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Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Three decades after Dire Straits broke onto the scene with their remarkable debut, Mark Knopfler remains an iconic figure in popular music, his graceful guitar playing equaled only by his genial baritone and a novelist's ability to create distinct characters and themes in his songs. His fifth solo album since he pulled the plug on the band in 1995, Crimson reflects on a torrent of narratives, from the gracefully aging spouse in the flute-powered ballad "The Scaffolder's Wife" to the valiant down-and-outer in the Scottish folk song "Heart Full of Holes." Employing accordions, fiddles, and horns as majestic accompaniment, Knopfler drifts into the Celtic-tinged melodies of his past, explicitly in the whiskey-soaked singalong "Secondary Waltz," the busker's saga "Madame Geneva's," and "The Fish and the Bird," with its vagabond pensiveness. Clocking in at just under an hour, the album--without any page-turning epic--plays instead like an anthology of written works, every personification crisp in definition, every story exquisitely told. --Scott Holter
Product Description
Building on last year's Grammyr-nominated All The Roadrunning collaboration with Emmylou Harris, his highest charting non Dire Straits album to date Top 20 Pop, scanning 400,000 copies in the U.S. acclaimed singer-songwriterguitarist Mark Knopfler unveils his fifth solo album, Kill To Get Crimson. While certain to appeal to his loyal fan base, the album's artful guitar rock will also entice new fans to Knopfler's signature sound (he's #27 on Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time), instantly recognizable vocals and smart lyrics. A multiple- Grammy winner who has sold more than 110 million albums worldwide, Knopfler remains one of rock's most admired artists.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
129 of 138 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
FASCINATING LYRICS, SUBLIME GUITAR, LOW-KEY DELIVERY AND PERFECT SOUND.
September 18, 2007
By Colin Spence
Format:Audio CD
I enjoy some of MK's music a lot. When listening to his albums, I just get the feeling that his music has 'quality written all over it' - fine songwriting (especially the lyrics), immaculate guitar playing and superior production. Yet, despite this, I often find each album contains only 3 or 4 songs that I really enjoy, a couple which bore me to tears, and the rest are just OK (but to be fair, enjoyment of his music does benefit from several listenings). There will be some people for whom MK 'can do no wrong' and I also feel that way about a few artists - but MK is not (yet) one of these. So, I was a little cautious about buying this album, but I thought I'd take a chance because some of the pre-release editorial reviews suggested that I might like it. As it turns out, I was not too disappointed.
THE SONGS - MK's lyrics are always fascinating but he seems to have surpassed himself on this album - in many songs, capturing the quintessence of post-WW2 life for ordinary English people. Although, for the most part, the melodies are good (a few having a distinct Gaelic flavour), I wouldn't describe them as 'infectious'; and I thought 2 or 3 were, by comparison, rather bland. There are no up-tempo songs to speak of (a couple come close) and there are certainly no 'full-tilt rockers'. Few of the songs have that 'americana' influence to be found on previous albums (the 'Springsteen-esque' 'True Love Will Never Fade' being the main exception) - MK has moved eastwards across the Atlantic for much of his inspiration on 'Kill to Get Crimson'. It is the songs that define the mood of the album and I would describe this as 'nostalgic-reflective' (in a very English sort of way).
THE PLAYING - You get little in the way of 'rock guitar' and most guitar solos are brief; but MK's playing permeates all tracks and the sound is absolutely sublime. In addition to percussion and bass, accompaniment is provided by accordion, violin, cittern, flute, saxophone, trumpet, clarinet and vibraphone; these are used judiciously (and very effectively) to enrich the overall sound - the phrase 'less means more' is very apt here.
THE VOCALS - MK has a rich baritone voice which is 'slightly frayed around the edges' - a voice which may be an acquired taste for some but one which I find very appealing; his singing is somewhat smoother than on past albums and he manages to inject a 'folksy' lilt from time to time. His limited vocal range has occasionally let him down in the past, but there is little evidence of this on 'Kill to Get Crimson'.
For a change, I enjoyed the majority of the songs on this album; for what it's worth, the following in particular : 'Heart Full of Holes', 'We Can Get Wild', 'Secondary Waltz', 'Punish the Monkey', 'Behind With The Rent', and 'Madame Geneva's'.
If I were rating this album purely on it's all-round musicality and 'technical' proficiency, then 5-stars would be amply justified (as another reviewer has summed it up, it is 'clean, clear and perfect'). However, 2 or 3 songs didn't do a lot for me and so, in terms of my subjective enjoyment, 3.5/4-stars are more appropriate. The extent to which you are likely to enjoy this album much depends on whether you prefer MK's music with a North American or an English/Gaelic influence. Also, if you liked All the Roadrunning, there's a good chance you will like 'Kill to Get Crimson'. When considering the album's mood and musical content, of his earlier albums, The Ragpicker's Dream probably comes closest - so this is something else to bear in mind (but don't sue me if I'm wrong!). It's a very mellow and relaxing album which, vocally and instrumentally, is almost devoid of any edginess.
I liked this album quite a lot, but if your initial reaction is 'more boring stuff from Mark Knopfler', I would ask you to sit down and LISTEN to the music, one or two tracks at a time spread over a few weeks, because 'coming to terms' with MK's music is a gradual process. I think this is a good way to start appreciating, more fully, MK's beguiling songs and accomplished playing.
If you are not too familiar with MK's solo work and would like to try a compilation of his music, I can recommend Private Investigations: The Best of Dire Straits & Mark Knopfler. Just over half the tracks are Dire Straits' best known songs and the others are MK solo performances. This album is available as a 'Standard' version (1 CD & 14 tracks) and a 'De-luxe' version (2 CDs & 21/22 tracks); the link here directs you to the 'De-luxe' version.
THE SONGS - MK's lyrics are always fascinating but he seems to have surpassed himself on this album - in many songs, capturing the quintessence of post-WW2 life for ordinary English people. Although, for the most part, the melodies are good (a few having a distinct Gaelic flavour), I wouldn't describe them as 'infectious'; and I thought 2 or 3 were, by comparison, rather bland. There are no up-tempo songs to speak of (a couple come close) and there are certainly no 'full-tilt rockers'. Few of the songs have that 'americana' influence to be found on previous albums (the 'Springsteen-esque' 'True Love Will Never Fade' being the main exception) - MK has moved eastwards across the Atlantic for much of his inspiration on 'Kill to Get Crimson'. It is the songs that define the mood of the album and I would describe this as 'nostalgic-reflective' (in a very English sort of way).
THE PLAYING - You get little in the way of 'rock guitar' and most guitar solos are brief; but MK's playing permeates all tracks and the sound is absolutely sublime. In addition to percussion and bass, accompaniment is provided by accordion, violin, cittern, flute, saxophone, trumpet, clarinet and vibraphone; these are used judiciously (and very effectively) to enrich the overall sound - the phrase 'less means more' is very apt here.
THE VOCALS - MK has a rich baritone voice which is 'slightly frayed around the edges' - a voice which may be an acquired taste for some but one which I find very appealing; his singing is somewhat smoother than on past albums and he manages to inject a 'folksy' lilt from time to time. His limited vocal range has occasionally let him down in the past, but there is little evidence of this on 'Kill to Get Crimson'.
For a change, I enjoyed the majority of the songs on this album; for what it's worth, the following in particular : 'Heart Full of Holes', 'We Can Get Wild', 'Secondary Waltz', 'Punish the Monkey', 'Behind With The Rent', and 'Madame Geneva's'.
If I were rating this album purely on it's all-round musicality and 'technical' proficiency, then 5-stars would be amply justified (as another reviewer has summed it up, it is 'clean, clear and perfect'). However, 2 or 3 songs didn't do a lot for me and so, in terms of my subjective enjoyment, 3.5/4-stars are more appropriate. The extent to which you are likely to enjoy this album much depends on whether you prefer MK's music with a North American or an English/Gaelic influence. Also, if you liked All the Roadrunning, there's a good chance you will like 'Kill to Get Crimson'. When considering the album's mood and musical content, of his earlier albums, The Ragpicker's Dream probably comes closest - so this is something else to bear in mind (but don't sue me if I'm wrong!). It's a very mellow and relaxing album which, vocally and instrumentally, is almost devoid of any edginess.
I liked this album quite a lot, but if your initial reaction is 'more boring stuff from Mark Knopfler', I would ask you to sit down and LISTEN to the music, one or two tracks at a time spread over a few weeks, because 'coming to terms' with MK's music is a gradual process. I think this is a good way to start appreciating, more fully, MK's beguiling songs and accomplished playing.
If you are not too familiar with MK's solo work and would like to try a compilation of his music, I can recommend Private Investigations: The Best of Dire Straits & Mark Knopfler. Just over half the tracks are Dire Straits' best known songs and the others are MK solo performances. This album is available as a 'Standard' version (1 CD & 14 tracks) and a 'De-luxe' version (2 CDs & 21/22 tracks); the link here directs you to the 'De-luxe' version.
42 of 42 people found the following review helpful
By Mark
Format:Audio CD
As a middle aged man, who also happens to be a guitar player, it was inevitable that I would be drawn to Mark Knopfler after hearing the first few bars of a song many, many years ago called Sultans of Swing.
At that time, of course, Mark was in a band that would later go on to become one of the biggest and most popular bands in the world - Dire Straits.
After the eventual breakup of the band, Mark pursued a solo career - and what a career it has been..!!
I've always said that Mark Knopfler may not be the BEST guitar player on the planet in terms of technical ability - I know there are lots of younger players out there who can tap out thousands of 64th notes in the span of 2 or 3 seconds with both hands.
But if there is a more tasteful player on the planet, frankly, I've yet to hear him.
Mark Knopfler is an incredible musician and songwriter, who just seems to get better and better with the passage of time. You listen to the songs on this album - as well as his other - and he's like an artist who can evoke the richest colors and the most beautiful hues with both his voice and his guitar.
I don't know of anybody who can create such intimate character studies and evoke the kind of emotions with his music as he can. And his ability to coax the perfect note or chord - and the PERFECT tone - at the most precise time in a song is, in my opinion, unparalleled amongst musicians/ songwriters.
Knopfler has been criticized for his relatively limited vocal range. Personally, I have never had a problem with his singing - his deep and comforting, baritone voice is like a fine 24 year old scotch going down for the first time. It's a perfect compliment to the incredible tapestry of tones and riffs that his guitars and fingers conjure up.
In common with his other recent solo efforts, I was luke warm about Kill To Get Crimson when I first listened to it. Again, it was very "laid back" in terms of the tempo and the absence of guitar solos was instantly apparent. I found myself waiting for a beautiful guitar solo a la "Darling Pretty".
However, as I repeatedly listened to it while driving to work, it just sounded better and better - which is EXACTLY the same phenomeon that happened while listening to his other recent albums. And the "need" to want to hear a guitar solo diminished with each listening - I was very content to hear the melodic guitar play a "secondary" and subdued role.
While younger guitar players perhaps feel compelled to have their guitar "front and centre" to appease a younger audience, Mark demonstrates remarkable restraint and the guitar is allowed to compliment the story that's being told - and not DOMINATE it. Mark Knopfler doesn't have to prove he's an incrdibly gifted player - he did that a long time ago. He has nothing to prove anymore.
This is a rich, textural album put together by a consumate professional and master songwriter. As well, Mark is ALWAYS smart enough to surround himself by incredibly talented musicians. And with this album, he again is playing with many of the same very talented people who he has worked and toured with for many, many years now. Clearly, they're very comfortable with each other.
I'm not sure I would have enjoyed this album as much if I were a 25 year old man. I can perhaps see why a younger person might listen to this album and ZZZZZZZZZZZ.
But you reach a certain age where you're able to clearly make a distinction between the steak and the sizzle.
And this album is another 5 star, filet mignon from a musician / songwriter who is just a pleasure to listen to. The news that Mark Knopfler has another project in the works or a new album release is imminent is now becoming a very anticipated moment for me each year or two.
Perhaps my generation was spoiled by the wealth of timeless music from the 60's - Beatles / Hendrix / Dylan / Rolling Stones / etc that the bar is now set so high for us that very few are able to match - never mind exceed - our expectations.
If so, it's nice to know that there are still people out there like Mark Knopfler, who consistently can put out some of the most enjoyable and beautiful music around.
This cd gets my highest recommendation - do yourself a big favour and treat yourself to this gem - you won't be disappointed..!
At that time, of course, Mark was in a band that would later go on to become one of the biggest and most popular bands in the world - Dire Straits.
After the eventual breakup of the band, Mark pursued a solo career - and what a career it has been..!!
I've always said that Mark Knopfler may not be the BEST guitar player on the planet in terms of technical ability - I know there are lots of younger players out there who can tap out thousands of 64th notes in the span of 2 or 3 seconds with both hands.
But if there is a more tasteful player on the planet, frankly, I've yet to hear him.
Mark Knopfler is an incredible musician and songwriter, who just seems to get better and better with the passage of time. You listen to the songs on this album - as well as his other - and he's like an artist who can evoke the richest colors and the most beautiful hues with both his voice and his guitar.
I don't know of anybody who can create such intimate character studies and evoke the kind of emotions with his music as he can. And his ability to coax the perfect note or chord - and the PERFECT tone - at the most precise time in a song is, in my opinion, unparalleled amongst musicians/ songwriters.
Knopfler has been criticized for his relatively limited vocal range. Personally, I have never had a problem with his singing - his deep and comforting, baritone voice is like a fine 24 year old scotch going down for the first time. It's a perfect compliment to the incredible tapestry of tones and riffs that his guitars and fingers conjure up.
In common with his other recent solo efforts, I was luke warm about Kill To Get Crimson when I first listened to it. Again, it was very "laid back" in terms of the tempo and the absence of guitar solos was instantly apparent. I found myself waiting for a beautiful guitar solo a la "Darling Pretty".
However, as I repeatedly listened to it while driving to work, it just sounded better and better - which is EXACTLY the same phenomeon that happened while listening to his other recent albums. And the "need" to want to hear a guitar solo diminished with each listening - I was very content to hear the melodic guitar play a "secondary" and subdued role.
While younger guitar players perhaps feel compelled to have their guitar "front and centre" to appease a younger audience, Mark demonstrates remarkable restraint and the guitar is allowed to compliment the story that's being told - and not DOMINATE it. Mark Knopfler doesn't have to prove he's an incrdibly gifted player - he did that a long time ago. He has nothing to prove anymore.
This is a rich, textural album put together by a consumate professional and master songwriter. As well, Mark is ALWAYS smart enough to surround himself by incredibly talented musicians. And with this album, he again is playing with many of the same very talented people who he has worked and toured with for many, many years now. Clearly, they're very comfortable with each other.
I'm not sure I would have enjoyed this album as much if I were a 25 year old man. I can perhaps see why a younger person might listen to this album and ZZZZZZZZZZZ.
But you reach a certain age where you're able to clearly make a distinction between the steak and the sizzle.
And this album is another 5 star, filet mignon from a musician / songwriter who is just a pleasure to listen to. The news that Mark Knopfler has another project in the works or a new album release is imminent is now becoming a very anticipated moment for me each year or two.
Perhaps my generation was spoiled by the wealth of timeless music from the 60's - Beatles / Hendrix / Dylan / Rolling Stones / etc that the bar is now set so high for us that very few are able to match - never mind exceed - our expectations.
If so, it's nice to know that there are still people out there like Mark Knopfler, who consistently can put out some of the most enjoyable and beautiful music around.
This cd gets my highest recommendation - do yourself a big favour and treat yourself to this gem - you won't be disappointed..!
21 of 22 people found the following review helpful
Format:Audio CD
"Kill to Get Crimson" is another strong production from Mark Knopfler -- perhaps a bit slower and more meditative than his earlier solo albums, but recognizably Knopfler to the core. There is no single song here with the instantly infectuous nature of, say, "Postcards from Paraguay," but the new album is a compelling compilation of Knopfler compositions. There may be no dazzling intricate solo guitar interludes, but Knopfler's guitar work on this album is nonetheless crisply solid. As always, Mark Knopfler's lyrics are worth listening to again and again. And I agree with those other reviewers who emphasize that to really appreciate this album requires multiple listenings. I've been replaying it again and again since I bought it, and it seems each time through brings some new discovery.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good Album
Typical Knopfler songs and music. Good tunes and easy listening songs. Better than the rap BS that is out there.
Published 1 month ago by Billy James
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great
Love the variety of the tunes. The playing is great as always. Will be in rotation for a while. Thanks MK!
Published 1 month ago by Randall J Harkins
2.0 out of 5 stars
Audiophile tics and backtracks
This review is 100% about the quality of the vinyl records (2 x 12-in 33.33 rpm 180g., sealed, new). Read more
Published on April 2, 2011 by Boulderito
5.0 out of 5 stars
Such talent!
It's hard to describe the measure of talent that is displayed by Mark Knopfler in this enchanting effort. Read more
Published on July 30, 2010 by Big Daddy Gadzooks
5.0 out of 5 stars
Next level
Mark finally reaches the next level of professionalism. The guitar is not as prominent as on his other releases, yet it is woven into the pattern of music and played with (typical)... Read more
Published on May 16, 2010 by Q35
5.0 out of 5 stars
Get Lucky
I buy every Mark Knopfler CD that he does now. I listen to each one over and over in the car before the songs sink in. Read more
Published on February 20, 2010 by Dave
5.0 out of 5 stars
another winner for Mark...and for us, his fans!!!
This is a work of art. Not one bad song. The songs are truly wonderful, with beautiful music and outstanding lyrics. Read more
Published on January 23, 2010 by Pir
5.0 out of 5 stars
You Know What You're Getting
I'm a child of the greatest two decades of music ever - the 60's and 70's. Plain and simple, if you appreciate listening to songs WHERE YOU CAN ACTUALLY UNDERSTAND THE WORDS, and... Read more
Published on January 6, 2010 by Richard J. Murphy Sr.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderfully Relaxing Voice & Sound
Let everybody tell you the details of Mark Knopfler's style. I'm new to him, this being only my second CD of his, first being "Get Lucky. Read more
Published on November 14, 2009 by T. Coleman
2.0 out of 5 stars
what happened to Planet of New Orleans?
unfortunately MK`s Kill to get Crimson is the continuation of ragpicker`s and shangri-la...all the exciting, soulful electric playing is gone and we are left with folk numbers that... Read more
Published on October 11, 2009 by LBL
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