Mark Knopfler one for the ages ...
5
By Lello17
I've been listening to this album for fifteen years. It never dates. Last night, some friends from Europe and I rediscovered Mark Knopfler together. They'd been Dire Straits fans back in the day, and never realized that MK had gone on to a solo career. The look on their faces listening to Sailing to Philadelphia and Speedway at Nazareth was priceless. Every track on this album is exceptional. "Speedway at Nazareth" recalls the transcendent, symphonic rock journey that was "Telegraph Road", and the lyrics and melodic beauty of "Sailing to Philadelphia" is unmatched by any previous work. "What It Is" and "Prairie Wedding" tell tales of the human heart in settings that conspire against love. Throughout, Mark's guitar soars brilliantly, bringing joy and bliss to the serious listener. I'm sitting listening to Tracker today, and dreaming of my concert date with MK in October in NYC.
Towering Achievement
5
By TalkinMan
This is quite simply an amazing collection of music. The fascinating thing with Mark Knopfler was his development through the Dire Straits years to his solo work (I consider his duets album with Emmylou Harris “solo” work). All told, in the Knopfler/Straits genre, I’d rate this album right behind Brothers in Arms.
I think his lyrics are more expansive than some of his other work, and I still remember listening to this album and marveling that it has no fewer than 10 tracks that are just wonderful. Particular favorites include Silvertown Blues, Prairie Wedding, Speedway at Nazareth, and the poignant Baloney Again.
Golden Heart was more personal. Ragpicker’s Dream was more social. Get Lucky was more folk tales.
Whether you’re interested in the guitar work and musicianship, his vocals (or the joins with Gillian Welch, or James Taylor’s performance, you can’t go wrong with this album.
Album
5
By m,cvbsdv
It's great!
Terrific slab of Americana through English eyes
4
By martin doudoroff
Knopfler’s solo work features a fair number of excellent songs along with some filler. This record is an exception: it's solid throughout and it has stood up perfectly. I think it's his best work post-1985. I also think it's the most diverse and interestingly-recorded of his solo records, which in recent years have become—to my ears—bland. The entire second half of this record is particularly strong. If you liked Dire Straits and want “more”, this is probably the closest you’ll get.
Don't miss this one
5
By allampedup
This album represents what Mark Knopfler does best. So well recorded - it makes any stereo sound great. He brings out the best in his guest performers as well (awesome performance by James Taylor, on acoustic guitar and vocals). I enjoyed all of the songs. Great song writing, vocals and guitar tones are what he is known for, and he really comes through on this one.
Top shelf, Mark!
5
By bodhi's girl
I just have to add to the favorable reviews here... this album is in the top 10 of my desert island albums. I concur that there is not a bad song on this work, and respectfully disagree that it is "another Dire album" - Take a roadtrip with Sailing to Philadelphia, and enjoy. It is brilliant throughout.
Knopfler on Top
5
By Kristallin Heart
This is by far my favorite solo album. Every song carries you someplace else. My favorite is Speedway At Nazareth and I can just listen to it over and over. Great album and great guitar work!!!!
Run, do not walk...
5
By BuddyLoveZ
Run, do not walk, to get this release!
One of those rare gems without a bad song on it.
Better yet, all are very good, if not great. If you're reading this, you must listen to every sample below.
Thank you, Mr. Knopfler!
Mark is a Master
5
By growing up mccartney
What an Album!!! I cant believe I'm the first on to review it!! It has been out for nine years!! If you like great music get this album! I never get tired of listening to it after nine years. Get it you wont regret it!
