Sting – The Dream Of The Blue Turtles

Review

Sting's debut solo outing, "The Dream of the Blue Turtles", is a daring rebuke to the expectations of his Police past. Released in 1985, this album flamboyantly showcases Sting's jazz influences, courtesy of his all-star backup crew, including the illustrious Branford Marsalis. This collaboration births a sophisticated, yet surprisingly accessible, sound that seamlessly blends jazz finesse with pop sensibilities. By embracing his pre-Police jazz roots, Sting takes a deliberate step away from rock, proving his versatility and depth as a musician. The result? An album that's equal parts cerebral and captivating.

Lyrically, Sting tackles the weighty issues of his time with unflinching didacticism. Tracks like "Children's Crusade" and "We Work the Black Seam" paint vivid pictures of social unrest, while "Russians" captures the Cold War zeitgeist. Meanwhile, "Moon Over Bourbon Street" indulges in the literary, inspired by Anne Rice's vampire lore. With "The Dream of the Blue Turtles", Sting not only achieved significant commercial success but also embarked on a highly acclaimed solo journey, reconfiguring the boundaries of his artistry. This landmark album remains a testament to his bold creative evolution. - Chase