Simple Minds- Graffiti Soul

Releasedate: 25-05-2009; Label: Universal
By: Nina Mende

Simple Minds are a rock band from Scotland, who had their greatest worldwide popularity from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s. The band, from the south side of Glasgow, produced a handful of critically acclaimed albums in the early 1980s, and later went on to produce some politically inspired and critically praised work. Simple Minds have secured a string of successful hit singles, the best known being their number one worldwide hit single “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”, from the soundtrack of the John Hughes movie “The Breakfast Club”. Founding members Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill (guitar), along with drummer Mel Gaynor, are the core of the band, which currently features Andy Gillespie on keyboards and Eddie Duffy on bass guitar. They have released 17 studio albums since 1979 including their latest called “Graffiti Souls”.

This album took me back to my childhood with its sound. You can find some psychedelic sounds in the background and the nice voice of the singer makes you feel comfortable while listening to it. Some songs are very danceable, not really in a club way but more for a pop/rock party or disco. “Stars Will Lead The Way” is a very interesting song melody wise. You can hear female backing vocals on some songs. “Light Travels” is a very calming and reassuring song with great vocal tracks. The voice of the singer reminds me slightly of Whitesnake and the style of music reminds me of the 80s. I guess you could describe the style of music as somewhere between Whitesnake, Billy Idol and Depeche Mode, back in the 80s of course. Listening to this music you picture long haired guys with tight pants, lots of hairspray and leo patterns in your mind. The bonus track is a cover by Neil Young, a very great one and not far off the original: “Rockin’ in The Free World”. I wish this album would never end, but everything has to come to an end. Eventually, because I have the replay button. So here we go again.

Tracklist: 1. Moscow Underground 2. Rockets 3. Stars Will Lead The Way 4. Light Travels 5. Kiss And Fly 6. Graffiti Soul 7. Blood Type O 8. This Is ItBonus Tracks: 1. Shadows And Light 2. Rockin’ In The Free World

Links:
Simple minds Official