Yep, it’s been just over 40 years since the Scottish rockers Simple Minds released Once Upon A Time. This, their seventh album, produced a handful of singles, which further propelled the band into worldwide fame.

This anniversary edition comes on ruby red vinyl in a gatefold sleeve. Anton Corbijn’s legendary photo of the band from Live Aid 1985 is featured, and we even get an additional (and very familiar) track not included on the original LP.

The melodic and bright title track leads, where Michael MacNeil’s animated synth and frontman Jim Kerr’s unmistakable voice bring us right back to the ’80s. “All The Things She Said” follows, and allows for Mel Gaynor’s thumping drums and John Giblin’s playful bass to complement Robin Clark’s soulful backing vocals.

“Alive And Kicking,” one of the four singles from the record, then showcases Kerr’s radiant voice in the dreamy, textured climate. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” wasn’t on the LP originally, but was scooped up from the soundtrack of The Breakfast Club and fits in well here. I was surprised to see that Simple Minds didn’t write this song and initially didn’t want to record it.

The back half includes the lively and dance floor primed “Oh Jungleland,” as well as the shimmering “I Wish You Were Here,” where the frisky bass and Charlie Burchill’s guitar playing won’t go unnoticed.

“Sanctify Yourself” and “Come A Long Way” exit the listen. The former is gospel influenced in a New Wave sort of way, and the latter is vocally a bit more animated, and the firm guitars give it an anthemic edge.

When it comes to ’80s New Wave, synth-pop, post-punk and art-rock, few bands have left a footprint as remarkable as Simple Minds. Listening to this album from so many decades ago further solidifies their greatness.

Rating: A-

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