Mark Knopfler - Kill to Get Crimson
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Free Music Notes for Kill to Get Crimson
Free Music Review: Nobody's going to kill to get this one
Hit: 3 Stars
I really like most of Knopfler's solo works, but Kill To Get Crimson is just too bland. The lyrics tell some interesting stories, but musically, the tunes are neither catchy nor memorable, and the tempos are too homogenous (with the lone exception of the more upbeat "Punish The Monkey"). Perhaps more egregious is that none of the songs highlight Knopfler's uniquely stellar guitar skills, nor do any showcase his ability to rock. There's nothing outright bad on this disc, but it lacks spark. Nobody's going to kill to get Kill To Get Crimson.Free Music Review: Give it a chance
Hit: 5 Stars
So many negative reviews and comments about this CD. Yes, it's different from earlier works of his. But different doesn't necessarily mean bad. If you're accepting only a similar sound to a previous work, you shouldn't buy this CD. This CD definitely has its own sound. It is not a "rocking - turn up the volume" CD. It's a great CD simply to play. Perhaps it is the slightly mellowing Knopfler that turns away the hard-core rockers. Too bad if so.
I readily admit my first couple of plays through this CD were met with skepticism, as the songs and mood represented a change from earlier solo efforts. Being a huge fan of Sailing to Philadelphia and Shangri-La, I was hoping for more of the same, and took a step back at first. That said, I took the CD to my car to give it a solid week of listening while driving to/from work. If I wasn't going to like it, a week's listening would prove the point. That was months ago and it's still in the car.
I wouldn't expect anyone to stand up and claim to like every song on this CD, and indeed there are a few I don't care for. But how many CD's can make a claim that every song is great? Music strikes everyone in a unique way. If you are one of the people who borrowed this for one listen or two and gave up on it, I recommend you try again. Listen to it more than just a couple of times, and I would guess you'll come away with an appreciation for a lot of what's on this CD. I found many songs that not only grew on me, I can listen to them again and again as with previous Knopfler works. And there is plenty of excellent guitar work throughout this CD, both electric and acoustic. My preferences:
Behind with the Rent - to me this is vintage Knopfler. Outstanding music, great guitar, great story, and my personal favorite.
Punish the Monkey - the most rocking song on the CD, and worthy of increased volume. A fun listen. Possibly Enron's theme song (belated).
Madame Geneva's - a place we've all been, keeping demons away. The refrain will stick with you long after the song stops.
In the Sky - an acoustic gem. I continue to like this song more as I hear it. And a bit of sax adds an interesting sound to the ending.
True Love Will Never Fade - A bit of the "5:15 am" format from Shangri-La, as the song starts out quiet with not much more than Mark and his guitar and picks up from there. It's another song that sticks with you.
There are some great new sounds on a few songs. The Scaffolder's Wife has the unmistakable sound of Knopfler guitar, but adds a flute. I realize this might seem like a strange combination, but it works well. The Secondary Waltz is a sound all to itself, with an accordian waltz track throughout. The words bring some of us older folks back to the days of our youth, hesitant to learn dancing in the gym where (gasp) we might have to touch girls. Even my kids like to sing along with this song.
Overall, I've really grown to like this CD and am glad I have it. Yes, it's somewhat different for Mark Knopfler music. And yes, it's great. Just give it a chance.
Free Music Review: Knopfler is King
Hit: 5 Stars
This new album once again proves that Mark Knopfler is one of the premier songwriters working today. These aren't just songs--they're stories. He makes you see the characters--like the Scaffolder's Wife, or the kid learning to waltz for the upcoming Christmas dance-- real people. Knopfler is a treasure in a world of throwaway junk.Free Music Review: Pub Music
Hit: 4 Stars
To me, the mood of this CD is a continuation of the one established in "The Ragpicker's Dream", maybe a little more on the mellow side. Poignant lyrics, pretty melodies and masterful musicianship all contribute to a nice collection, one that 'grows on you' over time. I would love to be sitting in a warm pub on a dreary day with a pint or two, listening to Mark and his band playing these songs. The folk waltz, "Heart Full Of Holes" contains one of the best musical themes that I've heard in any of his songs - I can envision a roomful of folks raising their glasses and swaying to the accordian-tinged carousel music in the bridge.Free Music Review: The maestro of Sprechgesang does it again
Hit: 5 Stars
Mark Knopfler's latest offering is an amazing collection. The usual guitar riffs that are his signatures are all here. What amazes me is the amazing depth of this album. The piece "Heart full of holes" always tugs at my heart. While this album sounds more British than his previous couple of albums, it is definitely one of his more mature works. All the songs are great, but there are a couple that really stand out: "Heart full of Holes", and "Secondary Waltz" come to mind right away. Cheers Mark, and thanks a million!