Simple Minds, Metro Radio Arena

It all got underway with a wonderful support set from fellow Glaswegians Deacon Blue. Tight, focussed and polished, they went through their hugely impressive back catalogue with the usual suspects boomed out in quick succession to a rapturous reception.

The all too short opening included Wages Day, Real Gone Kid, Chocolate Girl and the superb Dignity. The crowd were certainly in the mood for more with Ricky Ross and his wife Lorraine McIntosh an inspiring partnership.

It paved the way for the entry of Jim Kerr and band. On they came with a spectacular lighting show and a thundering Waterfront.

Such a promising start hinted at even higher standards to follow. The frontman did deliver a glimpse of past glory days, taking centre stage with his unique style of skipping from foot to foot, one knee in the air and arms raised aloft. But that was a good as his got as a rather anti-climatic atmosphere seemed to take over with too many songs merging into one another.

They were freely filtered with such classics as Promise You a Miracle, Mandela Day and Chelsea Girlas the arena waited for the big send-off. It eventually came with an enthusiastic sing-along to Don't Forget About Me and an encore including Sanctify Yourself and Belfast Child.

By this time they had been on stage for just over two hours. They obviously tried to pack in as much as possible and cover almost their entire history. Possibly, by leaving some of it out, the evening would have a been a little shorter but ultimately more structured and satisfying.

And we haven't heard the last. A new album has already been recorded and due for release next year. They may be back.

Ron Clarke