Paul Simon and Sting: On Stage Together: 2014/2015

Paul Simon & Sting...

Upon arrival at the Ziggodome, the stage already looked as if two old friends were on stage tonight. One microphone was high on the stand and a second, set much lower, next to it. Paul Simon and Sting first performed together in 2013 as part of a benefit evening. It was such a success that a year later, the two old friends embarked on their North American tour. In the spring of 2015, they visited the Ziggodome. The singer-songwriters' two bands merged. The result was a vibrant three-hour mix of hits, hits, and more hits.

The band opened with a few songs together. Accompanied by the 16-piece band, the duo launched into the atmospheric "Brand New Day." Simon and Sting smoothly alternated between the various lines of the song. Throughout the evening, the band sang a few songs together, followed by a short solo segment. Sting was the more charismatic performer. The Police's songs, and their solo work as well, have an atmospheric build-up with explosive climaxes. A swinging "Roxanne" is supplemented midway through with a cover of "Ain't No Sunshine." "Englishman in New York" shines with a clarinet accompaniment. Paul Simon complements this beautifully with his roots sound. "Me And Julio Down The Schoolyard" gets a pleasant New Orleans feel. Swinging numbers like "Diamonds On The Sole Of Her Shoes" and the bass line of "You Can Call Me Al" get everyone dancing. The highlight of Simon's solo work is a sultry version of the blues classic "Mystery Train."

When the two men sing together, you get the feeling this duo has been around for years. Several songs seem written as a duet. Simon's voice is a perfect fit for "Fragile." Conversely, the highlight of the evening is Sting opening "Bridge Over Troubled Water." It's these moments that make the evening extra special. Thanks to the extensive band, which regularly adds accents with a variety of instruments, each song is elevated to a higher level.

Merging two bands runs the risk of overplaying songs, while they would be far more effective in smaller versions. Paul Simon and Sting skirt this subtle line several times tonight, but never cross it. The gentlemen demonstrate that this approach can also create a wealth of musical tension and class. They're a beautiful duo to watch. Sting stands tall and powerful with his magnificent beard behind his high microphone. Paul Simon stands a little shy, but with just as much enjoyment, like a smaller kid next to the big man. You can already picture them playing together like kids next door. Their ability to draw on a vast pop history allows you to easily move from one smash hit to the next. Pure class!

(c) Podium Info by Karst Jaarsma