Sting adds surprises with his classics...
Variety, the spice of life, could best describe Sting's versatile performance at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
If one had high expectations of the concert, they were fulfilled. Yet an aura of surprise hung in the air, as Sting displayed a new style of music with the ensemble of jazz musicians he has brought together.
The band played songs from the newly-released album, 'The Dream of the Blue Turtles', as well as some long-hoped-for Police classics.
The concert began with 'Shadows in the Rain', a fast-paced jazz-influenced song, which confirmed the fact that this indeed was a new sound for Sting.
A slow, blues-flavoured 'Driven to Tears' followed.
Later, the crowd gave loud reception to the a capella beginning of 'One World is Enough', which merged into a spirited, reggae version of the Police song with everyone on stage joining in a square dance.
The encores included a thoughtful, mellow 'Roxanne' with Sting on guitar and Branford Marsalis on clarinet; 'Every Breath You Take' backed up with vocals by the whole band; and 'Demolition Man' at a fast pace.
Material from the new album developed familiar themes, revealing Sting's social consciousness, as well as exploring new themes and styles, a result of these diverse artists coming together.
Sting introduced 'We Work the Black Seam Together', a pulsing, moody song about the mistreatment of the coalminer.
'Moon Over Bourbon Street' offered comic relief with a haunting accent, its theme being the woes of a vampire. Sting asked for silence at this point, as he played keyboards, accompanied again by Marsalis' clarinet.
"What about the new band?" question on everyone's mind as they entered Radio City.
Some may be familiar with the musicians from television videos. And anyone who has heard the singles 'If You Love Somebody Set Them Free' and 'Fortress around Your Heart' knows these are great musicians.
Experiencing their music in concert is more than enough evidence to convince one that this group is a cohesive, class act.
All of the members displayed their talent, playing a range of music from reggae to jazz; from swing to the intellectual rock of the Police repertoire... and more. But most outstanding were the performances of Marsalis on saxophone and clarinet, and Omar Hakim on drums.
Marsalis contributed a mood to the melodies, sometimes brooding, echoing; at other times interjecting with enthusiasm.
Hakim, a powerhouse on drums, showed his flexibility through the night with the various styles. Pounding out a mesmerizing rhythm, surrounded by flashing cymbals, Hakim gave one of the most entertaining drum solos.
Sting's vocals rang out soulful and clear, yet with his trademark raspiness. Back-up singers Dolette Mc- Donald and Janice Pendarvis enhanced the music with their beautiful voices.
Sting remained reserved but somehow familiar with his audience. With his band, however, it is obvious that he is relaxed and enjoying himself. The band was united, jamming together or one-to-one, with Sting and keyboard player, Kenny Kirkland, or Sting showing off some coordinated choreography with bass player Darryl Jones.
Of course, a true Police fan will want to see Sting join up with Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland again. But after witnessing this cele; bration at Radio City, this combination of new talent is something that we hope will continue for a long time.
(c) The Bernardsville News by Mimi Early
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