Dire Straits, led by guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Mark Knopfler, were at the top of their game when this stunning concert was captured for the King Biscuit Flower Hour Radio Concert Series at the Majestic Theater in San Antonio, Texas in August of 1985. The band had just released Brothers in Arms, which received rave reviews, a Grammy, and sales of over 10 million copies. At the time, it was a new album, and neither the audience nor the band had any idea how much impact it would have on music fans…entire summary
Mark Knopfler - vocals, guitar
Jack Sonni - guitar
John Illsey - bass, vocals
Guy Fletcher - keyboards, vocals
Alan Clark - keyboards, vocals
Terry Williams - drums
Chris White - saxophone, flute
Dire Straits, led by guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Mark Knopfler, were at the top of their game when this stunning concert was captured for the King Biscuit Flower Hour Radio Concert Series at the Majestic Theater in San Antonio, Texas in August of 1985. The band had just released Brothers in Arms, which received rave reviews, a Grammy, and sales of over 10 million copies. At the time, it was a new album, and neither the audience nor the band had any idea how much impact it would have on music fans worldwide.
Dire Straits, with the distinct writing, guitar work and vocals of Knopfler, had already released several brilliant albums (including its debut LP and 1980’s Making Movies). But no one was prepared for the sheer brilliance of Brothers in Arms. Opening with the African flavored "Ride Across The River," the band plays nearly the entire album during this show, along with several of the older hits, including "Sultans Of Swing,” "Tunnel Of Love,” "Romeo & Juliet,” "Solid Rock” and "Expresso Love.” They offer a great version of "Wild West End” which blends into "Newcastle Interlude.”
However, it is the new material from Brothers in Arms that makes this recording so special. "Why Worry,” "Walk Of Life,” "Money For Nothing” and the poignant title track, "Brothers In Arms,” are all played with the same amazing precision as on the album, but with more convincing vocals from Knopfler. The pensive "Going Home” is the final encore, and sends the crowd home with a warm glow about them, content with what they’ve just seen and heard.
Although the band has never officially broken up, it has been over ten years since Knopfler took Dire Straits on the road. He now focuses on a country-flavored solo career and a steady stream of film soundtrack projects.
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