22 June 2024 (gig)
26 June 2024
On a cool summer evening, we found ourselves at The Wyldes in Bude, ready to immerse in the sonic journey promised by Simple Minds. This picturesque countryside venue, with its natural beauty and excellent acoustics, set the stage for a night filled with musical nostalgia and rock grandeur. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the stage lights came alive, and the legendary band took their positions, ensuring a night that would linger in our memories.
The Wyldes, with its rolling hills and open skies, created an enchanting atmosphere perfect for a concert. The crowd, a mix of devoted long-time fans and curious newcomers, buzzed with anticipation and we could feel the excitement building as we prepared for a journey through the rich catalogue of Simple Minds.
The show opened with "Waterfront," immediately drawing us into the band's distinctive world. The familiar, thumping bass line and Jim Kerr's commanding vocals set the tone for what was to come. The energy was palpable as they transitioned into "Once Upon a Time," followed by the haunting "Hunter and the Hunted." Each song was delivered with precision and passion, showcasing the band's enduring talent. Kerr's voice, though occasionally benefiting from the strong support of Sarah Brown, still carried the weight and emotion of their classic hits.
"The American" and "All the Things She Said" kept the momentum going, with the audience singing along to every word. The driving rhythms and catchy hooks of "Glittering Prize" and "Promised You a Miracle" were met with enthusiastic applause, and we could feel the crowd's energy rising with each track.
A standout moment for us was "Sanctify Yourself." The powerful anthem had the entire field dancing and singing, a testament to its timeless appeal. The band then took a moment to introduce "Come a Long Way," a newer addition to their setlist, which blended seamlessly with the classic hits, demonstrating their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Jim said at one point “ We’ve played in Budapest, we’ve played in the Budokan, but this is our first time in Bude” which he pronounced Booood, which ironically if you spoke to a proper old Cornish boy, is exactly how they would pronounce it. Jim inadvertently showing his Celtic connection!
The performance of "New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)" was a big highlight for me, their best song from their best album, followed by an exhilarating drum solo by Cherisse Osei. Her incredible talent added a fresh, dynamic element to the set, leaving us in awe. This also gave the band 5 minutes to disappear back stage to freshen up and catch a breather, and maybe a cheeky drink This was followed by "Someone Somewhere in Summertime," another crowd favourite that had everyone swaying and singing along.
The unmistakable opening of "Don't You (Forget About Me)" brought the loudest cheer of the night. The iconic track, a staple of the band's live performances, united the audience in a powerful sing-along. Jim Kerr’s interaction with the crowd during this song was particularly engaging, making it a highlight of the evening.
The encore featured "Book of Brilliant Things," with Sarah Brown delivering a stunning vocal performance that added a soulful touch to the set. This gave Jim another break, though to be honest as good as her voice is, I would have rather heard it sung by Jim! This was followed by "See the Lights," where the gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics created an intimate atmosphere.
The night concluded with "Alive and Kicking," leaving the audience, ourselves included, on an electrifying high. The song's powerful chorus and infectious energy were the perfect send-off, ensuring that everyone left with smiles and melodies echoing in their minds.
Simple Minds' performance at The Wyldes was more than just a gig; it was a celebration of their enduring legacy. The band’s ability to deliver both high-energy rockers and introspective ballads showcased their versatility and musical prowess. Jim Kerr's charismatic stage presence, complemented by Sarah Brown’s vocal support, and the band's tight musicianship created a memorable experience for all in attendance.
The venue itself is beautiful. It's a really calm and chilled atmosphere in a remote location. It doesn't cost much extra to camp, and it's well worth it. Five minutes after the end of the gig we were back at the tent having a night cap.
They host a good few gigs here over the Summer, catering to a range of tastes. Still to come are Jess Glynne, James Arthur, and wait for it....Idles. Yep, if you live in the South West and want to catch this amazing band live, get over to The Wyldes website and grab a ticket, with supports including Moriaty and the incredible duo JOHN, this gig promises to kick ass, and we can't wait!
