Well Worth all that Roadrunning! (All The Road Running - Mark Knopfler)

Member Name: Ali_Smith

Product:	All The Road Running - Mark Knopfler
Date:	08/08/06 (504 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A surprisingly enjoyable amalgamation of very different styles

Disadvantages: Very few.

As a fan of both Dire Straits and Knopflers solo work, I was filled with anxiety when I discovered that he had decided to enter the dreaded duet territory, albeit with an artist so gifted as Emmylou Harris. Although this might immediately sound the off-shoot of an inspired studio session it had actually been in the pipeline for 7 years or so. I needn’t have worried though, since the result is a fine piece of a Americana music.

The albums mix of Knopflers rock guitar and Harris earthy country styling works in a way that few would have believed possible at first glance. But on closer inspection, it would appear that the Dire Straits frontman is very well suited to the genre. His guitar playing technique of refusing to use a plectrum means that his playing is incredibly smooth and compliments Harris’ voice astonishingly well. Knopfler’s laconic drawl also sits as a perfect chair for Emmylou’s fluid vocals with songs such as the infectious single "This Is Us" come off as effortless statements of vitality from both camps.

“Beachcombing” leads us off with its folky vibe setting the tone for the rest of the record. There is some excellent Mandolin work which immaculately compliments knopflers guitar playing.

The melancholy melody of “I Dug up a Diamond” sets the scene for a set of lyrics that are ultimately a metaphor to highlight the belief that the best things are often found in the strangest of places.

The first single "This Is Us" features the trademark guitar sounds from Knopfler underneath the playful story of memories (like a virtual scrapbook) sung by both Mark and Emmylou.
The next track, “Red Staggerwing” would originally intended for knopflers Sailing to Philadelphia album, but was eventually bumped off. This boot stomping tune gives Him a chance to flex his country muscle, and he is definitely up to the task. Harris’ playful vocals compliment very well as the two of them trade lines in a very entertaining tune.

With mysterious soundscapes, "Rollin' On" showcases a family that is 'going through the motions' and by the tone of the melody and vocals, it seems to me that they're doing it 'for the kids' or to appease others that the couple knows, something that happens too often in this world.

Emmylou's ethereal vocals shine on the duet "Love And Happiness." As one of two songs written by Harris (This one with Kimmie Rhodes), this song proves that, when she chooses to, Emmylou can write a great song. It also is a song that brilliantly recalls the traditional country ballads of George and Tammy and Johnny and June.

“Right Now” could almost be a Texan shuffle as Knopfler reminds that he has an excellent ear for a catchy riff and Harris’ guarded confidence in her own ability means that this song retains a wonderful balance between ballad and overblown contry rock.

“Donkey Town” was also bumped of the Knopfler’s Sailing to Philadelphia album and so it comes as no great surprise that Harris plays little more than a backing vocalist but still finds opportunities to excel.

Emmylou's other self-penned track is the enchanting "Belle Starr." Recalling her glorious early work, the song is full of shimmering acoustical music (highlighted by Knopfler's dobro-like acoustic slide guitar). Emmylou sings "I'll be your Belle Starr, you can be my Jessie James" in the chorus of the song.

"Beyond My Wildest Dreams" is a sweet song that showcases a man who is pleased that his relationship with his wife/girlfriend has brought him more than he could have ever imagined.

The title track, "All The Roadrunning," features more of Knopfler's fine guitar picking (only this time, it's acoustic) along with some absolutely stunning fiddle work. The melody is so beautiful and calming that you almost forget that Emmylou and Mark sing some wonderful lyrics over it.

The albums closing track, "If This Is Goodbye" is a stunning and wonderful tribute to those who perished on Flight 93 (or "United 93") on September 11, 2001.

With 12 beautiful, often mid-tempo, tracks, All The Roadrunning is a fine collaboration between two of the most gifted artists of a generation. While some may find Knopfler's and Harris' vocals too 'different' to make a record like this work, it is exactly that 'difference' that makes All The Roadrunning work. This is a great record and one that may very well end up on my "Best of 2006" list.

Summary: A great alternative country record from two exceptionally talented artists