ask Dr. Fletch

good honest waffle

page full - skip to version 12

Up until very recently I was an advocate of your opinion one hundred percent, however, I'm not entirely sure now. Al Gore's 'an inconvenient truth' albeit slightly alarmist, prompted me to delve further into the science. I also recently read a book by James Lovelock called 'the revenge of Gaia' after hearing him one Monday morning on Radio 4's start the week. In particular I was interested in his comments re. the misunderstanding about nuclear waste disposal and how the planet can deal better with it than we think.

I now sit teetering on the fence and so accept readily the arguments from both sides, but yes, I do believe that man can do irreversible harm to the planet, one only has to look around and breathe the air in any major city compared with 20, even 10 years ago. What is worrying is the rate at which our influence is growing. Politicians do a very good job of playing it down because their goals are for economic growth; but what does need to change is the attitude of everybody on the planet. This is why it is important for us as a touring organization to be seen to be doing something even if it ultimately has negligible effect.

The thought of the gulf-stream failing is scary beyond belief. No prevailing South-westerlies??? I don't honestly believe it will happen in the near future but I do believe it could should we continue hell-bent on economic growth without recognizing the dangers. I think you are wrong to say mankind is incapaple of destroying the environment. at the moment we seem to be having a damn good try.

Dear Doctor, I have a question on amplifying violin. Though I know it's not your primary area of speciality but still from time to time you have violins in the studio or live on stage. What would you recommend: clip-on microphone or violin pick up? I have noticed that the microphone is very sensitive to its position wrt the strings and the f-holes, it perceives much mechanical and ambient noise. As opposed, the pick up catches body vibrations and insensitive to other sources of noise. On the other hand microphones tend to have better sound quality - but maybe this is entirely subjective. Can you confirm any of these experiences/beliefs? What would you suggest for live performances? What system do your fellow musicians use (e.g. Mike Henderson during the 2001 tour)? Kind regards

Hi Doc, thanks again for your great work and for letting us get an impression of the recording process. My question is the following: with the information that Chris White will play on the album and there will a quite different instrumentation with accordion, harmonium etc. I am asking myself how the new album will sound. And I think we all do... Could you please give us just a few hints about how it will sound ?

Good question. It's because there aren't any! This album is pure organic musical instruments only, ie. Wurlitzer and Fender Rhodes pianos, Hammond B3 and Various acoustic pianos.

Dear Doc, Question from a techno Mr Magoo! Now that the new album is at the 'mixing stage' can you pray tell if this process is as enjoyable as the building up of the album from scratch or is it more of a grind and 'something that just has to be done?' Promise I will not mention the Liverpool score of the 31st! Ouch!

One further question - related to guest musos you get in on the recordings. Do you feel obliged to include them on the album ? - seeing as you've gone to all the trouble of getting them in to the studio. Have there been any examples where a guest muso just hasnt worked out as you'd hoped and ended up on the cutting room floor - or more accurately for today's technology, the recycle bin on your desktop - no need to identify individuals of course.

Hi Doc,
What I’m curious in knowing is, if you were to decide on the tracks to put on a DS/MK compilation Cd what would you choose and why? Remember it’s a compilation not greatest hits. Cheers

Hi Doc, I would love you to add this question to the page if possible. I like to focus in some details such as your chorist parts, I am sorry for my bad English. One of the best examples of what I see is in Speedway At Nazareth, your vocals are amazing, but I think that others do sing there too. Who decides where to sing those parts? And what is the most "funny" song to sing? I think that Speedway would be very nice, at least it sounds amazing. Thanks for all Guy, warm regards to the crew. Ivan From Argentina.

Like most bands who employ harmonies, we all decide on the parts. Speedway is probably the most enjoyable to sing but anything with Emmylou onstage was a pleasure.

Hi Doc, With all the hype over global warming recently I was wondering as an environmental scientist if any individual members or the band as a unit influence or adopt any sustainable approaches to limit their impacts upon the environment (not just in relation to global warming) when recording and producing an album and especially when touring. I know it’s impractical to cover so many continents in the time you do by bicycle, canoe or surfboard but are there any other ways that you could or do offset the impacts?

I know MK touched upon environmental issues in “My Parties” and also contributed So Far Away for use on the Earthrise II CD (proceeds going towards forest conservation). By the way, I reckon MK could write a killer song for the environment (if he hasn’t done so already!)

Interesting you should ask this as it came up in onversation at the studio yesterday. I can say that yes, we will be actively considering the environmental impact of our next tour and I will elaborate on this soon.

Hi Doc, The harmonium, pictured in week 4 and 5 of the new diary, is it the same which has been used on the Shangri-La album? You said about the thing: "... the thing is a quarter tone sharp and squeeks like an epileptic mouse. We gave it a good run for it's money though after transferring a mix to tape and varispeeding the machine and transferring it back to dig" I'm certainly not an expert and maybe this is a stupid question but: Why don't you get this thing tuned before recording it, less work then how you
guys did it now to get a good sound out of it, no?????????

It's the same type but not the same one. Mine is even worse than Jim's in LA.

You can't tune indian harmoniums, well not without risking one's long-term mental stability.

This set of questions would normally find it's way to the trash, but since you ask about the Strat....It's expansive because each one is meticulously hand crafted by Himalayan nuns in remote monasteries in Nepal.

er, it is a wonderful guitar and it's not cheap because it utilizes specialist woods and fittings and it is put together by the custom shop. You will not regret buying one I can assure you.

PS I never hit Mark

Hi doc, I believe I have a valid and sensible question for you that would be of interest to the fans
(I know, sit down and have a cup of tea for the shock!) Can you tell me why MK does not release singles from his albums as soon as they are completed, well in advance of the album going on sale as some artists do. I believe everyone would be very excited and happy if, say a single was released in June for example, to help us all to cope with the long waiting invloved before our hero brings out his next album, and it would,come to think of it,help the said single climb higher up the charts, as I'm sure everyone would buy it if it was so far ahead of the album release. Good for the fans, promotes MK and promotes the new album! Good for everyone. Please ask Mark if there is any chance he could do this, if not for this album, then at least in the future.

it's a good question and the answer is simple. We deliver the whole album at the same time, that's just the way we do it. It all gets mixed in the same time period. I would guess the label could release a single before the album but with MK, I don't think this strategy is applicable.

Hi Doctor Fletch On saturday night I watched a programme on BBC3 called 'The Most Annoying Pop Songs'
which features a top 100 chart of the most annoying pop songs. I watched it simply because I was curious to see who would appear on it. I was surprised that I enjoyed watching it, as it contained a lot of very good songs from the past 30 years or so. Hardly any of them I found to be annoying at all, except when they got to number 50 in the list!! Now that was annoying, because they said it was Dire Straits Money For Nothing!!! I couldn't believe it. How on earth could that song be classed as an annoying song? Similarly, Every Breath You Take by The Police was also in the list and also to my amazement.

Dire Straits did have one person defending them (who was interviewed to speak about each of the songs on the list), to my surprise and that was Pete Waterman, the famous and rich 1/3 of the Stock,Aitken and Waterman record production company and judge on pop idol of course. Pete said that Money For Nothing is a brilliant song and couldn't understand why it was on the list.

I would like to hear your reaction to that and ask you if you saw the programme and does it annoy you to hear anyone slating DS songs which you were part of? All the best
Sue
P.S) Can't wait for the new MK album, tell him we love him!

I would have loved to have seen that. By virtue of the fact that MFN was played to saturation point on the radio much during 1986, I'm not at all surprised to see it made the list, I'm just surprised it wasn't joined by Walk of life. My number one would definately be the smash UK hit 'the birdie song' by the Tweets, which is worryingly reminiscent of a German waltz. Quite definitely THE single most annoying piece of music EVER composed. The author should be whipped and publicly humiliated, tortured and shot etc....

After writing this I google the show only to discover I was right, the birdie song made no.1 on the show. There you go, see.

It doesn't annoy me in the slightest to hear DS being slated although since the Killers did R&J there's been something of a turnaround in people's opinions, certainly the kids, and let's face it, they're the ones who matter.

Hi Doc, I'm looking for a bit of advice, I'm wanting to buy an acoustic guitar that's 3/4 size, with a good sound and reasonable action. It's to use for practicing at home, and in the recording studio. I've seen the "Baby Taylor" for around £250 and quite liked it, but what I'm wondering is, if you think that this is a good choice, or could you recomend a better one for around the same price.

Hi Guy, I was doing some gardening this weekend, and I had a little accident which makes it a bit difficult to play guitar this week. And then I wondered whether one of you guys ever had this kind of silly accidents ? Or do you try not to fix anything at home ?

Yes, we're always doing things normal imbecillic blokes do. Mark bashed his fingers on a fence post the other day and I frequently burn myself cooking. As for gardening, I am reminded of the great Jeff Porcaro's tragic demise. He died after suffering a heart attack brought on by the use of pesticide. It was only discovered that he had a serious heart condition after his death. Be careful out there.

I had a dream I was called up from the bench by Arsene Wenger the Arsenal manager to play in the 2nd half of a cup tie, and couldn't figure out why my shorts were so tight. I told him I hadn't played for 20 years but he said he'd seen me in training and needed me!! It was against Spurs! Can't remember if we won but I doubt I scored.

Hi Doc, thanks again for your interest and commitment to us with your studio and tour diaries,keep up the good work and all the best with your current projects. My question is as follows; is there any musician that you would have bought in if there was a transfer market or that you would have loved to have played with at some stage in the past or future? I know its hard to beat the current line up but if you had a choice is there someone out there?

24/3/07
a stig lap or two

Hi Doc, Do you know if MK will ever appear in Top Gear to talk about his beloved Maserati 300S and his other cars and motorcycles? I’d like to see him behind the wheel of the reasonable priced car! On YouTube I saw him talk beautifully about his vintage racers with a complete different look in his eyes! He really loves them… Regards,

I'm not sure he's been asked. He probably has but I would guess he was busy. I'd love a few laps with the Stig.

Who is the Stig anyway?

Dear Doc, here's a question about graphics for the new album. I always loved the front covers and the whole artwork of MK's solo albums (old Dire Straits cover were amazing too! Communiquè is my favorite one), they are very close to the spirit and the stories told by the songs. I really loved the STP and the Shangri La artworks. Do the graphic designers receive a copy of the album so they can listen to the tracks and catch some inspiration or they just "talk" with MK to have some hints about the work they'll have to realize? Is MK interested or somehow involved in the artwork for his albums? Thanks for the answers! Ciao, Isabella

hello Doc, I must say how made up I was with the link on the news page to "The Killers" tribute to MK and DS...My street cred with my fifteen year old daughter went stratospheric!!!..after enduring my "sad" music for so long and being a massive "killers" fan..I noticed to my delight that my BIA cd was not in the rack..upon investigation and a quick search it showed up , yes you guessed it! in my daughters room!..how did you guys feel about it? nice to see how giffrent eras and styles can interact and open up whole new soundscapes for listeners..no matter how cool they think they are.!!..(any chance of a "killers" collaboration? or am I getting carried away!!!)..thanks Doc..

Hey Doc, Its really interesting reading about people's questions and your answers on the technical side of things eg. equipment etc. even though I know squat about it. It really is a great educational site Many thanks. Which brings me to this question. When I went to 2 concerts in Tour 2005 (Rod Laver Arena and Adelaide), obviously the sound quality was a fair bit different which of course happens,my friend and I both agreed on the RLA being of better sound quality,(Adelaide still excellent). But we noticed in RLA the first track Why Aye Man was slightly distorted if thats a right word to use,(still enjoyable), but as each track went by the sound quality improved to a point where we both just looked at each other after Sultans as if to say "It simply cant get better than this, absolutely awsome". Is this because the sound is completely different with and without an audience? What happens with sound checks? Does it have to be corrected because of this? And obviously roof open and shut would sound different I guess. I remember you played Speedway the instrumental final few minutes to me sounded so damn loud but still so clear and enjoyable to take in. It went straight through my system, it was a beautiful experience.
Thanks Doc. If you happen to tour Oz in 2008, I'll be sleeping in a sleeping bag outside the ticket office a week before sales :)

24/3/07
PC's best

Dearest Dr. Fletch. I have 3 questions: Dire Straits is certainly eligible for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Any idea if DS has come close on any of the ballots? (The criteria is the groups that get the highest number of votes in a year, including anyone who gets more than 50% of the 1000 votes)
Have you ever discussed this with Mark and is there any resentment that DS is not in the R&R HOF?
How is Paul Crockford doing? He was pretty sick when you were out on tour last year. Give him our best.

One question, as no one fired it to you so far. I have always been interested in CDs artwork, and I myself spend some time creating some for my bootleg collection with more or less satisfaction I have to say ;-) Never mind ! How do you choose a CD artwork ? And its designer ? I suppose the designer listens to the album before creating the sleeves for the record. Lucky guy ! Do you guys have several projects made by several people, and then you choose the one that fits with the music ? For example, the ambiance of the Ragpicker's front cover was in complete harmony with the music of that album. Same with "Shangri-La" and even with "Roadrunning", even if I wouldn't be able to explain why for that one. Or is it just a matter of aesthetic judgement ? Who decides at the end ? It is Mark's own choice or do you have your words to say too ? I liked how you explained which instruments you played on the "Shangri-La" booklet. Very interesting ! Can you give us some ideas of what the next album's covers will be ? Or far too early to say ? One more question, please. I have collected ALL the tour books from 1979 (a collector !) to 2006. Some say that there was no programme for the 1978 tour, which I believe. Though, I know it was before your days, but could you ask Mark if he remembers if something had been done for this tour ? And if yes, where can I find it ? Thanks a lot !

see artworks above....too early to go into detail

No luck with the '78 tour I'm afraid.

You concider Glenn as a member of the band or member of the "MK family" Does Mark get sponsered a lot with free goodies? In a interview long ago Mark said that it was great that Phillips sponsered the BIA tour and the OES tour because he could get the latest audio and tv stuff.

Of course Glenn is family. Various manufactureres send stuff but Mark only endorses the stuff he uses. Which reminds me, I need some more guitar strings. It was great that Phillips sponsored that tour as I believe there was a cash injection, but out of the nine portable cd players the band were given at the launch lunch, seven of them failed to operate. I believe Phillips have since got there act together. We were offered a rather insignificant discount on Phillips hi-fi gear but after the cd incident I don't believe anyone actually took the plunge. Sour grapes? maybe, but for a tour of that size, they could have furnished us with something that worked.

Hey Doc, Guess what? I had a dream about MK this morning (what the sam hell is he doing driving a bus?) in which I was listening to the first track of the upcoming record! It was so beautiful and ... soothing. Isn't it fascinating how the mind works? When awake, the only musical instrument I play is the stereo (and I certainly can't carry a note), yet while in slumberland my mind actually composed a song! Or maybe I somehow tapped into the music you guys already created, which is floating out there in the ether. Who knows? Either way it made my day and I fully intend to hear track 2 tonight.
By the way, thanks for this forum and your generosity by sharing your time and knowledge and drink recipes with us. ttfn

What was it called then? tracks 1 and 2. write it down.

It's an absolute pleasure.

Hi Doc! In this year, 2007, will be the 30th anniversary of the first Dire Straits formation. Although the first album was in 1978, is known that the band activity started one year before. Do you know if there will be any sort of cellebration, ceremony, release, or anything noticeable?

Many thanks!

A familiar question in recent weeks. Nothing is planned, and it's not something we talk about so I doubt there will be anything of the kind. Unless of course I missed it due to my head being inside this album. I don't see anything odd here.

Good Doctor, When one embarks upon a tour and carts keyboards and the like around, does one take one’s own gear or does one hire it? I, as but a simple guitarist use my own things as one would reasonably expect does MK, but keyboards are an altogether larger and more cumbersome item. Is it a case of rent the appropriate keyboard and upload the patches, or do you in fact pack up your own keyboards and head for Heathrow?

I guess the same goes for recording – do you hire the latest whatsits, or are the contents of Chez Fletcher emptied into the studio?

Regards from Orstraylier.

It is indeed a case of pack up yer gear and head for Heathrow; although logistically it's a little more involved than one would imagine. As for recording, over the years, Mark and I have collected a variety of instrumentation which gets used. As depicted in my diaries.

hi to Oz

That's a very good question, one for Paul Crockford, Mark's manager. Here's his reply -

In answer to your fan question the delay is in order to get the record out to long lead time press and the rest of the media with plenty of time for them to consider the record for reviews and TV and radio play. In addition the manufacturing and distribution for a worldwide simultaneous release takes some considerable length of time to co-ordinate in order to make sure that the record gets into every market on the day of release.

Doc, listening to some late 80’s Clapton shows, I hear the same intro the Straits used for R&J being played as an intro to Wonderful Tonight This was also during the time Alan Clark and Mark were part of Clapton’s touring band. Who wrote the intro and was this piece written specifically as the R&J intro? If so, how did it find it’s way into the Clapton shows? While we’re on the subject, I’m also curious as to why Mark chose to go out on the road as part of Clapton’s band.

Hello Guy, Hope this is not too technical of a question but I was wondering what kind of microphones do you guys use for mic’ing the 4x12 – live and in the studio. For the live shows I’ve noticed that sometimes you guys are using 2 microphones for one cabinet and the mic seems to be a condenser type?

Thanks

Really looking forward to the new record, particularly given the austere (and of course esteemed) core lineup. I know he's mentioned a familiar guest or two, but I'm curious as to whether Guy has mentioned anything to you about a surprise guest guitar player for this recording.
Jim
Wilmington, DE, USA

Dr. Fletch, I urgently need your help. After enjoying your wonderful road diary entries over the past few years, you have turned me on to the wonder that is Bombay Sapphire. Regretfully, all my gin and tonic concoctions turn out bitter. Would you possibly be so kind as to share your masterful recipe? Please help! This refreshing drink is one of my only ways to escape the dreadful desert heat. Most humble thanks.
Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Having not had a gin and tonic for many months, I'm trying to recall the correct proceedure. I would say firstly that it's important to use Schweppes tonic and not that Canada Dry rubbish you often get palmed off with in the States. Fill the glass with Ice, add a quarter lime (squeezed just prior to dropping in) and add gin to taste then top up with tonic. Bob's your uncle....instant vitamin G. Be careful though, it's not for wimps.

Hi Doc, In fact, I'm running out of questions! But still have this one running threw my mind: What's left on the "To Do list" before we find the new CD in the racks?? (getting a little impatience!! :-)) ) I know, I know, probably lots to do before it's final, but can the Doc give us a little glimpse behind the scene!

Thanks,

well I'm not going to run off my to-do list for you but we're nearly there and we will begin mixing in mid-April. Chuck will be coming back out to mix so at the moment we're looking at an Autumn release.

Hi Doc!
First of all I take my hat off to you, Guy: you're a great musician. Many thanks for your generosity; I love reading your posts and watching your pictures...
Now I've got a (silly?) question for you. I've often wondered: what did you think about Mark's music before meeting him and joining DS? What did you like most in his music?
I'm looking forward to the new MK album and I'm sure that you are going to give us wonderful emotions again, just like you always did. So happy recording! ;-)
Thank you so much Guy. Best wishes and regards from Italy to all of you.

Your website mentions you now own a Yamaha CS80. It was supposed to be a cheaper version of their huge GX-1 that Keith Emerson, John Paul Jones and I believe Stevie Wonder all used for awhile. Can you give us any details on that synth? I know it weighs a ton and was used by folks like Paul McCartney, EOL and Toto. You mentioned that it is out of tune. Out of curiosity, what makes a solid state keyboard go out of tune? I've read that even new the oscillators drifted quickly. I've heard it is very common in only analog synths. Is it repairable or is it just a matter of time before big beasts like the CS80 just become unusable. If you don't mind me asking, how much did you pay for it? They were expensive when new. Thanks for the info. Your website is really wonderful. Good luck with the latest MK session.

13/3/07
4x12's are loud

Hey Doc- I noticed on the ATRR DVD that Mark's Marshall 4x12 cabinet is mic'd with two mics. I know that the Komet amps do not have an effects loop & was wondering if the second mic was used to feed Mark's rack effects. I thought that one mic may be going to the FOH with his dry signal & the other mic feeding his effects rack, with a DI out of the effects sending his wet signal to the FOH & monitors. If I'm wrong, could you ask Glen how the rack effects are fed. Thanks!

Hello Doc,
Its obvious from the tour diary of that you the "artistes" and the road crew enjoy a close family like relationship on the road, are there any archetypal "roadies" in your regular crew? You know, the ones who can reel stories of the biggest bands ever and their whimsical rock and roll demands and excesses?? are there any with you now who have been around since the heady DS days? Maybe you and MK are subjects of these tales between them of the afore mentioned rock and roll excesses!!! And finally how do you become a "roadie"..?
definitely sounds like the life for me!..thanks for the regular insights..cant wait for the new tunes...

Dearest Doctor Fletch,
Thanks for another great diary. It has been great to see inside British Grove and the gears in motion on a new record. It strikes me as very interesting that Gretch’s and a Rickenbacker we pictured early in the diary which leads me to believe that they were the rhythm guitar of choice, over the usual acoustic guitars. True? If a gigantic meteor was about to hit and destroy the earth, what would you want as you last meal? How about MK and the other members of the band?

If I have undertood correctly the original live studio recording is on analogic tape? Bass, Drum, Riff Guitar, Piano and percussion Sax... acoustic instruments. Then it is converted to digital with 96KHz. With Chuck's Racks. Fantastic by the way. (Too expansive for me) Then you copy the hole thing in one audio clip in Cubase 4 after pre-Mastering. Additionals Midi Files, if synth allowed, Mark's voice and of course Lead Guitar. And what about the fiddle? Do you use afterwards Wavelab? Can you get use of the Cubase Plug-In like Compressors, Reverb... For Mark's voice, what Pre-Amp do you use ? Certainly a valve one. If my questions do not suit to the purpose of this Q&A please answer me anyway. I don't want to dye clueless. Be Happy, don't worry. Thanks Guy

No, you have understood incorrectly. simplified, we use Cubase as the main recorder it's just that when we track, we lock up two 16track Studer tape machines pictured in the diary pages to record the drums, bass and whatever else sounds good. Then we pop it over into Cubase, it gets converted on the way in to 96k since that's the sample rate we use all the time not by Chuck's 'racks' but by a bank of Prism A-D's. Once in the Cubase project, there it stays until we mix using individual outs into the Neve desk. So we mix ANALOG. Definitely not in Cubase and definately NOT with the use of any plug-ins. Once we have our master, be it on analog quarter inch, half inch or digital, it then will be mastered by Bob Ludwig who you can be certain will not use Wavelab. Although Wavelab is a nice peice of software, it's not used here. We're using a Neve 1073 Mic pre (which is not valve) and a long body Neumann U47 (extremely rare) tube mic for Mark's voice this time round. Hope this helps in your quest to be clued up.

Hi Guy, Mark played with many artists, in studios for an album collaboration or on stage. Most of the time you were with them. Which artists of them do you keep the best souvenir of? I have many bootlegs and many albums where Mark played on. My top albums of contribution :
Sonny Landreth - South of I-10, especially Congo Square
William Topley - Sea Fever
Willy Deville - Miracle, especially Night Falls
My top on stage with guests
Sonny Landreth - Cannibals intro on A night in London
Eric Clapton's Layla - Music for Montserrat
Thanks

well, week five (onwards) is me and Mark back in studio 2 working on more vocals and guitars we didn't do on the songs we cut with Danny and Glenn. So I will upload something but not to the extent of weeks 1-4

Hey Guy, some question about amplifying the keyboards. When you record in the studio, do you get the keyboard connected to an amplifier of sorts? And when live performing?

Howdy, Doc.... I've taken notice of Guy's excellent photography skills and technical expertise (not to mention musical and windsurfing talents). Is their anything our beloved Guy cannot do? I've heard Mark mention Guy's ability to fix bikes and watches......OK, I'll cut to the chase...
Being an avid (amateur) photographer myself, I have a couple of questions. Maybe 3.
1) What camera does Guy prefer to use? Most of his photos appear to be taken with a digital camera.
2) Does Guy use Adobe Photoshop for fine-tuning and manipulating color in his pix? If not, what program does he prefer? Why?
3) Does Guy ever use an SLR and print film? As an aside, I know that digital cameras have revolutionized photography, but print film has many advantages over computer files. I guess you could compare it to live instruments as opposed to using a synthesizer.

Don't get me wrong-I loooove my digital camera. But I also love my SLR and my "first" camera-a Pentax K1000 (fully manual)-which is what truly taught me how to take a photo (so many years ago!). It weighed a ton, as compared to my present digital camera (Sony DSC-H2), but the photo results were incredible. I must confess, I've forgotten the joys of adjusting shutter speed, aperture, f-stop and depth of field. The ability to snap and shoot has spoiled me. And I've become lazy, in my "advanced years". Oh well, I still love taking pix.Thanks for sharing your gifts and time! Your ability to counsel has made for better lives (or, at least, answers to some burning questions). Cheers, from Michigan, USA!

And now for something completely different, Doc. Jarabe de Palo There's a cool famous spanish band called "Jarabe de Palo". Some nice songs of them are :"Bonito","Agua" and "Depende". If you've never heard of them, should you find the time, have a listen, you won't regret it. By the way, Danny Cummings should know them, as he's credited as a percussionist for some of their songs.

DVD Pretty sad to hear that the sales of the ATRR DVD isn't going too well. I would have imagened that those fine people that visited the concerts would all buy the DVD and enjoy their ears off . I'm concerned that sales being a bit low, this will compromize future DVD projects. I know, way too early to say perhaps, but still : a pity anyway.

Paul Crockford I was buying a colourful shirt the other day, so i wondered : how's mr Paul Crockford ? Hope his health is all right. Cheers Doc,

Hi Guy, I´m one of Mark´s and Guy´s biggest fans, I love reading your Q´s and A´s and I have attended in the wonderful concert in Frankfurt last year. As I have been a guitar player (classical and electric guitar) for more than 30 years now, Mark is the greates guitarist in the world for me and I´m playing his songs, but always have to program the "background" music note by note using Cubase. I know, that there are some publishing companies who have released versions of backtracks of BIA, MFN, RAJ, GH etc. but most of them do not really satisfy. My question is, if there is any chance to get the music of the newer songs without Marks voice and lead guitar? Nothing is better than the original and the music of the 96er´s can not really be copied, as it is excellent and wonderful. Why don´t you release some backtracks of the newer songs? I´m sure, that there is a market for them, as lots of real fans do music on their own and would appreciate to have these tracks. Are there any license issues or something like that? For my own part, I´d immediately buy these tracks, especially GH from the last tour with Guy´s delicate keyboard part on it.
Best regards

why?

The market for backing tracks is I would think very small, almost non-existant. It wouldn't be viable proposition, even if we wanted to, which we don't. The song is released complete.

Hi Guy, I was wondering, when Mark first plays his new songs to you and the band, is it recorded?i mean just Mark playing the raw song with accoustic.I take it you still demo his songs, it would be great to hear just how Mark evolves his songs. Thanks

no, he plays them on his acoustic, we're there to record it.

Man this is addicting! Thanks for the regular updates. Have you ever listened to the Shins? Only reason I ask is because they are a Portland, OR band who have made it big. I just saw them here (Portland) the other night and they are in London now, so maybe you'll see them.

Hi Doc!
Thanks a lot for a great web site and for answering both interesting and daft questions. A great service to the fans! Here comes my opinion on/in the DS debate. DS was a great band that existed from 1978 to 1980. They played some kind of funky and bluesy rock and roll, leaded by a guitarist that sounded like a mix of JJ. Cale, Eric Clapton, Chet Atkins on speed and a pedal steel guitar(!). From 1982 (love over gold album) and out, it has all been MK's solo projekt. MK's music style started to evolve, different musicians came and went, yet the name of the band stayed the same until 1996. But the real change happened in 1982.

And one more thing. MK, Guy, Danny and Chris all play on the new MK album and have all played with Dire Straits. That means that there are more members of Dire Straits playing on the coming solo album of MK than on the third Dire Straits album (Making Movies). So what do people mean by asking for a comeback? Do they really know what they are talking about? If you ask those people about who Dire Strait is, you will probably get five or six answeres... I'm very glad that MK's music has evolved, and I am extremely satisfied with the direction his music has taken. I can't wait for the new album! But of course I want to hear Tunnel of Love live :-) Regards from Norway:-)

Hi Doc,
I’ve often wondered why wood panelling and flooring is chosen as the preferred material for “lining” a studio. Could other materials be substituted such as plastic, brick or mdf board? I have a Love Over Gold Souvenir programme from 82/83 and in there is a picture of Mark in a studio (maybe in Germany) which is completely clad with wood panelling top to bottom. It looks like he’s playing inside a monster tree! Cheers

Good day, Doctor.

A few questions: Firstly I'll get rid of the one that's absolutely none of my business and therefore I'm not really expecting an answer to. With charity gigs such as Boothbay, what's the scoop? MK can't dictate that you all fly over on your own coin (can he?!) to play, so does the event pay for getting band and equipment to the venue, and keep what they make on top of that? I know...I'll move on.

You mentioned in one of your recent answers that MK is one of the few artists who won't let the record company have anything to do with the production of the music. Obviosuly he's in a good position to be able to dictate 'cos, well, it's not like he has to prove that he knows what he's doing. But surely the Claptons and Gilmours of this world can do what the hell they want to, too - they have their own studios and I, in all my glorious ignorance, would think that they could afford to finance the whole thing themselves if they had to. I always imagine myself telling the record company execs, "You stick to what you know - the business, and I'll worry about the music side of things". That's the first reason I'll never get a recording contract. The second is that I'm a bollocks musician.

And lastly, you once told me that you're from West Sussex. Not sure whether that means you grew up there or you live there now? I'm just interested in where (and don't worry about me stalking you - I live in Canada). But I lived in W.Sussex until I was 23 and emigrated - my folks lived in Loxwood, Pulborough, Fittleworth and Kirdford before I left the country, then moved to Tedfold and somewhere I can't remember (probably trying to lose me!), and now they're in Lodsworth. Many thanking-yous.

Firstly, Mark is more charitable than you would imagine.

I can't speak for Clappers and Gilmore but yes, I would guess they're in exactly the same boat as Mark.

West Sussex is where I have lived for ten years. I live on the coast near Pagham about four miles from glorious Goodwood. Windsurfers heaven.

Hello Doc, Again, many thanks for giving us the possibility to ask our questions. Thanks for the diaries. Thanks for the news. Thanks for the music. Thanks for the jokes. Oh and thanks for the Hawaian shirts on stage ;-) Questions :
1) Mark and you often point that you prefer the smaller venues (compared with the straits era). You played in smaller venues in 96 and 2001 (like the very, very hot parisian Zenith, it was my first MK gig !) but this ha somewhat changed for the Shagri-La tour (You've chosen the 15000+ Bercy in Paris, I must say I prefer the smaller Zenith, The Odyssey at Belfast, and other quite large venues). Is it intentional ? For the 2001 tour, you had to add some dates to the tour (like a second concert in Paris) because tickets were sold out too quickly. So it may be an intention to be more lucid regarding Mark's popularity ?
2) Do you know if MK opened the famous letters (which are supposed to contains guitar "tricks" and excercises) that Chet Atkins gave him ?
3) I think what many call "lazy" actually mean that MK's guitar work seems more and more "economical" (but actually more subtle), using the often debated fact that "less is more" to let other instruments take their part in the records. Some think that his guitar skills remain somewhat unexploited in the last records. Do you agree with this ?
Is it a "no come back" choice ? I can hardly imagine a talented instrumentalist like him giving up little by little his skills.Thanks ! Regards from Lausanne, Switzerland

Hi Doc, Many of us know the story behind the song "Money For Nothing". So, I've got a question: can the Doc tell us; what's the story behind "Hill Farmer's Blues"? Listened to it a thousend times and more (After 3 minutes and 8 seconds, a sound made in haven by Guy!!!!) It is such an awesome song, isn't it. Regards from Belgium :-))

Dear Guy.
Thanks for your site and generosity!
1- I am happy MK has C White in the new work. When I recall Romeo... and Sultans.. with him live, I do feel that music of MK`BANDS are the BEAUTY IT SELF!
2- By the way, do or did GUY and/or Alan Clark create piano music for MK?
You see, the most "expanded" fans of MK (after 1985) do love MK piano and sax pieces!!
3- By the way: when some fans bother (?) you with DS stuff, it would be nice to understand that they are NOT saying that they want them back. No. It is simply to say that some of the atmosphere (!!!!) that MK+GF+AC... created is FOREVER!! AND REPEATABLE. Not the band.

Dear Doc I'm in a Dire Straits tribute band and we're trying to find out the models of keyboards you used to use, especially for the Alchemy-era songs in order that we can try to emulate them. Can you help?
Thanks, Andy

Hey Guy,
Ok here goes.
First off, love reading these Qs and A's,great website Doc.
But, something is really not sitting well with me of late.I really feel these people who are constantly asking about DS re-forming,comeback,one off,etc..are not really true MK fans.In 1978 I was 9 years old and i heard the latest hit album DS self titled.I loved it, but something caught my attention,the lead guitarist MK absolutely mesmorized me.I promise you, from that point on, for me it was all about MK, NOT Dire Straits. I truely believe DS was just another vehicle for MK's music and a great vehicle at that, but so was NHB, the 96's band, etc. Dire Straits is just a great chapter in many of MK's musical journey.Just privately i prefer his solo albums.There are so many variety of styles of songs, Every album has something for everyone. And there are still DS like tracks on his solo albums like Imelda,DYGI could easily fit into a DS album even gentler songs as well, even a song from Roadrunning could fit in OES next to How Long.The transition from OES to GH is a beautiful one, a slight change in direction. For me its Mark Knopfler the artist surrounded by the best musicians in the world make the best music in the world. What a journey it's been so far.
Did I hear someone say MK is lazy? What the??? Kidding right? This great man is producing more and more material as hes getting older, when normally most artists are winding down their careers. There is no stopping this Man. Enjoy while hes still producing folks, its a blessing. To DS only fans, enjoy what DS has produced,but please please get over this re-forming business. Its Mark Knopfler the Man, The Music,The Journey.........Love It. Thanks MK, and thanks Guy Fletcher and friends, best ever!!
P:S. I understand if you dont want to post this, i just had to get this off my chest, sorry man
Regards, Your Fan.

Guy, Reading the Dr Fletch everyday like I used to read the tour diaries, thanks. You mentioned that the DVD didn't sell particularily well. Without going into too much detail, was it a profit or loss? You were also commenting on the state of the industry these days not giving new acts a chance. I know Bono and Tom Petty have spoken extensively on that same subject, and Bono's point that "The Joshua Tree" would never have been made now because their label would have dropped them right after "October" is so true. I think I read somewhere that 10% of all albums released are
profitable for the label and they lose money on the other 90% Would you say that figure is accurate? Do you guys tend to make money on record sales or touring? Tom Pettersen of Cheap Trick has said that they lose money making albums but they make it back up by touring. Is that the case with you as well? I'm guessing with the private jet and catering and all you guys must do okay touring.

Hi Doc, From the pictures you’ve posted on your site, MK’s new studio looks great. As a true MK fan, I’ve often thought of the musical process and decisions Mark, yourself and other recording musicians go through during studio recording of an album and would love to be a fly on the wall amongst all of that. Whilst this would be a very remote prospect, has Mark considered opening the studio maybe a couple of hours a day to the fans / public when it’s not being used by any artists – a kind of studio tour?

You know, setlists and dire straits. Reading the questions and the answers I guess you don´t get the point, and I would like you include this in the Doc section, if you think it deserve it We DON´T want Dire Straits back as a recording / touring band. What we want is that eventually, the band would come back for just one or two charity things, just how it happened with the Mark Knopfler and friends concert, five days at the Royal albert Hall, the Hammersmith Apollo or whatever, money for charity, good memories for fans that never saw DS live and a really great time for all of you. That´s all, we are enjoying very much the Knopfler new records and his new style and we are happy with it, but an eventual reunion would be nice, just as something eventual. About the set-lists. Obviously every DS song is a MK song. What we think is Mk has a lot of own material from his solo records, and as happened with the last tour with Emmylou, a concert without Walk of life, Money for nothing, Brothers etc etc is not only possible but also real perfect, we didn´t miss that songs on last tour, but we miss a lot of the Golden heart and Ragpickers dream stuff, specially ecause that record didn´t have his own tour. I understand this two topics are eternal and boring for all you, but I would like you really understand what is the fans point about all this topics.
Thanks for being there listening, really waiting for the new record, I guess its going to be really great

er, I do get the point and I do understand how you guys get worked up about setlists but I'm not goinng to be involved in any further discussion about....doh.

bugger it, you got me.

Dear Dr. Fletch, as I read your 'Q & A to relish' I really got angry about such comments of fans saying that MK "has gotten a little lazy".
I know that everybody's got his opinion but in my eyes that statement is absolutely untrue and false.
If you take all the albums that MK ever recorded (from the Straits' first album to ATRR-duet-album) and if you listen to every of those brilliant pieces of music really really carefully, there's only one word to describe and only one conclusion to come to... and that's: "g e n i u s"
There are not many artists in the world that are so many-sided and have kept such a high music level over so many years like MK and his band. Mark is continuously getting better and better and still very productive. All of you guys do such a great job by creating a sound that is absolutely unique with so much love and power in it!!!
I feel ashamed of fans talking about 'lazyness' and cannot accept it and I'm sure that most fans think the same way I do.
Thank you so much for the recording diary + for answering our questions and (sometimes critical) comments + giving us fans access to information about your music & band!!!

Nice to read that you are now taking a break ! I hope you'll enjoy it. Thank you for all the nice updates on your site. Love them all ! You said that the mixing of the album will come in May. So, you have recorded the album with a four-pice band ! Nice, I wouldn't have expected that after such a long collaboration with Richard Bennett and the last two tours with the excellent Matt Rollings. I hope to see those two great fellows on stage though, but I am VERY excited about the new album... I'm thinking of something very different, and... DANNY CUMMINGS plays on it, at LAST !!!Two questions :
- Do you have an idea why MK waited for sooooooooooo long before taking DC as drummer ? I mean, Danny could have joined the band around 2001, or something... Each time I listen to recordings from the last two tours, I can't help thinking that his drumming style fits PERFECTLY to Mark's music ! Simply the Best ! I'm REALLY looking forward to hearing the new album for this reason too.
- Can we expect a DOUBLE album ? It would be GREAT !!!!!!!!!!
One last thing : I am listening "the mist covered mountains / local hero" from the last MK tour, and I love the work you did on those songs, especially "The mist..." SUPERB !!

Mixing is proposed for May, but nothing is written in stone. Danny was going to be involved on the ill-fated Ragpickers tour and has been a mate for ages. The time just hasn't been right until now.

No double album.

Doc: Thanks for the site!! Three questions. (1) Lots of answers/action of late -- new burst of energy?: (2) My favorite song is "Brothers"(love the tune, and the song strikes an emotional chord which very few songs do for me. I(as a non-musician) sometimes listen to the song over & over.) My question is as a musician I assume it would drive you crazy to listen to a song(for pleasure) over and over. Yes?: (3) I assume it is "work" to play some songs in concert again & again. Are there a few which are not "work"?

Hi Guy, first of all thanks for your courtesy that allows us to be in contact with you all. I have for you a question, silly maybe, but I'd like to get an answer from you (not necessary through the Q&A page). Being my English poor I hope you can understand me. Do you and your group (MK included :-) ) own the recordings (audio or video) of your concerts? Of all? Do you watch (or listen) them sometimes together for funny? Did happened to you to search for the recording of a particular show among the bootlegs collection of your fans? Thank you. Best regards from Italy.

Hi Doc. Exciting news that Mr Fletcher is working on his own solo instrumental album. Hope you can keep us updated as the project progresses. As we know, the multi-talented Mr Fletcher is more than capable of playing any instrument he might wish to feature on the album, but I was wondering has he enlisted any guest artists to help out, or will this be a solo venture in the truest sense. Either way, I am really looking forward to it's release.

Dear Guy Andrew from Nottingham here, land of the legendary Robin Hood. I have been very disappointed that MK has not played at the Royal Centre in Nottingham for a long time.
Are there any particular reasons for this that you know of, does the band not like the Royal Centre here for some reason (size/room acoustics) or has Nottingham's bad recent publicity over gun crime in the media played a part in it? I can tell you that Nottingham is a great city and no worse than any other city in England.
Please, if there is no problem, will you try to come back to Nottingham on the next tour?
I know it's not up to you, but if you could put in a good word for Nottingham, ask Mark if he
will try to make it so and us Notttingham fans will be merry men again.

Hi Guy, Two questions if I may please Guy;
1.) Does MK still have that 'young at heart' love of good old Rock N Roll
and rockabilly ? I loved Red Staggerwing with Emmy and Born To Run, but apart from the duets album and live DVD/CD we haven't had anything anywhere so upbeat and lively since STP's "Do America". Boom Like That was supposed to be the track that varied the pace and livened up Shangri-la, but although a gorgeous song beautifully made, didn't quite do the job and as a result (and I'm not saying this is a bad thing) Shangri-la is perfect for playing at bed time to help one get to sleep with no danger of being woken up half way through the album, in fact my three year old daughter goes to sleep listening to Shangri-la, works better than a lullaby. Why the hell didn't Summer Of Love make it on to the album instead of Dont Crash The Ambulance (the weakest track on the album) in YOUR opinion and did Mark consider it for the album and does he regret not leaving it in?

2) The live DVD/CD with Emmy is fantastic by the way and I just never get tired of hearing it. Do you know if there is any chance of a live DVD/CD from the next tour (assuming that RLRR sold well enough I can't see Mercury or Universal objecting) especially as the last one from STP tour was shelved?

Sure, we all love a bit of rock'n'roll. There were many who were stunned to learn that Summer of love wasn't to be on the record. I was one of them as I made my bongo debut on that track! Plus it was a sure fire single. It was a last minute decision that I was unaware of. Something unfortunately that we need in the world of airplay related album sales.

Way way way too early to be talking about dvd's I'm afraid. FYI, the dvd didn't sell particularly well. It's quite a small marketplace believe it or not.

Hi Guy, first of all: thanks a lot for keeping us up to date! I have to admit, that I would love one or the other new DS record, but I'm also happy with the way things are now. Writing music on my own I perfectly understand the wish to do whatever feels right at a time.
What do you think about YouTube and copyright issues? I prefer buying legal stuff. On the other I found myself watching a lot of MK/DS stuff on YouTube lately and have to say, I often feel punished by record companies for trying to stay on the legal side. Some official songs are difficult to obtain, videos are very rare.
A totally different thing is the Steve Hackett question: I stumbled across "A midsummer nights dream" and was surprised by track 17. At 4:20 suddenly "Last Exit to Brooklyn" begins. I wonder: is it the same source MK and SH had or did SH copy that melody without saying so?

Now there's a BIG subject. The single thing that annoys me the most about the labels is their inability to stick with a band. Too many promising young acts get shelved or dropped simply because their first record didn't go platinum. There's so much fabulous talent out there as YouTube demonstrates, that simply can't get the necessary financial investment and support. The internet revolution to me is exciting in that it puts more people in touch with what would otherwise be unknown acts.

Good for you for staying legal....as for Steve Hackett, I don't know the album so maybe someone else could comment on that.

Thank you for taking the time to answer all the questions (even the rude ones). I have been a fan since I bought Sultans of Swing as my first 45 in 1979 when I was seven years old. I'm really looking forward to the new album. I wondered if you could offer a better idea of the new material...is it more rock or electronica or country or folk or if it is varied in musical styles, etc. Thanks again for your generosity in being approachable. And no, I won't ask you which prior MK/DS album the new one is most like. Best Wishes on all of your projects.

Hi "Doc", Just to say that I don't really understand why so many 'patients' seem to complain that MK does not pay more attention to his back-catalogue. Perhaps stronger medication is needed to cure them of this strange disease. Although... I do wonder sometimes how MK/GF would arrange some of the "old" songs these days - e.g., on the Goldenheart tour, 'Portobello Belle' appeared which was really great. Personally, I wouldn't miss the usual DS songs (MFN, BIA, SFA, Romeo&Juliet, and, dare I say it, Sultans) if they were left off the set-list (with the exception of Telegraph Road, that remains a masterpiece when performed live) - but then again, what matters most is 2 hours of great music played by brilliant musicians! Looking forward to the new album MK and GF are putting together - as with the previous albums, I'm sure it'll contain many surprises. Regards from Hull,

Now there's a well balanced opinion.

I am constantly amazed by the varying opinions of the fans and enjoy the ability to enlighten and dissuade. Keep em coming..

regards to Hull

Hi, Your Honour: Just wanted to shoot out a boring question now that you´re on your two week hiatus from recording. What´s the main difference so far (if it is any) between the general “sound” of the new album (which you´re coproducing) and the rest of MK non-DrFletch-produced stuff? And has your daily relationship with MK and Ch. Ainlay changed in any ways since you´re now producing? I´m asking both about the strictly working part of it (if you´re working more hours in this album than in the other MK stuff) and about the artistic side –the debate about songs, arrangements and its results (if MK and Chuck listen to your opinions now in a different way). To put it in a simpler way, has being a producer of an MK record changed your life completely?
I read the whole question over and it seems even more stupid that I thought in the first place, but at least it isn´t about setlists or about MK supposed lazyness going solo; I´m one of the sick people that really love the new “lazy” solo records as much as I did DS stuff. I even think all the solo records are better written and better produced than DS stuff. Maybe you, as a MD, could help me out about this with a recipe, maybe mixing peyote and LSD in a delicious omellette.
Thanks for your work and indulgence. Saludos,

Hi Guy Thanks for the great blog. My day starts with a quick look for any updates, and I love some of the answers to what could be strange questions.
Three Q’s for you. 1) On average how many emailed patients does the doc get each day? 2) I have noticed lap top computers on loads of the studio pics. Are they just hanging around or are they being used all the time? 3) Who compiles the musical ‘charts’ or ‘scores’ that you guys are reading as you play? Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the new album. Thanks

Like just about all musicians I know, we're not into the hi-fi thing really although we do tend to like to listen to good speakers NHT's for example are superb, and a nice linn sondek turntable turns us on too.. That's not hair, it's my thermal underwear.

Dear Guy, Remember you say you were really looking forward to playing Shangri-La live. Without giving too many secrets away, are there songs recorded and 'in the bag' that you are clearly looking forward to playing live? A response of 'You bet Neville' will suffice. Thanks Neville

Hi Doc, first of all I want to pay you a great compliment for you Q&A. In my daily routine it´s a pleasure to check out if there are some updates. As I´m just 28 I came to MK /DS by the BIA Album. Nowadays a like the MK Albums much more (no Pop Music) but the greatest song stays (for me) telegraph road. Now my question: Are there some favourites for Guy and Mark to play live? and are there some they just play for the audience (and think: oh, not again). If so, would you betray which songs you love to play live. Once again thanks for your fan support - it´s great. regards from germany

Yes, Telegraph road is a favourite as it fills the band with excitement and dread. It's certainly the most challenging to play.

regards to Germany

I always found the ATRR album was a kind of "clean-up"-album for mark, I mean, he used and finished stuff that was produced over a longer period or were left over from earlier record productions. (f.e. I´m sure beachcombing was a potential shangri-la track, emmy just sang background afterwards, the same with diamonds). That is no offence, the album is great of course, but he carried it with him for seven years or so. Now I have the feeling he has started into a new area of his career. With the new studio he seems to start off with totally new stuff and style. Has this something
to do with the earlier mentioned "long-time-plan" that MK and PC created? Or is he just more into it?

Dear Dr. Fletch I was just wondering how proceed to create an album. Supposing that MK brings an idea, a melody with succession of chords. At the beginning it is raw. How much liberty does the boss allows to your creativity ? Does he have the exact conception of what the sound of the song will be ? Or are you allowed to bring a modification of the structure ? Concerning the production, is the next record an own production or are you depending on the labels propaganda. I personnally think that the songs sounds very noncommercial so I can deduce that you and MK are totally free, or not? A question concerning your hawaians recording, did you us samples to perform it or virtual instruments or real players? And know an impudent question, Dr. Fletch can you give me the secret of the warm guitar song of MK. If you don't answer it's ok. It will mean that there is really a secret, and I will be able to sleep well in the future...... and find out my own secret..... Thanks and happy recording.
Eros, owner of a low-price guitar.

I've touched on this before but Mark brings the song in his head and plays it down to us. Sometimes it's obvious where a song is heading and sometimes it needs to be chased. The labels have absolutely nothing to do with the album production. I think that Mark is one of the dying breed of artists who will not allow this in any shape or form.

As for my Hawaiian recordings, it depends which one you're talikng about.

Your impudent question has no answer as there is no secret.

Hi Guy, [I'm a French fan so excuse my bad English] Firstly, Congratulations. Your website is great, funny and very interesting. I have few questions and I hope you'll answer them ;-)
1) Could you describe/explain the difference between the play of Richard Bennett and Mark Knopfler ? I listened "I dug up a diamond" (live) and I found they were very "complementary".
2) You played on several Knopfler's albums. What's your favourite song ? What's your favorite album ?

Sure, MK and RB have very different styles and there's no better track for lead comparison than IDUAD.

Favourite album is the new one and favourite song, can't mention yet.

Hi Doc, I just wanted to say that your Q&A has become compulsive reading for me due to the humour (often sarcastic which I applaud being a fellow Brit and do not get enough of here in Singapore) resulting from your answers. I sometimes wonder whether people know what they are letting themselves in for. P.S. Oh, and regards to Spain...

Dear Doc, a few more questions from me:
1. You described Guy's daily routine lately - as we know Guy is not a Londoner - you've not mentioned when Guy arrives at the studio. Does that mean he stays during the recording sessions
2. You said that MK arrives at 10:30h. By motorbike? A parked motorbike was seen through the glass door in the indoor parking area...his fans keep their fingers crossed!
3. Which hardware and software re. computers do they use at British Grove? And what is Guy using (at home)?
4. British Grove contains of two studios. What's the difference except for the size (floorspace is almost 900 sq m!!)? Can two bands record at the same time without interfering?
5. The Killers, Paul Burch, Peter Frampton, David Gilmour, London Metropolitan Orchestra and probably many more have recorded at British Grove. Can you add more names to the list?
6. Do MK (pictured during pre-January) and Chuck (pictured during week 3 + 4) wear the same sweater? ;-)
7. Can you introduce three Germans who are London residents into the secrets of making a great cup of tea? What to use and how to make?
8. MK & Friends will play at the 'Concert for Diana'. Will they rehearse at British Grove? We trust Guy is involved?

1. Guy stays in London, yes.
2. no motorbikes, who's been snooping?
3. BG has two Protools rigs on Mac G5's and multiple Nuendo/Cubase 4 rigs on PC. All are totally interchangeable and either room can request any combination of machines at a moment's notice.
4. The two rooms are completely independant of eah other.
5. Razorlight
6. we often swap clothing, especially in the winter
7.Now you're talking. for individual cups - First, brew the kettle and place one teabag per cup. when the kettle boils, leave for approx 15 secs. then pour into each cup/mug. do not leave to sit, that's the cause of tea-pond-scum. stir every 15 seconds or so. after a minute, remove the bag and add milk to taste. Simple. Make suer you do not use Liptons teabags. PG, Tetley, Yorkhire, Barry's all fine, just not Liptons.
8. Where did you get this information? It's simply not true.

Hi Doc, One point that did strike me, while I was watching the ATTR-dvd. When Mark was doing "Song for Sonny Liston", it struck me, he was using the same Les-Paul, Richard Bennet was using earlier on "Diamond". Is that right? Was that Mark´s own guitar or Bennet´s? I know, Mark had a Les-Paul made with his birth-date as a serial-number, so I´m just wondering, if it could be the same one.

Dear Doc Is that meaning that the main guitar parts are done? What about PIANO and SAX?

2- YOU SAID: It's interesting to me that you interpret Mark's recent direction as lazyness. I can assure you there's still a very meticulous element to everything we produce. We just don't go up our own arses in the studio so often these days. It's difficult not to shrug off the Straits thing when working with an artist who absolutely doesn't want to look back. In my opinion, rightly so. He has SO much to offer as a songwriter. The fans, those who bought those albums and continue to do so are in danger of being alienated especially as Mark doesn't do that many interviews and therefore record promotion is limited, which is one of the reasons I like to maintain this website. Believe me I understand the importance of the records we made and the ones made before my time. I agree with you. BUT looking forward just only means DOING BETTER. You don´t see EC, RollSt, and others, FORGETTING TOTALLY THE NEW WAYS TO COMMUNICATE WITH OLD AND NEW FANS: for example, DVDs AND ONE BIG LIVE SHOW!

3 - HELP AND QUESTION (if your memory can help): I am making in my PC a "BEST OF MK/DS live versions (bootlegs, non oficcial)": sultans..., private..., romeo..., sailing..., done with b..., speedway..., rudiger..., telegraph..., etc. I getting to the conclusion that the MOST BEAUTIFUL ONES are in BASEL/1992 (great sax and guitar solos, and smooth piano back) and RHA/2005. What do you think?

4 - Do you remember if DS ever sang TOL (1985-1986) without MK presenting the band? Sorry, but TOL is the song of my marriage (I am only 39 years old) and I have very few versions of it live.

Guitar parts, piano, sax, vocals , these all get done at different times so the question is irrelevant.

I have to point out that MK is not EC, RS etc.

As far as your bootleg compilation goes, I'd rather not comment. No, I don't know about TOL.

....this kind of questioning is best directed at a forum.

Will we have new tour? In such a case, we will return to listen to the same songs of always, money for nothing, so far away, walk of life, etc.... Do not you believe that Mark is contradicted? If nothing wants to know of the Straits so that has what it is necessary to have and that after-tastes these topics once and for all and that play " darling pretty " " sands of nevada " and all the music which he is enjoying now. The authentic fans we do not want any more " money for nothing " want more " lady writter " " single handed sailor " etc ... it if it is an authentic gift of the Straits not " walk of life "
To renew the set list please.
regards to spain

Yeah yeah, same old same old. I'm just not going to say anything apart from yes, there will be a new tour.

No more questions about set-lists will be posted.

regards to Spain

Dear Doc, I have to say I'm impressed with your ability to answer potentially incendiary comments with subjectivity and candour! I can see what Barry from Edmonton is potentially getting at, but I think it highly important to remember our (collective) inevitable maturing process which surely explains why MK is writing quite different material than that of 25 years hence. I have to take to task though the suggestion that he may be getting "lazy". As a poor musician (one with impeccable taste nonetheless ! ), I have "mastered" some of MK's songs on the guitar for my own enjoyment. It is only then that I appreciate the immense effort that must have gone into the creation of the song, and it's story, in the first place. I take my hat off to the lot of you...

Looking "forward" (intended) to whatever's next,

Hi Guy, Mark has played in lots of styles over the years, and of course has made some great instrumentals, but has he ever considered a totaly instrumental non-soundtrack album?, like Hank Marvin or Mike Oldfield?
Thanks

"please remember the poor fans who want dire straits to reuni… blah blah" well boo hoo. hasn't mark given you enough? I just want to add to the seemingly small chorus of fans here who like you and mark, AREN'T looking back. as john lennon once said, "you have all the old records there if you want to reminisce."

c'mon people. mark would have every right to never write another song again – or to never play another DS song – if he didn't want to. and yet every few years we're blessed with another killer album and a fantastic tour to boot. and an intimate glimpse into the recording process thanks to someone's generosity. how many other musicians post a diary like this, or take the time to answer fans' silly questions? so thanks, guy.

and now for my silly question: I was recently watching the meet & greet on the RLR dvd, and I couldn't help but admire danny cummings' curly quiff. is that what you brits would call it? has he ever revealed what hair product he uses to get it that way?

Danny's response to this question is unprintable so I've edited it

Product on my hair God no!................................................................. the old car battery and crocodile clips!

Hi Guy, here are a few quick questions:
1.) Have you ever listened to electronic music ? (drum'n'bass for example - very popular in the uk -).
2.) Do you agree with remakings of Dire Straits tracks ? (i heard several versions of MFN, remade to electronic music genre).
3.) What's your opinion of the fact that a guy called Yonderboi never specified that the Follow Me Home track from his album, is infact written by Mark Knopfler, and it's a remake after the original track from the Communique album?

Hi Doc, Are there any plans to re-issue some of the MK/DS back catalogue in SACD/DVDA format, as was the case with "Brothers in Arms"? I'm sure that many people are waiting for those kind of re-issues of, say, "Love Over Gold" or "On Every Street". They sounded so good previously, I can only imagine how they would sound now.

Hi Guy, Just scanned your diary for the first time in a while and the photography jumped to the forefront. Particularly the blue shot of the Sony, mic is it on week 4 and the red blue knobs. Those would be great as large prints for hanging. They are gorgeous and interesting ..it's a very cool effect coupled with an interesting angle and clear shot that draws you in. Did you do those? Hope you're all having a good time in the studio. Everyone is on the edge of their seats, so to speak, awaiting the new arrival. This is always the exciting time of speculation and anticipation. The first part of the cycle. Here's to creative energy and synergy...the stuff that makes life a fantastic journey. Cheers!

Hi Guy, Barry from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
I must say I am very disappointed in the last few CD'S. Other than a few track's from each CD I feel Mark has gotten a little lazy lately. Don't get me wrong, his song writing is still absolutely amazing and very few can tell a story and draw you into the story as well as Mark. I understand the " Straits" day's are over, but I feel you shrug off the importance of the band much to easily.
1978-DIRE STRAITS-- I remember as do most people that incredible guitar sound coming over my AM radio and cheap Ford speakers as "Sultans of Swing" made it's way to the North American airwaves. The album became a huge part of my life, 7 of the 9 songs were absolutely amazing, and even the 2 weaker songs "setting me up" and "southbound again" were better than 90% of what was out there at that time.
1979-?--COMMUNIQUE---Another 9 songGem, with absolutely 0 weak songs, one of the most under-rated albums ever.
1980--Making Movies---An absolute masterpiece, if the " Making Movies" song would have made it to the album in place of "Les Boys" this would have been 10/10 instead of 9/10.
1982--Love over Gold---And yet another masterpiece. Just put it on, turn it up and listen.
1984--Alchemy--Along with Framptons, the best Live album ever put out.
1985--Brother's in arms--The big time, yes a great album, but far from the "Straits" best work. I would say any of the above 3 studio albums are better than this. Obviously the timing of "Money for nothing" is impeccable and the infectious "Walk of life" set the wheels in motion for the biggest selling "Straits" album ever.
1991--On every street--After a long hiatus an absolutely fabulous album. The weakest song on this album is the radio released "Calling Elvis". I think when many of the fan's heard "Calling Elvis" on the radio they thought it was over for the band. A real shame as some of my favs are here, "you and your friend", "when it comes to you", "How long".
Please stop dismissing the above and the importance of these 7 great albums. Yes I realize Mark has moved on, but let's remember the fan's who allowed both Mark and yourself Guy, to be in the position you are today. And that is to play the music YOU want. All the best,

Thanks for your opinions Barry, I'm sure there are many who would agree. It's interesting to me that you interpret Mark's recent direction as lazyness. I can assure you there's still a very meticulous element to everything we produce. We just don't go up our own arses in the studio so often these days. It's difficult not to shrug off the Straits thing when working with an artist who absolutely doesn't want to look back. In my opinion, rightly so. He has SO much to offer as a songwriter. The fans, those who bought those albums and continue to do so are in danger of being alienated especially as Mark doesn't do that many interviews and therefore record promotion is limited, which is one of the reasons I like to maintain this website. Believe me I understand the importance of the records we made and the ones made before my time.

Ideally, we'd do more promo and more shows but we can't and I would never dream of imposing my selfish whims on Mark. We make the music we make simply because we love doing it so much and now we have the new studio, I like to think the output will increase somewhat.

Hey it must be pretty chilly up there in Alberta now. I remember a winter tour when we came by in '86. Jeez it was cold.

Hi Doc I've always wondered if MK has some time to listen to his colleagues' new music. For instance has he listened to new Eric Clapton's and JJ Cale's album or David Gilmour's? And how about you Doc, as for someone else's music is there anything you could recommend to listen to. Thanks in advance

Hi Doc, Really great to have again Guy's website updated almost daily. It seems that many vintage instruments, recorders, consoles etc have there place in the British Grove Studios . Any chance to have Guy playing a mellotron in a near future ? Romeo and juliet is probably one of Mark's preferred song as it was in the setlist of all tours since 1980(if i remember well) .Usually , Mark used to snap fingers when saying "bad - or rock'n roll- company". Does Guy know the story behind that and why did the snap disappear during the ATRR tour?

Hi Doc, A working day for me is just sitting eight hours at a desk, working on the computer in front of me and paying the good Doc a visit on his site sometimes! Can the Doc describe a working day or week at the studio (starting, ending etc.), creating a new masterpiece of music? Is it a whole day working on the new album or is there also time to play an old MK or non-MK song, let's say "just for fun"? Can the Doc give examples of often played songs?

sure, 7:30am wake up and practice steel guitar for 2 hours. 9:30 yoga. 10:00 shower. 10:01 feast on meusli. 9:40 power up computers and do all the work I should've done whilst I was in the pub with Mr. Saggers. 10:30 MK arrives for coffee and recording/editing/comping/general musical discussion(in front of computers). 1:00 lunch 2:00 return for more of the same. 7:30-10:30 pub with Mr. Saggers 11:30 practice Steel guitar for 2 hours, do website. I'm not sure what you mean by often played songs? we're recording.

Dear doc, In one pic you have Mark behind percussion rig. Am I guessing totally wrong if I got an impression, that Mark will be credited for a new instrument in this album? I know he should´ve been credited for playing bass in Shot at Glory soundtrack. Oh and on the MKNews forum we have had some discussion whether Mark is playing Teisco guitar or bass during week three for the EPK?

I can confirm it's a white Teisco guitar.

very tough this.

How about Abida Parveen, Beck, the Coral, Supergrass, Scott Matthews, Travis and the Killers

Hi Doc, a few techie questions re. your recording diary:
1.) There's a picture in week 2 of Mr Worf playing his "large instrument". I noticed that it stands on a little wooden box. Is that because it feels better for the player or is this some nifty engineering trick?
2.) What is that microphone you are using for recording the flute?
3.) Any particular reason you switched from Nuendo to Cubase? Just wondering. Is ProTools not an alternative for you? I have been using ProTools for many years. It's okay for me, apart from stability issues.

Looking forward to the album! All the best

Well spotted, except that's not a box, it's an anvil and it weighs a ton! It's simply there to stop the bass wandering across the room as the mighty Worf slaps the living hell out of it.
The flute mic in the pic is a ribbon microphone called a Coles. We switched to Cubase 4 because it seems to have moved on much faster than Nuendo, possibly Steinberg are planning to phase out Nuendo? The new update Cubase 4 is a big improvement. Pro Tools has always been my main choice but I seem to use Cubase 4 just as much these days.

Straits.....? mmm. nope, sorry, can't remember that

Hey Guy, Just thought you might mention in your website that the "All the Roadrunning" show will be airing on PBS on March 1st here in the US (though we really should be buying the DVD). Here's a link: http://www.pbs.org/wttw/soundstage/knopflerharris/featured.htm. Perhaps you could also mention that people should contribute to PBS, considering that Mr. Bush is about to cut their budget by a quarter. Good luck with the new album, I'm very anxious to listen to it. Best regards,

Hey Doc, Have had a howl or two on youtube watching odd bits supplied by fans... and odd bits from various sources with youthful Doc and Mark --
Here's the scoop -- you sound better than ever. Love the new music. Intrigued with the new developing music -- can't wait!
Can you just move it along? Smiles from California

Dear Doctor, It's great seeing MK and the others back in the studio again. I'm getting very excited about this record, because the new 'format' of 4 people making the record is new. Hopefully it'll produce a raw record. Well, I've got some question for you. It seems that the sessions musicians, the 96'ers, became friends over the years. But I what I wanted to know, did MK or Guy knew any of those guys, who now are considered the 96'ers, before working on Golden Heart? And, do you feel any difference between a band who came together because of their work, like the 96'ers or a band who were friends or family and started to make music? Like Dire Straits in the beginning for example.
Hopefully you can answers these questions. Say "Hi" to Mark and the rest of the band, and wish them luck in the recording studio!

No, when Mark went to Nashville to record GH, I believe the 96ers were recommended starting with Glenn W. I can't say for sure as those first sessions didn't involve me. We all became friends through the work as opposed to the other way round.

Thanks for the good wishes but there's not much luck involved in the studio, it's all down to old fashioned decision making.

Ok, Guy: Chuck's Cappuccino looks very good (and this is a huge compliment, as I am Italian), with a nice thick creamy foam... but you can't have a post-lunch cappuccino! No way! After lunch you can have an expresso (hey maestro!), or some liquors... but no cappuccino! Here in Italy it's against the law! You can have a cappuccino ONLY in the morning, before lunch, or at least (but you could be warned by the bartender) in the late afternoon, at 5 pm. So please, no post-lunch cappuccino! :-) (Ok, the madness is over. :-) Great to see Chris White back in the studio!! The flute reminds me of Brothers in arms, what a moving song... I have good feelings about this album! Thanks for the diary - secret blog!)

Hi Guy, as far as I know, Dire Straits , never been in Romania despite the fact that from "kids" like me ( 17 y.o ) to 40 + y.o adults love MK , JI , CW, GF, etc and every line-up since the first dire straits album. Is there any chance that u'll have a gig in Romania too?
p.s I even found at a friends flat something i never thought i would hold in my hands,he's dad owned a Brothers In Arms album Vinyl , which is pretty incredible, considering the fact that our country until 1990 (when the communist regime collapsed) prohibited music import from abroad and not even in our days u can find too many MK/DS cds/dvd's here. I was lucky enough to buy Real Live Roadrunning from a supermarket Hungary yesterday :D it's great.

Hello, just saw reunited "Police" playing Roxanne on the Grammy show and heard the announcement of their world tour, with the planned coincident release of a best of album. Though they really rocked, I had mixed feelings seeing it and thought of our beloved MK: Following his career and his music very close for more than 20 years now, I must say I would be totally disappointed when he really brought back the Dire Straits thing. It would be a big loss of his credibility, something that he stands for like only few artists in rock music. Not that I fear he could reunite Dire Straits, but there were a lot of posts to Dr. Fletch recently asking because of Genesis and Police. It is so great what he does now and we can be very grateful for the records he produces these days. These People should be more than satisfied with his musical output and leave Dire Straits were they belong: in rock history.

Dear Doc, just to prevent false rumors in the MK forum: is it true that Chris White
involved in the new MK album or was he just in the studio to play with the
orchestra ?

Hi Guy, I'm so glad you guys record a new album, I cant wait to hear it !! I like your photos, more and more "artistic", but I wonder why not make some little videos of the recording process?... It would be very cool, maybe more complicated to send on the site but just one by week, it would be very very very nice to see you all "moving" and "playing" !!! It was just an idea !! maybe you did have it before me...I wish you to spend nice moments in studio and see you on next tour !!!

Doc, what do you know and think about the Rudiger character you pictured in your 2001 Berlin diary entry? Reading the lines of the song, I always thought of him as a quite sympathetic fan, and was surprised that mr. Knopfler introduced him in the "A night in London" show as somebody that could even support Saddam. Was he ever on your sofa?

Hi Doc from Spain, I know you are enjoying the 4 piece band, and I have some questions about it for you.
1.- Are you touring in 2008 with that line-up or you will come back to the standard 6 musicians on stage that seems to be perfect for Mark’s music?
2.- Don`t you think that for a 4 guys band, it would be better and old line-up (2 guitars, drums, bass) like Beatles, Dire Straits at the very beginning… although that will leave you out, and we don`t want that, do we?
3.- Have you ever considered to select cities that are not the big ones of the country, the same way you did in 96 when you came to my hometown, La Coruña a 250.000 inhabitants at the northwest of Spain, the place was full, It could be a good idea for the future.

It's too early to say anything about a tour.

No keyboards, ridiculous.

The choice of cities depends so much on the venues and the amount of time we have available. I'm sure we could tour year round if we wanted to..but we don't.

Hi Doc, In your Shangri-La diary, you had mentioned that you recorded most (all?) tracks live in the studio, with no overdubs except for vocals. Is that true of the new album as well, or are you recording one instrument at a time?

Hi Doc, I last changed the strings on my Strat about 4 months ago and the strings I used (Elixir) still sound great (and no corrosion due to the coating)! I switched to these instead of my usual D’Addarios. I don’t do any gigs but for what I want to do I think they feel and sound great. I know Mark has said that he uses a new set of D’Addarios on each live set but has he used Elixir offstage and if so what does he think? Maybe Guy has used these and if so what does he think? I’m not the greatest lover of changing strings and for me Elixir are a god send.

Hello Guy, Saw one of the "questioners" asking about a book on guitar maintenance. If you would have the time and desire to update your answer, I highly recommend The Guitar Handbook by Ralph Denyer. It has info on almost every aspect of guitar playing, from types of guitar, how to play, music theory, maintenance, electronics, micing, recording, and what not. Very interesting book.

Come on Doc, you 40+ memory is fading you, Madonnas Daughter was indeed not a DS song but was on DK's first solo album with a blistering bit of guitar playing from our very own MK. twas also accompanied by a very shite single release called "Soul Kissing".

8/2/07
friendly fire!

(reference to Spain's easy 1-0 victory over England)

Dear Guy, What a complete ‘F*&^ Up’! What the hell are these so called football players doing in an England Shirt! I am sorry but did you see the kids in the crowd at the start of the match with all the paraphernalia that goes with supporting England (Shirts @ £ 35.00, tickets travel @ around £ 100.00 PER PERSON!) where has the money come from??? Mum Dad who can barely afford a decent meal let alone the latest England Shirt for their kinds!

THESE OVERPAID BUNCH OF COMPLETE W$£*&^S SHOULD BE ABSOLUTLEY ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES! If I was in the England squad I would club together with the manager and refund the nations mum’s & dad’s who lets face it cannot always afford the shirts etc that go hand in hand with supporting England for their children!

PLEASE (You are I take it a Football Fan) Guy if you or any of your band members have any influence over these bunch of overpaid tossers! Then please speak up have words with Mr McLaren and advise him to have his and the teams house in order before the next game in Israel!

Unfortunately, we have no influence in these particular circles, and fortunately, I foresaw the impending embarrassment and found myself drinking finest London Pride in our local pub with MK, CW, GW, CA, and LM. Luckily nobody else in this fine establishment expressed even the slightest wish to view the game live and we ended our day in most desirable surroundings.

Yes, I did watch a replay of the game and frankly, I don't wish to comment, apart from saying with a characterless, uninspiring, fool as a manager, I can't see this great squad of players ever reaching their full potential..let alone qualifying. The pathetic FA should have offered the job to Martin O'neill, although I'm sure he would have refused it. As always, I'm in awe of Francesc Fabregas.

footnote - Chris white was with us today, playing finest sax, flute and clarinet and Lance Miles, Danny's drum tech from the tour, here helping Danny having recently recovered from a very serious neck injury. Good to see you back Lance!

Doc, You and your fellow musos are, it would be fair to say, globally experienced following years of touring which has now expanded to the four corners of our planet. I have a couple of questions related to travel and your experiences surrounding that. Is there any where in the world you would like to go and strum a few cords in front of a crowd? Is there anywhere in the world that has struck you with the right climate, culture, history, lifestyle and all those other good things, that would make you think “I could live here…!” Looking forward to your insightful answers!

Hi Guy, Are you breaking off recording to go to the Grammys? I am sure someone will have told you the diary weeks are duplicated. Is there an update due soon?

On the Real Live Roadrunning DVD we see a little notepad taped on almost every guitar Emmylou is playing. What was that for? Lyrics? Play list?
And two more questions:
- Since everybody knows where you guys working these days. Have you lots of visitors/fans waiting for some autographs in front of the studio? I mean, I would probably take some time if I would have a mandate in London at the moment…?!
- Have you ever thought about expanding your web page with RSS feeds? Would be a great service for you loyal readers. But hey! You do a really great job with all your diaries, answering our questions… more than just excellent! Please keep this alive! J

That was indeed Emmy's setlist.
Autographs? do people still do that?
RSS feeds would be cool but I really don't think there's enough 'news' to warrant it.

I'll do my best

Hello Dr. Fletch, I was just wondering what happened with the STP tour DVD project. It is on the makings for more than 2 years now. Is it abandoned? May I add myself to the crowd thanking you for your studio diaries. Give my regards to the band! We're waiting for the new stuff!

Dear Doc, Would it be possible to ask Glenn Saggers if you get a mo in the studio what are the most important tools in his box or possibly a good book from which to learn guitar maintenance for beginners. I would love to know how to set up my own, without forking out lumps of money to someone every six months or so when I could be doing it myself.

Sometimes you talk about listening music in mp3 format, and it seems that this (or a few other lossy formats) will be the standard in a very near future. Have you and Mark (and maybe Chuck Ainlay) ever thought about this issue when recording your last albums? Do you think that musicians will need to "change" the sound of their recordings so that they'll sound better when listened on an mp3 player? Or you just think about the better sound that you can have on a cd, without bothering about mp3 quality and so on? I'm not a technician so sorry if this is a silly question. Just curiosity.

Hi Doc! …Few questions:
1)       Any future tour with all DS members in the next years like The Police, The Who…?
2)       When will start your next tour? In 2007 or 2008?
3)       Are you thinking in a mini-concert format with aprox. 100 people in the next tour?
4)       Does MK will play his pensa guitars in this album?
Thanks for all and good luck in your recording sessions.

1) definately not
2) 2008
3) no
4) not so far

Hi Doc, Has Guy ever had influence in changing the lyrics of a MK song, because Guy had another or a better idea, It would not be inappropriate regarding the long term working relation, would it? If yes, can the Doc give us some examples?Great to have a new recording diary and to have Danny on the drums , love it!! All the best,

Hey doc, hows it going? Some interesting quickfire questions for you:
1.Has MK ever appeared on "Later with Jools" if so , what year?
2.Has MK ever played with David Gilmour?
3.There was a song called(I think) Madonnas Daughter in the early 80's, is that by Dire Straits?
4.Is there a song called Forever Nightshade Mary, by Dire Straits?
5.Did MK score any of the music from the movie Purely Belter?
6.Will Paul Franklin play with you guys again in the future? He's great!
7.Does MK enjoy playing slide on his guitar? I dont see it often, but when i do its brilliant.
8.Can Dr Fletch play the violin? I've seen him play just about everything else. He's absolutely Awsome!! :)
Thanks a lot

Hi Doc Is it the old indian harmonium that was used to record "Our Shangri-La" that is featured on the 2007 recording diary [Week 3 - January 2007]?

Yes, small amps can make a great sound but it does depend on what you're after. For example, steel guitar is great through a small 10-15w valve amp.

and...actually I do concur. The Bechstein upright we have here is a tad brighter than one would expect and furthermore my uncle has a baby grand by the same name and I do recall a distinctively bright tone....not at all unpleasant I hasten to add.

Hi Doc, I am just wondering if you or any of the band have found time to watch any of the BBC's highly acclaimed new Doctor Who series over the past year or so, I'm assuming you and Mark might have with it being so popular and you both being dad's like myself. lol I remember you onced mentioned that a theatre you had played in was bigger inside than it appeared on the outside and that it was a bit of a tardis! Lol My main reason for writing to you is of course a music one. One of the great improvements that have been made to Doctor Who, apart from just about every production value,is the music, which is composed by Murray Gold, with the BBC Wales orchestra as you may know. Do you know Murray Gold? What is your opinion of Murray's music to the new Doctor Who and would you have liked to have done the music to a series such as Doctor Who yourself if you found the time? ( I know you did a great job with the Braithwaites!!) I have a copy of the new Doctor Who soundtrack CD and it is very good! There's a couple of brilliant songs on it too sung by Neil Hannon, if you haven't heard "Song For Ten" yet, I highly recommened it, the lyrics are great.

Have there been any “happy accidents” in the studio when Mark and co. record music, along the lines of the Beatles getting that amp feedback working as intro to “I feel Fine”? Rajiv Modha

Guy I was reading the dr fletch and someone asked where to find summer of love. I bought it on itunes around the time shangri-la came out, I'm sure it's still there.

Hi Doc. As a resident of the South West of Western Australia, I totally concur with your ideal wind surfing locations. I don't suppose you get here as often as you'd like Thanks for the informative website. I've been following it for a number of years now. As an avid MK / GF fan, I can't believe all this talk about extended solo's, old Strait's stuff, getting back together etc etc. Rest assured that there is at least one fan totally content to know that new tunes, new tours and new concepts are in the pipeline. Don't get me wrong, it is great to listen to the old stuff and reminisce / get teary eyed etc but WAKE UP PEOPLE! Just be content that some of the world's greatest musician's are still producing great stuff. Enough said and keep it up!

Hi, I'm currently on the hunt to upgrade my compressor for live sound and I was wondering what you guys use to compress acoustic guitars live?

Hello dear Guy, as you said that Mark and you are recording your tracks for the new songs following by Glenn and Danny recording theirs, I have to ask you if I've missunderstood that or if the band doesn't record "all in one room" this time. Or are these recordings just the first takes and so when the song is perfect you record it all together? And are there already some other names of the musicians, who will be recording with you (second keyboarder, second guitarist,...)?

Hello Doc, how's it going? I've got two questions for you - one tech-related, the other more "emotional".
1) Some friends and I were once in a hifi store and asked if we could have listen to one of the hi-end stereos (he told us to come back in 30 minutes - the amps had to get warm...). Of course the sound was unbelievable, but the amazing thing was that not only did it have great width and depth, but the sound was "vertical" as well. I can understand how width and depth is achieved, but height? How is that done? Is it the recording? Or is the equipment that filters the frequencies so superbly? (By the way, when asked what music we'd like to hear, we said "Communique - Dire Straits". The man rolled his eyes and said "That recording sucks". HAHA. He later put on some modern jazz funk stuff, and Communique did suck in comparison (quality-wise, that is)).
 2) Just curious about how things work in music business - how do you go about telling, say, Richard Bennett that he "won't be playing" on the new record? Is it awkward (after having played together for 10 years, I'd imagine so...)? Or is everything so professionally organized, and everybody's so accustomed to the "shifting constellations in the universe of music" (please pardon any quasi-poetic propensities)?

vertical imaging in speakers is a bit of a mystery to me but I am led to thinking about my dad's latest invention/product whereby he's managed to design a single mono loudspeaker which delivers true discreet stereo. Laying one of these on it's side would definately give a vertical image! COOL

go to the AIR-SOUND website to learn more!

Hi Doc, I was lucky enough to attend the Variety Club Tribute to Mark last year and was wondering if there was any film footage as I noticed that there was a camera filming the whole occasion?

Mark Knopfler incorporated a number of sound effects,usually on the intro's to
songs from Love Over Gold and Brothers In Arms albums. The rumbling sounds on Telegraph Road, the mysterious synth sounds on Private Investigations and the sound of footsteps and breaking glass,Thundering battle sounds on Brothers In Arms,etc, all classics. Are sound effects out of the question these days or is it that the right song and music hasn't come along yet for sound effects to work effectively? Don't you think that the sound of the surf crashing onto the beach would have sounded great mixed into the keyboard sounds on the intro to Our Shangri-la? The song is sung from the point of view of being on or close to the beach, as you all were when you recorded it at Shangri-la studios. This is not a criticism of Our Shangri-la, which I think is a beautifully crafted song, simply a suggestion of how the occasional sound effect might just add a nice touch to compliment the instruments but also to help set the scene for the song, as it were. In other words, do you or Mark think about Sound FX as being part of your arsenal of weapons when recording an album?

No, I don't think that surf crashing over the intro to Shangri-La would have been good. If the music suggests it, then it's 'mission accomplished'.

We do employ and use sound effects occasionally, but when the effect is too literal, there's nothing worse in my book.

I believe you but we've been through all this. There's just too much great new stuff to record and play and get excited about than to rehash the old stuff .

..and we don't hate the fame.

OK the game's up

Hi Guy ! I hope that week in studio has been a good one ! We're really looking forward to having an update on your site, when you'll have time of course ! I was listening to the Munich 2001 soundchecks today, and "Silvertown Blues" was rehearsed that day. I am wondering why it has never been played live so far. Some said that it was technically too difficult to perform it on stage, but nothing is impossible for you all guys I'm sure ! On the Munich recording, we can hear MK says : "That's not good enough... I can't..." and the rest is not understandable. Any info ?? Maybe will we have it during the next tour ! I can't imagine how terrific it would sound with the 2005-06 band line-up !

Hi Doc !Congratulations for the work on the DVD and thank you so much !!! These are my actual wondering : - what kind of model are the humbucker pickups on the Mark's reissue custom shop Gibson Les Paul ? ( classic 57, Burstbucker 1,2,3, or "specials for Mark" ? )
- Did Richard use his Crate V3112 on other songs apart "Red staggerwing" ?
- Which amp did he use on Speedway at Nazareth with his Les Paul 58 ? His sound is amazing !!! How can he have so much overdrive without drive pedals ???????
- Do you know why he needs 2 VOX AC30 rather than 1 ???
- what do you think about 60's fender telecasters with rosewood fingerboard compared to 50's maple ?
- and finally, can you tell (at this time ) if recording in London start to give a "special colorsound" to the new album ? a particularly new way for the new songs ?

pass, pass, pass

sorry, too techie for me. I'll ask Glenn when I think of it.

In my top 25 most played songs I have the following:
1. Back to Tupelo 72
4. Our Shangri-la 52
13. Prairie Wedding 46
15. Your latest tricks 44
17. Golden Heart 44
19. The Trawlerman's Song 43
23. Sailing to Philadelphia 42
24. Whoop de Doo 42
and now to the question... If you don't mind sharing... what's the top 5 on Dr. Fletch's iPod.

I had few questions about the choice of the songs for the albums ? Who are involved ? Mark, the band, ... I guess that you can't hardly imagine the songs that would work. For the production of the album, who decided the order too ?
For the songs that not fit :
=> is there a decision to stop the recording : OK that's only for b-side ?
=> is there a choice to give up for the next album ? only a draft...
=> is there always the same old draft song coming on these sessions and that is revoked ;-)

Dear Dr. Fletch I wonder if you can help me. I am working on my own album this year which I am recording at home, something I have wanted to do for years. But I am having a few problems recording the electric guitars. I have a valve amp which I am miking up and then feeding via a compressor into Cubase. Unfortunately I am getting too much hiss off the amp and not enough guitar! I find that if I increase the amp volume I can get a better 'signal to noise natio' which helps, but how do I screen out the low level hiss that you get on valve amps? I notice that in your sessions you mike up the amps using an SM57 (as I do), do you use a noise gate or work on the recording in Nuendo after? Kind Regards

Dear Guy, Glad to hear you are working on some new stuff (not that i'm complaining about previous work..). Saw a picture on your site of a couple of beautiful Gretsch guitars (saving up to buy a G6120 Nashville some day). Am I right that I never saw a Gretsch played by any of the band members on stage? Absolutely thrilled that we'll be hearing lots of National guitar on the new record (buying lots of lotery tickets to maybe buy one of those!).Wishing you lots of fun working in the studio and hope to see you on stage again soon!

7/1/07
record production team

My question is : Danny C. and Glenn Worf have now joined you and Mark to record some sessions, if I understood well. Does it mean that some songs are ready to be recorded now ? I mean, a four-pieces track, involving you, MK, DC and GW ? Or, as I suppose, is it just pre-rehearsals for a fothcoming reunion of the whole band, later in the year ? Are you going to record live just like with the Shangri-La record ? I'm glad to hear that some new directions are visited, and that you will join the record production team ! We're all looking forward to have the new album in our hands ! Until then, it will be really nice to read the recording diary Keep on doing amazing work... And say hello to DC from me, I hope he enjoyed the tour with GM, but we need him with you now !!

7/1/07
hand made

Hi Doc, Really love the MK and GF songs. In fact, listening to nothing else!! Better sell all of my other CD's!!! What do you think? Also love the sound of a saxophone, so here is my question Doc: Is there any chance of hearing the sound of a sax in the next album? Or is it to early for that?

Yes, a few. The onstage sound at the live-aid show in '86 wa simply ear-splitting kick drum and nothing else, and the excitement and tension at that gig was unreal.

Sorry about the dodgy mixing on Speedway.

Hello Doc, Everyday, I take a look at your site, well several times in fact!! :-))) And something crossed my mind, is it so that the Guy first changes the date on his site and then just waits for questions to answer them? I am just wondering! Best wishes

Dear Doc, I've got a few questions for you. Can you please answer?
1. I was not able to get to the Newcastle Tribute of MK (was shortly before giving birth to our first baby), but I've listened to the kind speeches there. What would you mention in a speech about MK? How would you describe him as a human being as we fans 'know' him only from shows or a quick chat?
2. The sound on the 'Real Live Road Running' DVD is fab, but the camera work is sometimes a bit strange IMHO: a lot of shots from behind the stage, MKs solos are not well captured and Guys keyboard work is not really visible as we fans can usually only see Guys beautiful shirts on stage and not his playing. Would have been a possibility to show a bit more of it, don't you think? Anyway when running the selection menu of the DVD I can hear talking/voices. What is it? Crew? M&G?
3. You've told us that MK and Guy are working on MKs next album. And that you want to ensure that the songs are ready for the next stage, the band. In what kind of stage are the songs when MK and Guy meet? Are they ready to play (vocals + guitar) and you only think about how to include other instruments (arrangements) or is there only a melody ready or an idea? Can you describe this a bit? Thanks a lot and a happy and save 2007!

Hi Doc It's good to know MK and you are working on new stuff:))) Hope it's gonna rescue a bit of those beautiful Strat tones Mark used to deliver. I love what Mark does with his Les Paul, but I reckon all his fans, as well as I do, miss that clean and characteristic sonority. Does any of the new songs you've been introduced to sound like What It Is or stuff like that?

5/1/07
lay it down

Greetings, Herr Doktor! I hope this finds you well. I admit I'm asking this late, but I noted that Chad Cromwell had to drop out of the 2005 tour. Is he OK? Loved his work on "Night in London", and loved Danny Cummins' on the 2005/6 tours as well. Best

Hello mr. ! I'd like to know if there's something you miss from DS tours, compared to things now? How was it to play in huge stadiums etc... am I right, thinking, Mark doesn't like that so much?? Also, why haven't you played On Every Street songs at all in the last tours... I consider On Every Street one of the best songs from MK, Planet of New Orleans also deserves a mention.