Mark Knopfler is one of my favorite guitarists of all time. His solo work, as well as his work in Dire Straits, is incredible. From the more 80's rock sounds of "Sultans of Swing" or "Money For Nothing" to the pickin' folk credentials of his album collaboration with Chet Atkins; you will find incredible range. Blues, Rock, Folk, and maybe more. This album is more squarely, as I think most of his solo albums are, within the folk-blues areas. For me this is a perfect fall or walking album. I think I actually prefer some of his other work, but this is one I spent many hours listening to while out on a walk. It holds a bit of a place in my heart.

In a lot of ways there is not much new here musically. It almost comes across as more comfort music. Just set it and vibe to those familiar blues and folk stylings that Knopfler is so good at crafting. There is also just a great down to earth storytelling and historical feel to Knopfler's songs. "Privateering" is a song about privateers from the ages of sail. It comes across almost shanty like and has a great maritime-folk feeling to it. It has a theme and reflection of history that appears as the topic of plenty of songs in Knopfler's discography. "Sailing to Philadelphia" makes a good pair to this song. "Corned Beef City" feels like a different, more working class sife of Knopfler. A little silly and lighthearted; maybe more simple and relateable. It has the sort of edgy guitar that reminds you that Knopfler can properly rock. Then he can slow things right down with a track like "Seattle." A more modern and heartfelt piece about love and places. Then kick it right back up for the hearty ditty that is "Got To Have Something." Not much to say other than it is a rockin' and forward motion kind of song. I also really like "Radio City Serenade" with its crooning and flute and fiddles.

It's hard to not wax ever onward about this album or Mark Knopfler's music in general. This album does have 20 tracks after all. But then, nearly all of his albums do. I can strongly vouch for this album as walking music. If you are wanting a heck of a relaxed soundtrack then look no further. Then maybe pull up Tracker, Down the Road Whenever, Sailing to Philadelphia, or maybe even the soundtrack to The Princess Bride. For me it is always a treat to listen to his music. He is a great musician and a lovely older English dude. So go ahead and walk on with a good soundtrack. Just don't forget your hat.