Watch Simply Red - Live At Montreux, 2003

Simply Red is a British soul and pop band that has been active since the mid-1980s. Their music is characterized by Mick Hucknall's distinctive voice and a blend of pop, soul, and R&B influences. In 2003, Simply Red took to the stage at the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland to perform a career-spanning set of their biggest hits.

The concert opens with an energetic rendition of "Sad Old Red", a track from the band's debut album. Immediately, it's clear that Hucknall's vocals are in fine form, and the band is tight and polished. They transition into "Enough", a midtempo number from their 1991 album "Stars". The song is a showcase for Hucknall's soulful delivery and the band's tight, jazzy instrumentation.

Throughout the concert, Simply Red effortlessly blends their biggest hits with deeper cuts from their catalog. "Broken Man", from their 1987 album "Men and Women", features a lively horn section and a catchy chorus. "Night Nurse", from the band's 1999 album "Love and the Russian Winter", is a languid, sensual ballad that showcases Hucknall's emotive vocals.

The band's breakout hit, "Holding Back the Years", receives a rapturous response from the crowd. The song's haunting melody and Hucknall's poignant lyrics about lost love still resonate with listeners today. Simply Red follows it up with the upbeat, funky "Your Mirror", which features catchy horn riffs and a singalong chorus.

As the concert progresses, Simply Red takes the audience on a journey through their three decades of music. They perform the bouncy "More", the groovy "A Song For You", and the epic "Thrill Me" with equal aplomb. And, of course, they save some of their biggest hits for last: "Stars", "If You Don't Know Me By Now", and "Money's Too Tight (To Mention)" all receive cheers and singalongs from the crowd.

What sets Simply Red's Montreux performance apart is not just the quality of the music, but the energy and passion that the band puts into every song. Hucknall is clearly having a great time onstage, interacting with the audience and joking with his bandmates. The other members of Simply Red are equally engaged, with saxophonist Ian Kirkham and keyboardist Tim Vine standing out as virtuosic players.

The band's sound is augmented by a trio of backup singers, who add rich harmonies and choreographed dance moves to the mix. The staging and lighting are kept relatively simple, but the occasional bursts of color and swirling lights add to the festive atmosphere.

The concert ends with Simply Red performing an encore of "Fairground", their 1995 hit that saw the band at the peak of their fame. The crowd is on their feet, singing along to every word, as the band brings the evening to a close with a rousing guitar solo and a confetti-strewn stage.

Overall, Simply Red's Live at Montreux 2003 is a must-see for fans of the band or anyone who loves soulful, well-crafted pop music. The band's enthusiasm and musicianship are infectious, and the setlist is packed with hits that will have you dancing and singing along. Whether you're an old fan or a newcomer to the band, this concert is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed appreciation for Simply Red's enduring appeal.

Simply Red - Live At Montreux, 2003 is a 2013 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes.