The early 80s were an exciting period of music discovery, especially for someone like me entering adulthood. I still vividly remember being 21 years old, stepping into that new import record store in the old Paradiz Centre. I was on the hunt for something fresh, something that captured the energy of the time. That's when I spotted the new Simple Minds LP, New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84), its cover shimmering with promise. Having already fallen for the band through their Celebration compilation, and after devouring LPs like Empires and Dance and Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call, I knew I had to have it, even at a hefty S$14.90!
Simple Minds were on the verge of a breakthrough in their native UK, with "Promised You a Miracle" and "Glittering Prize" climbing the charts. The album perfectly captured the cutting-edge pop sound that British bands were pioneering in the post-punk era. "Promised You a Miracle" had this undeniable new wave energy with its shimmering synths (very reminiscent of Ultravox) while "Glittering Prize" leaned more towards a sophisticated pop sound, almost like a Roxy Music for the 80s.
While the hit singles were undeniably strong, I was even more drawn to ambitious tracks like "Colours Fly and Catherine Wheel," "Big Sleep," and "Hunter and the Hunted." MacNeil's synth work on "Colours Fly and Catherine Wheel" created this swirling, almost psychedelic atmosphere, perfectly complemented by Forbes' funky bass line. And Kerr's vocals! He had this Bowie-esque croon on "Big Sleep," especially in the verses, while on "Hunter and the Hunted" he channeled Bryan Ferry's suave delivery. With Burchill's atmospheric guitar lines weaving through it all, Simple Minds had crafted a unique pop style that set the stage for their eventual conquest of America.
Even with their sights set on the pop charts, Simple Minds never abandoned their experimental roots. The extended instrumental workouts of "Somebody Up There Loves Me" and the proggish "King is White and in the Crowd" showcased a band willing to push boundaries.
Listening to New Gold Dream now, it's clear to me that it's not just a great album, but a snapshot of a pivotal moment in music. It's an album that perfectly encapsulates the energy and innovation of the 80s new pop movement, and one that continues to resonate with me decades later.