Album Information Section

Album Title: Brand New Day

Artist: Sting

Original Release Date: September 1, 1999

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Pop, Jazz, World Music

Track Listing:

• 1. A Thousand Years (5:57)
• 2. Desert Rose (4:46)
• 3. Big Lie, Small World (5:05)
• 4. After The Rain Has Fallen (5:04)
• 5. Perfect Love… Gone Wrong (5:25)
• 6. Tomorrow We’ll See (4:47)
• 7. Prelude To The End Of The Game (0:19)
• 8. Fill Her Up (5:37)
• 9. Ghost Story (5:29)
• 10. Brand New Day (6:20)

Recording Information

The album “Brand New Day” was recorded at the legendary AIR Studios in London, England, known for its impeccable acoustics and high-profile clientele. Recording sessions took place primarily in the year 1999, a pivotal time for Sting as he sought to explore new musical landscapes.

The album was produced by Sting himself, alongside renowned producer Hugh Padgham, who has a storied history of working with iconic artists. The engineering duties were handled by Padgham and his team, utilizing advanced recording techniques that included digital production methods alongside traditional instrumentation.

Notably, “Brand New Day” features a blend of jazz influences, world music elements, and pop sensibilities, reflecting Sting’s desire to innovate while remaining accessible. The production process was marked by various collaborations with international artists, including Algerian musician Cheb Mami, whose contributions on the track “Desert Rose” added a rich, multicultural layer to the album.

Band Context

At the time of the release of “Brand New Day,” Sting was already an established artist with a successful career both as a solo musician and as the frontman of The Police. Following the breakup of The Police in 1986, Sting’s solo career had seen significant success, with his previous albums exploring themes of love, loss, and social issues.

The lineup for this album primarily featured Sting as the lead vocalist and bassist, with backing musicians including Dominic Miller on guitar, David Sancious on keyboards, and Vinnie Colaiuta on drums—an ensemble that contributed to the album’s textured sound. This period was also marked by Sting’s increasing interest in global music influences, which shaped the direction of “Brand New Day.” Before this album, Sting had released “Mercury Falling” in 1996, which had received a mixed response; thus, “Brand New Day” was seen as a return to form.

Significant events during this time included Sting’s involvement in various humanitarian efforts and his continued exploration of diverse musical styles, which fed into the creation of this album. The late 1990s was a transformative period for the artist, as he sought to redefine his sound and connect with a broader audience.

Track Commentary

The album opens with “A Thousand Years,” a contemplative piece that showcases Sting’s lyrical prowess and melodic sensibility. This track sets the tone for the album, blending elements of pop and jazz, and highlights Sting’s ability to weave intricate narratives through his music.

“Desert Rose,” featuring Cheb Mami, became one of the standout tracks and was released as a single, achieving commercial success and critical acclaim. The fusion of Western pop with Middle Eastern influences exemplifies Sting’s commitment to artistic collaboration and cultural exchange. The evocative sounds and themes of longing resonate throughout the track, making it a significant highlight of the album.

The brief interlude “Prelude To The End Of The Game” serves as a transition, leading into the poignant “Ghost Story,” which reflects on themes of memory and loss, while the title track “Brand New Day” concludes the album on an uplifting note, emphasizing renewal and optimism.

Overall, “Brand New Day” received a favorable reception, praised for its adventurous sound and lyrical depth. Critics highlighted Sting’s ability to blend various musical styles while maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout the album. The album’s legacy continues to resonate, establishing “Brand New Day” as a significant work in Sting’s discography and the late 1990s music landscape.