Distinguished guitarist and Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler set to go solo at Lycabettus on Sunday
Now in his late 50s, Mark Knopfler has always been something of an oddity in the global music industry. As the frontman of British band Dire Straits, the distinguished fingerstyle guitarist led his band to international fame, while keeping a low profile. Knopfler emerged with a distinctive guitar sound based on rhythm-and-blues and nostalgic tunes in the late 1970s. Established in 1977, Dire Straits was eventually dissolved in 1995 – but not before massive hits such as «Sultans of Swing» and hugely successful albums like «Brothers in Arms.» Since then, Knopfler has pursued a solo career, while playing with other groups, including the Notting Hillbillies. In Athens It is in his capacity as a solo artist that Knopfler goes on stage at the Lycabettus Theater on Sunday. The last time he appeared in Greece, he was with Dire Straits, part of a global tour shortly after the release of «Brothers in Arms.» Knopfler is known for quitting his job as a journalist at a local newspaper to pursue his music aspirations. After a Dire Straits demo was aired on British radio, the band released its first, self-titled album – and was on its way to stardom. Knopfler is also known for composing original soundtrack material. In 1996, the musician released his first solo album. His most recent album, «Kill to Get Crimson,» showcases a 1958 image depicting red scooters, similar to his own. For tickets: Ticket House, 42 Panepistimiou, tel 210.360.8366.
