Nada como el sol cover

Nada como el sol

Sting · 1988

24 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of Latin rhythms and pop melodies that showcases Sting's lyrical depth and musical versatility.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Ellas danzan solas (Cueca solas) — This track stands out for its poignant commentary on the plight of women in Chile during the dictatorship, blending traditional Chilean music with modern pop sensibilities.
  • →
    Fragil (portuguese) — The delicate arrangement and heartfelt lyrics capture vulnerability, showcasing Sting's ability to convey deep emotion through language and melody.
  • →
    Mariposa libre Start here — This opening track encapsulates the album's themes of freedom and love while effectively introducing its rich Latin influence.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP blends Latin rhythms with pop melodies, showcasing Sting's versatility while maintaining a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a lively Latin rhythm that sets an upbeat tone, while the following tracks gradually introduce more melodic and lyrical elements.
  • The final two tracks are slower and more introspective, creating a contrast with the earlier energetic pieces.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant rhythms for celebration
  • short bursts of emotional depth
  • gradual build towards resolution
  • engaging storytelling through melodies

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek longer listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This EP marked Sting's first exploration of Latin influences, expanding his recognition.
Themes
Chilean social justice· freedom in travel· multicultural soundscape
Career context
Released in 1988, Nada como el sol was Sting's first solo album to explore Latin American influences following his successful debut, The Dream of the Blue Turtles. This album came during a period of artistic experimentation for Sting, as he sought to expand beyond the confines of new wave and rock, embracing world music elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Peter Gabriel· David Bowie· Paul Simon

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Ellas danzan solas (Cueca solas)

    The chorus shifts to a collective memory of loss and resilience among women who dance alone in remembrance of their loved ones.

    This moment employs communal imagery that emphasizes shared grief, enhancing the song's emotional weight while connecting personal stories to a broader historical context.

Tracklist

  • 1 Mariposa libre Start here 4:57
  • 2 Fragil (portuguese) 3:55
  • 3 Si estamos juntos 4:19
  • 4 Ellas danzan solas (Cueca solas) 7:19
  • 5 Fragilidad 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata