Simple Minds Release New Live Album Ahead of Biggest North American Tour in 4 Decades
April 26, 2025 – Simple Minds, one of the most iconic and enduring bands of their generation, have released a new live album, Live in The City of Diamonds, ahead of their biggest North American tour in four decades. The album, released by BMG, is available now in a variety of formats, including a 2 x CD Media Book featuring 24 tracks and a 24-page book including exclusive photos and tour notes written by Jim Kerr.
According to Antimusic.com, the band’s live reputation has always been a key part of their success, with Simple Minds playing to approximately one million people around the globe last year. The new live album completes the triptych of the Live in The City series, dating back to 1987, and captures the visceral excitement of a Simple Minds concert.
Live in The City of Diamonds was recorded at a sold-out Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome on April 6, 2024, to an audience of 17,000 people. The album features a perfect mixture of songs from throughout the band’s dynamic career, including early pioneering tracks such as "Love Song," "Sons and Fascination" and "Sweat in Bullet." The album also includes songs from their era-defining album New Gold Dream, such as their first Top 20 UK single "Promised You a Miracle," and the tribute to their hometown of Glasgow and live set opener, "Waterfront."
The album also features 1985’s international hit "Don’t You Forget About Me" and songs from the multi-platinum album Once Upon A Time (both celebrating their 40th anniversaries this year). Additionally, the album includes 1989’s number one single "Belfast Child," and "See The Lights," a fan favorite from 1991’s Real Life. As Antimusic.com reports, Live in The City of Diamonds is the perfect summation of Simple Minds’ current live prowess and the ever-evolving sound of a remarkable band.
The band, which features the extraordinary talents of lifelong members and friends Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill (lead guitars), with Gordy Goudie (rhythm guitar), Ged Grimes (bass), Cherisse Osei (drums), Erik Ljungggren (keyboards) and Sarah Brown (vocals), have always been known for their high-energy live performances. With Live in The City of Diamonds, Simple Minds have once again proven why they are considered one of the greatest live bands of their generation.
Simple Minds’ biggest North American tour in four decades is set to kick off soon, with the band playing to sold-out crowds across the continent. The tour is expected to be a major hit, with fans eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see the band live in concert. As Antimusic.com notes, the band’s live shows are a testament to their enduring legacy and their ability to continue to thrill audiences around the world.
The release of Live in The City of Diamonds and the upcoming North American tour are a significant milestone for Simple Minds, who have been a major force in the music industry for over four decades. With their unique blend of post-punk, art rock, and new wave, Simple Minds have built a loyal following and have established themselves as one of the most iconic and enduring bands of their generation.
