Songs from the Labyrinth cover

Songs from the Labyrinth

Sting

Album 2006

About this album

Sound: "A haunting blend of Elizabethan themes and contemporary interpretation, rich in emotion and lyrical depth."

Where they were

Released in 2006, 'Songs from the Labyrinth' marked Sting's artistic exploration into the works of John Dowland, showcasing a significant shift from his pop-rock roots. This album followed his 2003 release 'Sacred Love,' highlighting Sting's continued evolution as an artist willing to delve into classical influences.

Why it matters

This album received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative approach to early music, and showcased Sting’s versatility beyond mainstream pop. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Classical Crossover chart, reflecting a growing interest in cross-genre experimentation during the mid-2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "Flow My Tears (Lachrimae)" — This track encapsulates the melancholic beauty of Dowland's work while allowing Sting's vocal expression to shine through, bridging historical and modern sensibilities.
  • "Come, Heavy Sleep" — Sting’s interpretation brings emotional weight to this piece, illustrating his ability to resonate with themes of longing and despair in a contemporary context.
  • "Weep You No More, Sad Fountains" — This track stands out for its lyrical poignancy and melodic simplicity, reflecting Sting’s mastery in conveying deep emotion through minimalist arrangements.

Release Date

October 10, 2006

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Walsingham 0:38
  2. 2 Can She Excuse My Wrongs? 2:35
  3. 3 “Ryght Honorable…” 0:40
  4. 4 Flow My Tears (Lachrimae) 4:42
  5. 5 Have You Seen the Bright Lily Grow 2:35
  6. 6 “…Then in Time Passing on…” 0:32
  7. 7 The Battle Galliard 3:01
  8. 8 The Lowest Trees Have Tops 2:16
  9. 9 “…And Accordinge as I Desired Ther Cam a Letter…” 0:55
  10. 10 Fine Knacks for Ladies 1:50
  11. 11 “…From Thenc I Went to the Landgrave of Hessen…” 0:24
  12. 12 Fantasy 2:42
  13. 13 Come, Heavy Sleep 3:45
  14. 14 Forlorn Hope Fancy 3:07
  15. 15 “…And From Thence I Had Great Desire to See Italy…” 0:28
  16. 16 Come Again 2:56
  17. 17 Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Reave Me 2:40
  18. 18 “…After My Departure I Caled to Mynde…” 0:29
  19. 19 Weep You No More, Sad Fountains 2:38
  20. 20 My Lord Willoughby’s Welcome Home 1:34
  21. 21 Clear or Cloudy 2:47
  22. 22 “…Men Say That the Kinge of Spain…” 1:01
  23. 23 In Darkness Let Me Dwell 4:12