In the last few years there has been an influx of 80s pop stars trying to regain ground long since lost. Black & White 050505 will no doubt find Simple Minds perceived as such but this album does not sound like one born out of an ego that won’t die or a need for some extra cash (or both - take note Duran Duran).

The truth couldn’t be further away, in fact. This LP is one I’m sure will be seen by many as Simple Minds’ best. It shows off the band’s classic epic pop sound (since borrowed by U2 and passed off as their own) without pandering to 80s retroism or aiming to please just the last of their die hard fanbase.

Put up against the latest offereings by today’s stadium rock kings U2 and Coldplay this wins hands down every time. It is an album with more energy and imagination and should raise Simple Minds back to their former glory. The only tarnish to its name are Jim Kerr’s lyrics, which are at times painfully bad - Underneath The Ice and The Jeweller (Part 2) being particular low points. But then, if we’re sticking with the U2 and Coldplay comparisons, well, I think you know.

Label: Sanctuary Records
Website: www.simpleminds.com
Release date: 12th September 2005

Tracklist:

1. Stay Visible
2. Home
3. Stranger
4. Different World (Taormina.Me)
5. Underneath The Ice
6. The Jeweller (Part 2)
7. Black & White
8. Kiss The Ground
9. Dolphins