57th & 9th: World Tour

Sting, the apotheosis of the first festival hosted at the Stade Mauroy...

With Ibrahim Maalouf (whom he invited to join him on stage), the singer of "Roxanne" brought the two days of concerts to a close in style, resonating throughout the Arena. Even though the former Police singer didn't draw a full house, unlike Justin Bieber the day before, this first performance is promising.

Is there anything in common between Justin Bieber and Sting? None, the Police singer's fans will quibble, especially those nostalgic for his punk era. Yes, there is: the first headliner of the North Summer Festival and the one who closed it this Sunday evening both sang for the victims of terrorism, one with Ariana Grande, after the tragedy in Manchester, the other at the Bataclan, a year after the November 13th attack.

 Solidarity, and eager to share it: that's the common thread. It's the only one. After the Canadian star's catchphrases designed to be effective, it was rock that brought this first edition to a close. Even though, over time, Sting has nourished it with multiple influences, he proved this Sunday that he's still got what he wants. And above all, that he's not throwing his share away. Synchronicity, Spirits In The Material World, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic...

The most English of New Yorkers mainly performs hits from his former band, with a beautiful, infectious energy that quickly gets the audience singing along. His son Joe Sumner is one of the two backing singers. He will also sing alone, a beautiful cover of Bowie's Ashes To Ashes. The emotion is immense among the audience of all ages.

For Walking On The Moon, a beautiful display of white beams sweeps across the Arena. A stunning effect, but not necessarily a wise move, as the Arena is far from full, unlike the previous day's concert with Justin Bieber.

Fifteen thousand people came to applaud the author of Roxanne and a very inspired and energized Ibrahim Maalouf, who joined Sting at the very end of the concert. Live Nation could perhaps have expected better with such a big name. But it's true that the North Summer Festival, promoted by Crédit Mutuel (like the upcoming Jean-Claude Casadesus concert), is still in its infancy. We'll have to wait a little longer to find out if there will be a second edition.

(c) La Voix du Nord by Virginie Boulet