 Receiving mostly positive reviews in the United Kingdom and the United States, "Sparkle in the Rain" was ultimately certified double platinum in the UK by the British Phonographic Industry, and significantly increased media interest in the band.Signs of a possible change in musical direction into a more stadium-oriented sound first became apparent during a series of live performances in the summer months of 1983 by Simple Minds to huge European crowds.Lead singer Jim Kerr returned to a natural, unadorned facial and hair style, as "whatever they would have to say would be in the music."