Dire Straits – Brothers In Arms (2LP 180g)

There are hit records. And then there are blockbusters. One of the world”s best-selling records, a winner of two Grammy Awards, an era-defining reference statement, an MTV favorite, and a set that catapulted an already-acclaimed band to arena status, Dire Straits” Brothers in Arms is the kind of epic spectacular that comes around only once or twice a decade. Surpassed only in fame and visibility during the period by Michael Jackson”s Thriller, the 1985 album remains idiosyncratic for its covetable combination of adventurous songwriting, precision-based performances, and reference-caliber fidelity.

While it”s easy to speculate that the colossal success of Brothers in Arms relates to its timing – its release during an era obsessed with catchy singles, flashy MTV videos, and whistle-friendly melodies – reasons for the album”s chart-busting success primarily owe to the expertly crafted songs and memorable playing turned in by a group hitting its creative peak.

Anchored by “”Money for Nothing,”” a caustically themed smash immediately identifiable via Mark Knopfler”s resonant finger-picked guitar riff and Sting”s “”I want my MTV”” vocal refrain, Dire Straits” fifth album is stuffed with bluesy signatures, jazz-rock motifs, clever lyrics, and organic accents. Diversity and consistency also extend to the songs” moods. Singing with his trademark light-to-the-touch timbre, Knopfler conjures feelings of poignancy, peacefulness, and mellowness, channeling wistfulness on the Top 10 single “”So Far Away”” and somber assurance on “”Why Worry.””

• 1 So Far Away
• 2 Money for Nothing
• 3 Walk of Life
• 4 Your Latest Trick
• 5 Why Worry?
• 6 Ride Across the River
• 7 The Man’s Too Strong
• 8 One World
• 9 Brothers in Arms