Product: Music for Montserrat (1997)
Rating: 5.0
Mark Knopfler fans can't be disappointed!
As usual, in no two performances is Mark's work ever the same. Compare the same song on different albums and you will see this. What further distinguishes him from pretty much every other performer is his use of fillers in his music. He doesn't use them. Every note has a purpose, and never does he sing the same way or play the same way. He is truly creativity at its best. His performance of Brothers in Arms was breathtaking, his voice even deeper than usual. Backed by an orchestra full with composer and a good percussionist for a mystical effect unmatched on all previous albums, live or studio. You have not heard this song until you hear this version.Money for Nothing was good, with Clapton playing some lead, Phil Collins on drums, and Sting on backing vocals. However, in my opinion it was a bit too crowded for the sound technician, and he could not do it justice. It was still great though.The icing on the cake would have to have been Layla, track 15, which was Clapton on acoustic rhythm guitar with Mark playing lead. The communication between the two was incredible, as the song gracefully swayed between one and the other as Clapton extended his rhythm sections for Mark to play lead. Likewise, Mark toned down his riffs to make way for Clapton's vocals and finalee. It is noteworthy that both solos on the track were played by Mark, and both were his own interpretations.If you like the version of Layla on Clapton Unplugged, prepare yourself to fall in love.On the above only the dvd is worth having. The other guys were good, but I'm here for the MK fans. Incidentally, I saw him on the Philadelphia tour in the Albert Hall this June. He was good then, but he was waaaaaay better here.