Sting

Sting at Thetford Forest – A Night of Mixed Feelings in the Pines

Gig #6 in Thetford Forest saw me return to one of the UK’s most unique and atmospheric live venues for a sixth time. Following sets from Paul Heaton (twice), The Pogues, Madness, and Paul Weller, this time the headliner was none other than Sting—a name synonymous with global success, both as frontman of The Police and a solo artist. While this wasn’t necessarily a top choice on my gig wishlist, when Hammy and Neil asked, I stuck to my cardinal rule: never turn down a gig.

Setting the Scene: Pre-Gig Shenanigans

We rolled into Thetford around midday and kicked off the afternoon with a satisfying meal at CHEERS restaurant, followed by a pint at The Bell. The pub was hosting something that felt like a bizarre cross between a Dad’s Army tribute gathering and a chaotic episode of Don’t Tell the Bride. One pint was enough. We soon relocated to another nearby boozer where we soaked up more atmosphere—and a few more cold ones—before heading into the forest venue.

The organisation was seamless: barely a queue in sight on arrival, and the post-gig exit was equally painless. The forest itself remains one of the best-kept secrets on the UK’s gig circuit. The twilight setting, tree-lined perimeter, and atmospheric lighting transformed the event into something pretty special, at least aesthetically.

An Englishman in New York

The Performance: Strong Voice, Steep Chips

Sting took to the stage to a warm welcome and played a solid 90-minute set blending Police classics with solo work. Stylistically, the set spanned genres—pop, rock, reggae, even jazz—which kept things moving. The band supporting him, while competent, didn’t quite reach the level you’d expect accompanying a performer of his stature. That said, Sting himself sounded excellent, and at 72 years old, he remains in exceptional shape both vocally and physically.

The setlist ticked all the boxes for the crowd—Roxanne, Every Breath You Take, Englishman in New York, Fields of Gold—but for me, the emotional connection just wasn’t there. It was a well-executed performance, but it never fully ignited.

Let’s not forget the £20 portion of fish and chips—pricey even by festival standards—and the only real gripe on the event side.

Final Thoughts

The overall crowd experience was buoyant. People were dancing, singing, and clearly enjoying the evening. And while I can’t fault the venue or Sting’s professionalism, it won’t be cracking my personal top ten anytime soon. Still, I’m glad I went—it was a chance to tick another icon off the list in a setting that continues to deliver, regardless of who’s on the bill.

Date: 22 June 2024
Venue: Thetford Forest, Brandon, England
Tour: Sting 3.0
Source: Setlist.fm

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