The Police

Twelve years ago, it seemed as if the music world barely noticed the release of The Police's posthumous double-live album. Clearly, something's changed since. And though it is encouraging to see such ravenous demand for the reunited Aryan trio, it's kind of hard to justify plopping down 200 bucks to see anybody — even if we were talking P.T. Barnum, Houdini, and Jesus himself resurrected from the grave as a package deal. Needless to say, more affordable tickets would've been nice, especially considering it's a safe wager that Andy Summers, Sting, and Stewart Copeland don't need the goddamn money! That said, if you're going to spend that kind of cash, this would be the place to do it (rather than, say, the umpteenth KISS or Sabbath or Who reunion). As any incorrigible, obsessive fan who pores over set lists before actually going to shows can tell you, the Police have decided to throw some obscure chestnuts into its live show. New Times doesn't advocate spoiling surprises, but suffice it to say this reunion is no fraud. Even with pre-recorded background vocals, the Police demonstrated that rare case of having improved with age at this year's otherwise useless Grammy ceremony. A sloppy, bloated live act with an almost shocking lack of tempo control in its heyday, The Police finally look poised to do their monumental catalog some onstage justice. Sure, it would be a bit steep even at half the price, but this reunion comes not a moment too soon — especially given Sting's recent forays into overboiled elevator music.