Released in June 1978 in Great Britain, one month after a previous single that went unnoticed, "Sultans of Swing", this classic rock album went against the punk and disco waves sweeping across Europe. But its freshness, the quality of its compositions (especially the lyrics, immediately described as "Dylanesque"), the predominance of guitars, the variety of genres (country, blues and a touch of jazz), and the overall atmosphere, irresistibly reminiscent of JJ Cale and Eric Clapton, captivated American audiences five months later. The boomerang effect occurred, and Europeans resistant to current trends became enthusiastic about the album. The iconic logo, a red Fender Stratocaster guitar with the band's name inscribed from the bridge to the headstock, would travel the world. It was elegantly produced by Mervyn "Muff" Winwood, Steve Winwood's brother and former member of the Spencer Davis Group. While all the tracks are set at medium tempos, the level rises with "Sultans of Swing," the cornerstone and precursor to the tone of future compositions by songwriter, singer, and guitarist Mark Knopfler. This ode to obscure jazz musicians in London pubs bears a resemblance to The Ventures' instrumental hit "Walk - Don't Run," which at the time (1960) was a direct competitor to the English Shadows, whose guitarist Hank Marvin was Mark Knopfler's primary influence. Its long, flowing solo was ranked among the thirty best in Rock by readers of Guitar World magazine. Jean-Noël Ogouz - Copyright 2017 Music Story
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