Police

Synchronicity

Diversified talents

Review Score:

(8/10)
Synchronicity, The Police's final studio album, is an interesting combination of some of the group's best radio material and other songs that represented somewhat of a shift in their musical style. The latter are eclectic in influences, thus different sounding, sort of eccentric and sometimes eerie, while retaining the group's characteristic sophistication. Most distinct is the harsh "Mother," not the album's finest moment. The other new-style songs are interesting and decent. But it is the album's hard-driving title cut and the big pop hits that are the highlights.

Unlike the case with some other groups, The Police's made-for-radio hits are typically among their best material, and there are three gems here. So, even tho I am repelled by Sting's describing himself as "The King of Pain" (over everyone else?), I can sit back and enjoy the nice melody. "Every Breath You Take" is less complex than most Police songs, but is an excellent radio classic that is so smooth and relaxing (in spite of Sting's mild cadences in the chorus) that one thinks it would probably score superior to a biofeedback machine if tested. "Wrapped Around Your Finger" is in a similar vein, if slightly second best. Not quite as familiar but also top notch is the lovely "Tea in the Sahara," a beautiful ballad with sensuous background.

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