The Police

Last night I went to see The Police at the Cricket Wireless Amphitheater (formally Coors Ampitheater) in Chula Vista. The handicapped parking is conveniently located near the front entrance so I didn't have far to go; my seats in the wheelchair section were very good as well: I had an unobstructed view of the stage. I always enjoy concerts under the stars, or in the case of last night, under the clouds. Unfortunately, it was unusually cold for this time of year.

The concert opened with Elvis Costello and the Imposters. He put on a good performance and performed many of his classics, such as Watching the Detectives, Every Day I Write the Book, (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding. He also played some new songs that I was unfamiliar with. It brought back memories of the 1980's. The highlight of his performance was when Sting came out on stage with Elvis Costello to perform Allison. It was an unexpected bonus.

They started off the show with Bring on the Night, then went right into Message in a Bottle, Walking on the Moon, Demolition Man, Voices Inside My Head, When the World is Running Down, Don't Stand So Close to Me, Driven to Tears, Hole in My Life, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, Wrapped Around Your Finger, De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da, Invisible Sun, Can't Stand Losing You, Roxanne, King Of Pain, So Lonely, Every Breath You Take, and ended with Next To You.

It has been about 25 years since they last toured and they are older--Sting is 56, Stewart Copeland is 55, and Andy Summers is 65. But, they could still deliver. The energetic drumming of Copeland, lively guitar playing of Summers, and rhythmic bass playing of Sting brought the old songs back to life. The songs sounded just as good. The audience got into the show with cheering, singing along to the songs, and swaying and dancing in place to the music. It was a nostalgic experience. They played most of the songs one would expect them to play. The 100 minute show zipped by. When they gave their final bows and the stage lights went out, I couldn't believe it had ended. I wish they could have played a little longer; there were still songs that I hoped they would play, such as, Synchronicity I, Synchronicity II, Spirits in the Material World, and Murder by Number. But, I can't complain. They put on a good show. I was glad I got to see this reunion. It may not happen again.