Simple Minds Acoustic
by Simple Minds
  • Record Label: Caroline
  • Release Date: Nov 11, 2016
Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
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  1. Record Collector
    Nov 7, 2016
    80
    Some of these quiet reworks are extremely good indeed; all highlight Burchill’s prowess with an acoustic guitar.
  2. Classic Rock Magazine
    Nov 7, 2016
    70
    Acoustic is a consistent collection that works best when the songs are strongest, and it’s movingly effective on the final track, a cover of Richard Hawley’s Long Black Train.
  3. Q Magazine
    Nov 15, 2016
    60
    To their credit, they've not taken the easy route by simply cutting the bombast and hoping for the best. [Jan 2017, p.112]
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  5. AllMusic
    Nov 11, 2016
    60
    The whole point of doing acoustic versions is usually to lay bare the material, deconstructing it down to its roots, but for the most part, Acoustic feels a bit too polished and adjusted.
  6. The Independent (UK)
    Nov 9, 2016
    60
    Though not entirely “unplugged”--there’s a wealth of keyboard drones and subtle electronic detail lurking behind the foreground mandolins and acoustic guitars--applying this stripped-down format to some of their most memorable moments does help dilute the excessive stadium bombast which became a cornerstone of Simple Minds’ style.
  7. Uncut
    Nov 7, 2016
    60
    The arrangements are meticulously layered rather than stripped down, dynamic drum tattoos, dramatic basslines and an epic amount of reverb ensuring the sounds is as panoramic as the "unplugged" tag can accommodate. [Dec 2016, p.37]
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  8. Mojo
    Nov 7, 2016
    40
    This stripped-back retro-retread is in danger of playing to the opposite of their strengths. [Dec 2016, p.88]
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No user score yet- Awaiting 1 more rating

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. mwhitty
    Nov 3, 2018
    10
    I suspect stp1965 meant to rate it 100 instead of 10. I have just discovered this album and what a revelation it is. Vibrant and originalI suspect stp1965 meant to rate it 100 instead of 10. I have just discovered this album and what a revelation it is. Vibrant and original reworkings of old favourites where the musicianship shines through. Kerr, Burchill et al have crafted a classic. It had me up and dancing and smiling at how the arrangements worked and the power still kicked in. Some work much better than others Glittering Prize, See the Lights and Sanctify Yourself are the pick for me, but the rest don't disappoint. The opening track The American and the closing one Long Black Train bring a different feel that complements the whole. Well done and keep writing, performing and recording - you've still got it.… Full Review »
  2. stp1965
    Dec 10, 2016
    10
    Simple Minds Acoustic is one of the best albums of the year. Here's why they have taken some great songs and strip them and still make themSimple Minds Acoustic is one of the best albums of the year. Here's why they have taken some great songs and strip them and still make them fun and full of energy. When you watch the videos they are not sitting on a stool playing guitar and singing into a mic, they are on the stage moving about. This is a band that has been around for almost 40 years and they have done some of their best music in the last 10 years. I thank God for the internet because without it I would have no idea that they are still making excellent music because radio in the US does not play Simple Minds. I would say go to I Tunes or Amazon or where ever you get your music and purchase "Sanctify Yourself" "Promised You a Miracle" (featuring KT Tunstall)"Chelsea Girl" and I bet you will go back and get the rest.… Full Review »
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