Reviews (page 9 of 16)
Mark Knopfler is one of my favorite guitar players ever. His technical abilities, sparse and tasteful licks, deep affection for jazz as well as quirkiness (famously not using picks) kind of remind me of Stewart Copeland but for guitar! This album is a testament to his incredible guitar tone. I didn't love all of the songs, especially tracks 2-5, but then you get Sultans of Swing which is just massive and the rest of the album keeps it at a high level. strong 4
It had that plunk plunk sound I really associate with Dire Straits. It was okay. A couple of solid songs
I honestly don't really know how I feel about this album. All the tracks are decent enough, just maybe not my style. Sultans Of Swing was a good tune. I can understand if other people enjoy this music, but not for me. Good enough to deserve a 3
I just love the sound of the Sultans of Swing, In The Gallery is also really good. I recently listened to another Dire Straits album in the album challenge and discovered that I kind of like them. I think overall this is a 3 star album for me.
This album feels like an EP, but with a bunch of undercooked filler to make a full album. Which isn’t to say everything in the non-filler is good. They just sound finished. Bad track sequencing, too. The track sequencing is completely flipped from where it should be. Everything from Southbound Again to the end should have been side A, and the rest of it on side B. Except keep Sultans Of Swing as the side B opener. 2 stars, and that's only because Sultans Of Swing is a well-done tune that I've come to appreciate when I'm not hearing it 5 times a day on classic-rock radio.
sehr gute musik, geht in die entspannte richtung
Pretty good but nothing that exciting to me.
Just sweet groove and boogie. Love it love it.
Wasn’t as impressed with this one as I am with their Brothers in Arms album so this was a little disappointing. Maybe a little more upbeat by comparison in a way I didn’t like.
The headline attraction is the instantly recognizable guitar tone and style. That glassy clear strat sound pops with compression and cuts through with a gentle bite, pairing a touch of country twang with a ton of JJ Cale phrasing. The feel is relaxed and warm, easy going good mood dad rock. I can't get over how great the recording/production is - it sounds amazing! Clean and bright and balanced with a solid low end, plenty of space, subtle dynamics - like an unfussy but equally meticulous Steely Dan. None of the other songs are nearly as memorable as Sultans, but they all know all the chords.
From this album I was previously only familiar with Sultans of Swing. While that is certainly the best track, I would say it's one of several that are worthwhile. I liked this album, and while I think I prefer Brothers in Arms this one is worth listening to again.
I thought I’d hate this but it was fine. Won’t be playing it again but well done for not being annoying!
Dire Straits - Dire Straits This album sounds minimalist with few things to offer in terms of soundscape. However, they did prefer doing quality over quantity, which it shows a lot on this album too. Conscise and brief, without being too overwhelming for the listener, although it can be underwhelming at times. It does have it's cool moments there though. Overall, this is good. 1.- Down To The Waterline = 8/10 2.- Water Of Love = 7/10 3.- Setting Me Up = 7/10 4.- Six Blade Knife = 6/10 5.- Southbound Again = 7/10 6.- Sultans Of Swing = 10/10 7.- In The Gallery = 9/10 8.- Wild West End = 8/10 9.- Lions = 7/10 FINAL SCORE: 7.6/10
This band can jam. 4/5
My friends mom always turns on Sultans of Swing at every fucking barbecue in the local fucking area and I'm so fucking tired of it please let me fucking skip it
I see why sultan of swing has a billion streams on netflix!
Melodic album, soft rock is really good. Sultans of Swing is one of the best songs
Some good tracks scattered here and there, rhythmically not stale either despite the instrumentation not sounding too varied. Never heard of this band before, but am curious if there is another of their album on this list of 1001.
i like this album quite a lot! down to the waterline, water of love, and wild west end were my faves.
I fell in love with this album when it came out, it felt more contemplative than other rock and the sophistication was in the musicianship so as a 12 year old it did not intimidate me thematically but awed me with the sound. I wish this had carried on to later albums but they seemed to get less interesting with each subsequent release. Communique is very good and overlooked.
Cuando empezó el primer tema, me hizo acordar a este otro que me gusta pero que no sabia ni de quien era ni como se llamaba, y resulta que el otro estaba en este mismo album jajja. Verdaderamente me gusto, nada extraordinario mas que buenas melodias y un album consiso, que no suena a canciones de relleno, lo volveria a escuchar completo tranquilamente
Absolute chill record, amazing first outing for the band, sweet songs and amazing guitar playing. At times a little country influence here and there, but no complaints.
Yeah has echoes of the good stuff to come from this band but doesn’t quite have the songs.
I never liked "Dire Straits". Mark Knopfler's guitar is really annoying. "Sultans Of Swing" was played over and over again on the radio, in bars and pubs etc. You couldn't escape it. It's not going on my turntable, ever. Mark, just go away!
Reminds me of another one of my favorites, JJ Cale. Not a bad track on here. Nothing special to mention, just good for casual listening.
Highlights of this album were definitely Sultans of Swing and Down to the Waterline.
It's ok
It's Dire Straits. Those guys make delicious music. This was a little less mature than later efforts but still so enjoyable.
i’m constantly amazed at how genuinely actually i enjoy dire straits. i don’t know why but i always just think to myself like ugh dire straits here we go but then i turn it on and i’m like wait i’ve heard this song on the radio a million times and actually i like this. i still don’t love this guys voice, i think he’s a weird singer, but i think we gotta hit a low 4 here. considering a 3, but i felt generous today
Pre-listening thoughts: ...and here's the other Dire Straits album! I feel like we've gotten a lot of albums recently that have been the other one of an artist we've already gotten who only has two on the list (Depeche Mode, Elton John, now this). I liked the other one okay, but there was the f slur song (tragedy cause it was a good song otherwise) and then the second half was boring as hell. So hoping this one is better (especially cause it has Sultans of Swing!). Post/during listening thoughts: guitar playing is sick as always. I never beg for a track to fade out except Down to the Waterline. Feel like it would've made it better (great track tho). Bro if I was like 45 and a man I would LOVE this. Hand me a six pack on a warm patio with a sunset and this listening experience would be complete. 6/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: no Fav tracks: Down to the Waterline, Southbound Again, Sultans of Swing Least fav tracks: Six Blade Knife, In The Gallery
Boring Bob Dylan wannabes.
Not a bad debut
it's pretty cool. not much else to say
Southbound again is fire, obviously sultans of Swing is a classic. Overall very strong. Down to Waterline has a very similar sound to SoS? But definitely recommend 7.5/10
5/5 Certified hood classic. Never given this a proper listen until now. Couple absolute ripper tunes. Down to the waterline and Sultans of swing both go hard. Clean crisp sharp guitar sounds with solid vocals from the 70s. Whats not to love
Surprisingly absolutely loved the vibe
A chill vibe incorporating sounds largely abandoned in the 70s mainstream. A revival if you will. Mark Knopfler has interesting vocal moments on the album paired with punchy riffs and some fun solos. Setting out for good vibes, not to reinvent the wheel. However, I can see how the schtick got stale. At some point we must clap for the piano playing dog because he's good at playing the piano, not because he's a dog. Also, I must say it is funny hearing Brits play roots rock. What's a polar bear doing in Arlington, TX? Favorite Song(s): In the Gallery/Wild West End Rating: 6.8
8.5/10 I actually had just recently deep dove this album so felt pretty fresh. I really like what they do here and contextually at this time in music this was an inventive look at what rock could be moving forward. Sultans of swing maybe top 50 rocks songs ever? favorite song: sultans of swing
Cool.
I hadn't heard any albums apart from Brothers in Arms before but it was decent. Down to the Waterline, Southbound Again, Sultans and Wild West End are great, getting a 3 because how can you beat this incredible lyric about being in Chinatown: 'duck inside the doorway, duck to eat'
Such a warm and beautiful record. That guitar is CRISP
I can really see myself sitting in my garage and drinking 5-8 beers to this
Excellent album by excellent band!
Not as dated as I thought it might feel. Walk of life is still great. Main riff on Money for Nothing still kills. Don't love the sheen. Deserves the praise though.
Great album start to finish. Smooth rhythm and melodic blues guitar that’s never overdone (I’m looking at you Hendrix). Never thought “when will it end?” on any track.
better than bob dylan , but only a little bit. 2
A very solid debut album that displays an already congealed “Dire Straits” sound, highlighted by (of course) the tasteful and truly intrinsic guitar playing of Mark Knophler. While there are a few great tracks, namely the guitar expose (a descriptor for the whole record, really) Sultans of Swing, some of the material here isn’t on equal ground. The band goes in a few unique directions, not all of which land. Worth listening to, just not something I see myself coming back to a ton. 7/10
New to me. Not bad. Will revisit.
2.5 really, with the weight of those stars entirely carried by Sultans of Swing
Boring, sent me to sleep and not in a good way.
I like a strong guitar melody and this has it in spades. The guitar and vocals also compliment eachother, like you're listening to Knopfler and his guitar have sex or an argument (though it's definitely more jubilant than it is aggressive or angry)! Sultans of Swing is obviously a banger. "Down to the waterline" was good too. It's got a country-kinda-funk to it which is a fun genre. Ultimately though, I think that's all it has - good chemistry between a guitar and a lead singer. It lacks something for me to go back for more than just a couple songs.
I actually quite enjoyed this. Vibey.
I found this to be a fundamentally pointless listen. If I ever need something to put on when I’m tenderly making love to a moussed mid 80’s babe, then I guess I now have the perfect thing to soundtrack it.
My favourite track was "Wild West End". Other than that, I have nothing to say.
3.5
Was listening to Sultans of Swing when I was creating this lmao. Pretty alright album with some exceptional tracks. Later records like Making Movies and Brother in Arms are better, but this is still not bad. Fav Tracks: -Down to the Waterline -Sultans of Swing
Competent, jammy, doesn't do too much for me! All the stereo sound stuff going on here is great. The songs just don't really stick for me outside of the hits (Down to the Waterline, Sultans of Swing). Really feels like this should be up my alley but there's not that oomph for me to latch onto.
I liked it. Added “sultans of swing” and “Wild West end”
Really good
8/10.
I love Money for Nothing, but TBH I found this album a little boring.
I kind of liked it. Sort of passively listened so can't speak too much to it. But it had some nice instrumentals and a good swinging feel. Kind of corporate feeling after while though.
cool blues/rock I have the LP from 1978
Listened before
point9.
I know Dire Straits' hits (including 'Sultan of Swings' from this album) but that's about it. A solid debut with some great guitar work. Favorites: Down to the Waterline, Sultans of Swing, Wild West End Would I listen to it again: Yes
One of my top 5 favorite albums of all time. Just... so, so good. The guitar work is impeccable. Songs are a blast. It's so good.
It's fine. Had fun moments, but overall felt like an impression of the blues.
4/5 stars, the strats just the best shape isn’t it
Solid rock album, none of the songs really stick out aside from the obvious Sultans of Swing, but damn does this album sound incredible and played extremely well. That strat tone is out of this world
Big fan of this one, very close to a 5 but some
More variety than I expected
-*Down to the Waterline—groovy sound; enjoy the clear guitar. Honestly the middle guitar solo makes me want to look out over the sea in Italy. Mark Knopfler’s voice is sweet and intriguing. Between talking and singing which is a cool, slick style. -*Water of Love—Opening makes me think island music. Chill song. The compositions sounds both complicated and simple. The instruments kept me around then I started to enjoy the lyrics. -Setting Me Up—is that Bob Dylan? Lol. Again, pleasant instrumentals that keep me around. I can appreciate Knopfler’s voice but it’s not my favorite style. Feels like there’s some rockabilly influence -*Six Blade Knife—I want this played in a 60’s/70’s club with smoke making the air hazy while a man in a slick suit approaches a suave lady and they go out to the dance floor. What are their secrets, why are they here? No one knows, but they dance the heck outta that floor. -Southbound Again—southern rock influence? Groovy. -**Sultans of Swing—first, love the song title; Knopfler and the guitar having a conversation, sharing a story. Very enjoyable listen. “We are the sultans of swing.” -In the Gallery—bit slow for me, imagery and subject is interesting -*Wild West End—another lyrically interesting song. Like singing a journal entry. “Excuse me talkin’, I wanna marry you…you’re just another angel in the crowd” -*Lions—“yes, and a girl is there/high-heelin’ all across the square” great lyric. Metaphorical imagery and nice song construction. Really enjoy the guitar work on each song. Knopfler’s voice stands out but isn’t my particular favorite. Each song is well crafted and interesting. The album is cohesive and a standout as a band’s first release. Enjoyed the guitar outros. Dang, Mark Knopfler is quite the songwriter. *would download **definitely heard before
Stellar guitar tones and production. Hard to believe it's their debut!
Great stuff.
3/5
smooth not quite country vocals with a zippy cool instrumentation, enjoyed quite a bit
I enjoyed the guitar. Sultans of Swing is always fun. Easy to listen to but doesn't super excited me. 3.5
Sultans of Swing is very good. I can see myself liking the rest of the album more over time too. 3.5 Stars.
I can't think of any other band that incorporates the guitar the way Dire Straits do. It isn't just a guitar solo or two per song. Used almost like punctuation during vocal sections. And the guitar sound is so clean. Really stands out during an era that was progressing to heavier distortion.
Kind of a dud.. more like 2.5, rounded up
Good jams
Dire Straits were just so cool. This listen inspired me to learn Sultans of Swing on guitar and I discovered that most of the songs on this album were in a pretty similar lane - great vibe.
This album would be four stars even without Sultans of Swing, one of the best songs ever. Mark Knopfler is one of the sliest of modernists, gently coaxing us into the (then) new wave.
A few good Songs
boring, I don't remember a thing.
Was okay, didn’t really move me but it was an easy listen.
Go guitar 🎸!
Classic of 'dad rock music's
Sultans of Swing is one of my favorite songs. Enjoyed the rest of the album as well. 4/5
Nah. 2 out of 5.
Great mix of picking, country swing, blues and jamming...but still all Dire Straits signature sound. Really surprised I've never heard this album. When I was a kid and Money for Nothing blew up MTV...nobody really knew much about the guys in headbands.
Mark Knopfler fills space differently than other guitarists. It’s never messy or overdone. Perfect crisp clean riffs that demand your attention and often reaction. Rock, blues, country, undefinable. Even with the less than stellar vocals this album earns five stars.
Great band name. I recognize the one song. Sort of vanilla.
Ass. Noodly ass. Mark Knopfler's got to be the most over-rated guitarist of all time.
Great guitar work and southern vibe from a shockingly English band.
There’s a sophistication and calmness about this album that are appealing. The rhythm section is relaxed and, along with Mark Knopfler’s skilled and colorful finger picking, brings textural flourishes. It sounds Grateful Dead adjacent in its rootsiness and Jerry Garcia-esque guitar playing. The last two songs kind of go soft for me, however. I’d give it 3.5/5 stars if I could.
wow. i’m so bloody bored, i wanted to like this, truly. mostly because romeo & juliet is such a great song, and sultan swing is quite good. the rest is meh, i was annoyed i had to finish listening on my way home, so not a really good sign. but it’s not bad - i just don’t care about it. ohhh ok, wild west end just came on and i love it - reminding me of why this is such a great project.
I enjoy these songs greatly, and I'm sad I had not listened to them earlier. The intro really caught me by surprise, and listening to "In the Gallery" is really such a vibe. This album is looking to score high for me
Standouts: Sultans of Swing Wild West End
I really liked the guitar, the Sultan of Swing and opening track were my favorite
One of the best guitarists in our time playing some of the most boring music
Histórico
Phenomenal.
Second-best album from one of my favorite bands
All time classic here. A uniquely clean rock sound that immediately stood out from so many noisier players of their era. They occupied their own genre, and cut a fantastic album worth a spin any day of the week.
An absolute standout classic. Nothing sounded like it then.
Unfortunately this is nothing but straight heat and an absolute banger from start to finish. I wanted to not like it. I really wanted to not like it. I was ready to not like it. But it's perfection. It's fucked up. What can I do?
Chill! Would def get the vinyl!
Loved the guitar. But did not connect with it on any deeper level.
Painfully generic, riffs are ok, but the vocals are dreadful.
They really have their sound figured out in this album. Sultans of Swing is a great song that I always enjoy, and so the rest of this album with many very similar songs was good.
I really disliked the first half but the second half was really something
SoS and you’ve heard the DS style. Doesn’t stop it banging
First impressions, I love the soulful guitar riffs. Lingering, slow, spacious. Puts you in the groove. Growly singer's voice. Very expressive, especially in Six Blade Knife where his range goes up and down. Hypnotic rhythmic beaths and strums. I dig it. Rock'n'roll vibes.
Fav: Wild West End Least Fav: Down To The Waterline That first half bored me so much I fell asleep. The second half atleast proved it wasn’t as Dire as I expected it to be. Second half is actually chill instead of boring
Classic dad-rock. Not a bad album at all, Sultans of Swing the obvious highlight, just not really my cup of tea.
Jejshuse
I'm a sucker for blues rock so I really enjoyed this one. Nice and minimal with catchy rifts in-between.
Sultan of Swing! 10/10. The whole album was kind of a vibe, nice to listen to while I was working.
What worked for me: The sound has this knack for being both laid-back and deeply moving, making the album perfect for immersive listening. Knopfler has such a knack for painting vivid pictures with his words. What didn't: Sometimes, reading like singing and knopfler's way with the words was a little hard on me. Taking a second and multiple spin to really dive into the lyrics and narratives is necessary and I am sure it will be a treat My Take on all the numbers: Down to the Waterline: That atmospheric intro really pulls you in, and the vivid imagery of clandestine romance near the docks is beautifully set to that shimmering guitar. Water of Love: A bluesy, laid-back track that feels deeply soulful. The slide guitar adds a haunting, almost swampy feel to the yearning lyrics. Setting Me Up: A punchy, up-tempo number with a slight country vibe. It’s sharp and fun, and Knopfler's wit really comes through. Six Blade Knife: One of the moodier tracks. The minimalist arrangement and that tension-building riff perfectly convey the theme of danger and betrayal. Southbound Again: This one’s upbeat and driving—a real road song. The relentless rhythm mirrors the feeling of moving forward without looking back. This didn't work that great for me. Sultans of Swing: The crown jewel of the album. Everything about this track—from the jangly riffs to Knopfler’s effortless storytelling—is pure magic. That guitar solo? Iconic. In the Gallery: A poignant track, and maybe one of the most lyrically rich on the album. It feels like a tribute to unsung artists, with an undercurrent of social commentary. Wild West End: By now, you’ll get a full sense of the album's arc. It has this dreamy, wandering quality, capturing London life in such a relatable, nostalgic way. Lions: meanwhile, closes things on a playful but reflective note, with Knopfler’s guitar carrying that signature mix of restraint and brilliance.
didnt really click too well, but enjoyed the variety and listening to the full album
that was a bop. I'll definitely listen again
I’ve been aware of Mark Knopfler’s immense talent for some time, but for some reason I’ve still slept on Dire Straits. And shame on me for doing so. This album was excellent. They have a very stripped-down sound, while still giving the listener plenty to listen to. I enjoyed each song and didn’t really find any fat that I would cut out. I’m just amazed by Mark Knopfler’s ability.
It's a nice album, but my personal preference would go out to Brothers in Arms rather than this. Aside from Sultans of Swing, all songs feel kind of the same, and after having finished the album I don't feel any different than before.
Pleasant, but the earth didn't move.
Sultans of swing and down to the waterline both great songs. Rest of album ok and easy listening, but won’t ever likely put album on again
Somehow had never heard of these guys before this listen, but they're obviously very popular. I'm a massive Hendrix stan but this was probably my favorite listen yet so far. Very smooth feel to it, really enjoyed this album.
It's OK. Great tone and sound but it's only really got the one standout song on it
Ok. Propped up by Sultans Of Swing. Just not my thing really.
It's fine but fully carried by Sultans Of Swing, there's just nothing particularly memorable otherwise
Sultans drags it up but pretty iconic guitar playing, you know you’re listening to a Dire Straits song. Enjoyed it enough but won’t be going back to it much
I really don't enjoy sultans of swing but liked the album as a whole, added it to my playlist to listen again.
I like it when things slide around and twing and ping and there is a lot of that in this. I’ll listen to it again I’m sure of it
Enjoyed its vibe. The opener and Sultans of Swing really stood out. The sound of the band is really distinctive and warm but some songs feel a little boring.
He’s a north east lad like me so gets a 2
Down to the waterline a great opener. Southband again and sultans of swing are both great but beyond that extremely mid. Absolutely love the dire straits guitar tone
Ah, the instantly recognisable sound of Dire Straights. First track was great and obviously Sultans goes hard too. Not for me otherwise.
3.75
3.5
Class Pure buttery guitar tunes ooft
4.5
I mean, good, and a few hints toward what's to come with them, but not my favorite.
>love the funky stuffs >always liked sultans of swing and dire straits' vibe, def have to listen to them more from now
I would have expected "Brothers In Arms" to be on this list (and it probably is), but this was a surprise. OK album, if not somewhat unremarkable.
I don’t really get this. It was fine, but rather boring. I didn’t hate it. Not worth a second listen though. Sidenote: Sultans of swing is the dumbest fucking song I’ve ever heard. I’d give it a 2 for the album, but that song alone deserves a 1
Perfectly fine
So good. No filler and nary a misplaced note or lick. Great, understated playing. Maybe it’s a statement about what matters musically in a time of punk and disco hating on each other. The merging of classic and country rock (plus blues effects) seems to have helped set the stage for new wave and new kinds of guitar heroes. But whether that was intentional or not, it’s hard to say. There’s a modesty that underscores the quality. One gets the feeling that this band was just doing its thing and doing it at an extremely high level. One criticism would be the slight overreliance on a bouncy, carnivalesque feel to the keyboards. 4.6 for 5. (And still Making Movies and Love Over Gold [inexplicably not included in this list] are better.)
This is solid. Would listen again.
Enjoyable listening. I like Knopfler's tone and style although it does sometimes feel like he uses the same 3-4 licks over and over again.
I really liked this. The video be is relaxing and bluesy. They make it sound effortless. The jam sessions were chill but top notch. I really like John Mayers live bluesy stuff from Where The Light Is, and this reminded me of that. Well vise versa I guess. This must've been an influence on him
Um bom disco de AOR, não que isso signifique muita coisa. Fica um bocado repetitivo em um ponto, mas o Mark knopfler realmente lança uns licks que gostei. Sultans of Swing só tá curtida pq no contexto do disco ela acaba realmente brilhando mais.
mussolini rock nem é tão péssimo assim
I can’t believe someone would willingly make music this boring. The first time he tried to write a song, Mark Knopfler should have put down his guitar in shame and lived a quiet, unassuming life as a monk to atone.
Not my thing, but the music was played beautifully. Hard to fault
The best of the best.
Solid platta. Många bra låtar. 8/10
Day 0014/1001 of One Album a Day / Listened to whilst: commuting Unremarkable but also not bad barring Sultans of Swing which is of course phenomenal. No noticeably bad tracks either imo. Fav tracks: down to the waterline / six blade knife / sultans of swing Worst tracks: none
This was good. Then went and listened to all of Brothers in Arms too. Sultans of Swing is absolutely brilliant and worth the high rating alone. The voice ans guitar playing is just lovely.
I honestly don’t remember a single track from this album and I listened to it yesterday.
Bored to tears
One of my favorites.
Disco was at it's greatest moment. Punk had just lost its biggest band before they even got a chance to begin. And rock was seeing the waning of Prog Rock, and the loud, brash, sounds of "Double Live Gonzo" and technical based heavy metal swing of Van Halen had just taken over The U.S. and growing world wide. So, out of nowhere, this small quiet blues and shuffle type of bar band from days gone by, appears, and left a huge mark on the music world, with the song, "Sultan's of Swing", a song which is a staple of every classic rock station.
The guy can play a guitar, that's for sure. Yacht rock. 3/5
Only worth it for the Sultan:s
This was much better than I expected. Sound is almost too clinical to my taste but surprise factor cover that. Otherwise there isn't much to say. Album rolled smoothly and than it ended, this as a positive thing.
First I was like Yeah! Then I was like Booooooring... Sultans of Swing saved something. That's all.
Another artist that suffers from my 80's music video overdosing, which ruined quite many bands for me, that I don't want to listen or it doesn't even dawn on me they might have something I would enjoy listening. While I enjoy Dire Straits playing and laid back style of music, I subconsciously feel like something horrible is about to play, all the time. It is a problem I have with surprisingly many bands, I'm finding out.
Down To The Waterline and Sultans Of Swing are absolutely fantastic tracks. Unfortunately the rest of the album doesn't live up to the same heights as those two. It drags on a bit. There were the occasional cool parts like the ending of In The Gallery but not enough imo Slightly high 3 because I definitely wouldn't complain if this was put on
My favorite Dire Straits release, love every song on here.
I could listen to this entire damn album over and over again. I actually did. On my regular rotation, which probably means I'm getting old. But damn, so smooth and easy.
This sounds like what you'd expect the first Dire Straits album to sound like bob, sure does bill, glad we had this conversation bob, me too bill.
This album is to blues what the yacht rock is to jazz. I have warm feelings for Dire Straits because they're a favorite of my father's, but I can't say that the music really does it for me.
Never listened to a Dire Straits album before. After hearing this, I'm not sure I need to listen to another one. Got bored pretty much immediately, too many slow tempo songs that kinda do the same thing from start to finish.
If I were to grade this one solely on the cover art...it's 2 stars. The music brings it up to 3, though. Good stuff. Not great stuff. But very good stuff. The opening track's guitar is a highlight for me. I think I still prefer Making Movies as being their best (both in terms of music and album art).
Toll. Aber ich mag die dire straits auch einfach sehr gern. 4.5 Sterne.
Que músicas gostosas de ouvir, e é o tipo de música que por si só nunca iria conhecer
- For a debut album, this is phenomenal, especially with Sultans of Swing - Considering the music that was around during 78, this album stands out with unique lyricism, tight musicality and stand out guitar licks - Mark Knopfler, I will forever love you
8.7/10 Extremely catchy, well produced, every instrument is totally in harmony with the next, flows nicely, well written songs, probably will fare worse on future listens.
9/10 Great songs, definitely some classics on the album. Only point I have is that I wish they did not fade out the songs during interesting guitar licks. Favourite songs: Sultans of swing (obviously) Setting me Up Least favorite songs: Six blade knife
Great country blues record. And specifically Mark Knopfler’s guitar tells a story without speaking a word. Sultans of Swing is obviously a classic, and a masterpiece and Southbound Again really shines!
Very nice guitaring
Fine but not worth adding to the library
Bonus points for Sultans of Swing but a 3 overall
Knopfler is the best singer-songwriter- guitarist there ever was.
say “thank you carrie brownstien” yes she is the reason i know who they are. i was not a huge fan of this album but i did enjoy sultants of swing and wild west end
Really loved all the tracks on this album - some of which I'd never heard before... Such virtuoso instrumentalists - a guitar act to aspire to.
I love finding new music and artists through this site. And I also love this type of scenario, becoming reacquainted with and artist/album that I absolutely loved when I first found them/it. In 1978 I was deeply into the standard classic rock of the day (Zep, Boston, Aerosmith, etc) and I was also exploring the newly emerging punk and electronic sounds in the background of the music world of the day. Along with Kraftwerk, Dire Straits absolutely blew me away with how different it was from anything I'd ever heard up to then. Of course I found out later about the music and artists that influenced Mark Knopfler, but for the longest time I couldn't listen to anything else, this album was as fresh and different as Duty Now For the Future, Autobahn, and Never Mind the Bollocks to me.
Some really great songs on this album. Sultans Of Swing has one of my favorite guitar solos on it. The other songs are great too with that same classic American rock vibe to it. I'm sure that I will listen to this one many more times.
Big fan of Mark Knopfler so happy that this album has turned up. Know this fairly well as my brother had this album early 80s. Have always found that Dire Straits stood out from other bands of the period. There is a slight eccentricity to DS music that went against the norm. Clever guitar picking, steel guitar, moody slide, bluesy with a hint of Chet Atkins country. Although, for a debut album, it seems a bit safe. Some tracks, 'down to the waterline', have a hint of Bob Dylan about them, which is no bad thing. Stand out track is clearly 'Sultans of Swing'. 4 stars from me.
Some classic songs on it but not anything crazy as a whole album to me
Not their best but Definitely good
its pretty alright, some better than others
Great Album! Playable front to back with some huge highs! Sultan of Swing is an all time contender.
Very nice. I saved it on Spotify and would love to listen to this album with close friends during a roadtrip.
Haven't heard this in awhile and forgot how good it is.
Down To The Waterline - Atmospheric intro. Playing is airy and crystal clear on the articulation. I liked that as an opener. Water Of Love - Western twang here. Again I really like how you can hear everything. "You know it's evil when you're living alone". Setting Me Up - Another twangy song. Solo is nice here. Six Blade Knife - I like the way the singer emotes on this one. Felt like an interstitial track. Southbound Again - Bouncy guitar rhythm. When a big strum comes in it's a pleasant break from the main rhythm. Could of used more of them. Sultans of Swing - Always liked this song growing up. Kinda crazy this band is British. They capture a vibe that feels uniquely American. This feels like a driving down the southwest album. In The Gallery - Not much to say about this one Wild West End - Full warm sound on this one, with a piano. Lions - Closes much how it ended This is a different take on rock music of the era. It's not a wall of whaling distortion, nor is it jam band noodling. It is a clean articulated sound that isn't trying to pull off any tricks. I'm not sure if I'll return to this band but I can respect it for being so understated.
nice twangy album, definitely see myself coming back to this if the mood is right
Saved Prior: Sultans of Swing Off Rip: Setting Me Up, In The Gallery Cutting Edge: None Overall Notes: Sounds like a good acoustic bar band but is terribly overrated. Don't even like Sultans of Swing that much
This album will always remind of when the grade 10 talent show when the teacher band played “sultans of swing”. Mr. Kulka could shred! In retrospect I shouldn’t have dared Matt Gies to yell, “SLAYER!” during the performance. What a couple of little shits we were.
70s Dire Straits > 80s Dire Straits Great funky sound. Really got into this.
Tom Petty meets Pink Floyd. Not my fave.
I wish all the songs were as groovy as Sultans of the Swing
Solid album. The best song on this is "In the Gallery" followed by Sultans of Swing.
Quite monotonous, bored my brain out for half an hour. No moment really stuck with me. That might change if I ever give it a few more listens but I have better things to do with my time than that.
Better than I expected.
This album is kinda boring to me :( 2/5
Når den kommer til slutningen - Sultans of Swing og derefter - begynder der at være lidt personlighed over den, men indtil da keder jeg mig gevaldigt. Dire Straits er helt sikkert gode musikere men de er ikke for mig
trækker en del op at det lyder fantastisk, trækker en del ned at jeg kedede mig ret meget
This album sounds _so_ good. Mark Knopfler was really before his time in having instrument separation and high dynamic range on his records.
This was great. I've obviously heard 'Sultans of Swing' before, but the rest of the album was new to me. There weren't any weak tracks. It was a little bit short, but there's no point padding an album with filler. I will make sure to listen again.
Good old Dire Straits - never fantastic but never terrible. Not many bands can achieve this and I think that honours them
Very evocative music. Album is cohesive. Guitar is plain but not overplayed, lots of motifs and fills but they aren't overplayed. Guitar playing doesn't come off as wanky either.
Hell yeah
# 381 : They've done a pretty decent job, good album. Sultans Of Swing is like one of my all time favourite tunes. It's all about the guitar of course, but it has its decent moments and overall is a well produced album. Honourable mention : Sultans
Best of the best. Fantastic. 10 outta 10. They're so genuinely good and unique, their music frequency is from another world, another time and dimension billions of light years in the past. "Her lucky stars give her just enough to get her home."
Just lovely. Delightful. So easy to listen to and to enjoy. 5
I have always loved the way Mark Knopfler plays, it sounds so effortless but it is so hard. Great tone, this album still sounds quite fresh. Dire Straits have a very iconic sound really enjoyed this one. Stand out tracks: - Down to the Waterline - Water of love - Six blade knife - Sultans of swing - Wild West end - Lions
Probably better than the other Dire Straits album generated, but still not really my thing. “Sultans of Swing” is a bop, though. 3
It was fun and chill. Enjoyable, but I'm not sure I would revisit.
I can see why they are so acclaimed
Really enjoyed this one overall. The guitar playing is incredible and Mark Knopfler’s voice works really well. Close to a 5/5.
"Finger likin' good". High points are the guitar and when amplified by a moving melody and lyrics pushes the songs to new heights. The album starts slow but gets the ball rolling with Sultans of Swing.
Solid Album some good listening
4 excellent songs in Water of Love, Setting me up, Sultans of Swing, and Wild West End. Lions is pretty good too and the rest is good enough
I found this a bit boring. I like the production and instrumentation but it gets a bit repetitive for me without going anywhere particularly interesting. II also think all the tracks sound kind of the same without anything really distinct. 3/3.5
Always found Dire Straits a bit bland and this was no different. Easiest 3* I've ever given.
Accomplished, intelligent, a little soft, a little measured. Some terrific tunes on here, but some are just ok. These guys always fall a bit in the middle for me. Even their highlights are somehow lower than everybody else’s, but it’s always an enjoyable ride.
Cooles Album.
I see Dire Straits - i give it 5
It's hard to not be impressed by the almost virtuoso level talents on the Guitar that Mark Knopfler has, but it's a slightly inconsistent album. Tracks like Sultans and Down by the Waterline are high points, a lot of what remains became a touch forgettable
Well, they definitely had a style and leaned heavily into it. It must be the way he plays his guitar, but nearly every song on this album sounds suspiciously similar to "Sultan of swings". I mean, it's not that I mind it, but it got a bit tiring as the album went on, to the point where the tracks started to blend together. Highlights: Sultans of Swing, Down to the waterline, Water of love 3.5 stars
Mark Knopfler found a tone setting that he liked and he made an entire album without touching the knob or bridge selection once. I have no qualms with that, he captured lightning and then let his picking style and phrasing take control. He is a master class in stripped down rock. There is no hiding imperfection when the gain is low, also there is no imperfection. Some songs are stronger than others and showcase this talent, but this album is easy listening, head rocking throughout
Ничё так
nice enough
Music snob here. I played this with low expectations but really enjoyed its sound and liked the lyrics too.
I listened to this before. I like Dire Straits a lot.
Debutalbum, det er ikke det mest oprørende, men det holder
4 stars for Down To the Waterline and Sultans of Swing. Lost one star because not every song sounds like Down To the Waterline and Sultans of Swing.
While sultan of swing is a great song the other on this album didn't speak to me att all. They were mostly ok but nothing I will listen to again I think.
Kind of the same noodley guitar that you expect from Dire Straits. I don't really think Dire Straits is for me.
Loved the guitar, interestingly I though 'Down to Waterline' is better than 'Sultans of Swing'
Sultans of Swing is so good! Then lots of the album is quite same-y, overall great sound
While seemingly following a bluesy base line, there’s lots of musical layering and lyrical creativity. It has an originality which was somewhat missing from the rock music scene in the ‘70’s and early 80’s.
COMPLETELY BRILLIANT - FROM THE SECOND THAT IT WAS RELEASED!
230/1001 🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑
This was even better than the other Dire Straits album we had. Really Chill and they really sound like the Bob Dylan of the 80s . Obviously Dylan made music in the 80s but not like this 4/5
Would listen daily to Dire Straits, just gives me warm and fuzzies.
A bit slower vide than I was expecting. Sultans of Swing was good, the rest was fairly enjoyable if not any real standouts.
- Two Dire Straits albums in one week? Cool. - Sultans of Swing and the opening track 🔥
Some kind of wonderful. Still my favorite Dire Straits album.
For me Dire Straits is always a pleasure to listen to
Gorgeous album, I see no flaws. I thoroughly enjoyed every track both old and 'new'. For me Dire Straits has such a specific, identifiable sound, you instantly know it's them - but they somehow created a different sound for almost every song. And these guys have never been a go to group for me, although I have always appreciated them - now I'm changing my mind : ) Walking in the Wild West End I didn't know it and now I can't stop listening to it
This one lives in its own world, picking from many genres, which is interesting. Although, it faded into the background for me, not resonating in the moment. I can appreciate it, but I'm not going back.
Not exactly classic rock. Not exactly blues. Not exactly rock n roll when compared to the volume levels of their peers - past and present. They exist in a world that eminates from Mark Knopfler's guitar. Immediately recognizable and infinitely listenable. An album that sounds great in the background - that is meant as a straight up compliment not faint praise.
An old favorite. One of their two best IMO.
Love their sound, and what an impressive debut album. I hadn't heard much of these outside "Sultans of Swing" but I really enjoyed it.
go back to it
This felt kind of like listening to one really long version of "Sultans of Swing" and I'm not necessarily complaining about that. Decent enough soundtrack to Sunday evening cooking. Singer's voice sounds so much like Bob Dylan to me. 3.5
The call and response of vocals to guitar on dire straits makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside
this one had an unbelievably generous listening conditions on my end. 4, but i'm not sure future me will agree
an extremely Dire Straits sounding Dire Straits album. 2.5 rounded up for Sultans of Swing
Unbelievable album and my first introduction to Dire Straits. From that first guitar riff I knew this album was special. Favorite Song: Sultans of Swing HM: Wild West End
Always like Dire Straits growing up. This album is really good. So incredibly chill. My main regret is waiting to do this while I was at work so I wasn't listening on my good headphones. I will definitely revisit this one.
A good classic rock album. Sultans of swing was a clear stand out but good all around. 3/5
3.5
Not for me.
Tähän on ehtinyt jo kyllästyä aika pahasti. 2/5
Monesti kuunneltu, mutta ansaitsee paikkansa kitararockin klassikkona.
Incredible production and recording. Good mix of mellow and some upbeat. An ethereal atmospheric quality that is unique to Dire Straits and some other British rock artists. Mark Knopfler solo guitar work is unique and stands out. Definitely listen to again. Great album from beginning to end.
Sultans of swing but an album. Complimentary. Moody riffs and solos. Killer debut album.
Definitely my favorite Dire Straits album. Mark Knopfler is a beast and his signature sound is really showcased on this one. His brother and the rest of the band sound great here too. Sultans Of Swing is such a well written song and is the highlight but really the whole album has no skips or filler.
Pretty good yacht rock album. It's a bit slow, but nice music. I like the hit song, Sultans of Swing. I don't have much to say about it, as usual. Decent album from a decent band. 3
Another band (and guitarist in Mark Knopfler) that I've been told I need to give a close listen to . . . let it roll . . . I never knew I thought Dire Straits have a sound, but once "Down To The Waterline" kicked in, I immediately thought this sounds like them. I can see this playing during the opening credits of Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas, driving with purpose somewhere around Barstow on the edge of the desert. The groove changes to a dreamily rolling bassa nova/calypso on "Water Of Love". and "Setting Me Up" blends a little country rock into their stylings. They are not afraid of showing a varitey of interests. Mark Knopfler sings with an attitude and spoken/sung voice somewhere between Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. "Sultans Of Swing" is the hit here, and it fantastic, but there really isn't a bad tune on the album. Dire Straits seem to be at their most self-assured when settling into a tight groove and playing funk in a bluesy southern rock; I even hear some similarities to Bill Withers on "In The Gallery". As for me, I prefer the relaxed rolling breeze of "Water Of Love" and "Wild West End".
A pleasant listen. Dad rock. Mature, thoughtful, capable. Always loved Sultans of Swing; still a great song.
REAALL funky. Loved the vibe. The classic Dire Straits guitar sounds elevates the groove of the songs. My suprising fave was "Setting Me Up". Never added so many songs to my favourites at once. Would even buy as a vinyl since the sound quality was great.
Really good. This is the type of rock that lives on forever.
got some classic songs on it but not something ill be returning to that much
Sultans of Swing. I remember listening to this being played live every summer with my gramma and cousins at a local restaurant. Those were the salad days.
Not as good as the other Dire Straits album. Only a couple of really good ones
Such a distinct sound. To me this is a great album.
Dang, this is pretty good!
7/10 Really unfortunate Love over Gold and Making Movies aren't on the list. This is not the best Dire Straits album. Other than the two highlights the songs are just still kinda bland. Amazing guitar playing of course. Highlights: Sultans of Swing Down to the Waterline
An impressive debut album, like the band came out with this sound fully formed. Sultans of Swing is a near perfect song and it is surrounded by more great music.
Coming into this album, the only song I’d heard was Sultans of Swing. Leaving this album, the only song I can remember is Sultans of Swing.
There's just some good guitar playing on this and everyone else is competent in a way we don't get to see too much outside of studio musicians touring with a star. An acquaintance saw him play and said is thumb was the fastest moving thing she ever saw. Good hooks. Sultans is a titanic song: story, capturing a feeling, climactic solo, come on!
Never realized how much the lead singer sounds like Bob Dylan. Had no expectations for this one other than Sultans of Swing being a classic. Easy listening, mostly enjoyed except for when the singer did that growly thing. 2.8/5
The vocals were hard to listen to at the end. And even in the beginning, it just sounds really lazy and uninteresting. The rest of the band picked up some of the slack from the vocals and kept me listening and engaged. If there was a different singer on the album, I'd maybe give it a 5, but good vocals are so important to me, especially on a first listen, that this ends up falling in rating for me. The band really is quite good, though. Give me the vocal-less tracks of the album, and I'd probably give it a good couple of listens. Favorite Song(s): Sultans of Swing
This album is so crisp with that dry late 70s drum sound and probably one of the best clean guitar tones ever recorded. High class playing throughout. Sultans of Swing is 10/10 but none of the other songs are quite in that league. A really impressive and enjoyable debut album but not enough great songs to be a 5. Call it 4.5 / 5.
Just an endless groove. Great roadtrip music.
This is wild for a debut album. Instrumentals are very tight, they've got a unique sound and are doing it really well. Great one to have on the list. Strong band.
I had listened to Brothers in Arms a lot, but this is my first time with this. Brothers is Arms might have a couple more hits, but this one feels more cohesive to me. I had this on while doing some work in the garage, having a cold beer, and it was great for that. Knopfler makes such unique choices on the guitar, it's something special. I will probably revisit this.
Dire
Really good
real bangers
Apart from S of S and some nifty guitar from MK this is a bit dull
Reminded me of why I love Rock so damn much. This album surprised me to say the least. I mean I knew that I liked the Dire Straits, but I had never sat through this album in particular before. Every song fucks. Gonna have to go pick this one up at the record store tomorrow...
Musica bastante clasica, me da aires a un buen disco para escuchar en un viaje de carretera.
Good album. I only knew a few songs from it, but the rest that were new to me were great to listen to!
I don't mind Dire Straits, but I've never listened to them on purpose.