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Sting

Songs From The Labyrinth  Hear it Now

RS: 3of 5 Stars Average User Rating: 3.5of 5 Stars

2006

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Here, Sting and Lutenist Edin Karamazov construct "a soundtrack in words and music" to the life of John Dowland (1563-1626), the Catholic English composer and musician who was jilted by his own queen as he became a star in European courts. Sting conceives Dowland as a Renaissance Nick Drake, a tortured dude who transcends personal agony with sublime composition. For much of the album, Sting delights in making nostalgic music that sounds exquisitely weathered -- you can almost hear the Elizabethan leaves rustling in the background. Things get more interesting, though, when he finds the timelessness in the music. On "Come Again," "Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Leave Me" and Dowland's famous "In Darkness Let Me Dwell," Sting tables his ponderous lower range and invests these crack tunes with skill and soul. This is not old music for new Jaguar drivers.

JAMES HUNTER

(Posted: Oct 30, 2006)

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Review 1 of 3

1BulldogCT writes:

Not Rated


Sting views himself as an artist and is one of the few rockstars
that left the spotlight for musical freedom. This classical
offering is challenging to listen to for many typical Sting fans.
The reality is that the "listening guide" and version of "Fields
of Gold" done via lute ans tyle of the album provide some
great insight in to the mindset and approach to the project. In
the enhanced version a shot video also gives further detail on
this labor of love.

The songs themselves are quite beautiful and are great for
long car rides or a nice sunday morning soundtrack to a
spring or summer day.

Sting taking chances on a non-commercial disc may lead to
more unique songs from him in the future.

Jul 15, 2007 10:49:02

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Review 2 of 3

stingnut1 writes:

5of 5 Stars


No matter what people believe of this endeavor by Sting and Edin Karamozov, it was a labor of love by both men for the admiration they have for John Dowlands music. These Elizabethan songs have been interpreted in many ways and by many singers, but Sting brings a sensuality to this music I have never heard before. If you think he is not trained for this kind of music you're right, but most people aren't going to listen to these beautiful songs sung in a classical manner. What Sting has done by doing Songs From The Labyrinth is to bring this form of music to the forefront
He has done a wonderful, brave, unselfish thing with this album, by sharing his passion for this music. I also think he has done these songs beautifully. The more you hear Sting sing them on live shows the more he improves. You'll have to like this kind of music to enjoy it, but for some who have never experienced it, these songs are a wonderful gift that Sting and Edin have brought us. Give it a try you just might find it appealing to you.


Nov 8, 2006 06:14:38

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Review 3 of 3

pickle writes:

1of 5 Stars


GAY as ALLWAYS

Nov 6, 2006 14:06:05

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