Blimp Time Hop: The One Time The Police Played Portland

38 years ago today, the Ghost in the Machine Tour arrived in Portland, Maine. The Police released their fourth album in 1981 featuring the hit singles Spirits in the Material World and Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic. They brought it to us live at the Cumberland County Civic Center on April 15, 1982.

Ghost in the Machine included synthesizers and horns, a slick departure from the raw three-piece power of the the first two albums, Outlandos d’Amour and Reggatta de Blanc.

The show was sold-out with reggae legends Black Uhuru opening. Sting came back a few more times but this was the only Portland appearance ever by the Police.

We can't find the Portland setlist but, here's the one from Providence two nights before they arrived in Maine.

setlist.fm