The Promised cover

The Promised

Simple Minds · 1997

77 min · 16 tracks · new wave

An expansive blend of synth-driven melodies and soaring rock anthems that encapsulate a yearning for connection and hope.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    She's a River — This track exemplifies the band's trademark atmospheric sound, blending poignant lyrics with a sweeping chorus that captures the essence of longing and nostalgia.
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    Belfast Child Start here — A powerful anthem inspired by political strife, this song combines emotive lyrics with lush instrumentation, showcasing the band's ability to tackle serious themes.
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    Alive and Kicking — 'Alive and Kicking' remains one of Simple Minds' most enduring hits, characterized by its vibrant energy and uplifting message about resilience and positivity.
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    Don’t You (Forget About Me) — Originally featured in 'The Breakfast Club', this iconic track helped define an era, blending rock and pop sensibilities that resonate even decades later.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • atmospheric anthems for introspection
  • uplifting sing-along moments
  • nostalgic reflections on youth
  • engaging soundscapes for focus

Maybe skip if you

  • dislike lengthy listening experiences
  • prefer straightforward, immediate tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Represents a solid entry in a fluctuating period, not widely recognized but appreciated by fans.
Themes
90s new wave nostalgia· Belfast conflict reflections· synth-driven introspection
Career context
The Promised was released in 1997, marking Simple Minds' eleventh studio album during a period of fluctuating popularity following their peak in the mid-1980s. This album came after their commercial successes like 'Once Upon a Time' and reflects their continued evolution within the landscape of arena rock and synth-pop.
Stylistic neighbors
Talk Talk· The Cure· Duran Duran
New to Simple Minds? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Belfast Child Start here 6:43
  • 2 Don’t You (Forget About Me) 4:21
  • 3 Alive and Kicking 4:50
  • 4 Someone, Somewhere in Summertime 4:40
  • 5 New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84) 5:37
  • 6 Sanctify Yourself 4:00
  • 7 See the Lights 4:26
  • 8 Waterfront 4:52
  • 9 The American 3:36
  • 10 She’s a River 5:34
  • 11 Hypnotised 5:55
  • 12 Promised You a Miracle 4:02
  • 13 Speed Your Love to Me 4:26
  • 14 Glittering Prize 3:59
  • 15 Let There Be Love 4:43
  • 16 Mandela Day 5:41

What to play next

Good News from the Next World
Listen next

Good News from the Next World

1995

Continues the expansive sound with a blend of rock and synth elements.
Real Life
Go back to

Real Life

1991

Precedes 'The Promised' with a similar sonic landscape and thematic depth.
Full Simple Minds discography Where to start with Simple Minds Artists like Simple Minds
new wave post-punk synth-pop

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Wish

Wish

The Cure

Shares a similar atmospheric blend of introspective lyrics and synth-driven melodies from the 90s.

(What's the Story) Morning Glory?

(What's the Story) Morning Glory?

Oasis

Captures anthemic qualities with reflective themes, echoing 90s nostalgia and emotional depth.

Ultra

Ultra

Depeche Mode

Combines dark, introspective lyrics with lush synth textures, resonating with the same 90s new wave ethos.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata