aLCHEMY was released in 1984, the same year I started playing guitar, and I consider it a seminal album in my development as a guitarist.
This is one of my favorite live albums. Mark Knopfler’s playing is inspired, the arrangements are fresh, and the band is full of energy & keeps pace with him.
In addition to his tasty guitar playing, Mark’s songwriting skills are on full display, with great tunes like Telegraph Road, Romeo & Juliet, Tunnel of Love, Once Upon a Time in the West, etc. But my favorite track will always be Sultans of Swing. What a powerhouse version of this song! The studio version, though still excellent, is more of a mellow bluesy bar band kind of tune. They took that and turned into a rock anthem, and it works. And, needless to say, Mark’s solos on this one (particularly the ending) are absolutely brilliant. Enjoy!
No related posts.