Since making his name with Dire Straits, Mark Knopfler has decided to put out a catalogue of music that emphasizes the art of the guitar in a variety of settings. This two disc set might be the best one yet, encompassing a wide palate of environments in a understated yet poignant manner.
He’s with his regular team of Jim Cox/key, Ian Thomas/dr and Glen Worf/b, but supplements it with guest appearances by Chris Botti/tp, Tim O’Brien/mand, Richard Bennet/g-bouz, Mike McGoldrick/woodwinds and others in various mix and match environments. Essentially, the songs break down into categories ranging from intimate Irish Pub pieces (“Redbud Tree” “Got to Have Something”), to Chicago Blues (“Haul Away” “Blood and Water”), American Folk (“Gator Blood” “Don’t Forget Your Hat”) to retro rock (“Corned Beef City”) to back porch blues (“Seattle”). Through it all, the guitar work and ensemble passages with flutes, fiddles and harp create audio images of small and cozy nightclubs. Knopfler tells intriguing tales on each song, and his voice has the sandied quality of a minstrel who’s lived a full life. Unassuming in delivery, but like the work of similar artists like Richard Thompson, the media is the message. Impressive in its unpretentiousness. He’s coming to So Cal the end of October. Don’t miss it!
Verve Records