Reviews (page 8 of 15)
Mark Knofpler = musical genius.
Quite decent, enjoyed it
a good album showcasing Knoplfer's huge talent.
A good album, I liked the style of music. I liked Down To The Waterline and Water Of Love the most.
Such smooth music and includes one clear classic
mark knopfler my girl
HL: "Sultans", "Wild West End", "Water of Love" Dire Straits are a comforting band to listen to for me. Maybe I don't like this debut as much as Brothers in Arms, or even Making Movies, but perhaps that is because today is the first time I've heard this from front to back. April 7, 2024
I mean, there's sultans of swing on it. Plus: Nice cozy background music.
The instrumentation of these songs is great. The twangy movement of the guitars really drives the tracks. Beautiful guitar work that is not over the top but fits the songs perfectly. The vocals sound a little like JJ Cale to me but seem adequate.
5 stars if it had no vocals. 4.0/5.0: Great
J. J. Cale (very) plus Dylan.
Dug it
Banger to start the album. Love "Sultans of Swing". Thought the rest of it was enjoyable to listen to as well.
Like the bluesy feel of this album.
Ihr bestes Album
Blues and jazz music sure can sound appealing enough on their own. Combining the genres? I’m sure Dire Straits isn’t the first to do it, but their effective usage of both genres is hard to ignore.
Wow, surprisingly chill, easy listening - would be a great soundtrack hanging around in the garden on a warm summer day! Impressed
Sultans Of Swing. Bien; aunque se me ha hecho un poco largo ... 3. No, venga, Sultans Of Swing se merece 4.
Solid blues rock. It’s held up over time, unlike a lot of the artists from the 80s.
Sultans of Swing is a 5 track. What a great album
Solid album with a huge banger on it. Good overall, I like Dire Straits.
Never listened to this whole album. Definitely heard a lot of these songs. Sultans has a shit ton of spotify listens. Overall I liked the album a lot. Mark Knopfler has an easy to listen to voice. 4 stars for me
Wonderful guitar work. Nice and buttery with a few shreddy bits that I can get down with. A nice southern sounding voice. Sultans of Swing kinda sounds like a Dire Straits song. I feel like we have had a lot of close 5s recently which is nice. This one is another close one, but it doesn't quite have that chutzpah that would push it over the edge. Really enjoyable listen though!
Mark Knopfler's distinct guitar sound shines right off the jump in the very first song. It keeps on rollin' through the first few songs as well until Southbound Again which is a bit slower bluesy number which was awesome. Fires right back up into quite possibly my favorite rock song of all time in Sultans. I will never skip this song when it comes up on random on a playlist and I have probably heard it 300 times. Rest of the album was a bit slow for my liking when I think of Dire Straits, but still some amazing playing.
Just reading Brandon's review about Dad Rock and this certainly falls in that category. Real good easy listening rock music. It gets a little too low key at some points but what a debut this is. Sultans of Swing are a banger of a song and I love the closeout with Lions.
I've somehow never listened to this album. Seems they had already perfected the formula - poppy rockish bluesy ballads with a minor inflection, a Dylanesque vocal and plenty of twiddly guitar fills. For the opening track and Sultans, this gets lifted from a satisfactory to a very good.
Really great. I am super familiar with brothers in arms, but had never heard this album before
Mark Knopfler can do no wrong when it comes to making great tunes.
I feel good with a 3.5 on this one, but I'm gonna round it up to a 4. There’s not really a bad song here, but there are moments where this album just feels a bit empty, whether it's an outro going a bit long, or the vocals just feeling too monotone, and it makes the songs drag on just a little bit in a way that kind of dilutes them for me. When this album is hitting though, it hits really well and really smooth, with some of the best guitar playing I’ve heard from a 70s album so far. I don’t normally check the reviews on this site too much, but it’s a testament to their variety and their sound that someone’s favorite could be another person’s worst and vice-versa. I don’t think it can ever bump up to a 5 for my tastes, but what’s here is really nice, and definitely a recommended listen.
Much more like the Grateful Dead than I expected, surprisingly chill and fun.
Love Dire Straits. Great band.
Pretty good.
I know sultans of swing (though didn’t by name) but the rest is new to me. This is a cool album, smooth and a solid 42 min which is a good album length. Easy to have on and doesn’t feel particularly aged
Good stuff!
Heard of Dire Straits, didnt know what to expect, and given this felt like the 10th album in a row released in the 1970s (it wasnt, but felt like it), I started this album up with a sour predisposition. As the album flowed forward, I really enjoyed the sounds and vocals! Then I heard Sultans of Swing, which I recognized immediately, and was blown away that I fully recognized a song I had no idea Dire Straits had done. I replayed Sultans of Swing numerous times that day. Overall enjoyed and look forward to more Dire Straits in the future!
Keep that clawhammer away from my girl Mark.
Sultans of swing is a masterpiece
A very nice early morning listen. It still has energy while being a bit slower and funkier at times. Haven’t listened to much Dire Straits but I’ll have to listen to more.
good stuff
Much more enjoyable than anticipated.
I’ve only heard Sultans of Swing before listening to this album. Very laid back rock that discussed topics like lost love, longing, and ostracism. Plucky strings litter the songs, adds a nice texture to the smooth background. Really liked the second half of the album. Standouts: Water of Love, Six Blade Knife, In the Gallery, Wild West End, Lions. Solid album, but nothing that really surprised me.
typischer klarer Sound der Gitarre, entspannter Beat und Knopflers Stimme - sofort werden Jugenderinnerungen wach. Und mit Sultans of Swing dann auch noch ein richtig grosser Song! Sicher (noch) nicht das beste Album von Dire Straits!
More country influence than I would have guessed. Good tunes, need to listen again and pay more attention to the lyrics.
I enjoyed this much more than I expected.
gorgeous super dry late-70s late-night production like you’re smoking cigarettes in the booth with just the light from the desk lamp on
This is far from my first time listening to this album, so I can’t offer a fresh first impression—but I enjoyed it just as much as always.
Wow this album snuck up on me. Thought it was whatever for the first few songs but then caught myself dancing to Setting Me Up. I also liked Sultans of Swing. Then I realized that the guitar work throughout this was amazing. I like Wild West End a lot! Enough for it to add it into my regular rotation. Flowers to the guitarist.
Really enjoyed this and understand their appeal, looks like I’ll have to check out some more from Dire Straits
It's a difficult one to score as I enjoy listening to this much more than I enjoy thinking about it. I'm going to allow listening experience to prevail though. Low 4.
A warm, cosy, familiar hug of an album.
Very listenable but I don't particularly want to listen to it again.
Silky smooth dad rock. Like smoooooooooth, which I appreciate them committing so hard to that
Heh
super solid and a couple really good songs
Primera vez escuchando un disco de esta banda. Algunas veces más rockero tradicional, otras, más blusero, sin duda Mark Knopfler es el protagonista, tanto por su voz con un dejo de desgano como con su modo de tocar. La nota de color es que, como argentino, es inevitable conectar a Skay Beilinson con Mark Knopfler, tanto desde la estética como desde las guitarras. Buen primer disco de un banda icónica.
that's a good one!
A great, great bluesy rock record. Steel guitars with no country twang, smooth rhythms, excellent pacing. Sultans of Swing, of course, is the best track on the album. The rest of the songs are of similar pedigree. Not a 5, but a very solid 4
Sultans of Swing alone makes this a 4/5, the rest of it is good too.
Day34 - more than just sultans of swing
Classic Dire Straits
probably gonna be one of the most listened albums of this period for me.
Very nice debut album featuring the unmistakable, bluesy, guitar and vocal stylings of Mark Knopfler. For me, it's a coin toss for which I like best...this or Brothers In Arms. So I'll just make sure both are in my collection.
This was great. Can definitely see myself listening again.
Great album. listen all day.
Jag tycker om Dire Straits gitarrspelande. Sultans of Swing är nog fortfarande bäst. Rätt mysigt album. Prel. 4 / 5
• Tycker om omslaget; det är simpelt, lite mysteriskt. Motivet ser ut som något som man vanligtvis skulle finna på ett foto, men här är det istället målat • Down To The Waterline tror jag att jag inte hört innan, men bra • Han där Mark Knopfler skulle jag vilja påstå är min favoritgitarrist • Lite countryinspirerat stundtals • Sultans Of Swing har inte blivit sämre med åren direkt Betyg: Inte deras bästa album (*host *host Brothers In Arms), men det är bra, Sultans Of Swing är en av världens bangers, hade lyssnat igen => 4/5
Sultans of swing är bra. Annars bra gungig album som funkar bra i bakgrunden. Inte jätteinspirerat men bra ändå
Good pub rock, exactly what you'd expect from dire straits
Love Dire Straits!
Неплохо, но позже были альбомы лучше
Sultans Of Swing. Bien; aunque se me ha hecho un poco largo ... 3. No, venga, Sultans Of Swing se merece 4.
Not my favorite Dire Straits album but a good debut
yeah yeah yeah
Not quite a 5, but close. Probably a 4.5 on the strength of Sultans of Swing alone.
It's Dire Straits. It's pretty good. Fave Tracks: Water of Love, Sultans of Swing, Wild West End 4/5
Side 2 is 5/5. Mark Knopfler is such a virtuoso guitar player.
Great album if you like the Dire Straights sound
An ok album… not my preferred listening pleasure, yet not head banging either.
A classic of the classics. I always have a good time with this album.
Great catchy and moody songs honored by Mark Knopfler unique playing. Always a pleasure to listen to.
Dire Straits has such an iconic sound. You have to love them. Sultans of Swing is probably one of the best songs ever. Rating: 4/5 (A very good listen) Standouts: Sultans of Swing, Water of Love, Others: Down to the Waterline, Setting Me Up, In the Gallery, Wild West End,
Dire Straits creates guitar-driven rock songs that are performed in a style reminiscent of blues rock and country rock. Dire Straits' distinct sound comes from Mark Knopfler's smoky, rich voice, and his crisp and expressive guitar solos. Their self-titled debut album contains some of their most popular songs, like "Sultans of Swing" and "Water of Love." These songs became very popular all over the world, and helped Dire Straits become one of the world's most successful bands during the 80's.
At this point many of these albums sound the same xd but it was nice
Such a great album, used to be one of my favorites. Always surprised me that this is their debut album, they are just extremely talented. Awesome riffs and vocals.
Discazo. No el millor, però molt escoltable
Strong guitar work.
A great chill album. The clean guitar work, laid back vocals, all so very nice!
musically amazing, not something I listen to frequently tho
Down To The Waterline, Sultans of Swing
Some good songs. Interesting voice
Loooving this so far, only like 30 seconds in. I like the guys voice and the guitar is awesome. The audio quality seems so high which is ridiculous because I’m on my AirPods but, but it just sounds really good
Good album. I love Sultans os Swing, so that really helped.
Signature guitar sound
Mark knopfler is great
1/10/24
Great guitar playing by Mark Knopfler
I liked the guitars
Excellent classic. Not exactly my jam, but clearly a work of art.
Not the biggest Dire Straits fan, ever, but hearing some of their older material was good to experience. 'Sultans Of Swing' will always be a classic in my ears. The guitar work, the catchy lyrics, semi-cryptic comments/verbiage makes it a pleasure for the listener.
thoughts by song 1. Makes me want to smoke a blunt and watch the sunset 2. good vibe could have taken 3 minutes off the song and felt the same. 3. good ol southern chili cook off vibes. 4. Smoke even more weed that snoop 5. A better verison of setting me up on the album. sounds the same almost. 6. high speed horse chase. certified banger, 7. Boogie Nights vibes 8. eh 9. solid
Very expressive and smooth sounding guitar solos throughout the entire album. Sultans of Swing is a registered Hyper Banger
Every track is at least solid. Smooth af.
Good album. Some filler. Establishes Knopfler as a performer. Local lads did good.
This is probably the most solid guitar on any album ever. It is just consistently great.
Good music!
I think what makes this album for me is the guitar, it's fucking phenomenal. While the lyrics aren't always perfect in my opinion, the guitar and the other instruments always make up for it.
9/10
4/5 Down to the Waterline Wild West End Sultans of Swing Water of Love
wheeee!!! it doesn’t make me obsessed but all respect
Love the guitar on this one
Really catchy, and deeper than I had assumed. I mainly think if Money For Nothing or Sultans if Swing, and was worried the album was going to be weak, but I enjoyed the whole thing.
Really good especially the second half. Sultans is one of the best songs ever by anyone. 4+
So solid.
More like Dire Straights FIRE 🔥🔥🔥
It took me way too long to realize how much I love Dire Straits.
Solid album. Knoffler has such a distinctive sound.
For sure one of the underrated bands of the 80's. Knoffler is a guitar god.
Good 70s rock
Apart from Sultans of Swing, the whole album feels a little slow and bland. There’s technically nothing bad I can say about it. The instrumentation and vocals are there. So are the harmonies and some experimentation as well. They have a unique sound and it’s a great album, it just feels like I’m in a sleepy high the whole time. 4/5
4.2 - Songs like “Water of Love” aren’t so memorable on their own, but I will remember the wonderfully laid back vibe of this record, and how casually Knopfler slays every guitar lick and solo. His hammers and string bends are unparalleled, and it baffles me how underrated he is compared to Clapton and other so-called “guitar gods.” And “Sultans…” is one of a tiny handful of “classic rock” songs that I still love hearing.
It is quite good album. I like how it seems to flow without trouble and still sound good. Maybe I'll come back to it some day.
These guys just sound Cool and effortless. Good blues.
Sultans is one of the greatest songs ever.
¡Me gustó! Sigue con el estilo de la única canción que conocía de este disco "Sultans of Swing". Pero definitivamente rock muy agradable de escuchar y fácil de digerir.
Sultans of Swing is an all-timer. Legendarily difficult solos, and even he doesn't nail it 100%. I also enjoy Setting Me Up and Southbound Again. Down to the Waterline feels really SoS adjacent to me but I don't mind really. Mark Knopfler has his peculiarities but boy is he a guitarist who really understands and utilizes rhythm like no other lead axeman. Love a Honky Tonk album. I think I still enjoy Brothers in Arms the most and hope its on the list, but the impact of this record is undeniable. Some songs definitely blur into one another but that's kind of part of the deal with Dire Straits. They have a sound that's theirs and they don't divert from it much.
Sultans of swing is obviously a jam. The rest of the album vibes really nicely, great drum and bass groves with nice guitar on top. Vocals are just fine in my opinion, with great vocals this would be a five star album for me
I really enjoyed this. Solid music to walk to. Nice guitar and drum work. Just very pleasing on the ears.
Hard not to enjoy one of the best guitarists of all time. I certainly had heard Dire Straits in my life, but it was Mark Knopfler’s album with Emmylou Harris that really brought me to the band. And while Brothers in Arms may have more ear worms, this is an excellent representation of a kick ass catalogue. Can’t say anything critical about “Sultans of Swing,” but I really enjoyed some of the songs I wasn’t familiar with - “Six Blade Knife” a particular standout. Lotta fun.
So good. Nice insight into Dire Straits before they gained mainstream pop status in the mid-80s. Great early sound
What I really appreciate about Dire Straits is that Mark Knopfler he plays his leads without a guitar pick. There are some very intricate riffs and solos that he is playing. Between him and Lindsay Buckingham I'm not sure who does it better. Stylistically, they're different. But they both have perfected their craft. This album is groovy... It's got some funk, some blues, some thick grit to his vocals.. It has the classic song Sultans of Swing on it... And to this day, it's one of my favourite classic rock songs. But its arguably not the best song on the album. I was surprised to hear a more western style song on this album, appropriately called Wild West End, to which they did really well. Every lead guitar riff has purpose. The quote unquote guitar wankery isnt in your face, but it is present, yet purposeful. I really appreciate Knopfler's guitar work. It's inspiring. Dire Straits is a band that sounds like no one else. Despite their influences. It's just Dire Straits and you can credit Mark Knopfler's vocals, and his guitar work for this. Great album. Would listen to again.
Knew Sultans of Swing but nothing else. Had that 70s almost country twang. Good overall album even if ot loses steam at the end.
Really solid funk/blues/country/rock and roll album. Lots of great influences here and a great listen overall. A couple odd songs and a few overlong stays away from being a solid 5-star album. Fav tracks: Down to the Waterline, Sultans of Swing, Setting Me Up
First album I ever bought. Sure, all my friends were into punk (as was I, but not in a huge way) but Sultans of Swing was on the pub jukebox on a happy holiday and I loved it. It took a few more years to become truly rebellious in musical taste. Listening again after many, many years, I was still singing along with most of the songs.
Dire straits doing their thing
My favorite Dire Straits album. Rating: 4.3
I’ve long loved this record, but I will admit it starts to lose me towards the very end. The gems on the front end push it to four stars in my book.
Damn he’s good on guitar. This group has a pretty unique sound ive not seen anyone else imitate, well at least.
Solid classic rock
starting it off with a sexy lil tune, how could one complain? the guitar solo on down to the waterline made me feel like i was going on a cosmic journey to every summer night anyone has ever experienced! six blade knife got me groooovin’! in the gallery WOW it just keeps the vibe going, like i’m IN the gallery and having a jolly ol’ time, tripping a lil balls and walking like john lennon in the one photo you guys know what i’m talking about. if there’s one thing about me, i LOVE checking out the movies and magazines, AND walking in the wild west end. and that’s why i believe wild west end was made for me!!!!!! and it’s slaps ! thanks dire straits ! stella was a fiend for lions, she loved it, who knew dire straits made music for cats??? not me! great album 4/5 letterboxd stars! looking forward to rating more with you friends !
I haven’t heard anything by DS (Dire Straits) other than Aqualung, and this album is what I imagine aqualung would be like if they weren’t a virgin. Aqualung is amazing in it’s own right just way less smoooth there’s some epic awesome guitar lines all over this thing. Also the singer has a cool voice.
Fun bluesy rock album. I like their sound
A really good album. Great guitarplaying.
Impressions: The only blues I will accept. Love this! Favorite tracks: Down to the Waterline, Setting Me Up, Rating: 4/5
Great stuff.
Great debut album. Some incredible guitar work here. Sultans of Swing is a definite standout.
Enjoyable. Great hi-fi sound!
Great stuff! I can see the appeal of Knopfler guitar work more after listening to this album.
Good listen, with good instrumentation and good voices. It's got that Allman brothers vibe, which I love. This is good music.
Groovy bass lines, twangy guitar, country/rock vocals. Dire Straights provides a fun mix of styles. It's laid back without being boring.
So groovy, but super chill at the same time
All around good listening
Some great tracks. It can be a little ponderous at times, but overall a great album.
Ok
Pretty sick
Smooth guitar raspy voice very nice we love some dire straits
Just a really solid album. Great for road trips
Leaving my smiths review here cuz I accidentally hit the rate button without writing anything: Listened on the plane to Chicago. It's the smiths what is there really to say. If I were a teenager I'd probably think it was transcendent. I'm not a teenager but it's not bad. Dire straits: Listened while bumming around Chicago and getting onto the trump tower roof. Very good and groovy for a city walk. Solid stuff real meaty music with a lot of depth. Makes me feel like I'm looking back at a desert town that I barely escaped with my life. Kind of an LA cocaine and mansion vibe.
😎
What a great vibe. Such an easy album to listen to.
Love dire straits. Very good album
This rules
This is an excellent album with a distinctive and unmistakable sound that can be none other than Dire Straits. With their stripped down, country-rock vibe, this album showcases how engaging music can be without anything elaborate or particularly fancy: Their solid composition and tight electric, bass, and drum playing leaves no mistake that they know what they're doing as musicians. And while Knopfler may not have a traditional voice or a wide vocal range, he knows how to leverage it to great effect, adding to their signature sound. I look forward to listening to this again! Favorite surprise tracks: I don't recall hearing In the Gallery before, and I dig the bluesy, funky vibes—the guitarists are all on point! And Wild West End hits me like waking up to a summer day with no responsibilities, no expectations, and the restrained excitement of heading out to exploring something new.
Big journey. Liked it a lot.
Classic debut into the discography of Dire Straits. More to come and more refined later, but this was a great start and will always be notable for the band.
Liked songs - Six blade knife, Sultans of Swing, In the Gallery, Wild West End Incredibly famous album by on the most influence rock bands of all time. Strong elements of jamming in this album. I enjoyed listening to it but at times felt like songs dragged on too long due to the solos. Solid 4
Love dire straits. Wild West end is the hit along with sultans of swing
Great smooth/mellow rock. Smokey voice. Some classics I definitely know. Reminds me of my parents and Saturday afternoons.
It's pretty good, I really like Mark Knopfler's guitar playing.
Banger
Not usually a southern rock guy but really enjoyed this. A couple of undeniable groovers on here for sure.
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
Really enjoyed this one. Smooth, funky, chill...
Come back to this. This is surprisingly excellent.
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”.
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.
4/5
Iconic guitar sound from Geordie guitarist mark. Sounds a bit dated to be honest
Still a solid rock record. Not perfect but very nice.
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
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
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.
Fun alternative punk/rock album with jazz and country riffs. A group I will be listern to more.
Still pretty fresh
Ja hatsaaaaaaater. Dit is dik. Dit zijn eurocenten. Dit is goed.
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.
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.
What a banger
Partly heard before Saved 6/9 Top track: Sultans of Swing
Bob Dylan and the Shadows
4.5
8/10
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!
Much better. Sultans of swing, basically all the solos are great, the singing is good, and I love the sound of a clean guitar.
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
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.
Really solid
Iconic sound. The album that introduced us to Dire Straits. Standouts: Sultans of Swing, Down to the Waterline, Water of Love, 3.5
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
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!
Pretty good. The highlight is the guitar for sure, and Sultans of Swing is an amazing song.
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.
Aww, love this as it suits my age, but 2 Dire Straights albums in Top 1001 of all time?! Nah. Still great though.
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
- Way better than the previous Dire Straits album - Love the twangy guitar - Groovy bass - Super enjoyable listen
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.
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
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!
Dad rock-y, but cool to listen to, guitar is nice throughout. The best tracks are really good though, Waterline & Sultans of Swing.
It has Sultans of Swing, for that alone I'd give it four stars
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 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.
Très bon album, bluesy mais moderne; Une bonne voix; guitare excellente: loin de se limiter à "Sultans of Swing".
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.
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
Better than I expected. 3.5 stars.
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
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
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.
This album is the definition of cool. Sounds like they were wearing sunglasses when they made it
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.
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.
Good vibe yeah nice tchunes
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.
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
Not gonna lie I’m becoming a Dire Straights enjoyer. Always loved Sultans of Swing, just never knew the actual name of it.
Really interesting sound for a debut album. Some heavy southern style rock guitar with british melodies. Certainly Mark Knopfler created a signature sound.
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
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.
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.
I only knew Sultan of Swing before this and really enjoyed the album
Pretty good time Album cover: I like it a bit actually 4/5
cool 8/10
This was good. Sultans of swing obviously the best song.
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.
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
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)))
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.
Great guitar parts, but the drums stand out on this one too. I think this is my favorite Dire Straits album.
Nothing else quite as good as Sultans of Swing on here but a decent album with a mellow mood.
Good debut
I like it, very dad
One real standout track and the rest is pretty mellow-cool. I always have like Mark Knopfler’s guitars. 3.5 and rounding up.
Cool vibes all the way down.
4/5 That was very enjoyable. I don't know if it's because I have kinda half hated a bunch of the last albums (shhhh don't tell them), or because I actually enjoyed it. It was groovy, rocking, fun, in tune(!) melodic etc. I would listen to this again.
I do love me some Dire Straits.
4/5 That was very enjoyable. I don't know if it's because I have kinda half hated a bunch of the last albums (shhhh don't tell them), or because I actually enjoyed it. It was groovy, rocking, fun, in tune(!) melodic etc. I would listen to this again.
It’s “Dad Rock” and that’s okay with me. Plodding and melodic and perfect for background music. This is something I’ll come back to.
This is not a country album, but it feels like a country album, but this is somehow a yield from the punk era? In light of such revelations, the listening experience is affected by equal parts what Dire Straits is, and also what it is not. Musically, it's easy listening, the lyrics are inconsequential living rent-free in one's head without annoying controversy. This is a fine album.
It must be over 30 years since I last heard the album. It was purchased shortly after seeing the band live. Played often just to marvel as the guitar playing. While that is still plainly evident the album as a whole now feels somewhat underpowered.
Some bops. Least favorite Dire Straits album overall
great album
Country club rock. Groovy, classy, enjoyable, and suited for all ages. I recommend sipping a Michelob Ultra while you listen.
Like
Pas mon style mais sympa Mastering propre Guitares excellentes
I fuckan love Dire Straits. Perfect day for some good ol' Americana rock n roll.
Only really familiar with Brothers in Arms from my Dad's record collection. Sultans of Swing the obvious highlight but it hangs togehter really well and passed the time much quicker than an album of 4-6 minute fairly self indulgent guitar noodling tracks has any right to. Recommended background listening for a chilled evening.
Impressive debut.
oooh good one
Down To The Water- 7 Water of Love- 8 Setting Me Up-7 Six Blade Knife-7 Southbound Again-7 Sultans Of Swing-9 In The Gallery- 8 Wild West End- 8 Lions-8
Today's album is the self titled debut album from the UK rock group Dire Straits. The band was started by brothers Mark and David Knopfler. Mark's guitar playing is very recognizable, as is his singing style. He is largely slept upon when it comes to his guitar talent. He is absolutely one of the greats! His lyrical style is similar to Bob Dylan. Dire Straits music draws influence from country, blues, funk, folk, and jazz, and blends it all together into a beautiful mix. I've listened to quite a bit of Dire Straits stuff, as well as Mark's solo stuff as well, and love it all. My favourite Dire Straits album is Brothers in Arms, and I'm sure it's on this list, so I can't wait to give that one a spin again. They were still discovering their style on this album, what with it being their first album, but for a debut album, it is insanely tight and polished. Thoroughly enjoyed today's listen, and will definately listen again! Favourite songs: Sultans of Swing, Southbound Again, Down to the Waterline, In the Gallery, Setting Me Up Least favourite song: Six Blade Knife 4/5
I had always made fun of Dire Straits as music for dorks but this was actually a fun one to listen to.
These guys are underrated by a lot of people (including me). I always forget how good of a guitar player Knopfler is. They have a unique and recognizable sound, and this is a better than average debut album.
British Rock? Here we go again. But wait? Actually unique? Actually Enjoyable? Some songs gave off a fleetwood mac type vibe of rock with a dose of easy listening. Not bad at all. Though, anytime I've seen this band the first thing in my head is Pistachio's grandfather saying "when you're in dire straits, and you don't know what to do" using the crystal ball to communicate. Which makes me think we have had a DS album before because I know I've mentioned that here before. Side note, I ended up listening to this one twice because I enjoyed it so much.
Bluesy country twang with a relaxed, laidback vibe. I dig it and I could see myself really digging it with time. “Sultans of Swing” is a classic too. Highlights: “Setting Me Up,” “Sultans of Swing,” “In the Gallery”
Really tight, impressive album. Mark Knopfler's guitar playing is legendary and yet still underrated. His guitar tone and phrasing are some of the best ever in rock music and this album showcases that in what I (and probably many others think) is their best song - Sultans of Swing. The album outside of that track is more vibey than I thought and while it's not as immensely impactful as Sultans of Swing, it's still very good. 4/5 but it's like a 4.3/5 on my "actual" score.
Solid album, very chill. Listened to it while running errands. Love the guitar and calming vocals.
Will listen to more
Very good. Haven't listened to that one for a long time.
Guitar go boing Enjoyable
A great album from a great band. I love the sound achieved by this group, whose musical prowess is clearly demonstrated. Listening to the collection sends me on a tough yet laidback adventure with hardened but lovable outcasts.
8/10
8/10. I wasn't expecting a ton from this, but I was pleasantly surprised. It isn't the most exciting album, but it's certainly very pretty to listen to throughout.
Sultans of Swing is a masterpiece and there’s some great guitar elsewhere on the album but definitely some slow parts. 8/10
Boss. Me dad got me on these early doors. That Sultans of Swing is the very definition of a toe tapper and the guitar solo outro is perfection
Riktiga bangers men inte för intressant sound. De spelar rätt säkert.