 Few punk bands were three-pieces, while contemporary bands pursuing progressive rock, symphonic rock and other sound trends usually expanded their line-ups with support players.The musical background of all three players may have made them suspect to punk purists, with music critic Christopher Gable stating,

The band were also able to draw on influences from reggae to jazz to progressive and pub rock.While still maintaining the main band and attempting to win over punk audiences, Police members continued to moonlight within the art rock scene.