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tour 2018

"Simple Minds have been in deep with rehearsals over these last weeks and you could feel the fruition of all that really starting to pay over these last days in particular. New songs, new arrangements, new ideas, all of them starting to fall into place, the excitement of the work starting to become palpable."

"Much as it was in October/November 1977 when "the seeds" of what to become Simple Minds were spending our days intensely trying to work out how to put our new ideas into an exciting live set that we then planned to perform at each and every every pub (or support gig) gig we could manage to hustle throughout the foreseeable future."

"Desperate to be good, even more desperate to be great."

"That was the only (unspoken) remit back then, and it is our only remit now. In fact, very little changes in the essentials of how we are, and how we feel about what we do. Sure, some faces come and go. Line - ups evolve and dissolve, mostly naturally. And certainly we've gone through periods of weakness and comparative strengths."

"In doing so it is easy to think about massive changes that have occurred within our story along the way. Much like the world itself has surely changed beyond recognition since back then. Right? But hold on a second. Has it really? Or, (technology and the effects of it apart) have many of the changes that occurred not mostly been on the surface really? Well, that is increasingly my view, or it was as I made my way to work in Glasgow this week."

"Glancing around that microcosm, the atmosphere of the city has hardly changed in my view. People still throng through it at the same busy times as they did back then. The street musicians still ply their trade on the very same corners. The cutting edge teenagers still sit on the same library steps - when its not raining. People still populate the same streets for venues to go eating and dancing... the city still feels a little edgy when the rival football teams play blah de blah! And absolutely guaranteed is that when I head in to Glasgow Central to catch the London bound early this coming Monday morning without a doubt I will see the same packed arrival trains. All from the same surrounding suburbs, still dislodging students and workers, all mostly scurrying so as not to be late for whatever it is that brings them to the city."

"Indeed then, all pretty much as it was when I took the early morning trains as a 16 year old serving apprentice, registered with what was then one of Glasgow's biggest construction companies."

"But anyone reading this could correctly think "What are you trying to say? Of course there has been changes in culture, in social practices. Glasgow itself has been reinvented from a post industrial basket case to something else entirely. People have died, new people have come along. The once vibrant gone tired, the new vibrants taken their place etc?""

"Certainly no arguing with that! But the view that I wish to put over is probably best summed up with the French bon mot plus ça change. (“the more it changes, the more it's the same thing”). And likewise with Simple Minds. 40 years ago this week we would've been in a room within the Gorbals, Glasgow. Hammering out musical patterns that we would hope could thrill an audience. 40 years later and now situated about a quarter of a mile from that original room, we were still doing exactly the same thing. And still getting equally excited about what is creatively coming together. And as for any changes that happen to us along the way? Well the idea and perceptions can sometimes be viewed as exciting, or perhaps confusing? Mystifying even? You can take your pick as you see it I suppose. After all this is "our thing" and we don't give too much away! But there is no getting away from the essential - and that is. The more we change, the more we stay the same." - Jim, 29th September 2017

Simple Minds will take to the road in February 2018 to premiere Walk Between Worlds in a selection of special live shows, which will be in three parts: a performance of the album, a live on-stage interview and a classic Simple Minds' set with hits and a few surprises! For fans it will be a very special, one-of-a-kind experience.

"As much as it has been a real pleasure to work on Walk Between Worlds, equally so it is thrilling to observe that the Simple Minds' story continues to evolve both in the studio and on the live stage. Sensing that each of these songs are destined to become individual events when played live - we look forward to performing all of them alongside already established live classics when we set out on this next upcoming tour." - Jim.

"The shows we play next week will start with some songs from art rock days for hardcore fans to go nuts.

"New and old songs and the stories and chat about the years and the cities we are playing in.

He continues: "This record seems to tick a lot of the boxes for people who liked Simple Minds in the past as well as now. It's hopefully a balance."

Up Close With Simple Minds
The Sun
8th February 2018

Tour poster.

The colour 48 page tour programme featured an interview with Jim and Charlie by Adrian Thrills, self-penned brief biographies of all the musicians, extra pictures from the Dean Chalkley photoshoot, merchandise and album details.

Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow, UK
13th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

Many thanks to Martin for all the pictures.

"I'm more than sure Glasgow will give a good welcome to all who are making their way to see Simple Minds kick off our latest series of live dates - planned specifically to coincide with the recent release of our album Walk Between Worlds. As I understand it some fans are travelling from all over UK/Europe/USA... and even some Australians are in the process of making their way. All showing the ultimate in support in order to be there when we perform our new music for the first time, performed within our hometown. Those travelling fans may not actually be walking between worlds to get to Glasgow, but their on going loyalty to Simple Minds is out of this world. As it is with anyone who after all these years continues to listen to our music, or takes up the offer of coming to see us play live. We in turn never take for granted the sacrifices made by those who decide to invest their time, money, and emotions in deciding to listen to Simple Minds. We truly cannot thank you enough."

"Thinking about the Australians in particular. It is exactly one year ago today that we played our final show of what was one of the most pleasurable concert tours to date. (A Day On The Green Concert, The Hunter Valley, Australia.) Memorable for so many reasons, including the fact that the show came perilously close to being cancelled, due to record breaking and dangerously high temperatures. Thankfully that never happened. Instead we all sweltered throughout one of the great nights that are all part and parcel of touring both Australia and New Zealand in the heart summertime. Alternately, a quick glance at Glasgow's weather for this upcoming week informs me that there could be more than one flurry of snow. Could be chilly on the streets then? But I guarantee that Simple Minds will turn up the heat once the music starts playing. Thanks again to all of you!" - Jim, 10th February 2018

"Been looking forward to these live dates ever since they were announced. A dream start to be in our hometown for the first one. More than a music venue. For Simple Minds, Barrowland is sacred ground. A church. A sort of rock n roll temple even. Going on at 8PM sharp. We look forward to meeting up with all our fans, both local and those who have travelled from far and wide. Guaranteed we will do all to hopefully make it a night to remember. Thanks to all of you!" - Jim, 13th February 2018

"Biggest thanks imaginable to all who made their way to Barrowlands last night. Great to feel encouraged when playing new songs, and the audience more than got behind us last night. Fans, friends, and family all present. Michael MacNeil, Andy Gillespie, and Bruce Findlay attending - wishing us well. Wonderful! On to Manchester now, another city that means so much to Simple Minds. See you all later tonight!" - Jim, 13th February 2018

Albert Hall, Manchester, UK
14th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

Many thanks to Martin for all the pictures.

"A great welcome came our way in Manchester. 24 hours after Glasgow, another most memorable night for Simple Minds. Once again thanks to all who have come along and supported us so thoroughly during these dates. How can we not be overwhelmed by the response? New stuff really starting to shine. London Roundhouse here we come!" - Jim, 14th February 2018

Roundhouse, London, UK
15th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

"Great memories of playing here on our 5x5 tour. Hoping to make even more lasting memories tonight. Thanks to all (travelling from far and wide) for coming to see Simple Minds on this Walk Between Worlds tour. Your support is immense." - Jim, 15th February 2018

"London Roundhouse was jumping last night, and with that we say goodbye to UK for this tour. See you again in summer! Thanks again for the great support from all over, during these last few nights. Now heading to Paris for a live TV show tomorrow evening, "Le Quotidien", followed by our own live show on Saturday in Paris at La Salle Pleyel. Sunday's show in Brussels at the famous Ancienne Belgique is sure to cap an exciting weekend for Simple Minds - band and fans!" - Jim, 16th February 2018

Salle Pleyel, Paris, France
17th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

Many thanks to Marc for all the pictures.

"Loved tonight's venue in Paris. A purpose built music venue, perfect conditions really. And what a great audience. Thanks for making us feel so good, and thanks for taking the time to listen to the new songs. Bruxelles next! See you on Sunday night! Can't wait!" - Jim, 17th February 2018

Ancienne Belgique, Brussels, Belgium
18th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Mandela Day / Don't You (Forget About Me)

Many thanks to Martin for all the pictures.

"One hour to go before we walk on, however the prospect of performing in Brussels tonight - followed by Amsterdam tomorrow - is more than enough to put a spring in our step. This tour is really whizzing past now and I'm certainly going to miss this opportunity of playing the entire Walk Between Worlds album - when this all ends in Berlin, in just a few days time!" - Jim, 18th February 2018

Paradiso, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
19th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

Many thanks to Martin for all the pictures.

"Travelling at the speed of light - this tour is whizzing past in a complete blur. But we are not the only ones with our travelling shoes on. Thanks hugely to all who have gone the extra miles in travelling to see Simple Minds over this last week. We appreciate all who make the journeys, in doing so you encourage each and every night!" - Jim, 19th February 2018

Vega, Copenhagen, Denmark
20th February, 2018
Main Set #1: [Billy Sloan introduction] / I Travel / Celebrate / Love Song / This Earth That You Walk Upon
Main Set #2: [Billy Sloan interview] / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams
Main Set #3: [Billy Sloan interview] / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Waterfront / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84)
Encore #1: Sanctify Yourself / Alive And Kicking
Encore #2: Dirty Old Town / Don't You (Forget About Me)

"Last "real gig" of this short tour and as the pic suggests we have been awestruck, overwhelmed, and without words to convey appropriate thanks - to all who have supported us throughout this last week. It certainly was a challenge to decide that we should go out and play an entire new album only one week after release, but it would seem that all songs on Walk Between Worlds were built perfectly for playing live. A true success then. We will never forget the excitement of this last week. We really don't want this tour tour to end, but if it has to [then] Copenhagen is a fine place to top it all off! Thanks to everyone once again." - Jim, 20th February 2018

Schmuz, Berlin, Germany
22nd February, 2018
Main Set: Waterfront / Magic / Summer / Utopia / In Dreams / The Signal And The Noise / Barrowland Star / Walk Between Worlds / Sense Of Discovery / Someone Somewhere In Summertime / The American / Sanctify Yourself
Encore: Alive And Kicking / Don't You (Forget About Me)

This was a special stripped-down performance broadcast by Arte TV in Germany which was advertised as Arte TV Showcase Of Walk Between Worlds. The performane was available on Arte's website and YouTube.