Simplified features both stripped-down versions of Simply Red's classic songs and fresh recordorm some material with only a piano as accompaniment. "What struck me when I listened back to the performance was just how much the song leapt out at you in those circumstances," he says. Classic Simply Red songs such as "Something Got Me Started," "Sad Old Red," "Smile," and "Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye" are reinvigorated thanks to these sophisticated, even jazzy, new arrangements. One of the group's most popular hits, "Holding Back The Years," is beautiful and still lush; recognizable, but with an added timeless maturity. Other songs featured on Simplified include "More," "Your Mirror," "Fairground," and "For Your Babies."



The lead-off track and first single from Simplified is the irresistible, upbeat, and distinctly Latin-flavored "Perfect Love." The Cuban vibe of this sensual new song is amplified by the vocals of Havana-based singer Danae. A Latin feeling runs throughout Simplified, inspired by the band's recent visit to Cuba. In fact, Simply Red is the first English pop band to have played in Havana, as they appeared at the landmark Gran Teatro early in 2005.



Simplified is the follow-up to 2003's highly successful Home, which sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide. That release helped push the band to a level of over 50 million albums sold since forming 21 years ago. Although Simply Red's lineup of musicians has rotated throughout the years, the one constant has been Mick Hucknall, one of the finest male vocalists Britain has ever produced, and also one of its most accomplished, melodic, and prolific pop songwriters.