Whenever 'artists' like Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, or bands like Dream Theater come up in conversation (and you be surprised how often that is) I always say that my problem with such "virtuosos" is that as impressive as it is that they can play however many notes a second and in 65/19 time its boring. Its not music, its just a dexterity exhibition. Now fast-forward to today when I'm reading an article about the beginnings of Mtv. As everyone knows the first video played on Mtv was the Buggles 'Video Killed the Radio Star' but did you know that the first video played on Mtv in Europe was Dire Straits' 'Money For Nothing.' First I went and watched that video, but then I began watching more and that led me to this little gem. I believe that this is simply Mark Knopfler with backing band and not actually Dire Straits. Note how, while Knopfler plays incredibly intricate guitar parts, they are all as tasteful as you could possibly want. No lead riff distracts from the rest of the song, no solo goes on a second too long, and even the classical instrumental section at the end of the video fits perfectly and doesn't overstay its welcome. It's an incredibly dynamic little jam section.
Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing
Financial Support Goes Here
Dire Straits
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Would you say the same thing about a Rachmaninov piano concerto? I would argue that many of these musicians are writing on a different level than the average mainstream group. Lots of notes don't necessarily equal great music. But if they're used as a means to a musical end, then why not? It may not be your cup of tea, but I would argue that some of the music I've heard with a solid groove in 13/16 is far more musical than half of the junk on the radio.
Just my two cents.
hahah, you know I wondered if I'd hear from you about this. I was more trying to illustrate how Knopfler excels beyond mere virtuosity by way of his taste and his songwriting abilities.
It is quite enjoyable! I guess that's the key. It can be done, but you have to take a step back and see what it's really doing for the song.
Post a Comment