I don’t think I ever blogged on this, although I know I meant to. Sting’s newest album, Songs from the Labyrinth, is his performance, accompanying himself on lute, of the songs of 16th century composer John Dowland:

Born in 1563, Dowland was recognised in his own lifetime as one of the greatest musicians in Europe. But for much of his life, he was thwarted in his ambition to secure a post at the English court, only becoming lutenist to James I in 1612. Dowland was a Catholic who refused to attend services of the Church of England, but at a time when others of his faith negotiated favour with the Protestant queen, his failure to win a place at her court was also down to bad luck. Instead, he played for wealthy patrons in Europe, including Christian IV of Denmark. In November 1595, Dowland wrote to Sir Robert Cecil, Elizabeth I’s secretary of state, distancing himself from Jesuit enemies of the queen. Sting has incorporated extracts from this letter as short recitations on the album. "This project was never really meant to be a record. It was a labour of love. I wanted to learn these songs, and out of curiosity, Edin and I just kept going," said Sting.

"I think it only became a record when we decided to put extracts of this letter in. Those that are familiar with John Dowland normally think of him as being this melancholy, doom-laden character, but he can write songs that are absolutely joyful – full of passion and happiness. He has it all. I’m not a trained singer for this repertoire, but I’m hoping that I can bring some freshness to these songs that perhaps a more experienced singer wouldn’t give.

"For me they are pop songs written around 1600 and I relate to them in that way; beautiful melodies, fantastic lyrics and great accompaniments."

This Sunday’s "Early Music Show" on the BBC3 features Sting and Dowland’s music. The program is available for listening online for a week after its broadcast.

(Sting himself talks about the album, unfortunately repeating historical myths about how the "Jesuits" were "tirelessly" working to overthrow Elizabeth, implying that the entire Catholic population was working to get rid of her. Sorry, no. Most simply wanted to be able to practice their religion and be loyal subjects as well, somehow, and the Jesuits were not too happy with Pius V’s Bull, issued against the advise of English Catholics themselves. .  Here’s your reading assignment for the fall, Sting.