Sting strikes more than just a chord...

Last night the SunBet Arena became the epicentre of rock as Sting’s 3.0 Tour took to the stage. For many, including myself, this concert was a long-awaited opportunity, especially since I missed his previous performances in South Africa. The evening unfolded into a showcase of Sting’s enduring artistry.

Commencing with Message in a Bottle, we were immediately transported back to the heyday of The Police. Sting’s vocals resonated powerfully with Dominic Miller’s guitar riffs and Chris Maas’s drumming,  emphasising the raw essence of their music.

Following the electrifying opener, If I Ever Lose My Faith in You showcased Sting’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with uplifting melodies.

The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Sting’s expansive career. The evergreen Englishman in New York brought a jazzy flair to the evening, with its distinctive saxophone melodies and the nostalgic Fields of Gold followed with its timelessly haunting melody.

Amidst the classics, Sting introduced I Wrote Your Name (Upon My Heart), a recent addition that melded seamlessly with his iconic repertoire. This track, reflects his continuous evolution as an artist.

Shape of My Heart was a real standout with Dominic’s intricate guitar work complementing Sting’s emotive delivery. The stripped-down arrangement highlighted the song’s lyrical depth, creating an intimate atmosphere within the vast arena.

As the evening neared its end, the energy escalated with performances of Walking on the Moon and Dessert Rose. Both tracks ignited the audience’s fervour and then culminated with Every Breath You Take, a song that has transcended generations, its iconic bassline prompting a massive sing-along.

The trio then returned to the stage with a soulful rendition of Roxanne which transitioned seamlessly into Be Still My Beating Heart. The evening concluded with Fragile, a poignant reminder of music’s power to convey vulnerability and hope.

Witnessing Sting live, especially after previous missed opportunities, was a testament not only to his iconic music but to the enduring connection he has with his audience.

(c) MoreThanFoodMag by Darren Meltz