Igudesman & Joo Diary 10: Simple Minds - Charlie Burchill

Backstage at the Night of the Proms, Charlie Burchill of Simple Minds joins Igudesman & Joo in another Igudesman & Joo Video Blog

Read more on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum:

Jim Kerr on the ITV1 show 'Loose Women' (19.11.2008)

Jim Kerr will appear on the ITV1 show Loose Women at 12:30 GMT on 19.11.2008

The Pussycat Dolls perform their news single and Jim Kerr chats to Jackie Brambles, Coleen Nolan and Jane McDonald

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Jim Kerr on 'Loose Women' (19.11.2008)

Listen again to Jim's interview on Absolute Radio

Listen again to the Ben Jones interview with Jim Kerr on Absolute Radio

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Jim Kerr on Wednesday Night Live with Ben Jones

Igudesman & Joo, Tour Diary 5: Simple Minds - Jim Kerr

Backstage at the Night of the Proms, Jim Kerr of Simple Minds joins Igudesman & Joo in another Igudesman & Joo Video Blog

Read more on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum:

Jim Kerr on Absolute Radio

Ben Jones chats to Jim Kerr as we play back 1 hour of classic Simple Minds. Ben will be finding out more about the eagerly awaited 16th album which is due for release early next year. Absolute Radio listeners can also win tickets to see the band perform!

Simple Minds Interview

There is a Simple Minds Interview on Absolute Radio: Wednesday Night Live with Ben Jones on 12 November 2008 from 10pm (UK).

Follow the link for details on how to Listen to Absolute Radio

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Jim Kerr on Wednesday Night Live with Ben Jones

Latest Simple Minds Diaries / News

NOTP Update

Thanks to Ollix for the photo

Simple Minds proves to be a worthy headliner still. The Scottish group celebrates its 30th anniversary with a surprising set, that is kicked off with 'Sanctify Yourself'. Jim Kerr hasn't lost any of his charisma and during 'Waterfront', a song written for venues like this one, the singer plays the audience in a way only Bono can emulate. An intimate 'Belfast Child' and a highly festive and massively sung along 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' make you wonder how the anniversary edition of the Proms next year is going to be able to top this.

[De Morgen, 27/10/2008]

Thanks to Lore for the photo

Now, how can we disagree with what one of Belgium's leading newspapers has to say about Simple Minds' performance at Night of The Proms? Or with any of the raving reviews they received in the Belgian press? Believe us, we tried! There were the first night jitters and Jim's little slip during Don't You on opening night, but these were eclipsed by an all round stunning performance! The magical intro of Sanctify Yourself, which is rapidly becoming a NOTP classic in the way Belfast Child already is, builds up the crowd's anticipation perfectly, while the new arrangement of Waterfront works extremely well and gets the audience to their feet instantly (the few people who had remained seated, that is). And let's be honest, you can never fully appreciate the 'regular' version of Belfast Child after you've heard it at the Proms; it's a song that was destined to be brought with a full symphonic orchestra! Finishing the short set with around 17,000 people singing along to Don't You Forget About Me, was a great end to what's very close to a perfect night out!

Log onto the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum to:

get acquainted with the NOTP format and read detailed reviews of the entire NOTP experience, including the great performances of Sinéad O'Connor, Live, Midge Ure, The Angels in Harlem Gospel Choir, Igudesman & Joo, Gunter Verspecht (Stash) and Tom Helsen.
watch pictures, videos, interviews, etc.
find out what all the fuss is about Jim's new shirt… and join the campaign to get it on the official merchandise stalls for the upcoming UK Tour.

NOTP Competition (21.10.08)

With the start of the NOTP season, we are in a particular good mood!

So we thought we'd throw a Night of The Proms Competition your way! This time we'll be giving away a surprise NOTP goodie bag!

All you've got to do is answer the question below. Please note that the competition is only open to SoSimpleMinded.com Forum members and it closes on the 20th November! The winner will be picked randomly from the correct answers; only one entry per forum member!

Question:

At the Night of the Proms, Simple Minds share the bill with Sinéad O'Connor. But this is not the only connection between the two! Which Simple Minds member has also worked with Sinéad in the past?

Saturday Night Live

In his latest Diary, Elected, Jim Kerr referred to theSaturday Night Live clip, "Obama Address", featuring "Bill Clinton" singing the Simple Minds hit "Dont' You Forget About Me".

Discuss on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Elected(27.10.2008)

Fourgoodmen Tickets: Buy via Paypal at Fourgoodmen Shop

The Fourgoodmen Shop is now selling tickets for the gigs on the 4 and 28 December 2008 at the Classic Grand in Glasgow, UK.

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum:

Fourgoodmen: 4 Dec 08 Classic Grand, Glasgow

and

Fourgoodmen: 28 Dec 08 Classic Grand, Glasgow

NOTP Update (22.10.2008)

The Night of the Proms season - yes, it is a season - is almost upon us!

The venue is ready and looks incredible, rehearsals are in full swing, the rumour mill talks about Waterfront replacing All The Things She Said, and no doubt Jim's gorgeous black claddagh shirt is being picked up at the dry cleaner's as we speak!

Thanks to Ollix for the photo

They are (almost) ready for it, but so are we! The season kicks off on Thursday evening with a private NOTP for their loyal sponsor Opel (but we've made sure we've got a couple of spies keeping an eye on things as well), while the big premiere is on Friday night. In the next couple of weeks, SoSimpleMinded.com will be the place to be when it comes to updates, reviews, pictures,... of the Night of the Proms experience, so make sure you check in regularly!

To read up on the latest news (rehearsals, meet ups,...) or to relive all the best moments from the Proms experience earlier in the year in Charleroi, log into the Forum.

However, those who've been there know better than anyone else: words fail to describe the magic of Night of the Proms! It's not too late to experience it yourself, but you need to hurry because tickets are flying out of the window!

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Simple Minds NOTP(2008)

NOTP update: rehearsals are in full swing! (21.10.2008)

For the full (Dutch) text and some pics, head to the by now familiar blog of NOTP producer Jan Vereecke.

Here are some of the highlights:

the rehearsals are in full swing, and Jim has the first rehearsal under his belt!Apparently the 'comic duo' Igudesman & Joo had the orchestra in fits of laughter, so that promises to be a real treat.
the Angels in Harlem Gospel Choir has already made a lasting impression on the people involved with the Proms, and their performances promise to be spectacular. One of the songs they'll bring is Oh Happy Days.
further rehearsals today, with a first run through tonight and then a 'general rehearsal', if you will, on wednesday evening, because the first showing of this years' performances will be on Thursday during a private NOTP for the people of Opel.

NOTP News Update (13.10.2008)

It's difficult to keep up with producer Jan Vereecke's blogs these days as he continues to give us a look behind the scenes and the preparations for NOTP.

Dutch speakers or people who know how to work an online translator program can check out the latest blog entries at http://notpblog.wordpress.com/.

These are the highlights:

The running order and setlist has been finalized. Lots of variation in the program, which makes that - a few exceptions aside - there are never two successive songs by the same artist!
Nearly all arrangements are finished (except for one of Sinéad's songs and a song from one of the surprise acts); and it seems the artists are very enthusiastic about them!

This is what Ed from Live had to say:

"These arrangements are awesome! On the I alone arrangement, I think the following edit will be good to do;At the downbeat of approx. 3:44-break down to just drums for 4 bars then into “oh now we took it back too far….” Same to end.Please tell franck I love these! And that he should call if this edit isn’t clear. Otherwise we are golden.Ek".

The rehearsals will start in a week's time!
Sinéad's pretty nervous about her appearance at the Proms and has rehearsed extensively: it's been years since she sang Troy live, but special vocal exercises helped her in hitting the high notes right (to much enjoyment of her kids apparently).
The first edit of the James Bond footage is finished, but a request has been send to the States for some more video material.
A 'local artist has been added to the Dutch bill: Erik Mesie (former singer of the Dutch band Toontje Lager) will bring a medley of his songs at the Dutch NOTP gigs.
The ticket sales for the Antwerp gigs are soaring! In the latter half of September alone more than 10,000 tickets were sold! Hence another extra gig has been added in Antwerp (10th November), which makes that there are two extra gigs in comparison to last year.

Just to give you an idea, the capacity of the venue varies between 13,780 to 17,000!

Stay tuned for more (almost daily) behind the scenes updates!

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum

Sunday Mail: Simple Minds' Jim Kerr has a studio flashback (05.10.2008)

An article in the Sunday Mail about the "Cash for Kids" gig on 7 December 2008 in Glasgow.

Sunday Mail article (05-10-2008) about Simple Minds and the Cash for Kids gig on 7 December 2008 in Glasgow, UK

Simple Minds Celebrate 30 Years with 'Cash for Kids' Concert (03.10.2008)

A press release from Noble PR

Scots rock legends, Simple Minds have announced this morning that they are to play an exclusive, special one-off concert at Glasgow’s ABC1 venue in early December with all proceeds being donated to Radio Clyde’s Cash for Kids charity.

The concert will take place at the 1250 capacity venue on Sauchiehall Street on the night of Sunday 7 December with tickets priced at £35. All profits will go to the charity which launched its Christmas Appeal yesterday and raised £1.6 Million last year to help under privileged children throughout Scotland.

Anyone who registers on www.simpleminds.com will be eligible for ticket presale from 9am, Wednesday 8th October. Tickets to the general public will go on sale at 9am, Friday 10th October.

Simple Minds with founding members Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill along with Mel Gaynor have worldwide popularity and secured a string of successful hit singles including the massive global number one, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”. The band recently played the 90th Birthday Party tribute to Nelson Mandela on 27th June in London’s Hyde Park.

The Minds are about to tour to celebrate their 30th Anniversary and will take in a number of major UK arenas towards the end of 2008 including Glasgow’s SECC on 4th December. During these gigs the band will perform tracks from their landmark 1982 album ‘New Gold Dream’ and will also perform classic songs from their other albums.

Radio Clyde’s Billy Sloan who’s also good friend of Jim Kerr will be broadcasting live from the Cash for Kids gig at the ABC1 and Jim will be hosting two Christmas shows on Clyde 1 and Clyde 2 and playing a lot of his favourite artists. More details on the shows will be announced.

Simple Minds frontman, Jim Kerr said, “As a benefit concert the ABC show presents us with the opportunity to work with Radio Clyde on their annual’s Cash for Kids campaign. Within that we would like to encourage and congratulate them and their listeners for their continued efforts that over so many years have raised so much for local children’s charities.

Radio Clyde’s Programme Director, Paul Saunders said, “We’re absolutely thrilled that an iconic band like Simple Minds who have sold millions of records throughout the world have made this generous offer of support for Radio Clyde’s Cash for Kids. It’s a brilliant gesture from the band. It promises to be a night that none of us will forget and will surely help thousands of disadvantaged children in the West of Scotland have a better Christmas”.

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Cash for Kids (2008)

Latest Simple Minds Diaries / News

Fourgoodmen Update (03.10.2008)

Fourgoodmen play at the Classic Grand in Glasgow on the 4th and 28th December 2008. Tickets on sale Friday 3rd October 2008.

The show on the 4th has changed its format and lineup and does not include the Sons of Dan gig. Please check the sites for the latest information for both gigs before booking.

www.classicgrand.com

and

www.fourgoodmen.com

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum:

FGM: 4 Dec 08 Classic Grand, Glasgow

and

FGM: 28 Dec 08 Classic Grand, Glasgow

SoSimpleMinded.com T-shirt: 30 Years Live

SoSimpleMinded.com 30 Years Live Tour T-Shirt

As you all may know, we have been talking about making some SoSimpleMinded.com t-shirts for the upcoming 30th anniversary tour in November / December. Many designs were sent in and eventually the Staff have come up with a front and back design, which we hope you, will like.

Details of the design and costs can be found here.

We do not expect to make any money on this after deducting our costs for the shirts, packaging and postage, but if there is any left over, we intend to put it towards a childrens charity.

We will only order shirts for which we have received payments.

Friday 26th September is the last day to place your order and payments to come in

Orders will be posted during the last week of October.

If you have any questions please ask on the Forum.

SoSimpleMinded.com Staff

NOTP commercials

Video:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpOq3MVOv8M

Audio (with Jim Kerr's commentary):

www.notp.com/files/be/antwerpen/audio/notp2008audio1.mp3

Video: Jim Kerr on German TV (14-9-2008)

As you might have read already Jim Kerr was in a travel show on German TV last Sunday on a WDR TV show called "Fantastisches Schottland".

You can watch the "Fantastisches Schottland" online.

You see the pic with Jim Kerr and the presenter next to the text. Just click on the pic or the topic right next to it "Fantastisches Schottland" and another window opens and the video starts.

On the left is a menu and if you go to "Glasgow" then you can watch the part with Jim Kerr.

Places featured in the show include:

If you are visiting Glasgow the Glasgow city tour is an excellant way to visit most of these attractions.

Free Simple Minds CD today with the Daily Mail (12.09.2008)

Daily Mail front cover for Simple Minds CD as part of 80s CD collection(12-09-2008)

Front cover of Simple Minds Once Upon a Time album from Daily Mail 80s CD collection(12-09-2008)

Back cover of Simple Minds Once Upon a Time album from Daily Mail 80s CD collection(12-09-2008)

The Daily Mail is giving away a free CD as part of their greatest 80's CD collection. Today the CD is the Simple Minds album "Once Upon A Time"

Read more on the Daily Mail website: The greatest 80's CD collection

Discuss on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Daily Mail:The greatest 80's CD collection

Latest Simple Minds Diaries / News

Daily Mail 80s CD Collection (06.09.2008)

Daily Mail advert for 80s CD collection(06-09-2008)

The Daily Mail is giving away a free CD as part of their greatest 80's CD collection. One of the CDs is the Simple Minds album "Once Upon A Time"

Read more on the Daily Mail website: The greatest 80's CD collection

Discuss on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum: Daily Mail:The greatest 80's CD collection

NOTP news: Bond & Ballet

The official NOTP press conference took place today, and some more details about the show were revealed:

Like in previous years, the orchestra will bring some film music; this year it'll be all about the James Bond scores. Meanwhile, the immense video wall will show clips of the new Bond film Quantum of Solace: an absolute premiere (well at least until the film hits the cinemas on the 5th November)
One of the classical pieces of the nights will be the Adagio from the ballet ‘Spartakus’ by Aram Katsjatoerjan. This performance will be supported by the ballerina Katchiri Feys.
There are two surprise acts this year. And the hints are: their mean age is 33,5 year and the distance between their places of birth us 42 kilometers.
Also: the BBC has rented the 'tabs' of NOTP classical pieces for their Proms in the Park (13th September).
And based on ticket sales so far, the number of NOTP visitors is estimated at 600.000.

NOTP concert on television

Just announced: the dates on which the NOTP concerts will be broadcasted on television.

For now, it seems that this years performance with SM will be broadcasted on the Belgian (Dutch speaking) television channel één on Sunday 28th December AND Sunday 4th January. Please note that it's normally a two-part broadcast (so not a repeat of the same programme).

As to last years NOTP, people who're heading down to the Proms can get in the right mood by watching last years concert on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October, also on één at 11pm.

Performances include: Chic, Kid Kreole & The Coconuts, Macy Gray, Roby Lakatos, Liebrecht Vanbeckevoort, Soulsister, Il Novecento directed by Robert Groslot, Fine Fleur and John Miles.

Best of NOTP DVD (vol.3) out now!

Best of Night of the Proms - Volume 3:

The new NOTP DVD has just been released and includes:

Simple Minds – Alive And Kicking
Soulsister – The Way To Your Heart
Tears For Fears – Everybody Wants To Rule The World
Il Novecento & Fine Fleur – Raider’s March
Mike Oldfield & Miriam Stockley – Moonlight Shadow
Paul Carrack – The Living Years
John Miles – You’re The Voice
I Muvrini – Paul Michiels – Fields Of Gold
Lara Fabian – Adagio
Roby Lakatos – Lakatos Medley
Roger Hodgson – Dreamer
Steve Harley – Make Me Smile ( Come Up And See Me )
Kid Creole & The Coconuts – Annie, I’m Not Your Daddy
Michael McDonald – Sweet Freedom
Toto – Rosanna
Robert Groslot & Il Novecento – Ritual Fire Dance
Alphaville – Big In Japan
Huey Lewis – The Power Of Love
Status Quo – Rockin’ All Over The World
Ike Turner – River Deep, Mountain High

And all of that is yours for 20 Euros (+ 4 euros P&P).

The DVDs can be ordered online

Just a reminder that the previous two DVDs are available through the same channel (at a reduced price or the promo price of 35 euros for both). And may I just say that Vol1 is especially worth it for Simple Minds' Belfast Child and Bryan Ferry's Slave To Love alone!

Full Track Listing, vol. 1:

Joe Cocker – You Can Leave Your Hat On (04’24)
Simple Minds – Belfast Child (07’42)
Chrissie Hynde- I’ll Stand By You (04’20)
Bryan Ferry – Slave To Love (03’59)
UB40 – Red Red Wine (05’30)
David Garrett – L van Beethoven : Violin Concerto (04’03)
Gary Brooker – A Whiter Shade Of Pale (05’36)
Natalie Choquette – Nessun Dorma (05’40)
Adiemus – Adiemus (04’29)
John Miles – Mister Blue Sky (05’15)
Howard Jones – What Is Love? (05’26)
Toto – I Won’t Hold You Back (05’34)
Dani Klein – Nah Neh Nah (03’41)
Manuel Barrueco – Concierto de Aranjuez (07’02)
Safri Duo – Cinema Time & Played-A-Live (08’04)
Roger Hodgson – Fool’s Overture (10’48)
Il Novecento – La Gazza Ladra (interactive track) (09’05)
The Pointer Sisters – I’m So Excited (04’50)
Status Quo – Whatever You Want (05’48)
Meat Loaf – I’ll Do Anything For Love (10’11)

Youtube has a Preview of Vol.1

Full Track Listing, vol.2:

Il Novecento & Fine Fleur – Once Upon A Time In The West
Tears For Fears – Mad World
Ike Turner – Nutbush City Limits
James Brown – It’s a Man’s Man’s World
Donna Summer – McArthur Park
Midge Ure – Vienna
OMD – Maid of Orleans
Manfred Mann & Chris Thompson – Mighty Quinn
Coolio – Gangsta’s Paradise
Lisa Stansfield – All Around The World
Chris De Burgh – Lady In Red
Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is
Cutting Crew – ( I Just ) Died In Your Arms
Tony Henry – Largo Al Factotum
I Muvrini – A Voce Rivolta
Al Jarreau – Roof Garden
Alan Parsons – Sirius – Eye in the Sky
Mike Oldfield – Tubular Bells
John Miles – Music
Il Novecento & Fine Fleur – Land Of Hope And Glory

Extra – The World Needs To See It

Sons of Dan/ Fourgoodmen Extravaganza

It will be a very interesting day for those in Glasgow on 4 Dec 2008.

First of all Simple Minds are playing at the SECC where you can expect to hear all of New Gold Dream.

Secondly and unrelated to the Simple Minds show a post by Derek Forbes on the Fourgoodmen forum has suggested that, Fourgoodmen and Sons of Dan will be playing two gigs - one before the Simple Minds show and one after. Details to be confirmed but tracks from the Simple Minds album "Sons and Fascination" have been mentioned. More details to follow.

This looks like a fantastic day for Simple Minds fans with more live Simple Minds music in one day than you could wish for.

Some Sweet Day 2008

The Simple Minds marathon, Some Sweet Day is on 28.08.2008.

18 Hours of Simple Minds
Broadcast by WBWC 88.3 FM The Sting

Hosted by Todd Richards and Aaron Burke

Send your requests to request@wbwc.com

Listen to Some Sweet Day 2008 online

Broadcast times and content to be confirmed but a blog on Mick MacNeil's Myspace page has suggested that guests will include Mick MacNeil, Derek Forbes, Brian McGee and Robin Clark

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum

New MIND2MODE and sample MINDS Gigs

New gigs have been added for MIND2MODE and sample MINDS. Venues include Nottingham and Christchurch in the UK as well as two gigs at Pumpwerk in Wilhelmshaven in Germany.

The latest tour schedule is now:

30-08-08 Fiesta City, Verviers , Belgium
20/09/08 Pumpwerk, Wilhelmshaven, Germany
31/12/08 Pumpwerk, Wilhelmshaven, Germany
27-03-09 The Diamond, Nottingham, UK
28-08-09 The Thomas Tripp Late 'n' Live, Dorset, UK
29-08-09 NRW-Tag, Hamm , Germany

MIND2MODE and sample MINDS (15.08.2008)

Next week will be a busy week for MIND2MODE / sample MINDS – beginning with a gig at THE TEMPLE BAR, HANNOVER – Wednesday 13th August, through to CITYFEST, BECKUM, GERMANY – Saturday 16th August and then back to the UK for TRIBFEST, DRIFFIELD, SOUTH YORKSHIRE – Sunday 17th August, performing as sample MINDS.

MIND2MODE and Sample MINDS tour flyer for August 2008

“Playing a gig in Germany and then the UK the following day has presented many logistical challenges,” commented frontman Steve Hempton. “There is only one flight that fits into our schedule so it will be a nervous time for all.”

Wednesday and Saturday’s MIND2MODE shows will be back to back hits from Simple Minds, U2 and Depeche Mode. “The set keeps getting stronger as we rotate songs and find out what gets the best reaction,” said drummer Thorsten Ortmann. “We are really enjoying playing these songs and I think that comes across in our performance.”

Then on Sunday the band switch to sample MINDS – performing what is sure to be a memorable Simple Minds show. Keyboard player Simon Hayward let out the following tantalising details as to what to expect, “We have an hour set and have to follow one of the top Rolling Stones tributes in the world, so we have to pull out all the stops and be at the top of our game. There’s a fabulous song selection and we have an ace up our sleeves – a VERY special guest. If you’re a Simple Minds fan you won’t want to miss this – a clue? Think Barrowlands, Glasgow 1985! – one of Simple Minds most iconic live performances.”

TRIBFEST features many of the UK’s top tribute acts and promises to be a spectacular event.

More details at:

MIND2MODE Gig: Maschseefest 2008, Hannover, Germany (13.08.2008)

MIND2MODE are performing at 20:30 on 13 August at Temple Bar at Maschseefest 2008, Hannover, Germany.

Maschseefest is the largest open-air festival in the region with the stage constructed on a lake. The Maschsee Lake Festival began in 1986 and is running from 30 July 2008 until 17 August 2008

For more information on Maschseefest 2008:

For more information on MIND2MODE visit the official MIND2MODE website.

Discuss this on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum

New Jim Kerr Diary: Coldplay v Cloud Play(26.07.08)

The latest diary entry from Jim Kerr: Coldplay v Cloud Play (discuss)

Recent diary entries are:

Rockfield (discuss)
The Blue Nile (discuss)
Twin Albums ? (discuss)
Mandela 90th. Thank You ! (discuss)
With Poise and Grace! (discuss)
Glasgow A Go Go (discuss)
Song For The Tribes (discuss)
Bob Dylan and the Lotus Effect (discuss)
Six Degrees of Separation (discuss)
Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela ! (discuss)

MIND2MODE Gig: KURPARKFEST - Saturday 26th July 2008

MINDE2MODE KurparkFest Poster Image(26-07-2008)

MIND2MODE, "The Ultimate Stadium Tribute" featuring music from Simple Minds, U2 and Depeche Mode in one show, are delighted to announce their largest gig to date, with a headlining appearance at the Kurparkfest, Hamm, Germany.

With attendance expected to be approx 30,000, various artists including well known headliners, cover and Top-40 bands will perform on the festivals 6 stages.

MIND2MODE will perform for a staggering 4 HOURS from 11pm to 3am!!! Given that the MIND2MODE show is usually about 2 and a half hours, it is expected that a full Simple Minds performance will be included and a few songs thus far only performed behind closed doors! (It has been commented that Steve and Simons's rendition of U2's ˜Love is Blindness' can clear any stadium or hall in the world - so expect that about 3am if anyone's left standing!)

There is a firework display at 22:30, then MIND2MODE take to the stage at approx 22:50 until 3:00am!!!

The set (on paper) includes:

U2 (15 Songs)
Depeche Mode (14 Songs)
Simple Minds (14 Songs)

There are a couple of new songs on the list - including a Simple Minds song MIND2MODE have not played outside of rehearsals.

For this gig bass player Dirk Schulte will step in for the MIND2MODE bass player, Jacky, who is unavailable. Dirk is a fabulous bass player and has deputised for Jacky in the past.

For more information visit the official MIND2MODE website.

Discuss this gig on the SoSimpleMinded.com Forum

Note:

The musicians behind MIND2MODE also perform as Sample Minds - the worlds premier tribute to Simple Minds and have recently released two live EP's that are freely available for download

There is also the SoSimpleMinded.com exclusive download of Sample Minds playing the Simple Minds song Theme For Great Cities (23-2-2008)

New Album(17.07.08)

News about the new Simple Minds album.

Simple Minds will record the tracks for their new album in Rockfield Studios, Wales, throughout the month of August.

It is bound to be a rather emotional return as Rockfield is where the band recorded some of their fledgling and most innovative work, specifically both their second and third albums - Real to Real Cacophony, Empires and Dance.

With Jez Coad who co produced the bands last album Black and White 050505 returning to fulfil the same duties, drummer Mel Gaynor and bassist Eddy Duffy will join founder members Charlie Burchill and Jim Kerr - both of whom have spent the last few months writing the set of new songs that are due to be recorded. Andy Gillespie will add additional keyboards.

Legendary mixer Bob Clearmountain is set to complete the finishing work at his own Mix This studios in Los Angeles and the album when completed will be ready for international release within the early months of '09.

Win 2 copies of the NEW updated 'Themes' Box Set!

Register or comfirm your email on SimpleMinds.com to be entered into a prize draw to win one of two Themes Boxed sets signed by Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill

Closing date is the end of July 2008.

Discuss this on the Forum

Some recent news articles

A Message To Our Fans (27.06.08)

A message posted on the forum from Mick MacNeil:

Mick MacNeil, Derek Forbes and Brian McGee, 3 of the original Simple Minds line up, would like to take this opportunity to thank their loyal fans for the overwhelming support shown to them since it was announced that there was to be a reunion of the former band members.

Regrettably, the lead singer,Jim Kerr, is unable to participate in the reunion.

However ,inspired by the encouragement of their fans, Mick, Derek and Brian have written and produced new material reminiscent of Sons & Fascination.

Having thoroughly enjoyed working together again, they hope their fans will be equally delighted with the new tracks.

Thank you for your continued support!

Mick MacNeil

Discuss this on the forum

Sample Minds EP2 available for download

On the eve of Simple Minds landmark performance at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Concert, Hyde Park, London we are delighted to make available Live EP2 which topically includes 'Mandela Day'.

All tracks were recorded at the Sample Minds gig in Osnabruck March 2008 and are taken direct from the mixing desk.

EP2 tracks are:

LOVE SONG
SPEED YOUR LOVE TO ME
MANDELA DAY
JUNGLELAND
NEW GOLD DREAM
ROOM / CELEBRATE

Download Sample Minds EP 2

Another exclusive recording of 'Theme for Great Cities' can be found here at www.SoSimpleMinded.com

We'd like to thank everyone here at www.SoSimpleMinded.com for their continued support and hope to see you 'on the road' soon.

Discuss this on the Forum

Tour Dates

11th July 2008 - Das Parkhaus, Duisburg, Germany
- Performing as MIND2MODE
- Festival also featuring famous German band "Fury in the Slaughterhouse"
- www.parkhaus-meiderich.de
26th July 2008 - Kurparkfest, Hamm, Germany
- Performing as MIND2MODE
- The largest open-air festival in the region with over 30,000 visitors each year
- The band will be on stage from 23:30 through until 03:00 - so it will be a BIG set for sure
13th August 2008 - Maschseefest, Hanover, Germany
- Performing as MIND2MODE
- The largest open-air festival in the region with the stage constructed on a lake
16th August 2008 - Cityfest, Beckum, Germany
- Performing as MIND2MODE
17th August 2008 - Tribfest, East Yorkshire, UK
- Performing as Sample Minds
- The UK's largest tribute festival
- www.tribfest.co.uk
30th August 2008 - Fiesta City, Verviers , Belgium
- Performing as Sample Minds
- One of the largest festivals in Belgium, 2007 featured Barcley James Harvest & The Sweet
- www.fiestacity.be
29th August 2009 - NRW-Tag, Hamm , Germany
- Performing as MIND2MODE

Sample Minds EP1 available for download

For a limited time Sample Minds have made available some live recordings from one of their recent gigs in Germany.

EP1 tracks are:

WATERFRONT
SHE'S A RIVER
UP ON THE CATWALK
CYNICAL HEART
THE AMERICAN
SANCTIFY YOURSELF

Download Sample Minds EP 2

Discuss this on the Forum"

SoSimpleMinded Exclusive: "Theme For Great Cities" by Sample Minds

Recorded live at Tatort Musics Club, Ubach Palenberg, Germany on 23.2.2008

Download:

Theme For Great Cities (Sample Minds live- 23-02-08)

Thanks to Sample Minds.

Check out their website www.sampleminds.co.uk

Newcastle gig pre-sale starts in 10 minutes

Simple Minds will play Newcastle Metro Radio Arena on the 3rd of December.

Pre-sale on simpleminds.com will open 9.00am on Tuesday the 24th of June with a General release on Friday the 27th of June.

Tickets for the Belfast Odessy Arena on gig (06.12.2008) can be bought here

Daily Record: Happy Birthday Mandela (24.06.08)

A short quote from Jimm Kerr about Nelson Mandela in the Daily Record article Happy Birthday Mandela (discuss )

Simple Minds I Travel correct bassline

Derek Forbes demonstrates how to play the correct bassline to Simple Minds "I Travel"

Read more on the forum: "Derek plays I Travel"

Theme 5 and the Themes Boxed Set are released today

Read a review on the forum: Themes!! Vol 5 - Top class

Jim Kerr on BBC Breakfast News (26.06.08)

Jim Kerr will be interviewed about Simple Minds' participation in the forthcoming 46664 Nelson Mandela concert on BBC Breakfast News (BBC1 Television) on Thursday June 26th at 8:50am GMT.

Sunday Sun: We haven't forgotten about you (22.06.08)

An interview with Jim kerr in the Sunday Sun: We haven't forgotten about you (discuss)

New Jim Kerr Diary: Glasgow A Go Go (21.06.08)

The latest diary entry from Jim Kerr: Glasgow A Go Go (discuss)

Recent diary entries are:

Jim Kerr Interview in Financial Times: ‘I built my own hotel’

Jim Kerr Interview in Financial Times(21.06.08): ‘I built my own hotel’

Jim Kerr interview, ‘I built my own hotel’, in the "House & Home" section of the Financial Times(21.06.08).

Discuss the inteview on the Forum

Newcastle gig (03.12.08)added to "30 Years Live" Tour

Simple Minds will play Newcastle Metro Radio Arena on the 3rd of December.

Pre-sale on simpleminds.com will open 9.00am on Tuesday the 24th of June with a General release on Friday the 27th of June.

Tickets for the Belfast Odessy Arena on gig (06.12.2008) can be bought here

The current schedule for "30 Years Live" tour is now:

Thursday 27th November, Manchester MEN Arena (..more)
Friday 28th November, Birmingham NEC (..more)
Saturday 29th November, Wembley Arena (..more)
Monday 1st December, Sheffield Arena (..more)
Tuesday 2nd December, Cardiff Arena (..more)
Wednesday 3nd December, Newcastle Metro Radio Arena (..more)
Thursday 4th December, Glasgow SECC (..more)
Saturday 6th December, Belfast Odessy Arena (..more)

Discuss this on the Forum

Hear an exclusive free preview of the new 'MANDELA DAY' on simpleminds.com

Simpleminds.com: EXCLUSIVE NEW 'MANDELA DAY' VERSION! - FREE PREVIEW FOR MEMBERS! Click image to hear this version

'As imagined we are immensely looking forward to the Mandela benefit that takes place next week on the 27th of June. The chance to play our song 'Mandela Day' with the Soweto Gospel Choir is a one off opportunity and if the recent rehearsals are anything to go by it should be a spine tingling few minutes that will live long in our memories'

Jim Kerr
www.simpleminds.com

The song was performed in rehearsals by Simple Minds musicians Jim Kerr, Charlie Burchill and Mel Gaynor along with the following musicians:

Spike Edney (Keys/Musical Director)
Neil Drinkwater (2nd Keys)
Steve Stroud (Bass)
Steve Hamilton (Sax)
Andy Bush (Trumpet)
Mike Kearsey (Trombone)
Graham Broad (Percussion)
Tommy Blaize (Backing vocals)
Andrea Grant (Backing vocals)
Priscilla Jones (Backing vocals)

Link: Soweto Gospel Choir

For more information on the concert go to wwww.46664.com

Discuss this on the Forum

Belfast gig added to "30 Years Live" Tour

"We are delighted with the news that we will once more be performing in Belfast particularly during this tour. I can still never forget when we played there during the original New Gold Dream tour back in December '82, the audience gave us a reception that was incomparable and it is evident from our last visit in '06 that the city is as welcoming as ever! "
Jim Kerr
www.simpleminds.com

Pre-sale on simpleminds.com will run from 9am Tuesday 17th of June until 5pm Thursday 19th of June.

Tickets for the Belfast Odessy Arena on gig (06.12.2008) can be bought here

Discuss this on the Forum

Simple Minds confirmed for Nelson Mandela "46664" Hyde Park Concert (06-05-2008)

Nelson Mandela Concert(27-06-2008) Image

Simple Minds confirmed for Nelson Mandela's Birthday Concert

Jim Kerr today confirmed that Simple Minds will appear at "46664 Concert Honouring Nelson Mandela at 90", which will take place in Hyde Park on Friday, 27th of June 2008.

Read Jim's Diary entry on Simple Minds' participation in the concert:

Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela !

Also a news release on simpleminds.com:

46664 Concert Honouring Nelson Mandela at 90

Presale tickets - you need to register by 6pm GMT today, Tuesday 6th May at: www.46664.com.

Tickets go on public sale on Friday, 9th May 2008:

www.livenation.co.uk

General admission tickets cost £65.00 plus the usual booking fees etc.

To meet other fans going to this gig and to discuss the concert and journal, please join us on the Forum

Nelson Mandela concert

JK Diary (6-5-08) Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela!

Night Of The Proms, Valencia, Spain (25-04-2008)

Thanks to Carlos and Ollix for the photographs. Details of the setlist and more photographs are on the Forum

The next NOTP is Benidorm, Spain (26-04-2008). Check back here and the Forum for the latest reports over the next few days ;)

For tickets and further information please visit the Night of the Proms website.

To meet other Simple Minds fans and discuss the "Night of the Proms" concerts visit the Forum.

Nelson Mandela "46664" Hyde Park Concert (27-06-2008)

On SimpleMinds.com, Jim Kerr discusses the forthcoming "46664" concert in Hyde Park, London (27 June 2008) to celebrate the 90^th birthday of Nelson Mandela.

Jim Kerr's final comment regarding the concert is:

I look back on taking part in the original freedom festival as one of the true highlights of our career as Simple Minds. It goes without saying then that if we are called on to take part in the upcoming tribute to Mandela that we will be there within a heartbeat!

More information on the "46664" Hyde Park Concert and details of how to register for tickets can be found here.

There is also a website for the HIV AIDS charity, 46664.

Discuss this on the Forum.

Night Of The Proms, Charleroi, Belgium(19-04-2008)

A SoSimpleMinded.com staff member has published a review, NOTP extravaganza: the Charleroi weekend! , of the last few days in Charleroi, Belgium at the NOTP concerts.

NOTP offers a unique combination of musical styles and a great atmosphere for the audience. The next concerts are in Spain followed by more concerts during the autumn of 2008 in Belgium, Holland and Germany.

The following is a summary of the review and you can read the entire review, with photgraphs, on the forum.

Regarding the atmosphere of NOTP:

One of the most striking things about NOTP is the relaxed atmosphere and ambiance during the evening: at the beginning of the event you are asked to introduce yourself to the people sitting around you (which in some cases ended up in discovering even more familiar faces, and is always a nice way of breaking the ice and setting the right tone for the evening)

Several acts performed before Simple Minds:

Galileo, a classical singer, and William Dunker (apparently very big in the south of Belgium): both of them delivered, and it seems that William’s catchy El Mambo (which actually constantly mentions the salsa) has been etched in our mind, because it was the ‘theme tune’ at breakfast this morning!
John Miles music was received with great enthusiasm by the crowd and, although I’m no fan, I have to say I really got carried away myself LOL
Il Novecento I can’t stress enough how amazing the people from Il Novecento are!
OMD But the top performers of the first part of the show were without a doubt OMD! They really blew me away and Andy McCluskey is just… well… crazy, really! If someone would succeed in bottling the ‘essence of McCluskey’, which gives you the same spirit and enthusiasm like he has on stage, they’d make millions: class A drug, for sure! Even the fact that he was responsible for unleashing Atomic Kitten on the world, can’t dampen my enthusiasm for the man.(joke)
Alan Parsons: To me, he’s on of those artist you know by name, but think you don’t know any songs of… and of course it turns out that you do: in this case Eye in the Sky and Games People Play! Aided by his singer PJ, he gave a solid performance on Friday, but last night his section of the night was just stunning! Amazing performance, and a really nice guy

And then Simple Minds took to the stage:

But the first highlight of the evening was of course the "Simple Minds Suite": absolutely gorgeous! It leaves you craving for more… personally I’d go for an adaptation of "Waterfront" (or "Promised You A Miracle") for the upcoming Antwerp gigs !
In almost total darkness, the orchestra started playing the intro of "Sanctify Yourself", a bit disguised at first and then clearly recognizable, followed by Jim’s voice coming from somewhere in the darkness… as if we needed even more suspense LOL… especially last night, the crowd was like a pressure cooker which erupted when Jim and Charlie took to the stage; and they both seemed to enjoy their performance as much as we did.
All in all, I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed "All The Things She Said" more than I did last night, the same goes for "Belfast Child": not one of my favourites, but the NOTP version is incredible!
..during Simple Minds performance you barely had the chance to move, because the crowd went ballistic!

Thanks to Lore for the photos

In conclusion:

If you have the opportunity to go to one of these gigs, take my word for it: you won’t regret it ! It’s always a great experience, and Simple Minds have just raised the bar again: new arrangements, extra motivation! What more do you need?

To read the full review and see the photgraphs check out the review on the Forum.

Many thanks again to everyone at NOTP for their hospitality and support. :)

The next NOTP is Valencia, Spain (25-04-2008). Check back here and the Forum for the latest reports over the next few days ;)

The first review of NOTP Charleroi(18-04-2008) is from SoSimpleMinded.com member Nathalie. Details of the setlist and some great pictures are on the Forum

The next NOTP is Charleroi, Belgium (19-04-2008) and there will be SoSimpleMinded.com staff there so check back here and the Forum for the latest reports over the next few days ;)

For tickets and further information please visit the Night of the Proms website.

To meet other Simple Minds fans and discuss the "Night of the Proms" concerts visit the Forum.

Night Of The Proms, Charleroi, Belgium(17-04-2008)

Thanks to Ollix for the photos

SoSimpleMinded.com member, Ollix, attended a private NOTP gig in Charleroi on 17-04-2008.

Details of the setlist and some great pictures are on the Forum

The first public set of concerts are scheduled for Charleroi, Belgium (18-04-2008,19-04-2008) and there will be SoSimpleMinded.com staff at both events. Check here and the Forum for the latest reports over the next few days ;)

For tickets and further information please visit the Night of the Proms website.

To meet other Simple Minds fans and discuss the "Night of the Proms" concerts visit the Forum.

An evening behind the scenes at Night Of The Proms

Thanks to JP for the photos

SoSimpleMinded.com staff member, Lore, was invited to a behind the scenes look at the preparations for Night of the Proms in Antwerp (14.04.2008).

Staff members Lore and Viviane made their way to the Sportpaleis in Antwerp along with 20 other fans who had won a place at the rehearsals from a competition on the NOTP website.

The highlights of the rehearsals were:

Meeting Charlie Burchill from Simple Minds
Hearing the Simple Minds Suite, a classical medley of SM songs which is a unique 30th Anniversary gift from the Proms to Simple Minds
Meeting NOTP producer Jan Vereecke
Meeting Robert Groslot (the director of Il Novecento)
Meeting Alan Parsons

Staff member Lore described the "Simple Minds Suite" as "absolutely brilliant!!!" and her final thoughts were:

"All in all, a great night! If this rehearsal is anything to go by, then the coming NOTP gigs are going to be amazing! So for those who were still in doubt... go and experience it yourself!"

A full report with pictures is posted on the Forum.

The first set of concerts are scheduled for Charleroi, Belgium (18-04-2008,19-04-2008) and there will be SoSimpleMinded.com staff at both events. Check here and the Forum for the latest reports over the next few days ;)

SoSimpleMinded.com would like to thank everyone at Night of the Proms for this opportunity. We really do appreciate it :).

For tickets and further information please visit the Night of the Proms website.

To meet other Simple Minds fans and discuss the "Night of the Proms" concerts visit the Forum.

Night Of The Proms 2008

After successful tours with "Night of the Proms" in 1997,2001 and 2002, Simple Minds return to the "Night of the Proms" concerts in 2008.

The first set of concerts are scheduled for Charleroi, Belgium (18-04-2008,19-04-2008), Valencia, Spain (25-04-2008) and Benidorm, Spain (26-04-2008)

The program for the Charleroi concert is expected to be:

The next series of concerts featuring Simple Minds will commence in October with shows in Antwerp, Belgium (24-10-2008) and then November with shows in Arnhem (14-11-2008) and Rotterdam (19/11/2008 to 22/11/2008) in The Netherlands .

Get a behind the scenes look by reading the blog of NOTP producer Jan Vereecke (Dutch only).

For tickets and further information please visit the Night of the Proms website.

To meet other Simple Minds fans and discuss the "Night of the Proms" concerts vist the Forum.

"Simple Minds Celebrate 30 Years Live": Tour in November & December 2008

Simple Minds will play the following UK dates:

Thursday 27th November, Manchester MEN Arena (..more)
Friday 28th November, Birmingham NEC (..more)
Saturday 29th November, Wembley Arena (..more)
Monday 1st December, Sheffield Arena (..more)
Tuesday 2nd December, Cardiff Arena (..more)
Thursday 4th December, Glasgow SECC (..more)

Fans are very enthusiastic about the shows and some are will be travelling from as far away as USA, Australia and New zealand. Many fans will be attending all 6 shows.

A meetup for the Wembley gig is already being organised and you can expect details for meetups at the other gigs especially the Glasgow show. ;)

For more information and how to get the tickets go to the forum

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