I am NOT usually a fan of this kind of thing. Case in point: Rod Stewart's entry into the arena of older-artist-does-symph/big band is even better than a feather when you need to bring something back up. The only trouble is that you have virtually no control.
But in this instance I am really pleasantly surprised. The new album sounds more like a true symphonic re-imagining of some of the best works of Sting's (and the Police's) catalog, rather than an I Really Need To Make A Payment On My BMW effort. It is not for everyone, but if you enjoy Sting and orchestral music then I think you may enjoy this. I listened to the clips at iTunes and was almost completely put off, purchased the album for PinkHat. Listened to everything in context though and have found that I enjoy it quite a bit. Wonderfully high quality recording and mix, sturdy and intricate arrangements with a surprisingly easy on the ears Sting. Some of the best works are the B sides or relatively unknown tunes, as opposed to the requisite Every Little Thing and Roxanne which sound somewhat forced by comparison.
Here ya go:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/symphonicities-bonus-track/id386327277
