. Sitter ikke igjen med noe.
Intetsigende og kjedelig synthpopmusikk som er så plantet i åttitallet at det virker helt meningsløst å høre på det nå.
Only knew 3 songs from this album and they made it into the charts. They were middle of the road. The rest is nothing special. Not stood the test of time. Stuck in the 80s.
Dodgy 80s drums, synths and voice filter. Has not aged well. I'm not sure there was many songs, it just sounded like a dirty noise.
Decent for the 80s, but sadly still from the 80s
Distinctly 80s but actually quite good
The gnarly bass lines saved this one from two star mediocrity, elevating it to glorious three star mediocrity.
I’m not sure how much of this we’re meant to listen to, but I cannot abide nearly five hours of Simple Minds. I simply cannot do it.
I can listen to it in the background.
I saw these live 3 times in the 80s once was the tour for this album. I can confirm that they are much much better live than they ever sounded on record! Their music is so full of life and sparkle it really needs to be experienced in a live setting. That being said, this is a top album with some top tunes.
About as 80s as you can imagine music wise. Very much of the time and any view about it is either positive because of some form of nostalgia be it real or imagined. Or Otherwise negative as it is just so dated. And I can’t actually decide, there’s the odd brat pack like nostalgic moment ( yes I know THAT song isn’t here) but there is also a swamp of 80s keyboard sounds and that all invasive electronic drum pad sound. That drum sound is front and centre and is the 1 thing that dates it the most for me, I stop hearing the songs and just hear that dull electronic thud, it's so distracting. But it's Very much represented it’s time, so yeah should be here though listening only really liked the hits, 3 stars
Temazos
Synthy and inoffensive. It was nice,
Do you really want to hurt me? I guess not, but I was groovin'. 3.
The early new wave is a sound. You hear the beginnings of what is to come, but nothing stood out for me. The synth sound is music to my ears
Simple Minds -- they did that song in Breakfast Club, right? So we have 80s new wave from Britain... an album praised by members of U2 and Depeche Mode. two of my favorite bands, and it features legendary jazz keyboardist Herbie Hancock on one of the tracks, this should be a slam dunk. So why am I not loving this? I think the songs on here are about 50% too long. And the length isn't from generating new ideas... it comes from repetition -- lots and lots of repetition... lots and LOTS of repetition. And repetition with little to no variation. It felt mind numbing at times. Promised You a Miracle is a standout track. And Hunter and the Hunted is up there -- this is the one featuring Herbie Hancock... but if you're going to have a performer like him, why is his keyboard so low in the mix? Beyond these two, I don't see myself coming back to this unless the mood hits me right.
Enjoyable new wave synth stuff. Didn’t catch that I new this group’s biggest hit until after the album, well, we all do. Had a good time listening to this but it’s not special, just sticks to what it does well. Multiple tracks could have been shorter. 1 listen Favorite Tracks: Someone Somewhere (In Summertime), Promised You A Miracle
Expectation: -> An 80s band I know with a few radio hits. Looking forward to exploring this. After listening: "-> 80s synth pop. Yes, please. I enjoyed about 2/3 of this. The jury is out on the final three on my ranking. My take home point is that this band is more than just ""Don't You (Forget About Me),"" even if I've heard that song 1000 times and perhaps none of this album until today. I was impressed." Track ranking: Miracle Prize Hunter Someone Somebody Sleep Dream King Colours
I definitely liked this more than I thought I would.
80s disco synth picks: someone somewhere, promised you a miracle
☆☆☆☆
Bring back the old wave.
eh
Decently catchy and a nice little atmosphere, not really anything that'll stick with me but that's new wave for ya
no es lo que me gusta pero es más o menos aceptable
New Gold Dream (81–82–83–84) is the first Simple Minds album I’ve come across in this challenge, which genuinely surprised me. I wasn’t hugely familiar with the band outside of “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”, so I was really looking forward to giving this a proper listen. This album was a really pleasant surprise and has definitely made me want to explore more of their music. Straight away I loved the sound of the band. It feels completely of its time in the best possible way, with that rich early-80s production and atmosphere throughout. Jim Kerr’s voice is superb as well and suits the music perfectly. The album sounds beautiful from start to finish. The production is excellent, the melodies are strong and the bass playing is incredibly prominent throughout, often stealing the show. There’s a real elegance and mood to the record that makes it very easy to get lost in. Favourite tracks: “Someone Somewhere in Summertime”, “Promised You a Miracle”, “Colours Fly and Catherine Wheel” Least favourite tracks: Everything here deserves its place on the album Album artwork: Cool album cover
1001 moody 80s albums you could have happily died without hearing
I for some reason went into this listen expecting to find some cool, overlooked gem of pop music from the formative era of my childhood. What I found was nothing remarkable though. Not bad but seldom great. The sound is dated and doesn’t do anything impressive enough to transcend the shortcomings of the production. Also I never know if what I’m listening to is the original incarnation of the album’s track listing or some jumped up reissue with a b-sides and alt takes, but there seemed to be a lot of this album which exacerbated the tedium.
Confusing title for an album that’s not a retrospective compilation. Every song is too long and not interesting enough to warrant their length.
Fine but I don't really remember anything from it
8/10
i know i liked it i just can't remember shit
Solid 80s
(3) you get your money’s worth! Four hours worth. I agree with David Fricke wrote for Rolling Stone, this album is manly “atmosphere for dreaming”. I will listen to this next time I need to find some rest. Atmosphere never seems to be a compliment, even though in college I thought it was a compliment.
6/10 - Light 3 but what an album cover. Looks like a stock background of a Methodist Church worship PowerPoint slide. Feels like the lyrics to Amazing Grace should be printed on it.
It's nice to listen to but there are only a few memorable songs, those being Someone Somewhere, Promised You a Miracle, and New Gold Dream. The rest aren't bad but it's just fine. 6/10
Old pop
I don't mind Simple Minds but I'm really all about the hits with 80s new wave. So this sounded fine but I'm more likely to put on a playlist of them than return to this.
Comecei a ouvir e já achei que era mais um álbum os Smiths... Achei bem fraco, nada muito interessante, nem a música mais famosa trouxe algo diferente. Vai ser o clássico 3 que não agrega em nada, e também não é ruim.
I can hear a ton of other industrial / techno bands in this. Shame that pioneers often have others come after who are better, but it's the nature of the game. 3/5
Panicked when I saw the four disc version, finding the original was a relief! Enjoy the sound, not fussed about the instrumentals. First simple minds album I've listened too and I enjoyed it.
man what a terrible album cover. the music is fine though
He does have a good voice but this album is just ok. Nothing great and to write home about.
I have heard better
Fine. It's kinda boring and just sort of whatever. They're only on here cuz they British.
boring, boring, boring
More proof the 80s were the worst decade for music It’s alright but is this the best the 80s has to offer?
Some good jams, just way too long
This was fine. Was not super into this at the time or now but it had impact on the 80’s for sure.
Has the same effect on me now, as it did when released. The opening track and Promised You A Miracle remain the standouts. The rest of it is ok. Even though the band really started coming into their own on this release, I’m not sure this one should be on the list. Their ‘85 record Once Upon A Time is more deserving. Still, slick production, unique synth usage, and Kerr’s distinguished voice help this one stay afloat.
One of those “it was probably good at the time” or “this influenced a lot of stuff to come.” I thought it was very meh and didn’t even include the one song everyone knows them for. 2.25
I should probably make myself some notes when I listen to a weekend album on Friday... cuz I don't remember anything about this album other than thinking it was pretty ok. 2.75/5
An all time classic. Needs a few more big hitters on this but I've always been a fan of the album as a whole, really nice blend of New Wave and post-punk. An influential collection of impressive synth for the time.
idk 0 bangers but i like the 80’s sounds
What a load of rubbish. Not a 1, but barely a 2.
It’s okay! I liked some of the flanger lol
Didn't love this
what happened in the 80s jesus
I already know the song "someone somewhere" so that was cool to start with such a good song that i know already. anyways im 3 songs in and still really liking it. i like this sort of dazey floaty music
Su voz me atrajo, le daré mi oportunidad a analizarla
Not awful listening, not inspiring either.
Onírico e extraordinário. Sonoridade misteriosa e obscura, temperada com pitadas deliciosas de Reverb sempre na medida certa. Esfumaçado e intrigante. Escuta imensamente prazerosa e engajante. 5/5
I quite liked it tbh,
New Gold Dream (81–82–83–84) has beautiful melodies, smooth production, and relaxing songs that are easy to enjoy. However, many tracks sound quite similar, so the album loses some excitement before ending, even though the music stays consistently pleasant, polished, and full of atmosphere from beginning to finish.
I saw the Simple Minds at the Waldbuehne in Berlin on June 14, 1989. They played one tune off this album at that show: Big Sleep. What a show as I recall, perfect warm early summer night. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ New Gold Dream (81–82–83–84) — A Radiant, Timeless Triumph You know what sucks about this project and website? Having to wade through other people’s moronic takes on classic records like this one. Simple Minds’ New Gold Dream is the moment the band stopped being a promising post‑punk act and became something mythic. The album glows — literally — with a golden, dreamlike sheen. Every track feels suspended between the spiritual and the cinematic, built on lush synth textures, hypnotic basslines, and Jim Kerr’s rising‑into‑the‑heavens vocals. What makes the album so enduring is its sense of forward motion. It’s not nostalgic, not retro, not derivative. It sounds like a band discovering a new musical language in real time — a fusion of art‑rock, electronic pop, and atmospheric mysticism that would influence everyone from U2 to the Manic Street Preachers. ⭐ Highlight Track: Hunter and the Hunted If the album is a cathedral of sound, Hunter and the Hunted is the stained‑glass window catching the light. Mick MacNeil’s synths shimmer like neon fog. Derek Forbes’ bass is a masterclass in melodic propulsion. Jim Kerr’s vocal is both intimate and epic, a whispered prayer turning into a declaration. And then there’s Herbie Hancock’s guest solo — a moment of pure, liquid electricity that lifts the track into the stratosphere. The song feels like a chase through a dream: urgent, romantic, and strangely serene. It’s one of the band’s finest achievements and a perfect encapsulation of the album’s emotional palette. Why It’s a 5/5 Visionary production that still sounds modern A cohesive, immersive atmosphere from start to finish Career‑defining performances from every member A sense of spiritual uplift rare in pop music Tracks that feel like living, breathing worlds New Gold Dream isn’t just an album — it’s a place you can step into. And once you’re inside, you don’t really want to leave.
Very 80s. Like, VERY 80s. Not bad, not great, enjoyable generally and a few songs are pretty catchy. Definitely a pop milestone album, even if it isn't really my jam.
alles anderi wie simpel gestrickt das album! Viel spass, uf 80er jahr isch verlass. 4 Toast Hawaii
Wieder mal was speziels unerwarteds. Sehr enjoyable und unique style. Wirde wahrsch nöd so oft drilose aber es 3er std bewertig wär fast chli frech Darum 81 82, 83, nei 8-4 bewertig
mmmh yess! han zwar dänkt ich lahs si mit längst überfällige albe bewerte aber ez hani doch lust uf simple minds gha – recht vill erwarted und trotzdem erwartige übertroffe <3 machemer nägel mit chöpf und nagled 4 nägel id wand
honestly, i wish i loved this album. i appreciate how the band was able to illustrate the relationship between past and present, getting more progressive with every song, i think. but at the same time, i didn't resonate with any of the songs. if i had to pick a favorite one it would probably be "somebody up there likes you", alternatively "promised you a miracle". except from that, i felt like all songs were in the same tone (but not in a good way) and i wasn't a fan of the voice of the main singer :( so that's why it's a 2 for me, but i would give it a 2,5 if it was possible
The beginning of this record was ok, but it seemed like a lot of other early-80s stuff - boppy synth, vague lyrics, dancey beat. However, things improved starting with "Promised You a Miracle" - at that point the album started to get my attention, with the songs getting a little longer and the instrumentation and vocals more intense and interesting. That material still has the underlying format of 80s radio synth music, but is a little more imaginative -- I can see why people think that this record stands out from the rest of the band's work. The bass is great, of course; I just wish they'd mic'd it louder. 4 stars
Possibly the most 80s thing imaginable but it’s relaxing
A decent VERY 80s synth pop album. Pretty fun, kept it brief.
Boy this takes me back to my junior and senior years of college when the singles and then the album came out. Classic new wave synth pop.
#GlasgowBand
Heavy 80s textures on this album. I like the bass lines. Some songs have a nice mood and build.
Everything about this album is great. The production is lush and immaculate, the instrumentals are rich and atmospheric, the lyrics are smart and evocative, and Jim Kerr’s vocals are passionate without ever feeling overdone. It all comes together beautifully. While listening, it felt like I was taken on this dreamy, slightly esoteric journey. There’s a sense of mysticism and longing running through the record, like following a lone artist wandering through some beautiful, abstract landscape. It has this cinematic, almost spiritual quality that pulls you in and keeps you floating along. Tracks like “Promised You a Miracle,” “Glittering Prize,” “Someone Somewhere (In Summertime),” and the epic title track are all highlights, but the album flows so well as a whole that it almost feels like one long, cohesive experience. This is Simple Minds at their absolute peak — ambitious, melodic, atmospheric, and full of heart. It’s one of those records that sounds expensive and emotional at the same time. I loved it. Easily one of the best albums of the early 80s.
The most new wavey new wave that ever waved. Assumed they were just a one hit wonder act, so this was much better than expected. Very strange album art
I enjoyed this when it was on and did save a few tracks to relisten to but I can’t really remember much about this after the fact 3.5
Enjoyable and groovy, kinda reminds me of Breakfast Club. Great to have on while i worked the album took me on a journey
That album art is certainly a choice
10/10 album art New Gold Dream showcases solid production and quality songs. Crappy songs are usually where these art pop records lose me but I stuck with New Gold Dream and enjoyed it from start to finish.
initially had very low expectations for this album. it very much sounds like an 80s album and was in fact released in the early 80s. loved how experimental it is - it gives it that timeless quality.
i probably wouldnt have enjoyed this if i was in a worse mood, the songwriting is very stark and still and the soundscapes are strangely two-dimensional sounding, but idk, somehow that rly worked for me today. at this point i hear music almost entirely as Space and Shapes (sometimes as colors but not super often), and this record kind of flattens both of those, but to the effect of this Sheet Of Silver...a pure Object, not really going any particular direction, but very interesting to stare at. the timbres of the synths and the way they wash out into these big shimmers are endlessly delightful to me, and tho the songs are kind of motionless i appreciate them as these stationary sculptures. i was rly engaged tbh!
I cannot get behind this production style That seems to be so popular at this time, where everything has too much reverb and the whole mix is muddy, drowning out the individual parts. The style of singing is equally as frustrating. One of the highlights of the album was the bass playing, but it's a shame the bass part was drowned out half the time. Somebody up there likes you was decent cuz it had no vocals and the B section is pretty funky
So (early) 80s, so British (Scottish). Definitely takes me back to that time. I remember being somewhat tempted to own something by them. Or possibly briefly did, but then later sold it? On this album -- their breakthrough, I guess -- I count 3 good tracks, 6 not so good. The good ones (to me) are 1, 5, and 6. And 5 and 6, especially (1 is less good), do a good job of conveying an early 80s feel (in a good way). If only the rest of the album were at that level. So how do I rate this? It's between a 2 and a 3. I really do like tracks 5 and 6 quite a bit (maybe it's just 80s nostalgia?), so I'm tempted to give it a 3 based mostly on those 2 or 3 songs. So, yeah, I think I'll give it a 3 (but it's really a 2.51 rounded up). ;)
I can't imagine something more of-its-time. Opposite of timeless nice bass playing I didn't need to hear this. . . .the most interesting thing is probably the Herbie keyboard solo
This was pretty cool, but got boring after a bit.
If you’re looking for typical 1980s music then this one’s for you. The UK group Simple Minds had a big hit with “Don’t You Forget About Me” in 1985, but I was unaware of them until then. This was an earlier album, which has good production value but the music is forgettable. I enjoyed the electronica style instrumental “Somebody Up There Likes You”.
More bad 80s album art! But an intriguing title. And at least "simple" is an adjective. I only know 'Don't You (Forget About Me)', which I like, and that song isn't on here. But these tracks are fine, though not particularly memorable. I might forget about them.
I love the 80s. It's my childhood, being that I'm a Xennial. So it's not some anti-synth bias that makes this so very, very forgettable.
Wonderful album. Hasn't aged a day.
I find synthesiser sounds like this scary - probably some repressed memory from my childhood.
Boring
Here comes my love of synth and new wave. Jim Kerr has the emblematic voice of post punk. The album opens with Someone Somewhere, a hauntingly beautiful balled with the darkness of new wave. The echoes of the guitars throughout the album, but particularly in Colours Fly. The more poppy Promised you a miracle. I didn’t love the interlude of Somebody up there likes you, but this is quickly made up by New Gold Dream and Glittering Prize. The art of the BUILD UP so brilliantly shown in King is White and in the Crowd. And all in 47 minutes? Powerful, effective and excellent.
It's ok new wave
Favorite Track: Someone Somewhere (In Summertime)
Turns out Simple Minds was a one-hit wonder for a reason (well two-hit wonder if you count Alive and Kicking).
This album is as “vanilla” as it gets. I didn’t hate it but didn’t care that it was playing either. As a side note, props to any fan who would endure 4 hours and 45 minutes of this monotonous music. Simple Minds has one good song (IMO) and it wasn’t even in this selection. Overall, I was disappointed in the listen (and the time spent) despite the decent 80’s music being produced.
Albums like this are the reason that the 80s deservecsuch a bad musical reputation. This album is to music what Z-Cavariccis are to fashion.
Damn, this was boring.
Wasn't too familiar with Simple Minds before. The record itself is very 80s coded, but nothing special.
I’ve learned I hate 80’s pop
I’ve realized I’m just a sucker for synth-pop. But especially if it’s so bass-driven, with excellent synth and vocal hooks almost like co-leads. The songs are all pretty distinct and I especially love the instrumental midway through. One star dinged mainly because of that god-awful cover. But it’s Must-listen #328.
Yksinkertaisten mielien syntiset soundit kuulostivat oikein kivalta.
Bängäävät Bassot Botki kovaa. Laulajasta voi olla montaa mieltä, mutta itelle uppos oikein hyvin. Bändi sinällään tuttu hittibiiseistään, mutta levyyn en ollu tutustunu. Todennäkösesti tulee kuunneltua uusiksi, ainakin laitan korvan taa levyn.
One of the most 80s albums I’ve ever heard. It’s solid but nothing incredible
The main singer had a unique voice but I thought every song sounded the same - not my favourite Just a quick gripe that this album is included but not let go by avril lavigne????????? Not sure about that
This reminded me of the holding music you hear when trying to get hold of your banks call centre.
Didn’t get through it. The new wave-y singing doesn’t really do it for me
I enjoyed the overall vibe of the album but found the songs a bit repetitive
Excelente energía 80tera, un poco me suena nostálgico y a la vez tipo Joy Division me gusto.
I remember liking this band quite a bit, and yet, listening to this album now, it just doesn't do much for me.
I like Simple Minds a decent amount, but why is this album so looooong? Many versions of the same song.
alright, pretty nice
I also thought Simple Minds was a 1 hit wonder... maybe because I really only knew that 1 hit from the Breakfast Club. Turns out, this album did not change my feeling on that.
Thought I’d hate it but not bad
This is my favourite album from one of my favourite bands. I have played this album for over forty years and it still gives me goosebumps. Probably the most gorgeous sounding record ever. 5 stars
- This album has a few songs that I really enjoy (e.g., the opener and title tracks, especially) and that give me an early Depeche Mode feel, so I guess it's fitting that Dave Gahan loved this album. - That said, it also has a lot of songs that feel really dated in the production with those (very prevalent) wet sounding honking synths, flat drums, and bloated bass sound. - There are some good grooves in the baselines. - And, the singer's voice is nice and silky. - Really hate the cover, lol.
Virkelig godt 80’er album som er god art pop, synth pop agtig new wave stil. De tog post punken og lagde mere vægt på new Waven og skabte et lidt mere atmosfærisk og let svævende univers. Det kan man sagtens høre og det giver en god helhedsfølelse når man lytter igennem til det fra start til slut. Promised you a miracle er en virkelig god single, synes jeg. Det er en kæmpe banger. Jeg synes overall det var en rigtig god lytte oplevelse det virker virkelig storslået og cinematisk. Normalt er jeg blevet lidt træt af den der 80’er stemme og virkelig synth stærke melodi, men det her virker bare gennemført.
It was okay. Find Simple Minds to be a B level band with a few enjoyable songs.
I was previously familiar with Simple Minds but did not recognize anything from this album. This is pop/rock which sounds very much like the 1980s time period. It has some moments but overall it was just ok for me. I would listen again but would not be in any rush to do so.
I like Simple Minds, never loved them. This album was fine. I enjoyed the last 3-4 songs much more than the first few. Right down the middle. If I want to listen to this style of music, I'd rather listen to ABC.
most of the time, I just wish these new wave bands would ditch the synths. and all the damn reverb. (apologies to Herbie Hancock, who apparently appears on "Hunter and the Hunted"). on New Gold Dream, Simple Minds' lack of production clarity or identity as songwriters tends to do them in, even with the occasional standout like "Promised You a Miracle" or the title track. music that sounds like goop. strong 5/10.
Good but nothing special to me
Too much 80s recently
I listened to the whole thing.
Simple Minds always represented the bland corporate music world to me in the 80s. If you knew you listened to music that sucked and you were looking to loudly proclaim to others, "I think music should be stripped of all that makes it wonderful and alive," then my bet was that you were driving around the 80s popping in a Simple Minds CD. Their earlier Chelsea Girls song is pretty decent. Seems like they sold their souls at some point for a record contract and a room full of synths.