Sting is set to continue his tour, Symphonicity, across Australia and New Zealand.
However, does he really need to? We seem to be managing just fine without Sting’s pompous drivel raining down on us.
The pretentious artist will kick off the Aussie segment of his tour on January 22 in Perth, with subsequent performances scheduled in the Barossa Valley, Melbourne, and the Sydney Opera House.
Additionally, the tour will visit the Hunter Valley and Brisbane before moving on to Christchurch and the Napier Valley.
With a symphonic arrangement, Sting will present his greatest hits, which leads one to wonder just how much more self-indulgent he could possibly become… It seems he has truly surpassed himself this time.
“I am looking forward to performing in Australia and New Zealand, having a whole new palate of musical colours to work with and reinventing the songs that have been the staples of my live shows for over thirty years,” Sting expressed.
That’s correct… Stinging is reinventing his songs. Truth be told, many of us wish he had never penned them in the first place.
Sting served as the principal songwriter for The Police, who undeniably produced some memorable hits. While Andy Summers may not be the quintessential rock guitarist, he certainly excels at his craft.
Stewart Copeland, the drummer, is absolutely phenomenal. A few years ago, I watched The Doors perform in London with Ian Astbury from The Cult as the lead singer; he performed admirably. During that show, Stewart Copeland played the drums, mimicking John Densmore flawlessly—arguably, he even outperformed him in certain aspects.
As for Sting’s bass playing, I wouldn’t categorize him as a great bassist. In reality, I don’t even consider him a good one. Yet interestingly, the songs he composed featured two incredibly talented musicians supporting him. Once again, during his orchestral symphonic tour, he will have a host of outstanding musicians accompanying him.
It’s not my intention to criticize him; he’s undeniably made his impact on the music industry, so best of luck to him… truly. However, should he show up with the chief of a tribe from some uncharted territory… well, I can’t speak to the man’s experiences, hence I can’t comprehend what drives his pretentiousness.
Music is subjective, after all. Thus, if you’re a fan of his, that’s great. I have no doubt that it will be a magnificent evening for everyone… particularly for those who enjoy smug, egotistical figures.
But if you’re seeking information on when tickets will be available, I suggest you look elsewhere or, better yet… simply skip the concert.
by Wallace McTavish