It sometimes seems like a lifetime ago, but when The Police were in their prime, they were one of the biggest bands on the planet. After first forming in the late ’70s, a period when punk was in its prime, they quickly became a global phenomenal, a trio that created a new template for New Wave with the added embellishment of their reggae rhythms. The initial hits — “Roxanne” and “Message in a Bottle” — quickly followed and set them on a path to immediate pop stardom. That first wave of success culminated in their first world tour, a multi-year jaunt that took them to no less than six continents in 1979 and 1980.
Now, over four decades later, an expansive documentary revisits that quest on DVD, CD and LP. It’s a restored and expanded version of an original film previously available on VHS and LaserDisc, a fascinating chronicle of the adventure undertaken by bassist-vocalist Sting, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland during their first flash of international stardom. Behind-the-scenes footage, candid offstage moments and revealing interviews make The Police: Around the World Restored & Expanded not only an exceptional performance piece, but a triumphant travelogue as well. Given the restored video and remastered audio, as well as the inclusion of heretofore unreleased live performances, it’s obviously a must for any true enthusiast and aficionado.
recently had the opportunity to speak with Andy Summers about the documentary, and his role in bringing it
