… Nothing Like The Sun (1987)
Sting's sophomore record, …Nothing Like the Sun, marks a significant step in his solo career, delving deeper into his exploration of world music and jazz influences. Despite not boasting as many immediate hits as his debut, the record maintains a cohesive flow from start to finish, showcasing Sting's ability to carve out his own musical path separate from The Police.
The Lazarus Heart serves as a reminiscent nod to Sting's signature style, blending world-inspired flutes and steel drums, while Englishman In New York stands out as a catchy single with its infectious rhythm. Notably, the album features standout remixes on the latter half of the Expanded Edition, adding depth and diversity to the records soundscape.
Songs like Be Still My Beating Heart, They Dance Alone, Fragile, and Sister Moon contribute to the album's unique atmosphere, evoking a smooth, jazzy tone that permeates throughout. While not all tracks may individually shine, within the context of the record, they seamlessly fit and flow together well.
Despite its more laid-back vibe, the record is not devoid of energy, with tracks like We'll Be Together offering classic mid-1980s dance-pop energy, and Rock Steady serving as a jazz-rock dance anthem. Additionally, Up From the Skies, a self-indulgent 10-minute jazz number, showcases Sting's creative and musically complex side, further solidifying his prowess in weaving jazz elements into the pop/rock genre.
Overall, …Nothing Like the Sun stands as a solid addition to Sting's discography, with each song serving a purpose and maintaining momentum from start to finish. While it may not be a no-skip album, its cohesive nature makes it a worthy addition to any collection, particularly for fans seeking a dose of Sting's distinctive sound.
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Highlight Songs:
The Lazarus Heart
Englishman In New York
Up From The Skies
Sister Moon
Rock Steady
Little Wing
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Definitely worth owning, especially for aficionados of Sting's musical evolution. While not every track may captivate, the album as a whole offers a satisfying journey through Sting's diverse influences and sonic experimentation.
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Overall Rating:
4 Stars
