The Making of Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits

Introduction

Dire Straits’ fifth studio album, Brothers In Arms, released on 17 May 1985, is a monumental piece in the history of rock music. The album, renowned for its sonic clarity and intricate guitar work by Mark Knopfler, became a landmark in the digital recording era. It was the first album to sell over a million copies on CD, showcasing the potential of digital technology in music production. Its success not only solidified Dire Straits’ status as one of the preeminent bands of the 1980s but also influenced the music industry significantly.

This article will delve into the genesis of Brothers In Arms, the recording process, its commercial performance, and the legacy it left behind. We will explore the album’s impact on the music industry, the creative forces behind its production, and its enduring influence on artists and listeners alike.

Reflecting on its significance, Mark Knopfler once stated, “We were trying to make something that would last, something that was really worth the time and effort.” The album’s impact is evident in its enduring popularity and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians. It not only achieved commercial success but also garnered critical acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical in 1986.

The Genesis of “Brothers In Arms”

In the mid-1980s, Dire Straits found themselves at a crossroads. The music industry was rapidly evolving, with digital technology beginning to take centre stage. Against this backdrop, the band set out to create an album that would not only reflect their artistic vision but also embrace the new technological possibilities. Brothers In Arms was born out of this ambition, a product of meticulous planning and a clear desire to innovate.

Prior to Brothers In Arms, Dire Straits had already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Albums like Love Over Gold and Making Movies had showcased their unique blend of rock, jazz, and storytelling. However, it was Brothers In Arms that would catapult them into the stratosphere of rock stardom. The album’s creation was driven by Mark Knopfler’s vision, supported by a talented ensemble of musicians and collaborators.

The core lineup for the album included Mark Knopfler on guitar and vocals, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark and Guy Fletcher on keyboards, and Terry Williams on drums. Knopfler’s songwriting and guitar work were complemented by contributions from guest musicians, including jazz session drummer Omar Hakim and saxophonist Michael Brecker.

Below is a table of the band members and their roles:

The recording of Brothers In Arms was financed by Vertigo Records, with a substantial budget allocated to ensure the highest production standards. The album’s title and concept were inspired by the themes of camaraderie and conflict, both personal and global. The cover art, featuring Mark Knopfler’s National Style “O” Resonator guitar, was designed by Thomas Steyer and photographed by Deborah Feingold, symbolising the album’s blend of traditional and modern influences.

Recording Process

The recording of Brothers In Arms took place between November 1984 and March 1985 at AIR Studios in Montserrat and the Power Station in New York City. These studios were chosen for their state-of-the-art facilities and conducive environments. AIR Studios, founded by Sir George Martin, was renowned for its idyllic setting and cutting-edge technology, while the Power Station was famed for its exceptional acoustics and equipment.

The recording sessions were overseen by Neil Dorfsman, who had previously worked with Dire Straits on Love Over Gold. Dorfsman’s expertise in engineering and production played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound. The decision to record digitally was a bold move at the time, but it allowed for greater clarity and precision in capturing the band’s performances.

Below is a table of likely hardware used in the studio:

Despite the advanced technology, the recording process was not without its challenges. A defective batch of recording tape led to the loss of several tracks, necessitating re-recording sessions at the Power Station. Additionally, drummer Terry Williams was replaced by Omar Hakim, whose dynamic playing revitalised the sessions. These obstacles, however, did not deter the band, who remained committed to their artistic vision.

Below is a table of other albums produced by Neil Dorfsman and Mark Knopfler:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Brothers In Arms quickly became a commercial juggernaut. The album topped the charts in over a dozen countries, including a nine-week reign at number one on the Billboard 200 in the United States. It spent a remarkable 34 weeks at number one in Australia and 14 non-consecutive weeks at the top of the UK Albums Chart.

Below is a table of Dire Straits’ album sales:

The album’s success was further bolstered by its performance on CD, becoming the first to sell over a million copies in the format. Brothers In Arms received numerous accolades, including the Grammy Award for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical, and Best British Album at the 1987 Brit Awards.

Other albums released in 1985 include:

• Back to the Future by Universal [210.6M]
• Rambo: First Blood Part II by TriStar/Carolco [150.4M]
• Rocky IV by MGM [127.8M]

The album’s enduring appeal is reflected in its inclusion in numerous “greatest albums” lists, such as Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” and Q magazine’s “100 Greatest British Albums Ever”. Its success paved the way for future rock albums in the digital era, influencing both production techniques and marketing strategies.

Singles and Track Analysis

The singles from Brothers In Arms were instrumental in driving the album’s success. “So Far Away”, the first single, was released on 12 April 1985, followed by “Money for Nothing” on 28 June 1985. “Walk of Life” and “Brothers in Arms” were released later that year, with “Your Latest Trick” following in April 1986.

Below is a table of the album’s tracks and their details:

Note: Songs marked with * were released as singles. “So Far Away” reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Money for Nothing” peaked at number 1, and “Walk of Life” reached number 7.

Influences and Legacy

The creation of Brothers In Arms was influenced by a variety of musical styles and artists. Mark Knopfler’s guitar work drew inspiration from blues legends like J.J. Cale and Eric Clapton, while the album’s thematic elements were shaped by contemporary events, such as the Falklands War.

Below is a table of influences and artists influenced by the album:

Released in 1985, the album coincided with significant global events. The year saw the discovery of the RMS Titanic’s wreck, the Live Aid concerts, and the release of iconic films like Back to the Future. These cultural moments provided a backdrop to the album’s exploration of themes such as war, technology, and human connection.

Five Things about Brothers In Arms

Here are five intriguing facts about Brothers In Arms that highlight its unique place in music history.

Media and Television Usage

The songs from Brothers In Arms have been featured in various media, showcasing their lasting appeal.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Upon its release, Brothers In Arms received mixed reviews, with some critics dismissing it as too commercial. However, its reputation has grown over the years, with many now recognising it as a masterpiece of the rock genre.

Below is a table of critical reviews:

After Brothers In Arms

Following the success of Brothers In Arms, Dire Straits embarked on a world tour that further cemented their status as rock icons. However, the pressures of fame and the music industry’s demands took their toll on the band. In 1991, they released On Every Street, which, despite its success, marked the end of Dire Straits as a recording entity.

Since then, Mark Knopfler has pursued a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums and continuing to influence the music world with his distinctive style. As of 16 October 2024, Dire Straits remains inactive, with no plans for a reunion, allowing Knopfler to focus on his solo endeavours and philanthropic efforts.

Remasters and Reissues

Over the years, Brothers In Arms has been reissued and remastered several times, each release bringing new life to the album’s timeless sound.

Below is a table of remasters and reissues:

Conclusion

Brothers In Arms remains a testament to Dire Straits’ artistry and innovation. Its enduring relevance is a reflection of its timeless themes and pioneering production techniques. As Mark Knopfler himself noted, “Music is a journey, and this album was a significant milestone on that path.” For those seeking to explore its depths further, the Wikipedia page and the official Dire Straits website offer comprehensive insights into its legacy.

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!