Photography: Simple Minds @ KOKO. Virgin 40th.

Simple Minds at Koko in London on 7 November 2013 (Imelda Michalczyk)

Simple Minds played a special show at London’s Koko as part of a string of gigs marking the 40th anniversary of Virgin Records. With the band playing the capital’s vast O2 Arena at the end of the month, this was a relatively intimate show and a special treat for fans. Imelda Michalczyk photographed the band.

Simple Minds at Koko in London on 7 November 2013 (Imelda Michalczyk)

Simple Minds played a two set concert with no support. They threw in early hit single ‘Waterfront’ as the second song in the setlist, highlighting how many familiar tunes they were to play over the course of the night. 

Simple Minds at Koko in London on 7 November 2013 (Imelda Michalczyk)

Their very early albums for Arista and then the ground breaking first release on Virgin, the Steve Hillage produced Sons and Fascination and Sister Feelings Call were greatly admired and critically acclaimed. So much so that bands like Manic Street Preachers and cite Empires and Dance and Reel to Reel as big influences on their style.

Simple Minds at Koko in London on 7 November 2013 (Imelda Michalczyk)