album · October 21, 1985
Once Upon a Time
UMC (Universal Music Catalogue)See this day
new wavesynth-poprock
This 1985 album marked a shift for Simple Minds, moving away from their earlier art-rock leanings towards a more polished, arena-ready sound that would define their commercial peak. While not their biggest seller, it contains the original version of the band's signature song.
- The album reached number 6 in the UK charts. It was produced by Steve Lillywhite, who had previously worked with U2 and Peter Gabriel. The album's lead single, "Alive and Kicking," reached number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
- This album was the first to feature guitarist Andy Gillespie. It was recorded at the Townhouse Studios in London. The album was reissued in 2003 with bonus tracks.
- Upon its release, the album received mixed reviews from critics, some praising its commercial appeal while others lamented the loss of the band's earlier experimental edge. It served as a precursor to the global success of their next album, 'Once Upon a Time'. The album's success cemented Simple Minds' status as a major force in 1980s pop-rock.
Simple Minds are a Scottish rock band fronted by Jim Kerr. They are best known for their stadium-filling anthems and chart-topping singles.
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