and here's my english translation (certainly not perfect but hopefully slightly better than "Google translation"
:
MARK KNOPFLER – DOWN THE ROAD WHEREVER
It almost seems as if nothing in this world could upset this man. Sitting relaxed on his motorcycle, getting inspired by Britain's nature and then entering the studio to form his impressions and passing thoughts on the fly to great songs. The image, conveyed by the video clip for the first single "Good on you Son", is not deceptive: "Down the road forever" is the next stroke of genius by Mark Knopfler.
You'll hardly discover Mark Knopfler in melodramatic newspaper headlines or talent show juries, according to a biography of the guitarist, singer and composer, who has left behind the celebrity life in the spotlight long ago. This kind of life no (longer) fits to the former head of the dire straits, who is very successful as a solo-artist since "Golden Heart" (1996).
Regardless of the high chart positions Mark Knopfler is undoubtedly one of the most important rock musicians. His playing skills are as distinctive as his voice. You expect much, when Knopfler releases a new album, and on "Down the road wherever" you get much:
Accomplished songwriting jewels, presented in the distinctive Knopfler-style.
The ninth solo-output, once more emerged with long-term companion Guy Fletcher, accelerates quickly. After an experienced-rocking kick-off ("Trapper man") "Back On The Dance Floor" is sneaking up from behind with an outrageously catchy refrain. Bit of 80's flair is around - the image of the go-getting star of the past, in terms of fashion slightly disoriented and musically revolutionary, is popping up now and then in the course of the album. Like a mischievous boy, reflected in the eyes of the wise, older man, giving himself modestly.
"My whistle under the archways still echoes down the street and all the way back to Deptford days": Of course, the mention of the place of establishment of “dire straits” breathes nostalgia. The corresponding song is significantly called "One song at a time". You inevitably bob up and down from the first chords, devote yourself to the Knopfler-style seduction-procedure of emotional depth and delicately smoothed melodies and listen spellbound to his story - immediately noticing: He still can do it. Like no other.
Major highlights include again the ballads - getting directly under your skin: "When You Leave" is nothing less than one of the most beautiful love songs of the year. "Slow Learner" appears like a muted statement against the seemingly uncontrollable present-time fast pace. "Matchstick man" deals with an apparently clichéd topic (lone musician at Christmas) in such a wonderful way, that you find yourself remaining delightfully in silence after the end of the song.
A great album. From the hands of a great musician.
Rating: Masterpiece
Teleschau - media service
