Bring On The Night - Sting
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Overview
Released in 1986, “Bring On The Night” is a live album by Sting that captures the energy and musicianship of his early solo career. Recorded over several nights in Paris, Rome, and Arnhem, the album features performances from his first solo tour following his departure from The Police. The album blends rock, jazz, and reggae influences, showcasing Sting’s versatility as a musician and his ability to reinterpret his earlier work with The Police as well as his solo material in a live setting.
Critical Reception
“Bring On The Night” was well-received by critics, who praised Sting’s ability to seamlessly integrate different musical styles and his dynamic live performances. The album highlights Sting’s collaboration with a stellar lineup of musicians, including saxophonist Branford Marsalis, drummer Omar Hakim, and keyboardist Kenny Kirkland. Critics noted the album’s polished production and the high level of musicianship, which elevated the live recordings to a new level. It was seen as a bold and successful step in Sting’s solo career, affirming his position as a versatile and innovative artist.
Standout Tracks
The album features several standout tracks that illustrate Sting’s live prowess and his ability to reinterpret his work:
- “Bring On The Night / When the World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What’s Still Around” – A medley that combines two tracks, showcasing Sting’s ability to blend his new solo work with classic Police songs.
- “Consider Me Gone” – Highlights the jazz influence in Sting’s music, featuring intricate instrumental solos.
- “Driven to Tears” – A powerful rendition of The Police classic, emphasizing Sting’s socially conscious lyrics.
- “I Burn for You” – A deep cut that features an intense and haunting performance, showing the emotional depth of Sting’s music.
Overall Impact
“Bring On The Night” solidified Sting’s transition from the frontman of The Police to a successful solo artist. The album’s eclectic mix of styles and high-caliber live performances helped establish his reputation as a serious and versatile musician. The live album format allowed Sting to experiment with his music and showcase his growth as an artist. It remains a significant work in his discography, reflecting a pivotal moment in his career.
For those interested in exploring the album’s impact and legacy, detailed analyses and retrospectives are available on platforms like AllMusic and Rolling Stone, offering deeper insights into its place in music history.
About the creators
Sting, born Gordon Sumner, started his musical career as the lead vocalist and bassist of the iconic band The Police. With hits like “Roxanne,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Every Breath You Take,” The Police became one of the biggest bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s. After the band disbanded, Sting embarked on a successful solo career, experimenting with various musical styles and collaborating with renowned musicians. His solo work, characterized by its lyrical depth and musical diversity, has earned him numerous awards and solidified his status as one of the most influential artists in modern music.
Similars
- Peter Gabriel – So
- Known for its innovative sound and eclectic mix of genres, this album offers a similar blend of rock and world music influences.
- Paul Simon – Graceland
- Combining rock with African rhythms and sounds, this album resonates with the same adventurous spirit as Sting’s work.
- David Bowie – Let’s Dance
- Featuring a mix of rock, dance, and pop elements, Bowie’s album captures a similar blend of musical experimentation and mainstream appeal.
- Talking Heads – Stop Making Sense
- This live album showcases the band’s innovative approach to rock music, much like Sting’s blend of genres in “Bring On The Night.”
- Dire Straits – Brothers in Arms
- Known for its sophisticated sound and storytelling lyrics, this album offers a similar depth and musical craftsmanship.
Vinyl Edition Details
The vinyl edition of “Bring On The Night” by Sting is a notable release for fans and collectors. It features a high-quality gatefold sleeve with striking artwork, enhancing its collectible value. This edition includes a booklet with photos, lyrics, and credits, providing an immersive experience for listeners.
Key details about the vinyl pressing are as follows:
- Label: A&M Records
- Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Album
- Release Year: 1986
- Country: USA
- Barcode: 0 7502-15163-1
Companies Involved:
- Recorded At: Various locations including Théâtre Mogador, Paris; Palazzo dello Sport, Rome; and Ahoy, Rotterdam.
- Mastered At: Masterdisk, New York
- Pressed By: A&M Records
Tracklist:
- Side A:
- Bring On The Night / When the World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What’s Still Around
- Consider Me Gone
- Side B:
- Low Life
- We Work the Black Seam
- Side C:
- Driven to Tears
- The Dream of the Blue Turtles / Demolition Man
- Side D:
- One World (Not Three) / Love Is the Seventh Wave
- Moon Over Bourbon Street
- I Burn for You
- Another Day
- Children’s Crusade
- Down So Long
- Tea in the Sahara
Credits:
- Vocals, Bass: Sting
- Saxophone: Branford Marsalis
- Drums: Omar Hakim
- Keyboards: Kenny Kirkland
- Guitar: Dominic Miller
- Backing Vocals: Janice Pendarvis, Dolette McDonald
- Producer: Kim Turner, Sting
- Mastered By: Bob Ludwig
Notable Features:
- The liner notes include detailed production credits and acknowledgments.
- Some editions of this release include a limited edition poster with album artwork and exclusive photos.