I am pleasantly surprised by this CD as well and the song selection has a lot to do with it. The album is billed as a symphonic “greatest hits” but it’s anything but. Of the 15 songs, there are only 4 greatest hits. Ironically, with the exception of Next to you, the greatest hits are my least favorite songs on the album, either because they’re not different enough or I’m just plain tired of them. I could have done without those and Whenever I Say Your Name, which needed a major overhaul to warrant being on the album. I think there would have been some much better contenders like Children’s Crusade, The Lazarus Heart, Jeremiah Blues, Saint Augustine in Hell, Inside, The Book of My Life…

 

That being said, I’m so glad to see Sting dig deep in his catalogue. The inclusion of b-sides and lesser known songs is very welcomed. It’s unfortunate that he feels the need to keep the album tight and trim off gems like I Burn for You and Why Should I Cry for You, but I’m still happy they’re there. I also miss some of the other songs from the live show such as Russians, Moon Over Bourbon Street etc… But in the end it’s a nice album that’s more accessible than the previous two. It also makes me wonder what direction he will take with his next studio album (if he ever writes one.) I like the fact that he’s been moving away from sampling, drum loops and other electronic flare on these last three albums. And I also like the fact that he’s acknowledging his better, if not more popular songs.

 

I haven’t lost my faith…

 

Fred

 

(Haven’t written this much on the list in years!)

 

 

 

I must confess to be being pleasantly surprised.  Perhaps because of the song selection?

 

 

 

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