Is Sting still capable of buzz?

The cover, grey with a black and white headshot of the artist, suggests that Sting's latest CD might be just another dull album in a never-ending parade of pop-rock fluff. \nBut instead of just utilizing the basic guitar, bass, keyboards and drums with the occasional background choir on Sacred Love, Sting sneaks in some flamenco guitar, sitar, Turkish clarinet and a whole slew of percussion instruments. \nAlthough the soft rock genre generally lends itself to snooze-inducing songs that all sound the same, Sting's intriguing rhythmic variations and textures used with the different combinations of instruments allow for songs that are relaxing but don't cause the listener to be suddenly overcome with a desire to nap. \nThe lyrics are nearly as varied as the instruments. One moment, Sting and special guest Mary J. Blige are crooning the unbearably sappy "Whenever I Say Your Name," with such nearly gag-inducing lyrics as "Whenever I say your name/ No matter how long it takes/ One day we'll be together." But in nearly the next breath, Sting delivers a thought-provoking song like "Dead Man's Rope."\nWhether your mood is mushy, mopey or anywhere in between, at least one song on the album will fulfill your musical desire.