SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: SIMPLE MINDS – LIVE IN THE CITY OF DIAMONDS

SIMPLE MINDS
LIVE IN THE CITY OF DIAMONDS
BMG

Simple Minds is a band that enjoys what it does. They have established themselves as a classic band and still they continue to release new (and brilliant music) and they tour relentlessly. Simple Minds have always been known as a ‘live band’. This album, recorded at Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome on April 6, 2024, is an example of why they have such a great reputation as a live band. It also serves as a strong indication of what fans can expect this year as they tour the world (including a stop in Toronto on June 18). As this album demonstrates, Simple Minds never disappoints with their concerts. They have a tight, solid band that doesn’t just replicate their hits but manages to turn the entire concert into an experience. Sure, it is better to see them live, but for those who can’t, this (and their other live albums) allows one to hear the energy and music they create on stage.

Simple Minds is also a band that is well aware of its history, and Live In The City Of Diamonds completes the triptych of the Live In The City series that dates back to their first and classic live album, Live In The City Of Lights (followed by Live In The City Of Angels in 2019). Live In The City Of Diamonds pulls out all stops and allows Jim Kerr, Charlie Burchill and company to dip into their vast catalogue of hits and deep cuts from their albums. And in true Simple Minds fashion, they perform the songs to perfection, adding the energy and excitement of the live stage.

The album opens with “Waterfront”, a powerful song and one of the greatest opening songs for a concert. With that distinctive bass line and Kerr’s dramatic vocals, it is pretty perfect. “She’s A River” and “See The Light” (which features a stunning guitar solo from Burchill) come off extremely well and are excellent examples of their numerous hits in the 1990s. Songs, such as “Vision Thing” and “Solstice Kiss”, (both from their 2022 album Direction Of The Heart) brings us up to date. These songs sound great live and are clear indicators that Simple Minds continue to produce brilliant songs.

In between, the band hits on all their decades. Perhaps their version of “Belfast Child” is the highlight, but fans will have their own choices, and then again, there are many highlights. They end the show with the incredible “Colours Fly And Catherine Wheel”. It is an incredible end to a live album that is relentless in excellent music, performance and memories.

Live In The City Of Diamonds is a well-recorded, well-performed, and brilliant live album. Simple Minds have always released well produced live albums, and this is no exception. They are a band that are at yet another peak and one can only anticipate new music from the band.

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