Mark Knopfler 'Privateering' Review: Blues, Folk And Rock Combine To Make A Solid Album

Longtime rocker Mark Knopfler's first double album, Privateering, is finally available in the U.S.; after a year of waiting, fans will not be disappointed.

Privateering was actually released last year worldwide, but the U.S. release was delayed due to legal issues with former label Warner Bros. Knopfler is now comfortably home at Universal and the lengthy double-album can finally be appreciated by listeners stateside.

"A privateer is what I am, really," states musician Mark Knopfler on his website. Not a word heard everyday – I had to look it up. A privateer is sort of like a pirate, someone who mobilizes armed naval crews and sailors to attack foreign ships. Knopfler relates as the leader of his band and crew, leading them around the world touring and performing. Privateers did what they did without government assistance, a way of life that Knopfler enjoys, as "there are no government grants to play music…and that's the way I like it."

In a 35-year career, Privateering is Knopfler's first double-disc album and it evokes the likes of the Civil Wars, Neil Young and Gordon Lightfoot, among others. It has at times a rustic, folk-rock, back-country sound while simultaneously evoking the blues, R&B and soul. The album's mix of influences makes Knopfler feel like a Jack of all Trades, and his music is sure to appeal to fans of many different genres. Apparently, I'm not alone in this opinion, as he was recently recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year's Ivor Novello Awards, honoring British song writers.

A musician, vocalist, songwriter, record producer and film score composer, Knopfler is best known as the lead singer of Dire Straits. After the group's disbanding in 1995, Knopfler went on to produce records for Bob Dylan and Tina Turner. He soon cultivated a reputation as a sought-after session player, and wrote and recorded scores and soundtracks, all while establishing a respectable second act as a solo artist.

With Privateering, his eighth solo effort, Knopfler's combination of Celtic (he was born in Scotland), rock and blues influences envelopes audiences in smooth, easy listening and enjoyment. Perfect for long car rides or relaxing, Privateering shows evidence of Knopfler’s range of expertise.

Essential tracks include "Redbud Tree," "Got to Have Something" and "Gator Blood," which, along with "Today Is Okay," evoke a foot-stomping bluesy rock feeling. Other essential, "I Used to Could," is a great, fast-paced rhythm and blues tune and must-listen, "Privateering," is catchy with a sitting-around-the-campfire-telling-stories folk sound.

Also worth mentioning are "Don't Forget Your Hat," featuring a great piano and blues guitar, with a fantastic rhythm, "Haul Away," who's relaxing flute will have you drifting off to a peaceful place. "Bluebird" and "Blood and Water" have sexy, sulty rhythms, with "Bluebird" also having an almost Latin feel. "Redbud Tree" offers a relaxing, coffee house sound meets Wild Wild West vibe. I heard the Civil Wars meet Neil Young in this song.

Overall, Privateering is rootsy, bluesy rock evidence of Knopfler’s vast array of influences. Is he a fabulous singer? Not quite. You've heard "Money for Nothing," Dire Strait's biggest hit. But Knopfler's musicianship and other talents far outweigh his singing voice, and make Privateering a solid addition to any collection.

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