Riding the coattails of the John Hughes flick The Breakfast Club,
Simple Minds finally broke into America with their theme song "Don't You Forget About Me," and their 1985 release Once Upon a Time captured the heart-wrenching excitement found in bands such as
U2. They were now one of the biggest names in music, and
Jim Kerr's thirsting vocals became the band's signature. Once Upon a Time, featuring producer
Jimmy Iovine (
U2,
Stevie Nicks,
Bruce Springsteen), showcased more of a guitar-driven sound. The band's heavy synth pop beats had relaxed a bit and
Charlie Burchill's charming playing style was most noticeable. Also enlisting the choir-like beauty of
Robin Clark,
Simple Minds' popularity was expounded on songs such as "Alive & Kicking" and "Sanctify Yourself." This album was one of their best, most likely leading the pack in the band's album roster, because it exuded raw energy and solid composition not entirely captured on previous albums. ~ MacKenzie Wilson