SIMPLE MINDS // OVO HYDRO, GLASGOW
Simple Minds saved the best for last with their Glasgow performance – Simple Minds with Del Amitri at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro.
★★★★★ (5/5)
SIMPLE MINDS PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S OVO HYDRO
It was pretty clear from the announcement that Simple Minds were planning something huge for this year tour. With special guests Del Amitri and closing nights in their Scottish home city; it was easy prediction that fans would snap up tickets and excitement would flow with the sales.
Scotland has a rich and colourful musical history with many legendary acts flying the blue and white flag. One of these groups is Simple Minds who formed in Glasgow in 1977. In the midst of a musical fusion explosion, the band achieved commercial success in the 1980s with their anthemic songs and distinctive sound; they blended elements of post-punk, new wave, synth-pop. Led by vocalist Jim Kerr and guitarist Charlie Burchill, Simple Minds rose to prominence with hits that have stood the test of time.
Simple Mind’s music is characterised by Kerr’s emotive vocals, Burchill’s melodic guitar work, and a strong emphasis on atmospheric synth arrangements. Over the years, simple Minds have maintained a dedicated fan base and continue to tour and release new music, showcasing their enduring influence on the rock music scene.
Following the huge success of 2022’s rapturously received ’40 Years Of Hits’ Tour – and the recent announcement of the Australia & New Zealand dates for next year – Simple Minds announced the UK & Ireland leg of their Global Tour and stated that they would be joined by very special guests Del Amitri.
The Scottish alternative rock band Del Amitri formed in Glasgow in 1983. With melodic, guitar-driven sound and insightful lyrics, the group have maintained a dedicated fan base over the years. Singer-songwriter Justin Currie has recently gone public with his Parkinson’s diagnosis but this has not stopped him from devoting himself to this tour with gusto.
Attendees of Good Friday’s performance at Glasgow’s Hydro arena needed to be in sharp as the night had a lot instore. Del Amitri created a ripple of adoration in the room with just shy of an hour of their hits including Always the Last to Know, Kiss This Thing Goodbye and a beautiful and triumphant ending of Stone Cold Sober and Nothing Ever Happens. Though the event was seated, the near entirety of the crowd had risen to their feet early on in Del Amitri’s set. Bets are that this tour will have been a poignant and emotional time for the group and the venue celebrated and cheered their performance with delight.
As an elaborate setup began blooming onstage, it was clear that Simple Minds were pulling out all the stops. Excitement exploded out throughout the arena as the lights dimmed and Kerr skipped out liked a kid at Christmas.
For each night of the tour Simple Minds are playing a unique set list making each performance particularly special. The opener Waterfront is consistent but the group goes on to seemingly draw from the band’s pick and mix dispensary each night to keep attendees guessing at what they will hear. Kerr is well of boundless energy and it is hard to keep your eyes off him. By song three, Sons and Fasination, Kerr jokes about needing a break and it is no surprise considering his step count on stage already.
Burchill and Kerr have long history of performing together and there is no doubt that they can create magic, however, spotlight is given to the wonderful more recent members of the band. The young, sequined drummer Cherisse Osei performs an incredible solo that captivates the crowd and shows off her talents after a breath-taking extended version of the group’s powerful humanitarian ode Belfast’s Child. Supporting vocalist Sarah Brown shows off her impressive voice throughout the set and stuns during her solo track Book of Brilliant Things.
For the anticipated numbers Don’t You (Forget About Me) and Alive and Kicking the crowd sing wholeheartedly. The night is ended with Sanctify Yourself and adoring applause for the wonderful musicians and producers who have made the night possible. Alongside the wonderful music was and a complex and enigmatic light show for every track and it worked wonders enhancing the experience.
Simple Minds’ performance in Glasgow this year was nothing short of electrifying. From the moment they took to the stage, the iconic band captivated the audience with their timeless hits and never-ending energy. Jim Kerr’s vocals were as powerful as ever, effortlessly transporting fans through decades of musical nostalgia. The band’s tight instrumentation and dynamic stage presence kept the crowd on their feet throughout the entire show.
With a perfect blend of classic favourites and newer tracks, Simple Minds proved why they remain as one of the most beloved rock acts in history. Their home turf show had Glasgow treated to an unforgettable night of music that showcased the enduring talent and passion of this legendary band.
