Dire Straits man out on solo tour

WHEN you’ve been a member of one of the biggest bands in the world it might be thought reasonable to retire to the country, dip in the pool, smash a few holes in one and admire the fleet of classic cars you have doubtless acquired. But John Illsley is no such slouch. Though he’s an accomplished artist, he’s first and foremost a musician, so it’s no surprise to find him out and about with a brand new band.

As a founder member of Dire Straits he had a remarkable musical journey – along with Mark Knopfler he was there for the whole ride as one of the biggest bands of the ’80s.

To say Dire Straits were successful is a bit like saying zebras are rather stripey. They sold over 120 million albums, picked up a few Grammies on the way, a As the man himself says: “The new clutch of Brit Awards, a couple of MTV songs fit very comfortably next to the music video accolades and an Ivor Dire Straits’ classics. Novello award for Outstanding “We keep the essential feel of those Contribution to British Music. Their songs but this isn’t a tribute act, I think 1985 album Brothers In Arms was the we bring them alive in a new and fresh first to sell over a million copies in CD way. format and the band spent a staggering “We certainly love playing them and 1,100+ weeks on the UK album charts. people seem to enjoy listening so it’s

Now, two decades later and with six great fun all round.” solo albums under his belt, John hits the He added: “This is the most exciting road with a brand new band for his first new line-up I’ve been in and I’m loving tour in over four years. every minute of it, (new band members)

Showcasing John’s 2016 album, Long Robbie McIntosh and Paul Stacey are Shadows, the band promise to draw on two quite exceptional guitar players.” many of the much loved Dire Straits’ hits John Illsley plays The Grand Pavilion, – Sultans of Swing, Money for Nothing, Porthcawl on Wednesday, November 8. Romeo and Juliet, Brothers in Arms – as Tickets from the box office on 01656 well as the gamut of solo material. 815995 or via www.grandpavilion.co.uk The winning numbers in Saturday night’s Lotto main draw were and The bonus number was The Thunderball numbers were and

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