The first thing you notice about “If On A Winter’s Night” this work is that Sting sings in a lower register in these works than in his pop work. His deeper, richer vocals are paired with the acoustic instrumentation of guitar, harp, violin, Northumbrian Smallpipes and other traditional instruments from the British Isles. The musical selections span centuries of carols and lullabies embracing the winter season, from 16th century pieces to recent works penned by Sting.

Sting’s interpretation includes traditional songs, new works, and a surprising blend of new and old where Stings lyrics are set to music penned by J.S. Bach and Franz Schubert.

While clearly not a Christmas album – Sting admits to being ambivalent to the holiday – a number of the selections hearken to the birth of Christ, including a new recording of “Gabriel’s Message,” along with “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming.” Seasonal charity is celebrated with Paul Stookey’s “Soul Cake,” intertwined with the melody of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” However, this recording’s focus on the winter season will carry the listener through the quiet, melancholy, months that follow the festivities.

“If On A Winter’s Night” is the perfect seasonal follow-up to Sting’s 2006 album “Songs From The Labyrinth,” featuring songs by Elizabethan songwriter John Dowland, which debuted at the top of the classical charts in both the U.S. and Britain.

Released by Deutsche Grammophon on both CD and beautifully picturesque DVD, this release will make a wonderful Christmas gift for lovers of classical, folk and Celtic music.

By Martha Kleder, CB Staff Writer