Simple Minds

From their late-Seventies origins as ambitious, artsy punks, Simple Minds have evolved into
stylish conjurers of a new synthesized romanticism. While they still rely heavily on such
recent electropop clichés as ticktock rhythms and superflanged bass, the Scottish group's
sound is seductive in its liquid keyboard grace and rich, pillowy production grandeur. In
fact, the only problem with New Gold Dream, Simple Minds' second U.S. release,... More >

With more effort than hedonism should ever require, I make out three or maybe four full-fledged melodies on this self-important, mysteriously prestigious essay in romantic escape. Though the textures are richer than in ordinary Anglodisco, they arouse nary a spiritual frisson in your faithful synesthetician. Auteur Jim Kerr is Bowie sans stance, Ferry sans pop, Morrison sans rock and roll. He says simple, I say empty and we both go home. (Grade: C+)