Sting Uses Strings
July 19, 2010 by GradingGirl
Filed under Music, Reviews
Symphonicity
This man is living proof that talent, looks and creativity can only get better with age. Sting, my favorite artist, was asked last year by the Chicago Symphony to put a program together of his music. He was very fortunate to get the Philharmonic Orchestra to help him compose these re-arrangements for his latest CD, Symphonicity, and accompany him on tour. Sting describes this unique recording best: “I’m trying to create something new in this interface between pop and symphonic music. I think these songs have enough harmonic movement in them to warrant a symphony orchestra playing them . . . It’s sonically rich: you can do almost anything with an orchestra. I don’t know where it’s going, but that’s something I love. The journey itself is the reward.” I certainly am enjoying the auditory journey these songs offer! → → →
Sting - Symphonicity
Next to You – Sawing violins replace electric guitars from the original. This was the very first song on the very first Police album and this recording gives it the honor it deserves.
Englishman in New York – This Englishman born Gordan Sumner makes this one sound more light and playful with the tingly strings and wily woodwinds in the background.
Every Little Thing She Does is Magic – Backed by the grand classical instruments, this song gains intensity.
I Hung My Head – One of Sting’s under-appreciated songs, it gains guilt and gravity through the anxious classical strings.
You Will Be My Ain True Love – Was once my favorite song. Dare I say this duet with Allison Krause is more haunting than the original. Cutting-edge classical!!
Roxanne - Slower-paced version is replete with a mournful cello solo. Bet you didn’t think ‘beautiful’ could be an adjective to describe this old favorite.
When We Dance – Next to Every Breath You Take, this is my very favorite Sting song. No, actually, this gets first place above Every Breath. This particular arrangement adds new interest I didn’t think possible. It gives me chills EVERY time I hear it. (i.e. check out 4:15) Now . . . it is finally time for me to find my dance partner.
The End of The Game – Flows from a major production to an expressive lyrical ballad . . . bravo.
I Burn for You - Haunting, lingering love song burns through the soul.
We Work the Black Seam – I didn’t remember this song but the stately horns make me appreciate its fluid lament.
She’s Too Good for Me – I like this one!! Whimsical words and catchy tune! 
The Pirate’s Bride – One can tell this man used to be an English teacher . . . poetic prose. 
Why Should I Cry for You – Hauntingly silky version . . . a peaceful end. This is a bonus track available on ITunes.
GG gives Sting’s Symphonicity an A+ for chill-inducing, beautifully arranged pieces that makes listeners hope this man never stops recording. I rarely buy an entire album on ITunes but I didn’t think twice on this one. Keep your fingers crossed he releases Symphonicity II!!!
