Dire Straits – Dire Straits - is the self-titled debut album by British rock band Dire Straits. The album was first released in 1978 and marked the start of a remarkable career for the band. "Dire Straits" was released in the UK on October 7, 1978. The band Dire Straits at that time consisted of Mark Knopfler (vocals, guitar), David Knopfler (guitar, vocals), John Illsley (bass) and Pick Withers (drums). The album was characterized by its unique musical style that combined elements of rock, blues and country. Mark Knopfler's signature guitar playing, often referred to as fingerpicking, was a prominent feature of the band. The album was a huge commercial success and brought Dire Straits international recognition. The song “Sultans of Swing” became particularly well-known and became a hit and was placed in the charts in many countries. Dire Straits' music was influenced by various influences, including rock 'n' roll, blues and jazz. Mark Knopfler was an accomplished guitarist and songwriter who skillfully integrated these different styles into the band's music. The album received widespread praise from critics and was praised for its craftsmanship and insightful lyrics. Mark Knopfler's songwriting was particularly highlighted. In addition to "Sultans of Swing", the album also contains other notable songs such as "Down to the Waterline", "Water of Love" and "Wild West End". "Dire Straits" laid the foundation for the band's long-lasting career, which would release a number of successful albums in the coming years. Mark Knopfler and his characteristic guitar technique became a trademark of Dire Straits and had a lasting influence on rock music. The debut album remains an important milestone in the history of rock and placed the band in the annals of music history. Tracklist A1 Down To The Waterline A2 Water Of Love A3 Setting Me Up A4 Six Blade Knife A5 Southbound Again B1 Sultans Of Swing B2 In The Gallery B3 Wild West End B4 Lions Bass – John Illsley Drums – Pick Withers Engineer – Rhett Davies Rhythm Guitar – David Knopfler Vocals, Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Written By – Mark Knopfler Los Angeles Pressing Condition: LP / NM Cover / VG+ Front / Back NM (partly sealed) OIS / NM Please understand that there are individual differences in perception ★★★ The Debut "Must-Have"! From Dire Straits ★★★ ★★★ For every rare single & LP I add a new inner sleeve with acid-free plastic so that you can enjoy the singles & LPs for a long time ★★★ You will receive all of your valuable auctions in a special LP box so that nothing can happen to your LP during transport (see pictures) ★★★ Each LP/Single is washed again with a special record washing machine (see picture) before it is sent (this machine is of course not included in the scope of delivery) ★★★ Please note the shipping costs (Portugal Only UPS-Express) An offer exclusive from the seller : BLACKGOLD-MEMORABILIA Thank´s for your interest. Check out our other rare items in current and future Auctions at Catawiki ★★★The B/W photo Of dire Straits is not included in the scope of delivery and is only used for documentation.