Reviews (page 13 of 16)
It's pretty good, I really like Mark Knopfler's guitar playing.
Great vibes
Banger
Felt like British country western beach boys. Guitar and songwriting is inspired
So many great album from DS, and this is one of the best. Such amazing guitar and songwriting.
Not usually a southern rock guy but really enjoyed this. A couple of undeniable groovers on here for sure.
Lou Reed/ Dylan sounding rock, second half much better
I really like this album I think I would listen again
First time listening to anything Dire Straits and man, what an intro song. "Down To The Waterline" was an awesome first track and had me hooked quickly "Water Of Love" was much more chilled out and felt very western. This is the kind of track that should be used in the soundtrack of your life. Great song "Setting Me Up" was much more classic rock, I feel, and I'm here for it. The instrumentals stole the show and I wouldn't have it any other way. "Six Blade Knife" the guitar work in this song is beautiful. The simple bassline and drumbeat with some detailed guitar work over the top without overdoing it is a fine line to walk, but it's done excellently here. Again, soundtrack to life levels of good. "Southbound Again" had a funk to it and I love that. The blues feeling it provides is comforting and delightful. "Sultans Of Swing" what is there to say, really? It's easy to see why this song has amassed over a billion streams. Instrumentals on this are fantastic and work excellently together, the vocals are enjoyable, everything just works. The bass really ties this whole song together. Hard not to have this as a favourite of the album. And god damn the guitars in the outro. "In The Gallery" didn't do much for me vocally, but as always the instrumental element is what brought this all together for me. "Wild West End" the vocals did a lot more for me on this song. Unsure how I felt about this song otherwise, to be honest. I think it fell somewhere in the middle of the road overall "Lions" was probably my least favourite song. Not bad, but just fine. Sad way to end the album, unfortunately. The final two songs just did nothing for me.
Un début prometteur
c'est sympa en fond qd tu scrolles des puppy
Like! Feels old, but you can hear the ground zero of eighties music being built in there.
Only a couple songs I liked and they went on too long. Mostly guitar riffs and musical noise.
good dad-rock
Really enjoyed this one. Smooth, funky, chill...
Good album, not their best (brothers In arms).
overrall pretty good, maybe a little to country for me but there is definetly some strong riffs in there
Come back to this. This is surprisingly excellent.
Not a band I like. Boring to me 1.5
blues influenced rock. so smooth you’d swear it was a quality single malt scotch. this is a good one, kids. highlights: “down to the waterline”, “six blade knife”, “sultans of swing”.
These straits were pretty dire. If you like dire in your straits, you'll like this.
Fine. I guess? Sure.
Generally a fan of the band, and like a lot of debut records, the songs on this album are really polished. I think I like "Love Over Gold" and "Making Movies" more but this is a very good record, consistent top to bottom.
"Down to the Waterline" is a banger-- I never realized! Solid vibes, though I'm not a huge fan of Mark Knopfler's voice.
Iconic guitar sound from Geordie guitarist mark. Sounds a bit dated to be honest
Still a solid rock record. Not perfect but very nice.
After suffering through the first half of the first three songs, I did other things with my time 😩
Sub a different lead singer in this band and I drop a 4 banger on this ass. Guy (to me) sounds like he is fighting bronchitis and diarrhea at all times. Every other minute i expect him to drop a, “play the guitar on the mtv” line. Its my problem. I know this.
Don't like dire straits
The Dire Straits have always been near and dear to my heart. While this debut, self titled album is not my favorite work of theirs, there is no denying their unique sound a la The Allman Brothers or Chicago.
Added to my library
Loved it. Sultans of swing one of my fav songs
I love the guitar and drums, but it’s just not my genre. So three of five overall
Great Riffs, great songs. First song and sultans of swing have incredible riffs, inaccurate vibes. The singing is kinda boring, not much special there, but not more complaints than that 4/5
Super Groovy and smooth, feels like I'm on hallucinogenics. Would be fun to cruise to while driving at night. Down to the Waterline: 3.5/5.0 Water of Love: 3.2/5.0 Setting Me Up: 2.8 Six Blade Knife: 2.5 Southbound Again: 3.1 Sultans of Swing: 3.8 In the Gallery: 2.9 Wild West End: 3.7 Lions: 2.6
Mid
Sultans of Swing is a beast. The rest of the songs don’t really do it for me although the guitar playing is excellent throughout. Is this a case where one really great song is enough to get a four? Nope.
I remember hearing Sultans of Swing for the first time poolside at my Uncle's place on Hollywood Florida. It sounded like a blend of two artists I was listening to a bit at that time, Bob Dylan and JJ Cale. In retrospect, it was brave debutting an album like this when their fellow Brits were doubling down on Punk. They changed it up soon after, but I prefer this purer sound to Brothers in Arms.
If Bob Dylan could sing he might sound like Mark Knopfler. This is a pretty impressive debut album that begat a monster single for them. Everyone has talked about Sultans to death so I won't. This album was a refreshing change from the post-punk movement that was popular in the late 70s and its interesting that this revival of pub/dad rock came from a British group. The rest of the album is fine, but not essential listening.
On the slower more vibe-y side of the 70's. I felt like it holds a lot of great characteristics of the genre and time it comes from, but falls short of great. Made me want to listen to the same genre but better songs.
Not bad.
Sultans Of Swing. Bien; aunque se me ha hecho un poco largo ... 3. No, venga, Sultans Of Swing se merece 4.
me gustó bastante !!! 8/10
Really enjoyed this one, will definitely be tuning in again
Better than the last one I had to listen to
1. Down to the Waterline - this one was a bop, I liked the guitar it was really cool and sounded pretty fresh still. 2. Water of Love - this one is a little more mellow, not as much my style. 3. Setting Me Up - this one was more upbeat again, I didn't mind it. 4. Six Blade Knife - I really enjoyed the instrumental and melody of this one, but I don't love the singing style in this one it's a little slurry. 5. Southbound Again - not very memorable but it sounded ok. 6. Sultans of Swing - this one has a really cool sound and immediately caught my attention. it's very boppy. 7. In the Gallery - it has an interesting sound and I like the instrumental, but not very memorable for me. 8. Wild West End - this one was ok, it kinda gave a bit of a western vibe at times. 9. Lions - this one is pretty boppy, I like it, it's got a bit more of a darker sound to me, but it works. Overall, I like the sound of this band and I like the 70s style rock, but not sure if it would be something I listen to everyday.
LP
tracks: down to the waterline sultans of swing lions this album is a bit of a stinker, surprising anyone let them go on to make 5 more.
Great debut album with some absolutely stupendous tracks, including the classic "Sultans of Swing", plus "Down to the Waterline", "Water of Love", "In the Gallery", and "Wild West End".
I really like the sound of these guys. I think that I can see why they aren't main stream but not sure why we don't hear more of their stuff today. There wasn't any filler here all of this was great music.
Absolute classic
This kind of reinforced what I thought about Brothers in Arms, which is that Dire Straits is more of a greatest hits type band to me. Each album has a couple of classics that I love, but I find the rest of the album to be perfectly enjoyable, but not particularly engaging to me. Sultans of Swing rules and I also quite liked the opening track and Southbound Again. The rest I can take or leave.
Confirmou a minha percepção da qualidade do instrumental e das melodias, apesar do hit datado massante.
I picked this up some time ago on the strength of Sultans Of Swing. The rest of the album is also pretty solid with a nice live feel and the band sounding incredibly tight. Even though it may not stand out as well as I want, I do enjoy putting this on occasionally for it's cool and calm tone, even in its upbeat moments, which gives off a weird vibe between the jazz-rock of Steely Dan's early 70s albums and the Eagles warmer, more digestible soft rock.
3/5
Fun alternative punk/rock album with jazz and country riffs. A group I will be listern to more.
Eh, not my cup of tea.
Still pretty fresh
Ja hatsaaaaaaater. Dit is dik. Dit zijn eurocenten. Dit is goed.
JA, moet wel 5… sorry. Ga nu m’n best weer doen met 5 sterren en het niet elke keer geven
Masterpiece. The diversity of Dire Straits comes forward on this album.
Outside of one song, this is a fantastic album for a rainy day.
Veryyyy much needed and very much good. Big fan of music like this, old, classic. Short and sweet, too. Just a good album that was long overdue. I could definitely learn to absolutely love this band because their music is right up my alley.
I don't give a damn about any trumpet playing band. jk - throwing on headphones and letting the sound of this album envelope me was an awesome trip. I am reminded that not only do I not have any opinion of Dire Straits, I dig this album quite a bit. Grew up in this era and got so damn tired of 70s/80s rock bands (and especially this band when Brothers In Arms came out and was overplayed like so much of that era) but man this is actually a breath of fresh air. Mark Knopfler's guitar playing is the first thing anyone will say about it - legitimately so - but it all just sounds awesome, the band is tight (especially the drumming of Pick Withers!), and I love the unadorned but pro production. Obviously "Sultans..." is the highlight but my favourite is "In the Gallery" - perfect groove by the rhythm section and Knopfler's playing/singing are the perfect compliment. 8/10 4 stars.
Very chill and relaxing which makes it an album that’s very easy to listen to and enjoy. I’ve heard some of their hit songs but never did a deep dive on their discography. I will definitely be checking out more of their stuff!
Sultans of Swing Walk of Life
74/100
A very decent debut with instantly recognisable sound, but I gave Brothers in Arms a 4.5 and this isn't better than that. Sultans of Swing has to be one of the best 'guitar-rock' songs ever recorded though.
This is the type of music that I want to listen to in a pub when I'm with friends - then I checked what type of genre is this and it turned out it is really called 'pub rock'. It's mellow and bit of bland, musically, except for the guitar playing which is really outstanding. The clean production of the album is also really great, it sounds so fresh. Sultans of Swing stands out, it's very groovy, but the rest of the album is more forgettable for me. 3.5/5 but I stick with 3.
This feels awfully modern and well-produced, I was surprised to find it's their debut album.
I don't think I've heard all of these before. A+
A good example of an album that is worth checking out more than just it's big hit(s). A solid album that's worth a listen
tasteful licks: the album. best tracks: sultans of swing, lions, six blade knife
What a banger
Not for me. Couldnt fast foward it quickly enough
I loved it. Just that.
of course a fantastic album
Partly heard before Saved 6/9 Top track: Sultans of Swing
Bob Dylan and the Shadows
4.5
Great album big DS guy
8/10
Enjoyable blues jangling with one of the great songs of all time. Not the high standard across the album but still an enjoyable listen and a very individual sound.
This album is very well executed and produced. The guitar work is simply exquisite and never feels like it’s overstaying its welcome. However, there is just something missing from this album. It hits hardest during its monster hit and classic rock mainstay ‘Sultans of Swing,’ but never quite reaches that high again. It feels a bit sterile despite the clearly phenomenal musicianship.
Definitely a really cool listen! I always love the guitarwork with this band. Definitely not my favorite Dire Straits release, that goes to Love over Gold, but still a nice album!
nice playing and nice songs, tone is an acquired taste
Much better. Sultans of swing, basically all the solos are great, the singing is good, and I love the sound of a clean guitar.
Pretty decent for a dad rock album
Some great late 70s blues-rock. I love that smooth and bluesy voice that pairs so well with the guitar. Sultans Of Swing is just an absolute classic. I think it's the only track here I knew already, but there were a few great tracks here. Some were a little boring and forgetful, and overall I think I liked Brothers In Arms a little more, even though that was a totally different direction so maybe not the fairest comparison. Favourite: Sultans Of Swing
Knopfler is an awesome guitar player. It's really the guitar that carries this album. It's not really Brothers in Arms level of an album. The song Sultans of Swing is on that level though but the rest is lacking that special something.
Sultans of Swing es una joya, pero este disco no es sólo esa canción. Wild West End es otro gran tema. También lo es Lions. Lo que más me gusta es lo limpia que suena la guitarra.
Like the tones but didn’t grab me
Well, sultans of swing is a great tune with outstanding lyrics. The rest sort of doesn’t measure up to that. But the boys had to start somewhere as a band.
Low end three. Really lost its momentum.
some highs and lows. Most of it went on and on and didn't go anywhere. Sleepy for me but some would say it was soulful.
Honestly I dig this a lot more than I anticipated. Some really fantastic guitar playing and the vocals are catchy and bluesy. I'd definitely listen again.
Yes! I love Dire Straits and this album is well-listened to. I mean Sultans of Swing is such a banger but there are some great songs on this album. Definitely check out the Live at the BBC and Alchemy albums for some great live versions of these songs.
Got this used from a record shop in Hillcrest, San Diego for a few bucks. One of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Could listen to this album all day.
Really solid
Excellent, Sultans of Swing is great but so is everything else. Knopfler’s guitar style is so skilled and interesting. There’s such a great blend of country, blues and folk. Dire Straits are what the Eagles would be if the Eagles weren’t so lame. 5 stars
Unassuming and at times, underwhelming, but there are glimmers of what Dire Straits would become. Definite must listen for fans of the band.
Sultans of Swing is a great song. I am finding that I tend to like 70's style rock bands and this is one of them.
melow tunes. nice vocals. didn't really listen closely to lyrics some upbeat twangy beats. clean sound. i liked this album; mostly the melow low pace tracks.
I enjoyed part of it.
Decent, had a few songs I actually really liked. All blended together towards the end though.
Many good hits. Found a couple of new songs that I like. Prefer the faster songs.
Already fell in love with this artist long ago…. Such beautiful guitar solos and solid work
Unique funky style of music, really laid back and chill vibes
Fun, a lil groovy, not something I would typically be listening to but I liked it.
Fantastic guitar solos!!!
Iconic sound. The album that introduced us to Dire Straits. Standouts: Sultans of Swing, Down to the Waterline, Water of Love, 3.5
Love Mark knopfler
Swag! Didn’t expect it resonatw as much as it did, but Mark Knopfler knows his way around a song.
Swäg chill etc väldigt förtrollande ibland speciellt när man fokuserar på basen och hur den hänger ihop med stuff
4/5 Best: Sultans of Swing Worst: Setting Me Up
Liked it more than I expected
Brilliant.
Not a bad listen. Some classic catchy tracks like Walk of Life and Sultans of Swing. Been having struggles listening to new music this week, so may try to listen again at a later date. Rating a 3 for now.
Not what I wanted it to be
Wouww.. this one brings back memories to my teenage years. Never a big fan, but then there is a certain nostalgia in a positive way.
Very good album. Lost be a bit at the end, but that wasn't enough to take it down too much. I'd say 3.5 round up to 4. Sultans of swing is an unreal song. Mark Knopfler is such a great guitarist!
Some definite lulls for me, but it wasn’t all dire - overall good riffs and vocals. Sultans is a banger. Southbound Again is a sneaky banger
Pretty good. The highlight is the guitar for sure, and Sultans of Swing is an amazing song.
Tbh i was a bit dispapointed by the few songs i listen from this album, and usually i,m a big fan of 70's rock, but i just don't think this particular one have something more to offer than its contemporary, like there is nothing particulary good about this album. but its not a terrible album either, it just dosent impress me a lot
This album is both incredible and awful at the same time
i like it but prolly wont listen to it again on my own
It's a little too country-ish for me to take in one sitting, but I appreciate the music.
What guitar playing! Sultans is the obvious standout track, but the rest is pretty good too. About as Dad Rock as Steely Dan, but then I am a Dad, so fair enough. Going to give this a four, but its on the upper end of 4.
DIRE STRAITS! well, i quite liked it. it's a different kind of rock to what i normally listen to, but there's a nice rustic feel to it. nothing on the album really stood out, but it's new to me, and it felt very comfortable.
I love Dire Straits, but I've never listened to this whole album before. As I expected, this album was fantastic. It had everything that I could want in a Dire Straits album: Mark Knopfler's vocals, and Mark Knopfler's guitar playing. I love Mark's bluesy guitar picking, and this album was chock a block full of it. As blues-inspired as his guitar playing is, there's just something about it that has a flamenco-like quality to it as well that I just find incredibly pleasant to listen to. "Sultans of Swing" is not only one of the most beautiful classic rock songs of all time, it easily has one of the best guitar solos of all time too. Mark Knopfler's voice is fantastic too; sure, his singing is a tad monotone, but I still think his voice is incredibly rich. His pattern of speak-singing reminds me of the pacing of Bob Dylan's singing, which I absolutely love. This album is fantastic, and I really loved it. Favorite track: I mean, come on... Favorite track that isn't "Sultans of Swing": "Setting Me Up"
Aww, love this as it suits my age, but 2 Dire Straights albums in Top 1001 of all time?! Nah. Still great though.
So this record is entirely Mark Knopfler's guitar playing, which is quite stellar throughout and shows how skilled he is. Outside of this, the songs sounded like an easy listening version of blues rock, and to an extent this was enjoyable, but it was mostly just there. I did very much like Southbound Again and Sultans of Swing.
Solid cocaine rock.
I love Dire Straits, but this is not my favorite album of theirs. My favorite tracks are “Down to the Waterline” and “Wild West End” and “Sultans of Swing” is a classic, of course. I think they hit their stride in later albums, but overall this one is solid.
The only song I know from these guys is "Sultans of Swing" which is a really good song. The instrumentation used in this album is great, but this suffers from Read Hot Chilli Peppers syndrome where the lead singer can be good sometimes, but most of the time his voice isn't good/annoying. This sucks because the instrumentation is fantastic, but the guy's voice or the way he sings is not good. Sometimes it sounds like the lead singer is doing a bob dylan impression If the singer weren't so bad this would be a low 4... This is a high 3/5
guy says pavarotti incredible...i say check out markiplier six blade knife...world class vocals...perfect voices.. kultainen kitaranäpytys, midaasin kirous... kaikki soinnut mitä tekee kitaralla muuttuu kullaksi heh... Dire Straits has a way of making the guitar interact with the vocals that is really unique. BLUD SANOI DIRE STRAITS... YKSI HENKILÖ TUOSSA KYSEEESSÄÄ... FATHER KNOPFLER... in the gallery...kuulemma paskin...ei...paras....objectivity saavutettu...
I'm kinda shocked this was such a big hit. I couldn't really grab on to anything - found it tepid and nothingy
Very interesting the first song is rather slow then speeds up and it stays that way for most of the album I really enjoyed it
Sans surprise, l’interprétation forte mais à fleur de peau de Janis est ce qui ressort le plus de cet album
Sultans of swing is one the best songs ever the other songs are all great fusions of rock and jazz
Top 2
Safe, safe as fuck. Perfectly enjoyable but it’s a bit like admitting it’s time to buy a cardigan.
- Way better than the previous Dire Straits album - Love the twangy guitar - Groovy bass - Super enjoyable listen
- these dudes jam - Sultans of Swing is one of the sweetest riffs ever - there’s something missing that isn’t putting them over the top for me
Great debut album. Mature and technically proficient, with clever writing thanks to Mark Knopfler. My highlight is still Sultans of Swing, but I think Six Blade Knife deserves a mention too.
Always a pleasure
Good unique sound; I like the technical guitar. Really all the instrumentation is great. The singing isn't my cup of tea though.
It was always Love Over Gold that was the Dire Straits album of choice when I was a student back in the 80s - I imagine because of Telegraph Road primarily. I'd never listened to this album before although, obviously, Sultans of Swing is a tune I'm very familiar with - you can't be my age and into rock music without knowing it by heart I reckon. The rest was largely unknown, although it's obviously Dire Straits throughout and obviously driven by Knopfler's guitar. It was OK. I wouldn't scream and shout if I were made to listen to it again, but it's not a whole album I have a particular desire to list to time and time again.
Whoah. I had heard of this band, and of course recognized the classics, but I really like it. Was it like a rock (lil country thrown in?) British mash up? I'm confused and happy
Rating: 6/10
I already love it
Altijd fijn!
Op vakantie in de auto geluisterd, vond het prima aangenaam! Sultans of swing uiteraard de beste op het album, en overall beter dan Brothers in Arms
I really appreciated many of the songs. Some didn't hit the mark for me, but I love the guitar and Mark Knopfler's voice!
Just Dire Straits. Sultans of swing a banger but did I need to listen to before my certain demise?
Just how are these people so popular. Boring and depressing. Even the name sounds like something your grumpy next-door neighbour would say.
Breezy, great instrumentation, a solid listen through. Nothing is exceptionally mind blowing, but it is definitely an impressive debut. Gotta love the Sultans of Swing.
Dad rock-y, but cool to listen to, guitar is nice throughout. The best tracks are really good though, Waterline & Sultans of Swing.
Cool
Great for listening on a long road trip out west with the windows down on a sunny day
Generally good vibes without rocking too hard or sounding too soft. I felt like the songs smoothly rolled by though no one particular hook, melody, or lyric resonated I enjoyed the trip.
Some good song I recognize. Don’t think I’d go back to listen, but wouldn’t turn off if it came off
this album is good
Warm and twangy
The guitar playing is immaculate and Sultans of Swing lives up to the hype (and then some) but the rest of the album leaves a bit to be desired, often being too country-rock-like for my liking, and nothing even matching the height of the album, which I already mentioned, even if there are good parts. It is more of a disappointment than anything, but it is still decent overall.
Chef's kiss. Perfect.
Really thought I’d like this album but it’s really just fine.
great debut album from one of the greatest bands.
Enjoyed this without loving it. Close to 4 stars.
OK album. Great guitar and songwriting .
It has Sultans of Swing, for that alone I'd give it four stars
Great
Six Blade Knife - Mark waits till the last minute to lay into a jam. Sultans an obvious classic, may be one of the best songs ever written. In the Gallery real groovy that slows chugs along. Wild West End love song.
I appreciate how this record opens. A sense of quiet for the first 30 seconds and a melancholy openness follows — just a bit of guitar and a soft splashy cymbal before the track really kicks in with the full band. More contemporary music bets that the listener's attention will be lost in that silence. In other words, we rarely hear an opening like this anymore. It's not like I need to put the needle on the record and walk back to my chair before sitting down and "readying" myself to listen. Most things are singles in the stream these days. Shuffle, shuffle, shuffle. It's not my personal jam but this is a decent record with a pleasing pace. I've never fully been down with Dire Straits despite being able to recognize the obvious greatness of songs like Sultans of Swing (which graces this album).
Knopfler's guitar blends perfectly with the vocals, classic blues rock album and such a strong debut album. Arguably one of the best guitar solos on sultans of swing but this album is much more than that.
Fantastic debut album! Great song writing, musicianship, and production. This album sounds gorgeous.
Very enjoyable just pushes a 5, upbeat but also contemplative Rock album
Great album, mellow vibes, overall one you can play start to finish with no skips
This is not terrible, but just go to the source and put Django Reinhardt on the list. 2 imposters out of 5 🥸🥸
I wish I had listened on big speakers. Amazing musicianship.
Lastig. Bij vlagen erg sfeervol en er wordt een verrekt goed potje gitaar gespeeld. Maar van oudsher moest ik erg wennen aan het schraperige, quasi-ongeïnteresseerde stemgeluid van Mark Knopfler. En wat Eric met de Beatles heeft, had ik altijd met de Sultans of swing. Anno nu kan ik dit album goed hebben, en bij Sultans of swing valt vooral de merkwaardige kloof op tussen de muziek en het onderwerp: man loopt café binnen waar een oude-stijl jazzorkest speelt dat bestaat uit bejaarden. Hoeveel Nederlanders die erop stemmen voor de Top 2000 zouden beseffen dat het daarover gaat? Wel een aardige opmaat naar het jazzfestival van vanavond natuurlijk.
Een plaat zonder slechte nummers. Inmiddels weet ik dat dat dat een flinke prestatie is. De bijna jazzy ondergrond van deze rock is ook nog eens fijn. En de stem past daar goed bij. Deze wordt, laten we zeggen, niet geforceerd gebruikt. En toch straalt er kracht uit. Dat is een ster op zich waard. Dylan moet hier wat vaker naar luisteren. Want het stemgebruik nadert elkaar nogal eens. Maar het ongeforceerde van de Dire Straights, maakt het muzikaler.
Dire Straits doet het altijd goed bij mij. Mark Knoflook mompelt wat in de microfoon, gooit er vervolgens een paar gitaarnootjes in, mompelt verder, weer wat gepiel op de gitaar, etc etc. Misschien een beproefd recept in de bluesrock, maar Knopfler perfectioneert het. Ik denk dat ik latere albums nog een tandje beter vindt, maar je weet in deze snoblijst nooit of die albums er ook in staan. Want debuutalbums zijn heilig. Dus ik geef maar alvast 5 sterren voor het hele oeuvre, dan zijn die alvast gegeven.
This felt like homework before I even started listening. It's fine. Sultans of Swing works most of the time.
It does´t move me. Something does not resonate well to me. I´d rather pick up JJ Cale.
Très bon album, bluesy mais moderne; Une bonne voix; guitare excellente: loin de se limiter à "Sultans of Swing".
It was nice music to cook a corn cob to
Pretty generic dad rock but with some really pretty guitar licks
"Sultans of Swing" obviously the best, most popular song on the album but having heard the rest of the album, you can get a good feel for the overall sound of the band and why Sultans sounds the way it does. The band really knows how to compliment the instrument to the vocals so easily. Fantastic album, loved it. 9/10.
That this was gonna be was ass but it wasn’t. Still don’t know how Dire straits get so much attention from classic rock fans though. Nothing was bad about this but nothing stuck out. Even sultans of swing didn’t seem like an instant classic when it’s surrounded by a bunch of other mid songs. 👍: sultans, Wild West end
I too, am a Sultan of Swing. six blade knife - bro got in the booth and started moaning lmfaoo liking this more than expected. wild west end is a vibeeeeee.
The good: The guitar tones are smooth as butter throughout. It makes for a pleasant listen. The bad: nothing noteworthy other than sultans and Wild West end. Fine as background music but if your trying to really focus on the music it can get boring. Best: sultans, Wild West end MMM: WALKIN IN THE WILD WEST END WALKIN WITH YOUR WILD BEST FRIEND
4/10
Not a bad debut.
I'm not sure why this one hit so differently from the other Dire Straits album on the list but it for sure did. It's a classic, southern rock vibe that I'm... well, I'm not exactly here for it but I don't mind it. There's a bit too much chickin-pickin for my tastes but it's relatively skillful picking... so there's that. The whole thing still comes off more than a bit try-hard boomer-rock for me but, for all that, it's pretty alright.
Really good album, amazing guitar work as expected by Mark knofler I would've preferred it to be a bit more faster but the slow tempo throughout set the tone of the album and it works really well Overall : really good I might be coming back
Didn't know how much I enjoyed the Dire Straits
Dylanesque lyrics with some fantastic guitar playing. I’m always happy to be pandered to. “Wild West End” stands out as my favorite.
i’d avoided this album in the past because i didn’t love sultans of swing — man was i wrong. this is great; great guitars and very dylan lyrics and tone. really fun listen, and i ended up enjoying SoS when it came up!
This is a great sounding album. A high level of smoothness and exquisite production of guitar and drums and vocals all in good quantity. This album has good grooves and sounded fantastic on my hifi. Every track is a good listen. Surprisingly only one ‘hit’ with Sultans of Swing. But I enjoyed it all. 4.7/5.
Just slaps from start to finish
Probably one of the greatest debut albums I’ve heard so far! I didn’t realize that Sultans of Swing was this early into their career either. This album is so much better than the acclaimed Brothers in Arms. Listen again: yes Purchase for my collection: yes Favourite Song: Water of Love (Cream vibes!)
Is this the best album in the world? No. Does it contain the best guitar solo in the world? Yes.
Love "Sultans of Swing." The rest is decent. Call it 3.5.
Better than I expected. 3.5 stars.
It was a fine listen. Sultans of Swing will always be memorable.
I really like the vibes on this album. Fairly classic rock sounds on most songs, but mixes in a lot of twangy guitar and folksy elements too (and even some funk occasionally). It's simple in a really enjoyable way throughout. Sultans of Swing is the single that made Dire Straights famous, and it holds up. Side note but I love the cover art on this album, it gives strong Edward Hopper vibes Favorite song: Sultans of Swing Honorable mentions: Water of Love, Six Blade Knife, Wild West End
I let out a groan when I saw the album, because ugh... Dire Straits! I realise now that I had a bit of an irrational prejudice against them, based on very little data. They just generally blended in amongst a whole bunch of other similar bands who I couldn't possibly get on with. But hey, now I'm over that, this is a nice album! A solid 3 stars.
Well I mean, it was alright. Mark Knopfler has a 'distinctive' singing voice, but, a bit like Pink Floyd, of you pretend the guitar is the lead vocal, suddenly it sounds much better. A great length for an album and the start is very atmospheric. Overall, forgettable.
Nice slice of Dad rock here. Sultans of Swing is a classic and Down to the Waterline is a solid yet moody opener. Mark Knopfler's guitar playing is extraordinary. However, this album tends to veer to easy listening at times and I wished it would rock out more.
One of my favorites
Great album, listened through again a second time. Tight sound for a first album and lots of songs I already knew. Really enjoyed and would listen again 8/10
Levy lähti aivan huikeasti, mutta meno sitten vähän hyytyi. Down To The Waterline ja Sultans Of Swing 5/5 Wild West End 4/5 Ja loput oli sitten sen alapuolelta
I mildly enjoyed it. ‘Sultans of Swing’ and ‘Six Blade Knife’ are great songs, and the rest is good, too, but not something I’d willingly turn on again. Wouldn’t turn it off, though.
Haven't listened to this one before, although obviously I'm well aware of Dire Sraits. This is a really solid and well produced album. Sultans of Swing does tower over everything here, but there are some other bops too. Not a bad track here really.
I grew up with this, my dad was a big fan. And you know, it rubbed off on me. Lots of good songs here with great guitar play.
It's alright
This album is the definition of cool. Sounds like they were wearing sunglasses when they made it
I mean it's all about Sultans of Swing isn't it! I think I'm most familiar with a greatest album hits of sorts growing up. So I have a soft spot for Dire Straits... This album didn't pop for me, Sultans of Swing does stand out. But I enjoyed it enough!
Ah I love it. I think Dire Straits are koooooool bloody cats. His voice is great and that signature guitar effect and style is so good.
Knopfler is just so very listenable.
Dire Straits do moody and bluesy really well, and they do proper upbeat dad rock really well, but too much of this album falls in between the two and it doesn't quite work, sounds like easy listening. Not awful, but doesn't quite reach the heights of some of their other albums (which I'm sure we'll get to). Knopfler is a brilliant guitarist, and I like his throaty vocals, but this isn't their best work. Sultans of Swing is a great song, but there's nothing that gets close to that on this album. 3/5.
Sultans lifts it up about a star or so and is easily the best song here by a country mile. Not a bad album by any stretch, but kind of plods along doing nothing
Honestly not too bad for a soft rock first album and definitely helped for my study session- 8/10
Guitar work is really amazing in this album. Pretty solid.
👍 Amazing guitar work!!
Relaxed groove, with lots of guitar noodling
Mark Knopfler's guitar playing is truly something special. I'm amazed that this is Dire Straits' first album - it seems like they emerged fully formed and already mature. Some very good songs, obviously Sultans of Swing is an all-time classic, but the rest are also very good. 4 stars.
I’m a little bored. These songs sound very familiar to all songs. If you’ve listened to songs before you get the idea. Music for movies with no poc cast members. Is sultans of swing exactly the same as go your own way by fleetwood Mac or am I insane. Their Spotify description literally says they marketed their sound to ageing baby boomers which is very accurate. They sound like they would headline an right wing rally and do a really good set but start being heavily bigoted.
Good vibe yeah nice tchunes
Album 25 of 1001 Dire Straits - Dire Straits Favorite Track : Sultans of Swing Rating : 5 / 5 Each song is like a visit from an old friend. What is not to like about this album? Solid listen all the way through and includes one my all time favorite songs. Always a pleasure.
Very well polished album just lacks a little edge in places
Had a nice loose jammy feel. Gives an ambiance of a smoke-filled bar in the 30s. And it has sultans of swing on it. A great record.
Pure dad rock, and not in a bad way. The guitar work was great as expected, but the overall album is quite nice, it not spectacular.
A classic rockin album. Sultans of swing is the obvious best song but I really liked most of them. The singing on wild west end is funny though it was making me laugh. The guitar work is insane and it sounds great and crystal clear for a 70's album. Really good stuff. Score: 75 Art: 70
Classic rock, nothing wild, it's just a solid album. It features some excellent guitar playing. Sultans Of Swing is the highlight, it's outstanding.
Bra album
Bon j'ai énormément de critiques de retard alors qu'on en finisse et vite, chatgpt écris-moi une critique incendiaire de Dire Straits en trois phrases : La musique de Dire Straits est un ennui mortel, une succession interminable de solos de guitare sans âme qui donnent l'impression que Mark Knopfler a été payé au temps passé. Les paroles sont quant à elles d'une banalité affligeante, rappelant le niveau d'un élève de primaire. Dire Straits est une insulte à l'intelligence musicale de quiconque ose l'écouter.
Les Dire Straits tenteront tout du long de l'album de proposer de superbes riffs de guitare, qui seront malheureusement à chaque fois gâchés par le chant absolument catastrophique de leur leader. Les membres du groupe tenteront pourtant d'enfermer le chanteur en question dans un placard, mais il parviendra toujours à s'échapper pour venir ruiner chaque titre.
Liked it better than Brothers in Arms. More consistent
Not gonna lie I’m becoming a Dire Straights enjoyer. Always loved Sultans of Swing, just never knew the actual name of it.
Nice relaxing pleasant listen. Nothing to set the world on fire but good album
This is far from their best album. Disappointing to hear this again.
Sometimes you just need some mid-tempo rock in your life. Can imagine myself throwing this vinyl on mid-day while doing chores around the house. 3.5/5
2.5
Teetering on the edge of four stars, but as good a vibe as this clearly is I just can't imagine ever putting it on through choice. That said, I can easily imagine the end-of-the-night-red-wine-and-embers scenario that this could soundtrack and I would be there in a heartbeat.
ehhhh
Really interesting sound for a debut album. Some heavy southern style rock guitar with british melodies. Certainly Mark Knopfler created a signature sound.
A pretty amazing album. The guitar work is special... it has so many soulful flourishes that continually make the music more expressive and integration. Every track is strong, with Sultans of Swing being an all time great. Can listen to this over and over.
Primeiro álbum da icônica banda, ja temos o clássico sultans of swing, e o começo de uns dos melhores tons de guitarra imortalizado por Mark.
Excellent classic album, blends together rock, country, folk and blues masterfully
Down to the Waterline has got to be one of the most underrated openers to an album, considering that this album has got the bands biggest hit. Still a great overall album that is as timeless as it come, with a hint of the wild west in every song
didn’t hate it but boring af
The debut album of the Knopfler sound. It's got a hint of blues, but it's unlike anything else. Smooth, groovy, and intricate. There is an undeniable skill that's used to sweep listeners away into the warm tones of Dire Straits. Every song is as good as the next, with the except of Sultans of Swing which deserves every bit of praise it gets. What a song. What an album.
Where has this album been all my life? Stunning mixture of rock, blues, country, swing, probably countless other genres I'm forgetting right now. A pleasure to listen to. Loved all tracks, but In the Gallery is what pushed it to a 5 for me
Sultans of Swing er alltaf á mínum lista yfir 100 bestu lög allra tíma. Það er stórkostlegt. Restin af þessari plötu er notaleg, en alls ekki eftirminnileg.
Classique 5 sur 5 , les c9mpisitons la guitare et la voix de knopfler sont vraiment deja a point t annonce ce qui s’en vient. Un album incontournable et pourtant, meme pas le meilleur de dire straits.
I was surprised how much I loved this Immaculately arranged and produced
Diving into the world of Dire Straits' eponymous debut album, one finds oneself on a rollercoaster ride of musical landscapes. The album, at times, may seem as uneven as the cobbled streets of the Wild West End, but fear not, for there are moments of pure brilliance that shine through like a full moon in a cloudless sky. This 1978 classic may have its rough edges, but that's all part of the charm. It is within the sonic waves of "In the Gallery," "Wild West End," and "Down to the Waterline" that the band's undeniable talent is most evident. These stand-out tracks paint a vivid picture of the band's raw energy, while also showcasing their extraordinary gift for melody and storytelling. "Down to the Waterline," in particular, serves as an intriguing precursor to the album's pièce de résistance, "Sultans of Swing." Mark Knopfler's guitar prowess is an ever-present force throughout the album, as he effortlessly combines fingerpicking and flatpicking techniques, creating a unique sound that few rock guitarists can replicate. His signature style feels like a lovechild between Chet Atkins and J.J. Cale, resulting in a sonic hybrid that's both familiar and entirely refreshing. "Sultans of Swing" is the crowning jewel of this musical adventure, transporting listeners to a smoky bar where a band plays with passion and precision. Knopfler's dexterous guitar work is the star of the show, with mesmerizing licks that dance through the track like a river cutting through a canyon. The song is a testament to Knopfler's innovative playing style and an ode to the beauty of musicianship. Though the album's undulating nature may leave some listeners feeling a bit seasick, it's important to remember that Dire Straits' debut is a testament to their potential and a window into their creative process. It's a collection of tracks that showcases their strengths, while also highlighting areas for growth. And let's face it, any album with "Sultans of Swing" on it can't be all that dire, now can it? In conclusion, "Dire Straits" is a ride through the Wild West End of rock music that's well worth the journey. So, buckle up, fellow music enthusiasts, and enjoy the ride as Knopfler's guitar prowess and the band's distinct sound transport you to a time when rock 'n' roll was still finding its footing. And who knows? You might just find yourself humming "Sultans of Swing" long after the album has come to an end.
A bit dull sometimes. Could have done a lot more with the drums, and the vocals aren’t that interesting. Guitar work has the most character by far. It’s never unpleasant, but I could zone out or fall asleep to it.
Interesting sound- sounded like country rock. beautiful guitar parks i liked it did not love it
I only knew Sultan of Swing before this and really enjoyed the album
Didn't get to finish it but deffo an improvement from the last few days
This some white people shit. Not my bag. Sultans is Hella lame. Water of love ok
An absolute classic and a debut album to boot. It introduces the Dire Straits signature sound of smooth jazz infused rock. It's just an amazing record.
Pretty good time Album cover: I like it a bit actually 4/5
Sultans of swing is a classic. The rest of it is alright. I like the guitarwork, and the overall vibe is good for chillin'
cool 8/10
Love this album. Down to the Waterline and Sultans of Swing fav songs
This was good. Sultans of swing obviously the best song.
Sultans is a jam but... The rest is OK. Won't be going into the rotation. Prefer Brothers In Arms.
Typical Dire Straits. exactly what you'd expect.
As far as easy listening classic rock goes, it doesn't get much better. I could easily let this play and enjoy each of the nine songs—much more than just the Sultans of Swing. Excellent road trip soundtrack.
Only Mark Knopfler can sould like this <3
Dire Straits first studio released album introduces us to the vocal of Mark Knopfler. The record composition of driving but mellowish rock music and that brings in influences from jazz and blues that makes the band's rhythm really shine. The hit song off the album "Sultans of Swing" is a timeless classic but the album as whole works so well together. Great first album by a band.
A good friend of mine once said to me If music could have a texture this album would be smooth. True dat! In the middle of the Disco craze this album dared to feature bluesy sounds, glorious guitar work and licks that make you feel chill as balls.
Smooth.
As far as debuts go, it isn’t terrible: Dire Straits were fairly fully-formed right out of the gate. But too often Mark Knopfler’s playing feels restrained, and of the songs on tap only “Sultans of Swing” has endured as a classic.
1. DOWN TO THE WATERLINE we need more music that's just someone doing a blues solo over ambient drones. this is really beautifu- oh SHIT there's the drums. this is groovy. vocals are like if you messed with the octave settings on morrissey's voice. sometimes it's a little raspy for my taste but it still works to an extent very nice though. light 8/10 2. WATER OF LOVE first impressions, reminded me of skylarking-era XTC with the more... "exotic" percussion, for lack of a better term. i can HEAR colin moulding singing over this. unfortunately instead of that we get a pretty alright vocal performance by [ i don't know who this guy is ]. chorus is pretty cool but it feels like that track that everyone forgets. something's missing but i'm not sure what. goes on a bit long as well. it's not bad, though. i think if i were in a more mellow mood i'd like it more. 6/10 3. SETTING ME UP vocals still aren't entirely my thing but this is some generally good bluesy rock. makes me feel like i'm at a texas roadhouse. this is the kind of music they'd play at one of those places. i like texas roadhouse, they have good food. that's besides the point not something i'd go out of my way to listen to, but i can dig it to some extent. strong 6/10 4. SIX BLADE KNIFE this was the most intriguing track title out of everything in the album, so i'm pretty interested in seeing how this goes. i like how it starts, pretty chill. nevermind, vocals not resonating at all. feel like i'm watching a movie with my parents and then a sex scene pops up. i'll give it some pity points because i'm a sucker for the chord progression used in the bridge. light 5/10 5. SOUTHBOUND AGAIN you know, my mom hates yes, the prog band. a lot. she says it's partially because of the vocals. i can understand that, to an extent -- but what i don't understand is despite hating jon anderson's vocals, she seems to love dire straits. i don't get it! it's decent and groovy music but the vocals just kinda put me off. that had nothing to do with this specific track, i think this is one of the best vocal performances on the album thus far -- i just wanted to get that out. nothing too important to say about that track, it was pretty alright. 6/10 6. SULTANS OF SWING here we are, the crown jewel of the album. i can understand why, this is REALLY good. probably the best vocal performanc- OH SHIT IT'S THIS SONG?! HELL YEAH i didn't know this was dire straits! i love hearin this come on on the radio and such but i never bothered figuring out who WROTE it. this is a great track. 9/10. gave it that rating like 1/4 through the song. thats how you know its good. this guy has every right to use whatever slur he wants, just because of this and Money For Nothing. 7. IN THE GALLERY i actually really like the start of this. high hopes. very groovy very whatever else. i'm liking the vocals a bit more than i was in the first half of the album -- for the most part at least. who's the vocalist even? i haven't checked until now. ah, yes. markiplier. very much appreciating the occasional omitted bar -- my odd time signature-obsessed ass is pleased..for now. actually a really good track, i'm digging this. 8/10 so far? maybe 9/10 actually i really fucking like this solo ... yeah 9/10. 8. WILD WEST END WE GOIN STRAAAAAIIIGHT TO THE WILD wild WILD wild WOW WOW wicki wicki WOW WOW etc etc very simple start, reminds me of a toy piano, for some reason? then it REALLY kicks in and im like totally into it. can confirm, knopfler's vocals are a lot better than they were in the first half, for some reason. whole album sounds better in general. feel like i'm floating, almost. this is beautiful. i'm like a third through the song but i think i'm giving this a 10/10. that's what i'm feelin. we'll see. ...yeah, 10/10! congrats, fellas, you got one. 9. LIONS we're at the end of the road here. beginning makes it sound like a promising closer! oh this is nice. it's like Wild West End part 2. not much i can say that i havent already said about that track, but this feels like it's missing just a LITTLE bit of what Wild West End had. very nice closer nonetheless -- 9/10.
This is the record that a well-meaning, but over-enthusiastic dad who wants his kids to listen to "real music" puts on that ends up making them think "Yeah, Dad really is that uncool."
I love love love dire straits, we've got to install microwave ovens, custom kitchen deliveries, we've got to move these refrigerators, we've got to move these colour tvs
Pleasant enough.
It's probably a good idea that Dire Straits didn't start this album off with "Sultans of Swing." No one would have been able to focus on the rest of the album. That's truly one of the best songs ever recorded. It's gorgeously played, perfectly paced, and deeply, effortlessly cool. I would love to live in that song, or at least hang out there on Friday nights. The rest of the songs vary in quality by comparison. But the depth of musicianship is top notch across the board, with Mark Knopfler's impeccably smooth guitarwork setting the easygoing, blues-inflected tone. It's mind boggling that this is a debut album. The sound feels well-honed, like something that developed over decades, although the band had really only been together in that form for a year. Do not sleep on Knopfler's lyrics either. The lyrics are mature, quietly elegant, and appropriately restrained without seeming fussy or overthought. That's a skill few songwriters possess. Fave Songs: Sultans of Swing, Down to the Waterline, In the Gallery, Setting Me Up, Wild West End, Lions
I wouldn't be mad if my dad played this but he does not.
это прекрасно, восхитительно и великолепно. вкуснейшая музыка, одни гитарные соло чего стоят. хочется переслушивать.
Удивительный дебютный альбом Супер роковое кантри с сочнейшим басом Алкоальбом: темная пинта стаута
Название группы слышал. Причём многократно, в контексте влияния на советский андеграунд. Но как-то "не выполнил домашнее задание": не послушал. Классный темп в первой песне: бодренько, не нудно; как будто музыка для бега или тренировок. Прям очень хорошо зашла и не вышла, добавил себе. Забавно, что самый популярный трек (Sultans of Swings), написан в похожей ритмической композиции, и он прям реально качает... А ещё по вступлению мне напомнило чем Секрет - Привет. A Setting Me Up напомнило "Когда-то ты был битником...". Ну собственно, ответ на это всё в первом абзаце. Ну и конечно же, емаеее, какие же тут гитарки сладкие и обалденные: и ритм, и соло, и лид. На самом деле, только ради кайфового гитарного звучания альбом может и стоит послушать. Однородное и приятное. 4+ и это почти пятёрка. Что не дожали: тексты и может быть концепт. Хз, как мне кажется, альбом можно было спокойно назвать по главной песне - Sultans Of Swing - она прекрасно суть отражает. P.S. Полез потом читать про альбом, подчерпнул забавный факт: На кассетах, которые продавались во Франции, порядок песен был другой — «Down to the Waterline» и «Wild West End» были поменяны местами для того, чтобы сбалансировать длительность сторон. Можно ли из этого предположить, что раньше это (длительность одной стороны кассеты/пластинки) было ключевым фактором в расставлении песен в альбоме?
Ой, оч приятные ушкам мелодики, прям хочется взять бутылочку кавы и залечь в ванную. Вкусно, минималистично, неспешно Забавно, что стоило только немного ускорить темп, как сразу не 10-40 лямов прослушиваний, а 906)))
Disappointingly dull at times, starts off strong and sultans is great
Pub music
No está mal, pero aparte de "Sultans of swing" no hay otra canción que se acerque ni por asomo. Solo esa canción ya merece la pena para escuchar el disco y darle 3 estrellas. Aunque "Sultans" sea de 6 por lo menos.
While I didn't walk away humming anything outside of Sultans of Swing, I do love the tight guitar work on this. And the way the musical phrases repeated themselves here and there. This deserves a closer listen.
A fair bit of Mark Knopfler's output is a little saccharine for my tastes, but here the balance between sweet and spicy is just about right. There's a hint of grit in many of these tracks that runs nicely against the guitar playing, which is, expectedly, the star of the show. It bears stating the obvious, but Knopfler's playing is exquisite, borrowing from jazz and country yet managing to sound both more expressive and lyrical than contemporaries doing the same thing. And it all seems so effortless! Hey, the man's got a good, characterful voice. Plus this album contains zero homophobic slurs! Four stars!
You guys already said it, but to get specific: "Sultans of Swing" has one of the best guitar solos ever recorded, right? It's not the most melodic, or probably the most technically challenging, or any of that. It's the way it's performed. It's so staccato and you can hear he's not using a pick because of how the notes sort of fall off in places. It's so damn cool and really makes that song groove. The rest of the album was a mixed bag for me, but overall I very much enjoyed it. "Wild West End" was a nice bit of slower 70s acoustic rock that I had never heard before. I wonder if they ever opened for Fleetwood Mac during this era. That'd be a pretty sweet bill.
First play through didn't warrant any strong impressions one way or the other. Glimmers of strong musicianship throughout but never sustained for any length of time to keep me satiated. Second play through about the same feelings towards the work. Slightly more appreciative of the work itself and the ambiance it creates/could create. I could envision this being a good road-trip album, or at least in partial, with songs like Wild West End, and Down to the Waterline. Favorite track: Setting Me Up
Emerging from an unlikely place in the music industry in 1978, Mark Knopfler's warm yet brittle Stratocaster tone and softly spoken vocals linger on the corner of the map in this debut album. "Dire Straits" feels untraceable to its era, completely out of step with disco, punk or new-wave. Instead, it's an understated torch-bearer for all the folk/rock/blues singer-songwriters of the world. This is certainly a commendable mission statement, and on a technical level it's undoubtedly well executed. There's no need for me to wax lyrical about Knopfler's signature guitar tone, his distinctive way of playing fingerstyle. While there's a lot to love in his mastery of the instrument, "Dire Straits" ultimately comes across as a bit of a shallow exercise. The main issue here is that for most of the runtime, Knopfler's guitar work is desperately propping up the material, rather than accentuating its power or complementing any inherent brilliance. The guitar playing is the only consistent factor here, apt comparisons being Pink Floyd's "A Momentary Lapse of Reason" or anything Clapton played on after about 1972. There's nothing very exciting going on in the song structures (alternating weary ballads with choppy blues tracks) and the lyrics are mostly melancholic, world weary ruminations of love lost, with a couple of more narrative-heavy tracks which fare better ("Sultans of Swing", "In the Gallery"). In this album, love is an adolescent memory by the waterside, love is water in a dry desert, love is the act of being set up and put down, love is the cut of a six-blade knife. Sometimes the lyrics sell these ideas (particularly the evocative opening "Down by the Waterside") but mostly they're reduced to throwaway generalities or really flimsy analogies ("you take away my mind like you take away the top of a tin"). Knopfler certainly doesn't seem to earn the "Dylanesque" label here, which is often lazily slapped on his music and lyrics. The primary exception to all this, of course, is "Sultans of Swing", which does all the legwork and stands on its own as a great song. Vivid storytelling, an instantly memorable melody and a tight structure place it miles above the rest of the material here: if the same standard had been held up throughout, "Dire Straits" would be at least twice the album it is. "Wild West End" also deserves some praise for its lush, wistful chorus: a nice balance between technique and soul. Dire Straits would go on to release another five albums in their career, peaking commercially with "Brothers In Arms" (the only other album of theirs I've heard). While "Brothers In Arms" is flawed and fell slightly more under the trappings of its day, it's still a mostly enjoyable, catchy and emotive listen. By contrast, "Dire Straits" lacks most of its charms or hooks, and winds up feeling as beige and empty as the image on its cover.
Great guitar parts, but the drums stand out on this one too. I think this is my favorite Dire Straits album.
one good song
I really like this album. Although the singing is quite simple, it does a great job at contrasting the really complex music behind it. Really great songs to bop your head to. 5/5 Favorite song: Sultans of Swing (duh) Worst song: Wild West End
When I think of Dire Straits, I think of the MTV era. Was hoping some of the songs I liked back in the days, were on this album, but So far away and Roller girl are not and here we are.... I did like some songs. Sultan of Swing was a big MTV song and ok. When Down by the Waterline played, thought the guitar chords were similar to Sultan of Swing, but then again, a lot of this album sounded similar. Not a lot of energy. Is is Blues? Maybe even countryish? Liked In the Gallery, good vibe. Also liked Wild West End. I don't know. Wasn't terrible. Wasn't great. Not sure if I would seek out this album, but it was OK to listen to a couple times over last 2 days. I'll go right down the middle a give a 2.5. Will show as a 2 due to overall lack of energy. 2.5