Wags Photography On May 27, 2025, Denver’s Ball Arena hosted a nostalgic evening of ’80s synth-pop and new wave music as part of the “Alive & Kicking” tour. The night began with Modern English, whose iconic hit “I Melt with You” set an upbeat tone for the evening. Next, Soft Cell took the stage, delivering their signature electronic sound and classics like “Tainted Love.” Headliner Simple Minds closed the show with a high-energy set that included timeless tracks such as “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” and “Alive and Kicking,” leaving the audience energized and nostalgic for the golden era of alternative rock.
Modern English
Modern English is a British new wave and post-punk band formed in Colchester, Essex, in 1979. The original lineup included Robbie Grey (vocals), Gary McDowell (guitar), Michael Conroy (bass), and Richard Brown (drums). They initially performed under the name The Lepers before adopting the name Modern English. The band’s early music was characterized by a blend of punk energy and atmospheric soundscapes, influenced by bands like Joy Division. Their debut album, Mesh & Lace (1981), laid the groundwork for the gothic rock and industrial genres. In 1982, they released After the Snow, which featured the hit single “I Melt with You,” propelling them into the mainstream and becoming a defining track of the 1980s.
After disbanding in 1987, Modern English reunited in 1995 and has since remained active, releasing several albums and touring internationally. In 2024, they released 1234, their first album of new material in eight years. The album received positive reviews for its blend of classic post-punk elements and contemporary sounds. The current lineup includes original members Grey, McDowell, Conroy, and Stephen Walker (keyboards), along with Gabriel Sullivan (guitar) and Richard Chandler (drums). Modern English continues to perform live, bringing their timeless sound to audiences worldwide.
Photos by Jackie Wagner. All images © 2025 Copyright Jackie Wagner. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Soft Cell
Soft Cell is a pioneering English synth-pop duo consisting of Marc Almond (vocals) and Dave Ball (synthesizers). Formed in Leeds in 1978, they emerged as one of the most influential acts of the early ’80s electronic music scene. Their 1981 debut album, Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret, featured the global hit “Tainted Love,” which topped charts worldwide and became the second best-selling British single of 1981. The album also produced other notable tracks like “Bedsitter” and “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye,” solidifying their place in music history.
After disbanding in 1984, Soft Cell reunited in 2001, releasing the album Cruelty Without Beauty. In 2022, they released Happiness Not Included, their first studio album in 20 years, followed by companion albums Happiness Now Completed and Happiness Now Extended. In 2025, they joined Simple Minds on their “Alive & Kicking” North American tour, marking a significant return to the live stage. Despite challenges, including Ball’s health issues, Soft Cell continues to captivate audiences with their innovative music and performances.
Photos by Jackie Wagner. All images © 2025 Copyright Jackie Wagner. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Simple Minds
Simple Minds is a Scottish rock band formed in Glasgow in 1977, renowned for their fusion of post-punk, new wave, and arena rock. The band’s classic lineup includes Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill (guitar/keyboards), who have remained the core members throughout their career. They achieved international acclaim with hits like “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” and “Alive and Kicking,” and have sold over 60 million albums worldwide.
In recent years, Simple Minds have continued to evolve musically and maintain a strong presence on the live circuit. Their 2022 album Direction of the Heart showcased a more intimate and introspective sound, recorded during the pandemic in Hamburg. Simple Minds followed this with the release of Live in the City of Diamonds in April 2025, a live album capturing their performance at Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome. This release completes Simple Minds’ “Live in the City” series, dating back to 1987. In 2025, Simple Minds embarked on their most extensive North American tour in four decades, joined by special guests Soft Cell and Modern English, bringing their iconic sound to audiences across the continent.
Photos by Jackie Wagner. All images © 2025 Copyright Jackie Wagner. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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