Mark Knopfler – Get Lucky (Reprise) ****1/2

Mark Knopfler delivers more of the sensitive songs of joy and hurt, and memories that never seem to go away. Get Lucky is a collection of great tracks of varied tempos and intonation. What the songs have in common is the sensitive-emotional charge throughout the record.

The fact that Mark Knopfler knows how to play guitar is no secret. He plays it where he needs to, but is very frugal when it comes to letting it go over the top. Knopfler plays exactly what the song requires. There is no need in overplaying to prove the point, and Knopfler knows it better than anyone. These days it’s the clever lyrics, and sensual songwriting that elevate his records into new heights.

In some ways Get Lucky picks up where Kill to Get Crimson left off, in other ways it does not. The unique atmosphere of Kill to Get Crimson could still be spotted on many of the tracks; just as new elements can be detected creeping into the overall sound. It’s what keeps the momentum afloat.

The Car Was the One is an absolute stand out track, among many equally fine songs. This song is an example how music and lyric can come together to create a perfect medium. Knopfler tells a charming story of a typical dreamer (inspired by Mark Donohue, and his desire to race) in this track only to deliver most unexpected hook in its climax. The simplicity and the innocence of the subject matter are just what beauty in music is all about.

Other great songs include: Monteleone, Piper to The End, Remembrance Day, and So Far From the Clyde. Every one of these songs offers something very unique. As a listener one can become amazed with how diverse the songs are all throughout. The sincerity of the delivery is what makes each song an instant favorite. The individual appeal however is up to the listener.

Get Lucky is a work of beauty indeed. Carefully crafted record where everything is in the right place, much like its predecessor.

Mark Kadzielawa