So often in music, artists produce their most thoughtful and mature work in their later years. But equally so artists can produce their best material in their fledgling careers and then seek to over-egg the pudding later. Simple Minds definitely fall into the latter category. 1982's 'New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)' is often considered to be their masterpiece; more tuneful than their earlier work but also subdued enough to please the faithful. Heralded by a trio of top quality singles, 'Someone Somewhere In Summertime', 'Glittering Prize' and 'Promised You A Miracle' were amongst the best of the '80s, Charlie Burchill's guitar parts were memorable without being bombastic and the keyboards promised hopeful escapism. The remainder of the album is not quite up to this standard but is at least atmospheric; 'Big Sleep' even finds success in mixing cheap keyboard motifs with slap bass. Their later career - which lest we forget is still a going concern - witnessed them trying to emulate U2 when really they were much better at being The Comsat Angels on this evidence.