Sultans of Swing, Dire Straits - ALCHEMY VIDEO Reaction & Rating
Вставка
- Опубліковано 25 вер 2024
- Rock Drummer Reacts and Rates - Get ready for a rhythmic journey as a seasoned rock drummer, delves into the beats, fills, and musical intricacies of Dire Straits' live version of 'Sultans of Swing' - Alchemy
In this episode, I’ll break down the song's overall musicality. As the song unfolds, watch me react to the twists and turns and finish the video with an overall rating of the track.
Whether you're a fellow drummer or simply a music enthusiast, this reaction promises to add a unique dimension to your listening experience. Join me as we explore the beats that make the music come alive!
From Wikipedia:
Alchemy: Dire Straits Live is a double album and the first live album by the British rock band Dire Straits, released in March 1984[4] by Vertigo Records internationally, and by Warner Bros. Records in the United States. Recorded at the Hammersmith Odeon in London on 22-23 July 1983, the album features songs from the band's first four albums, the ExtendedancEPlay EP and Mark Knopfler's Local Hero soundtrack. Many of the songs have reworked arrangements and extended improvisational segments. The album cover is taken from a painting by Brett Whiteley.
Alchemy: Dire Straits Live was remastered and reissued with the rest of the Dire Straits catalogue in 1996 for most of the world outside the United States and was remastered and re-released in the USA on 8 May 2001.
In November 2023, Alchemy was re-released and expanded for the box set Live 1978-1992.
Recording
Alchemy: Dire Straits Live was recorded live at the Hammersmith Odeon in London on 22-23 July 1983, the final two concerts of Dire Straits' eight-month Love Over Gold Tour promoting their album Love Over Gold. The concerts were recorded by Mick McKenna using the Rolling Stones Mobile unit. The recording was mixed at AIR Studios in London in November 1983[2] where Nigel Walker was the engineer.
The opening track, "Once Upon a Time in the West" is preceded by an uncredited version of the "Stargazer" instrumental from the Local Hero soundtrack. "Tunnel of Love" is preceded by an otherwise unrecorded instrumental (actually faded in from the extended coda of "Portobello Belle", which was left off the album), already played on the 1981 tour, but here re-arranged to showcase Mel Collins' saxophone. It is followed by the brief "Carousel Waltz" intro and standard version of the song (with improvisation sections).
Cover artwork
The album cover artwork was adapted from a section of a painting by Brett Whiteley titled Alchemy 1974.[2] Alchemy is a hypothetical process once believed to turn ordinary elements into gold. The image of a guitar with lips held by a hand was added for the album design and covers sexually suggestive imagery in the original. The original painting, done between 1972 and 1973, was composed of many different elements and on 18 wood panels 203 cm x 1615 cm x 9 cm. In terms of media it used everything from feathers and part of a bird's nest to a glass eye, shell, plugs and brain in a work that becomes a transmutation of sexual organic landscapes and mindscapes. It has been regarded as a self-portrait, a giant outpouring of energy and ideas brought forth over a long period of time.
Critical reception
Reviewing retrospectively for AllMusic, critic William Ruhlmann wrote of the album "There is an interesting contrast .... between the music, much of which is slow and moody, with Mark Knopfler's muttered vocals and large helpings of his fingerpicking on what sounds like an amplified Spanish guitar, and the audience response. The arena-size crowd cheers wildly, and claps and sings along when given half a chance, as though each song were an up-tempo rocker." Ruhlmann concludes, "The CD version of the album contains one extra track, "Love Over Gold," which adds a needed change of pace to the otherwise slow-moving first disc."[5]
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. No copyright infringement intended. ALL RIGHTS BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS
No computers, no auto tune just REAL music!
This, I miss. A lot of new music is enhanced and synthesized. Today, a high-level musician is a tech person. Thanks for watching these old-school virtuosos.
The album specifically says no overdubs. What they played is what you get.
@@llarose THESE are the BEST ones keep them coming chief 🎵🥁👌
im a huge dire straits fan.... But i like autotune and stuffs....Now get the f out Lil Btcch
One of the greatest live performances EVER! ❤️🇦🇺
No doubt! Some live performances stand out as truly iconic.
I agree.... TOTALLY!
My favourite music recording ever, it gives me chills. I love the original, but this is phenomenal. The band is so tight, and so enjoying being at the top of their game!
YES!
Who needs a studio?!
I am 68 years old and as a lifelong admirer of David Gilmour and Pink Floyd, I was convinced I would never hear another guitarist who could evoke similar levels of emotion in me. The day I stumbled across this performance by Mark Knopfler was one I will remember for the rest of my life and having since watched it perhaps more than a hundred times I still tear up, just as I do when David plays. Straight up genius.
I completely agree with your assessment. There is a fair share of love on this playlist for both men. Thanks for watching.
@@llarose They take me on different journeys but the destination is the same. Euphoria. Thank you for your enjoyable and knowledgeable reaction. You have a new subscriber 😀
I am 78 years old and my experience with both PF and DS parallels yours exactly. Gilmour's solo on Comfortably Numb ( Pulse ) and Knopfler's here on Sultans of Swing ( Alchemy ) never fail to bring me to the edge of my emotions. Tearing up is a perfectly natural response to extraordinary beauty, whether it is beheld in the natural world or the creations of humankind.
@@jaycorby Your sentiment resonates deeply. Age knows no bounds when it comes to the profound impact of music. Gilmour's solo on "Comfortably Numb" and Knopfler's on "Sultans of Swing" are timeless expressions of musical genius, capable of stirring emotions in listeners of all ages. It's a testament to the transcendent power of art-to move us to the brink of tears with its extraordinary beauty. Thank you for sharing your experience and appreciation for these iconic performances. 🎶🙏
@@llarose HERE.HERE 👌🏴🎼🎼🎵
What sets this performance apart from many others is no matter how many times you watch it, it always elevates your senses to such a high level. Very few if any seem to have the same effect.
Absolutely! The magic of this performance lies in its timeless ability to elevate the senses. Agree.
I find it difficult to get through a day without watching this at least once 😊
@@viviennerose6858 Please watch it here! Lol. It really is uplifting. When shit hits the fan, I go to God, then music:)
@@viviennerose6858 too true!!!
It is what I call "catching lightning in a bottle" I agree with all the comments here. A once in a lifetime astounding performance. It has affected and entertainment countless millions of rock music fans for decades since it was recorded. Like others, I watch it almost every evening, and have not tired of listening to it yet!
Terry Williams is a great drummer. Legend has it that this was the first show his father was present at, so he did even more.
No wonder his energy is off the charts! Thanks for watching!
That is a fact. I’ve loved Terry since his early days with Welsh band Man.
Great to see Terry getting some camera love!
@@utoobia that thumbs up was only a fraction of Terry’s influence on ‘modern’ drumming. 😁
Rollicking along at a blistering pace. The drums made itstand out.
My brother, who played guitar reasonable well, watched this back when it first came out and said: "I'm not sure what he is doing is physically possible." I've seen this/heard it probably more than a thousand times (I'm an old) and the height of it still gives me chills.
I agree, the way he contorts his hand and finger movements are unreal (and relaxed). Thanks for watching.
Just when you thought they had reached their crescendo, they took it to a whole new level and then some . Truly one of the all time best performances of all time
"Whole new level and then some"? You're speaking my language! This Sultans just gave me goosebumps the size of Wembley Stadium. Thanks for wwtching
Dire straits were always a musicians band, they were so tight.
Agree. Watching these live performances with you all on the channel here has really opened my eyes wider to the depth of not only MK, but the entire ensemble that is called DS.
I'm, a 76 year old, old lady, English, Mr Knopfler is 2 years younger than me, so l remember them well.
What I can't understand is how does he do it, writes the words, music for all instruments, arranges it, sings it and plays his guitar as only he can, the mans a genius, no other word for him.
All of this song you've just reacted to, comes from him.
Now you say you don't like to react to video more than once, but if you didn't react to this concerts Telegraph Road, you've missed another masterpiece, it was the last song of the concert, and it was still 500%. Other reactors have reacted again to this concert when comments have asked, so you won't be the only one.
It really is worth it ❤
Telegraph Road. You're not wrong. I might just have to bend my no-repeat rule for that epic closer. Consider it a tribute to your 76 years of rockin' spirit! Thanks for the tip!
I’m 74 and have seen them live Twice ❤
Whadya expect he's a Geordie ! From the coaly Tyne, no less..........
This is an incredible performance, and the more you listen to it, the more you notice how Terry is respnding and glued to Marks fills. Truly awsome work.
To this day, this is the go-to display of Mark's prowess and even regular folks talk about... the drummer! That's how good Terry's work is here.
This is a rare song, where I see a drummer (Terry) change the tempo of the song, where there wasn't suppose to be - and the other musicians were perfectly tranquil and simpatico with it. Early in the song, you can see MK glance back at Terry with a mischievous and approving smile. Very cool performance. Thanks for watching.
You're absolutely right on that. When the tempo speeds back up Mark turns around, to Terry. I always imagine he says "take us home". 😊
I was at this gig and even 40 years later, its still up there!
They were having fun and so did we.
We knew Mark was good, but Terry Williams on the drums was world class, every fill was perfect, he played like that for over two hours, Telegraph Road was the encore.
The biggest "problem" is that all of them were on top of their game, Mark, of course, lead guitar Hal Lindes, Rhythm guitar, John Illsley, Bass, Alan Clark, keys, Tommy Mandel, back up keys and the wonderful Terry Williams on the drums (They should have had a camera on him al night)
Masterpiece +
Hearing stories like yours is awesome! You were there for a masterpiece, and Terry's drumming truly was exceptional, along with every other member's playing (MK was stellar here). Thanks for sharing your memories and keeping the Alchemy magic alive!
Lucky basterd 😂
@richard - wow, lucky guy !
How loud were they?
You are a very lucky bastard you know! I am happy for you you were there, I had the chance to see his live performance in 2013 long way after the band has separated.
Just say it. The best live performance of any band ever.
The energy and artistry they brought to the stage during that show are truly exceptional.
Other than Pink Floyd Comfortably Numb, pulse live. That performance is still my favorite, but this one from Dire Straits is almost tied with it, like super close.
Another wonderful reaction to a masterpiece. Terry Williams was one of the greatest. What a band. There's nothing more to be said of Knopfler. Musical genius and deserving of his virtuoso position in the music world. One of a kind.
Beautifully said! This comment alone deserves an encore. ✨ I'm always amazed by how music connects us - thanks for reminding me why I do this. Thanks for watching!
Absolutely agree
Wdym was? Still is.
100%
For me this is one of the best live performance's ever, all of them are great musicians, thanks for your reaction
MK's solo(s) here are pure lightning, and the rhythm bros lock in like a well-oiled groove machine:)
This live performance is the absolute best ever👍
No argument at all. It is music nirvana. Thanks for watching.
Well, for me on the "Brothers in Arms-Tour" they brought an additional layer to the song with Chris White´s Saxophone. For me this was the peak of the song.
Nothing beats this. The best live performance ever!!😊😊😊
It is/was soooooo good! Thanks for watching.
Alchemy is the best most perfect and recorded live perfomance in history. To me at least..
To you and thousands of other music enthusiasts:) Thanks for watching.
And to me too
This is a MASTERPIECE, PERIOD
Yes it is that:)
Even after 40 years, its the greatest Live Album ever recorded ever ! I never get sick of listening to it.
This is a very special show. Telegraph Road coming up Feb 8:) Thanks for watching.
I always love Mark's cheeky little grin at the end. "We fookin' KILLED it, aye!" Yes you did, lads. Killed it fookin' deed.
You'll note here that Hal Lindes can certainly twang out a decent solo on his Telecaster. Knopfler is well known for using all the available talent. When I saw them them do "So Far Away" here in Melbourne, Australia in 1986, for the intro, Mark, Jack Sonni (took over Rhythm from Lindes), John Illsley (bass) and Guy Fletcher (one of the keyboard players) came on all playing nylon string six-string acoustics. They all took turns throwing the solo around, showing off they were not one-trick ponies before peeling off to their usual station and belting the song out.
Mark's grin at the end definitely reflects the satisfaction of a job well done! And you're spot on about Hal Lindes' Telecaster solo - Your experience seeing them in Melbourne sounds absolutely unforgettable. What a treat to witness such camaraderie among the band members. Thank you for sharing this memorable moment with us!
That drumming was absolute fire.Terry Williams was absolutely spectacular,what a performance!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
You're not kidding! Every fill, every crash, Terry 'owns' that kit. Thanks for watching.
Terry stole the show, not something that happens to Knopfler normally.
The sound mix was horrid, his performance was gross because it crushed the guitar work of Mark.
@@denroy3 240 million views disagree with that analysis as does literally nearly every other reaction video to this amazing tune and performance.
I don't know what you were watching
What makes Mark it even more of a genius is that he is naturally left handed but plays right handed.
Great intel. Didn't know that. Thanks for watching. "Tunnel of Love" is up next from the same concert:)
OMG THANK YOU for not constantly interrupting this amazing Masterpiece!!! my daily fix btw. I will never tire of hearing it love from uk❤
You're welcome! It's such a timeless masterpiece, and I'm happy you enjoyed the reaction. Sending love right back to the UK! ❤️ (and its many amazing musicians)
Mine too! I watch At Least once every day from the UK 😊
About Terry and the differences between the studio version and this AWESOME live version, for me the most important is the drums. First drummer of the band, Pick Withers has a complete different feeling. He was the only profesional musician of the band, he was more a jazz drummer, but Terry Williams is more energic, gives more power to all songs, and he has incredible tecnic skills. Sometimes I can feel Keith Moon's shadow in this songs, even more on Telegraph Road (for me the best Diré Straits` song) Alchemy is the BEST live album ever recorded (Even without the three songs cut from the concert and released FEW weeks ago)
Terry brought the eat, no doubt. And that's no insult to Pick Withers, a fine musician. What's not to love about DS with either/or? My take on Tunnel of Love with Pick Withers (Studio version) ua-cam.com/video/ewHtF6eULfw/v-deo.html - and a fun fact: I'm playing 'Tunnel of Love' in the small clip at the beginning of this video:)
😊@@llarose
Happy Birthday, Terry Williams, 76 today (Jan 11, 2024)🎉!
Cheers to Terry Williams on turning 76 today! Alchemy wouldn't be the same without his powerhouse drumming.
It doesn't get any better than this!
Agreed! "Alchemy" is pure perfection. Thanks for tuning in and rocking out with me! 🎸
Mark is a genius. Nice to see people are memorized by this performance as I was back in the day it was released.
He's a very special musician with unique talent. Thanks for watching.
That's why I always prefer a live version. There's freedom and creative juices and the crowd energy all combined.
Ditto! You hit the nail on the head! Live music captures something special, raw energy and magic you can't quite bottle in the studio. I love how the band takes risks, and feeds off the crowd.
One of the best live performance ever.
Those boys truly turned "pub band" into a global phenomenon. Thanks for watching!
My favourite track ever! Musicians of the highest level!
Couldn't agree more. Just when you think the song can't get better, it keeps outshining itself every 30 seconds:)
I’ve watched this video at least 25 times and I get chills every time. The drummer was completely awesome!
Agree and agree! Thanks for watching.
Only 25 times? That’s not much …but I’m sure more to follow …😊
Telegraph Road from this same venue is 10/10, probably their best performance of the night. Terry williams and Alan clarke on the keys there are insane and by far their best telegraph road performance ever.
I'm trying not to duplicate songs on this rather humble playlist yet. I'm sure I'll give it a listen though. Thanks for watching:)
Agree
@@llarose Check out "Calling Elvis" from the video _On the Night._ Two drummers up there!
best live performance ever!!! in my opinion👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Dude, I'm stoked that you think it's the best live performance ever! I had a blast putting this rather amateurish video together. Stay tuned for more awesome content!
It's alway fun to watch Mark reaction after Terry nails it at 4:15
That was an awesome fill! Thanks for watching.
Listen, this is one of the if not the greatest live performances ever! If not, show me a better performance with energy and musicianship!! Masterpiece indeed!
This Alchemy Sultans is pure fire! Musicianship on point. Masterpiece confirmed. Thanks for watching!
One of the best Live Performances ever!
Impossible to disagree with!
great commentary, love it. thanks for reviewing so honestly. and yes, full credit to all the band... but you gotta say, terry williams NAILS it!
Absolutely, Terry Williams delivers an incredible performance on the drums. Each member of the band contributes to making it such a memorable performance. Thanks for the kind words and watching.
Great reaction, Larry! Maybe the best live performance ever.
High praise! "Sultans of Swing" definitely comes alive live here. This is electric. Thanks for sharing the hype! Thanks for watching!
I'm generally not a huge fan of Dire Straits but this song, on this night, is one of the greatest performances of all time. Musical perfection.
Absolutely! It's incredible how even those not typically fans of Dire Straits can appreciate the sheer brilliance of their performance in "Sultans of Swing" from the Alchemy album. Thanks for highlighting this unforgettable moment!
Undoubtedly, the best live musical performance I've been witnessing ❤
Thanks a lot for this beautiful reaction.
Thank you too! This was stunning!
Anything from Alchemy is 🔥 🔥
Alchemy: pure fire from start to finish. No arguments here. Thank you for watching!
You’ve GOT to listen to Queen’s live performance at the 1985 Live Aid concert that was available to 2.5 Billion viewers around the world, AND their performance of “Somebody To Love” at Montreal in 1981.
This is now the most requested Queen song here on the channel. I will def. get to it. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for another great Dire Straits reaction! Such an exceptional performance from the entire band. For songs that you haven't already reacted to maybe try 'Once Upon A Time in the West' or 'Private Investigations' from Alchemy.
Thank you 🙏 - nice requests!! Those 2 songs I haven’t heard in eons.
You hit the nail on the head - so much fun being had by absolutely everyone there audience and band both. The delight of the musicians sharing their talents and enjoying the whole process. Such a joy. Thanks for you review
Glad you enjoyed it! Simply an astonishing performance. Thanks for watching.
Drummer was Terry Williams. Awesome!
Amazing drummer - Amazing everything! Thanks for watching.
one of the greatest band ever..... So much underrated band
Dire Straits is one of those bands that doesn’t always get the credit they deserve, but their music speaks for itself. Thank you for watching!
The drummer knows Knofler's phrasing on guitar, and duplicates it.
Terry and Mark, two halves of a whole! That drumming is like Knopfler's guitar speaking in rhythm! Thanks for watching. You got me thinking of Bonham/Page as well.
I’m 62 and a big Mark Knopfler fan. In fact, in writing this now I realize that he’s been my favorite musician since I first heard him in the 70’s w/ Sultans of Swing. I could always tell his guitar from the first note on the radio or track that I would hear. Larry, if I may call you by your first name, thank you for your open and gracious feedback as a musician. The elements that I think are striking to most everyone are Mark Knopfler’s relaxed style of playing with seeming ease such beautiful variations within the song that all work really, really well. I can’t go into his talent or I’ll be here for hours. But to me, a non musician, I feel that he plays the electric guitar like a violin. Bringing deep joy or sorrow and every emotion in between when he wants to. The next is how tight the band is. As you said, props to the individual performances of each and every one of them. The are all letting it all hang out together, in tune and complementary with each other. I love, love how Mark communicates with each of his band mates. And the thing that I really appreciated is you emphasizing how much FUN they are all having! To be so relaxed while also being so dynamic is a testament to all in the band. Now let’s talk about the drummer. How talented is he!? And how much fun he’s having, both watching Mark very closely and intently, keeping tempo. At times, supporting, leading and during those short guitar intervals how he lets loose and runs way ahead of the pack for about 3 seconds with a brilliant drum riff and then quickly comes back to the pack and supports again. So, so good, and so so FUN! Brilliant!
Thank you so much for your detailed comment! It's truly wonderful to hear from such a dedicated Mark Knopfler fan like yourself. I'm glad you enjoyed my analysis of the band's performance. Mark's guitar playing is indeed like poetry in motion, and the chemistry among the band members is mind-blowing. And yes, let's not forget Terry Williams' incredible drumming - his talent and energy are a key part of what makes Dire Straits so special. Rock on, and keep enjoying the music! 🎸🥁
Simply the best live performance ever, simply the best.
High praise. No argument here:)
Cool reaction mate. Once Upon A Time In The West from this concert is amazing and for something a little different, Calling Elvis Live Dire Straits"on The Night" 1993 will blow your mind away especially towards the end where the surprises just keep coming. Love your channel. Cheers from Australia 👍🎸🎸🎸
Thanks Bro, I'll give them a spin, and since there is a real appetite for more DS and MK, I'll plunk a few down here. Cheers from Brazil:)
That was masterful, Mark is so coool and Terry Williams smashing that out Wow!.
Knopfler's groove was unreal, and Williams kept the energy sky-high with those killer fills!
Mark has the coolest way of phrasing his lyrics
Amazing talent!
No argument. Thanks for watching.
Yes one of the best recorded live songs ever, always a pleasure to hear it ❤
They killed it! Thanks for watching.
Terry Williams' left hand is so quick on the snare! One of the most impressive drumming performances I've ever seen.
Agree. His precision adds so much to this performance.
What an absolute headbanger
A very fun headbanger! Thanks for watching.
You can tell by the way they are looking and smiling at each other that they know they are on fire and playing above themselves and they are going to give the audience something they wont forget
Absolutely, they were on fire and in the ‘zone’ They (and the audience) enjoyed every minute. Thanks for watching.
You are most welcome. Cheers@@llarose
I've never seen a band have so much fun giving a performance.............goes to show that all those rehearsals, day in and day out, are all worth it in the end.
It's incredible when a band's joy and camaraderie shine through in their performance!
Agree - pure brilliance!!!
Really had everything! Thanks for watching.
I have watched this live version probably 50 times! I love it!! Love Mark Knoefler one of the best finger picking guitarists of all time. Did you see Mark’s reaction when he realized how great the drummer was? It was his first concert with them and his Dad was in the audience loving it! What a great 13 minute riff! ❤️👍🔥
Yes, and MK looked back when Terry sped up the tempo with an approving and devious smile. What fun these guys had that night!
They recorded this video their last two touring nights, on home turf, after a year of relentless live work. At their absolute peak performance here.
Nice intel, a family affair by the sounds of it. Terry's parents were in the audience.
Sultans of Swing is my all time favourite, second Tunnel of Love I listen to Dire Straits all the time.
Great taste! Here's my take on 'Tunnel Of Love' ua-cam.com/video/ewHtF6eULfw/v-deo.html - Thanks for tuning in.
From what I understand the drummer’s dad was in the audience to hear his son play live for the first time,
You are correct. That surely had Terry put an extra bounce (or hand) in his playing. Beautiful performance.
So Far Away - live in Sydney - a fantastic twisty take on a beautiful song. Would love to see that one! Love the reactions. Thank you Larry!
Thank you for the recommendation and watching.
I love seeing someone enjoy the music that I have been enjoying for the last forty years in that way. I was ten years old when I bought this album and not a week goes by without me listening to some song. Thank you for your video and your great reaction and comments
Thanks for sharing your long-standing love for the music! It's incredible how these songs stay with us for decades, isn't it? Appreciate your support and glad you enjoyed the reaction! Thank you for watching.
Really enjoyed your session Larry, thanks... Terry was just on fire there - a masterpiece indeed! Drums: thought you might appreciate Jaki's drumming on Vitamin C by Can from 1972 - my top drummer I guess from an influential but little known band. Led Zep: try - Since I've Been Loving You (live). Bye.
Thank you for the kind words! Terry's performance was indeed outstanding. Vit C? That's a new one for me. I'll definitely check out the live version of "Since I've Been Loving You" by Led Zeppelin. Thanks for watching.
I like the way you do your reaction. A new subscriber
Thank you for subscribing and for enjoying the reaction! Glad to have you on board. Stay tuned for more great content.
I haven’t seen enough reactions to once upon a time in the west from alchemy. Another incredible performance
You're amongst dozens that have requested this specific song from Alchemy. Haven't heard it yet at this concert. Queuing up! Thanks for watching.
Great review. Completely agree. One of the greatest live performances of all time.
It truly is a live beast. Thanks for watching!
I have watched this performance no less than 50 tines!!! I’m a drummer as well. One of my all time favorite performances. Thanks for the review!
That is awesome! I think I'll follow suit.
My opinion, the finest live session on stage ever.
The Alchemy version of "Sultans of Swing" knocked me over, no doubt. It's one of the finest live performances captured on stage-Mark Knopfler's guitar work is simply mesmerizing, and the energy from the band is unmatched. Many fans feel the same way, that this live version is a pinnacle of musicianship.
Thank you for watching!
I so wish there was a seperate camera on the drummer for this performance . Great reaction.
Ditto, would love to see Terry throughout the entire song. Telegraph Road (Alchemy) coming up next Wednesday. Thanks for watching.
Love your reaction to this Masterpiece! Greetings from 🇮🇪
Muchas gracias por las amables palabras y por mirar!
Fantastic reaction from a great drummer too..
I appreciate the kind words 🙏🎶
Chops to Knops.......that was beyond indescribable.
I lost count of how many solos were in this song. Lol. He's amazing. Thanks for watching.
The studio version of this is one of the best songs for cruising.
It's nice that you enjoyed it so much.🤗
What I love about this clip is how much fun they're having.
Making a living like that wouldn't suck.
Exactly my sentiments. That concert looks like a bog 'happy-fest' Great job, eh? Thanks for watching
Yes, this is a big venue concert, "make it loud" performance. I don't think it really is the same song. It's ok.
10/10 this song rocks like no other!
10/10 agreed! This Alchemy Sultans is pure wildfire! Thanks for watching!
Believe me, Telegraaf Road from Alchemy live is a must. Because if you thought Sultans of Swing was great, Telegraaf Road will not disappoint you.
Consider my Dire Straits journey officially extended. Thanks for the recommendation!
@@llaroseyou will not regret it. Telegraph Road (Alchemy) is next level, musically, technically, ...
@@llarose There isn't a weak track on the whole Alchemy album. Do yourself a favour and play it in full! Terry's machine gun drumming carries it throughout.
absolutely LOVED your reaction ❤❤
This is the best live performance ever❤
It's pretty damn great! Thanks for the kind words and watching.
The part that caught my attention with this piece, among many others, is when during one of Mark's solos, he did a sort of rapid chicken plucking. He was mimicking one of the drummers sub-themes, going "tat tat tatta, ta tat tat tah". Its hard for a dumb ass like me to describe, but it was a rhythm that the drummer was playing. So fine to hear it.
Absolutely, Mark's ability to mimic and complement the drummer's rhythm is phenomenal. That rapid chicken plucking moment is pure genius and a testament to his talent. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Thank you for watching! 🎸🥁
🧡🤎💛 Great reaction, sir. You're new on my UA-cam feed, and I've seen this video reacted to countless times, but I saw you were a drummer, so no hesitation at all in tapping the Play button! 😘 The drummer extraordinaire, Terry Williams, had his dad in the audience for the first time, so he was just a little hyped - which is why the tempo is faster than the studio, much to Mark's amusement, they all had no choice but to keep up. I also enjoy seeing how much fun the band was having. Chemistry is everything. 🔥I melt every time Mark smiles - he Knew he, and the whole band, was on fire that night.🔥 🎸The speed of his picking (with no pick no less) is a sight to behold. That's his brother playing rhythm. 🎸
Terry's drumming is 🥁P.H.E.N.O.M.E.N.A.L.🥁
I wish there was a separate video of just him on drums. I love Dire Straits and I love this song, but I could watch this particular Alchemy performance every day and never get tired of it.
I have the concert on Blu-ray, and on a 65" screen with a kickass stereo system it's almost like being there. I got to see them once, in Milwaukee 1983, during their Brothers in Arms tour.
The list of songs I could suggest is extensive, but one in particular, the Official video of Walk of Life, is guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face! 🍀
Thanks a lot for the kind words and for tuning in! Love hearing from another drum enthusiast. Terry Williams really brought the heat that night, didn't he? The energy and chemistry among the band members were palpable, and Mark's smile said it all-they were absolutely on fire. His guitar skills are something else! And yeah, it's always special to have a personal connection to a band or song. I'll definitely check out the Official video of Walk of Life-it sounds like a blast! Thanks for the recommendation!
At 4:20 in your video, you can see Mark turn around and look at Terry (drummer) in amazement. What a performance!!
Great catch at 4:20! That moment when Mark turns to Terry says it all-pure amazement and appreciation for such a killer performance. Thanks for pointing that out and for listening!
Thank goodness, a reviewer who listens and know what he is talking about. Larry, you are a breath of fresh air in the "reviewer" world.
I appreciate the kind words. Nothing fancy and no gimmicks. I'm honest about what I'm seeing and hearing. I hope I'm adding a bit of value. Fun fact: I'm trying hard not to 'only' listen to the music through the eyes of the drummer purposefully, so that I can balance my understanding of these arrangements and thus, the commentary.
I think the point you were trying to articulate initially afterwards was the fact that their clearly intense training and rehearsal has paid off to free them up in concert to just have fun with it to the point that their instruments is no longer something they operate, but has become an extension of their own bodies and bodily expressions. The true meaning of the word "natural". Everything was just themselves moving their bodies naturally with the instruments as part of their bodies. They became one with their instruments. Notice that both the drummer and Mark Knopfler himself hardly ever even look at their drumkit and guitar as they play. They don't have to look to see what drum or note they hit. It just flows out of their bodies in complete unison. It transcends from professional craftsmanship to pure expression.
Yes and yes, very well articulated! Thanks for watching
Just watched this with you as you suggested, I will never tire of this particular performance, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen it and I get shivers every single time! Mark is from another planet with such a gift, so cool and laid back all the time..Genius! I loved at the end when you couldn’t find the words…that said it all ❤ every single one of them were on fire! Thank you!
Great to hear! That's what's so inspiring about MK. Yes, his storytelling is amazing, but he pulls of all this brilliance nonchalantly. Thanks for watching. Alchemy's Telegraph Road coming up on Feb 14:)
Ive been rockin since 10 years old with cliff richard in uk and i swear this band blows my doors off
Peak DS years here. That performance blew me away. The entire band and crowd were on fire.
Did it make the list
It's my favorite song to watch reaction to
Great reaction
"Sultans of Swing" def. made the cut!
Hi Larry, if you have not heard Dire Straits playing Private Investigations live give it a go, very special.
I haven't and I will:) Thanks for watching.
This is still the best thing I have ever seen live at the time it was great it only got better
"Alchemy" is pure gold! It just keeps getting better with time. Thanks for sharing your love for it and for watching! 🎸🔥
First time viewer. Thank you for the reaction on this performance. Fun fact: Mark is left handed. Fun Fact #2: Mark was an English teacher before he started this band.
Terry 'The Wild Welshman' Williams on drums almost stole the show here, lol. Pure rock drummer and one of the best.
The legend that this was the first show Terry's dad had been to is not true but it just won't die. Just one example: Terry came over from the band Rockpile (Dave Edmunds band) and while playing with them he flew his parents to the U.S. so they could have a little vacation and attend some of Rockpile's concerts. This was pre Dire Straits so yeah, that 'legend' is a fabrication.
How about reviewing Lynyrd Skynyrd Live at Oakland's 'FREEBIRD" performance.
Thanks again for the review and I subscribed.
Welcome aboard. I appreciate your words. Williams was fun to watch in this video. Before I started this channel, I wrote a long list of songs that (if given the time) I would def. like revisiting, and, yes, Freebird is now queued up. After covering 'That Smell' I learned a lot about their storied (and rather tragic) history. Stay tuned. Thanks for watching.
Best jam session ever from one of my favourite bands & the soundtrack to my youth. Instantly recognisable & unique guitar sound from Mark. I saw them a few times back in the '80's & this is my favourite version of Sultans with Terry Williams on drums & Alan Clarke on keys. Nothing against the original drummer Pick Withers (who was more Jazz orientated) but Terry brings a much harder rock dimension to the band as a whole - especially on these faster live tracks. Fab performance by all members who were at the top of their game here. There's a low key documentary about Terry Williams entitled - "Just the drummer in the Band" which is well worth a watch. A very humble guy from Swansea in Wales who made it big in one of the best bands of the time.
Terry was great! Alchemy's "Sultans" definitely puts you right there in the crowd, doesn't it? I got goosebumps during Mark's solo(s).Thanks for sharing your journey with Dire Straits! Hearing your experiences makes this reaction video even more special.
I am a 79 year old living in the UK and missed out on Dire Straits when they were just becoming famous. I saw Sultans of Swing video on the Alchemy live at the Hammersmith Odeon and managed to get the DVD of the whole performance. There are some great tracks on it and I wish I could have been there to experience it live.
You were ahead of it, and I was behind a bit. Either way, discovering their live performances at any age is magical. What a group of talented people! Thank you for watching.
Happy Birthday to Terry Williams (11 January 1948) - 76!
Yes, indeed. It has been mentioned a few times here in the comments. Great fans!
Really appreciate you doing this track & yes you seriously need to watch the whole concert. It's like being on an emotional roller coaster that makes you want to ride again & again.
I've loved this album, yes I bought it on vinyl when it was first released, for nearly 40yrs & every time I listen or watch I see or hear/pick up on something new.
No matter how you feel when you start the concert you end up on cloud 109, it never fails. I hope you find it that way too?
May I suggest a couple of curve balls for your channel that you may not have heard of.
I say that because it's the most well known of the early 80s Gothic Rock movement from the UK.
1. The Cult - She Sells Sanctuary.
2. Sisters of Mercy ft Ofra Haza - Temple of Love.
The lead singer of The Cult was asked by the remaining band members of The Doors to become lead singer after the death of Jim Morrison when they reformed. Apparently it was a big success?
The track has been used on different adverts even to today!
The Sisters lead singer has a very dark sounding deep baritone voice which is a huge contrast to the Israeli Ofra Haza's most beautiful middle eastern style of vocal style.
It's like a mix of the blackest black to the whitest white in vocal styles.
The music, dark but fast, dancy, heavy rocky, it's hard to pin it down? It's a sound of its very own!
Both of these tracks are huge floorfillers in the right clubs still.
They are fantastic driving/gym/clear your mind after a really bad day. The mixing of the tracks, the guitar work, the vocals, they could even hit your own personal playlists?
Again, cheers for the review. The joy on your face, it reminded me of the first time I listened to the album. A buy you never regret investing in?
All the best pal & best of luck for all your future endeavours.
Fantastic comment! It’s amazing how Alchemy has this timeless magic that keeps revealing new layers even after nearly 40 years. I’m glad my reaction brought back those first-listen memories for you-I can see why this concert is such an emotional ride.
Thanks for the curveball suggestions! The Cult’s She Sells Sanctuary and Temple of Love by Sisters of Mercy with Ofra Haza sound like a fascinating mix of styles-definitely intriguing for the channel. I love discovering those unique blends that defy easy categorization, and I can already imagine these tracks becoming personal favorites.
Cheers from Rio de Janeiro, and thanks for the well wishes! It’s feedback like this that makes the journey all the more rewarding. Take care, and I hope to explore those tracks soon! 🎸🎶
I agree Telegraph Road is a must from the same Alchemy Live concert!
Then it shall be. You along with a host of others are asking for this. I can honestly say, I intentionally have not watched it yet, because I'd like to save it for the channel:) Thank you for watching and stay tuned.
BREATHTAKING!!!
@@paulad-ms4vx One word. Agree.
The drummer Terry Williams with that just over the bar playing was so amazing & his timing ... wow !
He actually sped up the tempo of the song to which MK looked back at him with a devious, smile of approval;. Great performance!!
Right after Knopfler sings "do the honky tonk just like anything" at 3:57, the keyboardist plays a short honky tonk run on the piano.
Super nuanced and - bravo to you for picking up on that! Thanks for watching.
Mark Knopfler, Lead Guitar.
Hal Lindes, Rhythm Guitar.
John Illsey, Bass Guitar.
Terry Williams, Drums.
Alan Clark, Keys
And for these shows additional guest keys, Tommy Mandel.
A bunch of brilliant musical hooligans on that list:)
When I die this video is playing at my funeral.
Can I go?
Can you imagine being there? So wish I could have expereinced this live -- magic!
Thankfully it was captured on video so we can relive it (virtually) over and over again:)