I remember this CD being advertized on TV a couple of years ago and, being a fan of the music of the Elizabethan Composer John Dowland, thought I'd give it a go; However at nearly £12.00 I thought the better of it! Then the opportunity recently arose of obtaining a copy very cheaply, so I took the plunge. Initially I had my doubts about Sting's ability to 'pull it off'. The flowery Olde English lyrics, the scale of notes to be both played and sung would challenge even a Master of this genre of music. But it has to be said Sting rises gallantly to the task in hand and I think does a pleasing job of it! The mix of music and the spoken word made it the more unusual. All in all a good CD that I do recommend.
Like the lute playing, but not sure that Sting's vocal style suits the genre - an I generally like Sting. Still, if it introduces the music of Dowland to a wider audience it has served some purpose.
Stunning CD. I came across this music quite unexpectedly, listening to the car radio when filling up with petrol one day. The haunting melody caught me quite unawares and I was immediately captivated. I could not believe my ears when I heard that it was Sting who was singing an Elizabethan song while accompanying himself on the lute. I am so impressed with this CD that I will look into buying more of this type of music if it is available. Well done Sting!
Excellent CD. The songs are lovely. Sting has a voice that really suits this kind of music. I was very pleased with the whole of this CD. I had only heard one track prior to buying it.