GENRE; Indie Rock/ New Wave/ Synth Indie Rock
RELEASE DATE; 19 December, 2025
RATING; 4/5
Covering a beloved classic is always a challenge, particularly one as revered as Simple Minds’ “Someone” from the landmark 1982 album New Gold Dream. Yet The Mustard approach the task with confidence, presenting a fresh interpretation that respects the spirit of the original while introducing an entirely different pulse. Released on 19th December 2025, the band’s faster-paced arrangement transforms the song into an uplifting, dance-friendly experience that feels equally suited to festival stages and intimate venues. Rather than relying on nostalgia alone, the group reshapes a familiar favourite into something that feels contemporary and engaging.
One of the release’s most fascinating aspects is the story behind its creation. The performance was captured live at Thamesside Brewery in Staines, Middlesex, through the venue’s mixing desk by sound engineer Jon Stanesby, originally intended as content for social media. Hearing the quality of the recording, the band recognised an opportunity to take the performance even further. Producer Steve “Smiley” Barnard refined the live capture at Sunshine Corner Studios, preserving its spontaneous energy while elevating it to studio-standard quality. His association with Derek Forbes and Mick MacNeil through Four Good Men adds an intriguing connection to the legacy of Simple Minds without overshadowing The Mustard’s own artistic identity.
The Mustard have steadily established themselves within the indie new wave synth landscape, drawing inspiration from celebrated names including Simple Minds, Tears for Fears, U2, and Coldplay. Charles Allen, Ollie Foord, Lukas Kelly, Mike Jackson, and Carl Sampson combine shimmering synthesisers, expansive guitar textures, driving rhythms, and confident instrumentation into a sound that feels cinematic and vibrant. Their shared admiration for the music that shaped them is unmistakable, yet they avoid imitation by injecting personality and momentum into every performance.
“Someone” also highlights the chemistry that has made The Mustard an increasingly exciting live act. Already earning attention through major festival appearances such as Shynefest, with Meadow Festival 2027 on the horizon, the band continue to build impressive momentum. This release stands as both a tribute and a statement of intent, proving that thoughtful reinterpretation can breathe new life into a treasured song while introducing it to a new generation of listeners. With plans for an EP or album beginning at the end of 2026, The Mustard appear well positioned for an exciting next chapter.
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