Dire Straits
Extended Dance Play

LA RECENSIONE

One thing I have always liked about the band led by Mark Knopfler is that, despite what the detractors may say, it has never behaved in a predictable manner. Upon the release of this E.P., Dire Straits had already put out four albums, and despite the fact that global success had not eluded them, the circulation of live records and greatest hits (potentially unnecessary) had not yet taken root.

The vinyl in question (this time the term is appropriate since the CD version never came out) contains three tracks (four in the U.K. version) which present us with two exuberant songs such as: 1) "Twisting By The Pool" - vintage rock & roll and twist are well concentrated, where it is Terry Williams - in his studio debut - who showcases technique and composure during the two solos behind the drums; 2) "Two Young Lovers" (Mel Collins warming up the atmosphere with his iconic sax) in which my (or I might say our favorites) I would never have imagined attempting. "If I Had You" is a pop song that could have been created by a sufficiently inspired Dylan, and whose main task is to be easily memorized to be whistled while waiting at a bus stop.
"Badges Posters Stickers T-Shirts" (already known as the B-side of "Private Investigations") is a jazz track that is appreciated for its diversity from the rest (there is even mention of AC/DC!!), as well as the technical skill of the "musicians" that takes shape through the numerous tempo changes that the track presents to us, and a farewell (perhaps it might become a see you later!) to one of the most underrated drummers in rock history: "His Excellency" Pick Withers.

I have always considered this E.P. a training session for the group, after the glorious tour of "Love Over Gold" and a pleasing gift to fans following M.K.'s first satisfactory solo performance titled "Local Hero".