Dire Straits Dire Straits

Dire Straits | Dire Straits | 1978 - Warner Bros.

The bands self-titled debut album is arguably their best, battling with the follow-up Communiqué for such honors. Led by guitarist/vocalist and driving creative force Mark Knopfler the band left a serious mark on the music world. Drawing easy comparisons to J.J. Cale, Knopfler sure has a lot of southern soul for an English chap. “Down To The Waterline” is an exceptional opener setting the tone for one hell of a laid back smoky album. The vocals cut through perfectly and the guitar seems to slice like the razor on “Six Blade Knife.” Although Knopfler does get credit, there could be an easy argument made in his defense for lack of respect. And it’s truly the whole package here: guitar, singing, song writing and the intangibles like emotion, context, story telling and subtlety. If you haven’t checked out Dire Straits lately perhaps now is the time.
-The Kayceman

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