- FIRST ALBUM Vertigo England UK
Dire Straits' self-titled debut album, released in 1978 on Vertigo Records, introduced the world to their iconic sound. Featuring hits like "Sultans of Swing," the album quickly achieved platinum status, captivating audiences with Mark Knopfler's mesmerizing guitar work and timeless storytelling. Its enduring appeal transcends generations, making it a cornerstone of rock music history.
Dire Straits' self-titled debut album, released on vinyl in the UK by Vertigo Records, marked the emergence of a band destined to make an indelible mark on the music landscape. Originally released in 1978, this album showcased the raw talent and distinctive sound that would catapult Dire Straits to international acclaim.
From the moment the needle touches the vinyl, listeners are enveloped in a sonic journey unlike any other. The opening track, "Down to the Waterline," sets the tone with its hypnotic guitar riffs and introspective lyrics, drawing listeners into a world where storytelling meets musical virtuosity.
One of the album's standout tracks, "Sultans of Swing," became an instant classic, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide with its infectious melody and Mark Knopfler's unparalleled guitar work. His fingerstyle technique, characterized by its clean, fluid sound, mesmerized listeners and established Knopfler as one of the most influential guitarists of his generation.
The album's commercial success was nothing short of remarkable. Bolstered by the popularity of "Sultans of Swing," Dire Straits soared to the top of the charts, achieving platinum status in multiple countries. Its appeal transcended genres, attracting fans of rock, blues, and folk alike.
What sets Dire Straits' debut album apart is its timeless quality. Despite being released over four decades ago, the music remains as fresh and relevant as ever, continuing to captivate new generations of listeners. The band's fusion of rock, blues, and folk elements creates a sound that defies categorization, appealing to a diverse audience with its universal themes of love, loss, and longing.
Album Production: Recorded at Basing str Studios, London, Produced by Muff Winwood, Photography Paddy Eckersley |
Music Genre: Pop , Soft Rock |
Record Label Information: Vertigo 9102 021 EEC Release on Vertigo 6360 162 |
| Media Format12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
Year and Country: 1978 Made in England |
Band Members and Musicians on: DIRE STRAITS SELF-TITLED FIRST ALBUM |
Track Listing of: DIRE STRAITS SELF-TITLED FIRST ALBUM |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"Dire Straits" Record Label Details: Green and Blue with two UFO's VERTIGO 9102 021, Made in England ℗ 1978 Phonogram Ltd Sound Copyright
"Alchemy: Dire Straits Live" perfectly encapsulates the energy and musical virtuosity of a Dire Straits concert. The album was recorded during their 1983-1984 "Love Over Gold" tour
Alchemy Live 2LP (1984 France) Alchemy Live 2LP (1984 Germany) Alchemy Live 2LP (1984 Holland)
'Brothers in Arms' on 12" Vinyl LP is a sonic masterpiece produced by Mark Knopfler and Neil Dorfsman. This iconic album showcases the band's musical prowess and includes hits like 'Money for Nothing'.
Brothers in Arms (1985, Holland) Brothers in Arms (1985, West-Germany)
"Communiqué" is listed in three versions: European, German, and a rare Club Edition, each offering a unique experience on 12" vinyl LP.
Communiqué European Release Communiqué (1979, Germany) Communique Club Edition (1979, Germany)
The self-titled debut album of "Dire Straits" is available in four distinct versions, including the rare Portuguese edition, which is notably elusive to find.
DIRE STRAITS - Self-Titled (1978, England) DIRE STRAITS - Self-Titled Black Vertigo (1978, France) DIRE STRAITS - Self-Titled (1978, France) DIRE STRAITS - Self-Titled (1978, Portugal)
Vertigo 609 230 , 1979 , Germany
"Lady Writer" by Dire Straits is a captivating musical gem. Featuring the hit "Lady Writer" on one side and "Where Do You Think You're Going?" on the other, this release showcases the band's signature sound
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Warner Bros WBMS 109 , 1979 , USA
The rare promotional 12" Vinyl LP album, "Dire Straits - Live Promo - Warner Bros Music Show", offers a unique glimpse into the band's live performances.
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"Love Over Gold" the Dutch and West-German editions each having different coloured record labels , the West-German release mentions "Digital Recording".
Love Over Gold OIS (Netherlands) Love Over Gold (West-Germany)
The Dutch, German and USA release of "Making Movies" produced by Mark Knopfler and Jimmy Iovine and engineered by The Shelly Yakus, it features custom inner sleeves with lyrics and artwork. Recorded in July-August 1980
German Edition of Making Movies Dutch Edition of Making Movies Making Movies Genuine USA Edition
Vertigo INT 836 419 , 1988 , UK
"Money for Nothing" is a musical treasure with a mix of studio and live tracks. It features the iconic "Sultans of Swing", a live version of "Portobello Belle", and a remix of "Twisting by the Pool".
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Vertigo 510 160 , 1991 , Holland
"On Every Street" by Dire Straits is a rare find enriched with exclusive content. This edition includes an official merchandise leaflet and a 40-page booklet featuring color photos and details of the 1992 world tour.
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Vertigo 6863 201 , 1982 , France
The French Promo 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single of "Telegraph Road" by Dire Straits is a highly sought-after collector's item. Featuring a rare 14:37 version of the song, it predates the official release of the LP "Love Over Gold".
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The Netherlands release of the 12" EP "Twisting By the Pool" by Dire Straits features a concise tracklist. The Fren ch Edition also includes the bonus track "Badges, Posters, Stickers, T'Shirts"
Twisting By the Pool / ExtendedancEPlay (1983, France) Twisting By the Pool / ExtendedancEPlay ( 1983 Holland )