A Mark In Time

Previous Albums => Tracker (2015) => Topic started by: shangri la 1 on February 22, 2015, 03:11:20 AM

Title: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: shangri la 1 on February 22, 2015, 03:11:20 AM
(http://amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3806.0;attach=1415)
Lights of Taormina (Mark Knopfler)

LYRICS
   There’s laughter in the darkness
Music floating in across the bay
He’s half listening and wondering
How he could have let her slip away
So long ago but still he wants to know
If anyone has seen her
And he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

They were young and love was shining
Like the colours of the rainbow
Desire felt like choking
Love was smoking under the volcano
He can still taste her kisses
Sweet as the red wine from Messina
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

Seems like another lifetime
When they rambled along the shore
Seems like another lifetime
She used to call him her sweet senor
Maybe in another lifetime
On a pathway to the sea
Maybe there they’ll be

The crowd calls for the emperor
Raise their hands to hail another king
But he’s been so long a wanderer
Another crowd can never mean a thing
He came, he saw, he conquered
Ten thousand voices roared in the arena
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

He hears the chimes of history
Myths of gods and men forever ringing
Ancient dreams in all their mystery
Wars for Sicily and Spartan women
In the mists of antiquity
Ships of war set sail from Carthagina
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina
Sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: border_reiver on February 23, 2015, 08:36:41 AM
For the slide parts, it seems to be an interesting choice with an open B flat tuning. But not the standard B flat tuning since both of the lower strings appears to be tuned to Bb, judging by the studio rehearsal "slap" played in the Tracker shortfilm.

Not something you hear or see everyday.

(well, someone had to go first... :) )
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: foma on February 25, 2015, 11:02:44 PM
How you can't be inspired when you look on something like this? I wish I will travel Taormina one day.

(https://pp.vk.me/c624225/v624225999/21d0c/n9RdjPI8lDc.jpg)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: shangri la 1 on February 25, 2015, 11:31:32 PM
Stunning!  :clap
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: JulienFlamand on February 27, 2015, 04:18:43 PM
I was there in 2013 for the gig. Unforgettable.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: JulienFlamand on February 27, 2015, 04:40:44 PM
Exactly ! Thanks for that ! :wave
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: yontwocrows on February 27, 2015, 06:01:23 PM
That is a really great sight and location. Last tour i wanted to go there but couldn't get off. Missed something, I fear  :(
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Guitarman1972 on March 05, 2015, 07:54:04 PM
After listening to the new video the melody of the intro of this song sounds familiar to me... Not sure which song though.. maybe "The Fish and the Bird"? Or maybe something from Chris Rea?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 09, 2015, 08:04:46 PM
I listened to the "Track-by-Track" video part 2 - with Lights of Taormina in the background. Sounds pretty amazing, and I like the accordeon part. It plays some little pronounced bits, not along the whole time.. very relaxed tune, with a quite some soloing as it seems.

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 09, 2015, 09:43:31 PM
The text 'to have time to think about time' is from Basil. Or am i wrong?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: MisterYES on March 09, 2015, 11:05:30 PM
Quote from: Dutchessy on March 09, 2015, 09:43:31 PM
The text 'to have time to think about time' is from Basil. Or am i wrong?
If you are wrong, than I am as well ;)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 10, 2015, 07:48:36 AM
Quote from: Dutchessy on March 09, 2015, 09:43:31 PM
The text 'to have time to think about time' is from Basil. Or am i wrong?


I cannot understand what he sings properly, but "time" or "have time" is somewhere in there. But the complete line is not in this new clip?  :hmm

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 10, 2015, 08:53:11 AM
Its not from this song
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 10, 2015, 09:03:44 AM
Ok then I got your question wrong.. because it was in this thread..  :hmm

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 10, 2015, 10:37:06 AM
Its in the partial lyrics on top of this page, where it doesnt belong.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 10, 2015, 11:38:45 AM
Intro a la Water of Love. Just got a sneak preview from a reliable amit source.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: rudiger on March 11, 2015, 09:49:11 PM
He can still taste her kisses
Sweet as the red wine from  Messina
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

 :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave

Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 12, 2015, 12:18:06 AM
Quote from: rudiger on March 11, 2015, 09:49:11 PM
He can still taste her kisses
Sweet as the red wine from  Messina
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

 :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave

http://www.messinahof.com
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: rudiger on March 12, 2015, 01:19:31 AM
(http://www.claudio.com/Immagini_Blog/LaFermata2/palari.JPG)

 ;D
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: border_reiver on March 12, 2015, 10:30:51 AM
This is truly the song that earns the top spot of Tracker.

And all this Italian wine talk makes me thirsty  ;D
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: cannibals on March 12, 2015, 10:53:21 AM
Quote from: Dutchessy on March 10, 2015, 11:38:45 AM
Intro a la Water of Love. Just got a sneak preview from a reliable amit source.

Exactly my thoughts  :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave
Great song, i hope this one will make it to the setlist..
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 12, 2015, 04:12:03 PM
Elements of this, fittingly given he wrote it in the same hotel room Dylan stayed in, sound very Dylanesque to me - in a Simple Twist of Fate sort of way.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 12, 2015, 04:35:26 PM
Intro as Water of Love / Blood and Water  ;)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Marijo58 on March 12, 2015, 04:38:50 PM
Quote from: cannibals on March 12, 2015, 10:53:21 AM
Quote from: Dutchessy on March 10, 2015, 11:38:45 AM
Intro a la Water of Love. Just got a sneak preview from a reliable amit source.

Exactly my thoughts  :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave :wave
Great song, i hope this one will make it to the setlist..

Same here!!! Just felt in love with Lights of Taormina!! :thumbsup :wave
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: jabbathehut on March 12, 2015, 07:09:17 PM
Lovely song.Best on the first 11 for me though reminds me of Bruce Springsteen's mansion on the hill which for me anyway is a good thing.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: foma on March 12, 2015, 07:24:57 PM
Lights of Taormina chords are now added in my Tracker Songbook: http://amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?topic=4152.msg90543#msg90543
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Throttle on March 12, 2015, 08:31:11 PM
Don't know why, listening to this song, I'm subconsciously waiting for the appearance of Salma Hayek along with her python  ::)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 12, 2015, 08:44:49 PM
Quote from: Throttle on March 12, 2015, 08:31:11 PM
Don't know why, listening to this song, I'm subconsciously waiting for the appearance of Salma Hayek along with her python  ::)

Wow!  Sssaucy.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dannr1 on March 12, 2015, 10:36:08 PM
Quote from: Guitarman1972 on March 05, 2015, 07:54:04 PM
After listening to the new video the melody of the intro of this song sounds familiar to me... Not sure which song though.. maybe "The Fish and the Bird"? Or maybe something from Chris Rea?
If speaking of Chris Rea some slight elements might remind a bit of Bombollini or Fool if you think it over, but a bit far-fetched :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dustyvalentino on March 12, 2015, 11:02:45 PM
Similar chords to Sunday Morning Coming Down by Kris Kristofferson.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: foma on March 13, 2015, 05:46:52 PM
I love how fade out of Taormina ends right when a mandolin solo starts.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: ingridswing on March 13, 2015, 08:34:53 PM
Incredible beautiful song  :D

My mum came in for a glass of wine. I had to kick her out of the huse, because she wanted to hear this song again and again, even after 6 times. I don't matter, so far my number one on the album.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: schmonka on March 14, 2015, 09:06:34 AM
Yep - good tune!  Nice Lyrics...nice tune and luuuuuuuurvly slide....A tune for you to sit down with a drink with and enter a period of reflection....Yep - I like this tune....nice one MK...
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Silvertown on March 14, 2015, 10:20:53 AM
I think that "Seems like another lifetime, When they rambled along the shore, Seems like another lifetime, She used to call him her sweet senor" is sung very much in Dylan way.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 14, 2015, 10:59:34 AM
I thought exactly the same at the first listen.  :thumbsup

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: naif on March 14, 2015, 11:09:43 AM
Yes especially Dylan's Nashville Skyline era. When his voice sounds good. The song is a masterpiece imho. Best on the (whole) album.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 14, 2015, 11:35:07 AM
I think it's good to hear Phil Cunningham on this quite clearly (even a little solo).  Maybe a guest in Glasgow...
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on March 14, 2015, 01:26:47 PM
Absolutely stunning track!! Accordion fits in so well....
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dustyvalentino on March 14, 2015, 05:39:38 PM
Basically a mashup of Save the last dance for me and Sunday morning coming down, but still my favourite of the album at the moment.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 14, 2015, 09:02:35 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 14, 2015, 01:26:47 PM
Absolutely stunning track!! Accordion fits in so well....

I ran into Phil earlier today and asked him about his time in the studio and the accordion but he was playing it close to his chest!  ;)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dustyvalentino on March 14, 2015, 11:08:32 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 14, 2015, 09:02:35 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 14, 2015, 01:26:47 PM
Absolutely stunning track!! Accordion fits in so well....

I ran into Phil earlier today and asked him about his time in the studio and the accordion but he was playing it close to his chest!  ;)

Nice one. You  couldn't squeeze anything out of him?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 14, 2015, 11:15:34 PM
Quote from: dustyvalentino on March 14, 2015, 11:08:32 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 14, 2015, 09:02:35 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 14, 2015, 01:26:47 PM
Absolutely stunning track!! Accordion fits in so well....

I ran into Phil earlier today and asked him about his time in the studio and the accordion but he was playing it close to his chest!  ;)

Nice one. You  couldn't squeeze anything out of him?

 :smack

His contribution on this track could almost put an end to all accordion jokes!
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Throttle on March 15, 2015, 01:12:58 AM
Everyone loves Taormina indeed.

The song dips me into a trance literally right from the first seconds.
Well, it's a pleasurable sensation, there's no denying.  :)

This tune creates so relaxing atmosphere, that all the thoughts instantly disappear.
And so I have no more to say.  :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: SamGolden on March 15, 2015, 11:15:52 AM
I don't know why it's reminds me some Ry Cooder inspiration with Flaco Jimenez with the accordian.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:25:14 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......

Would be nice but the accordion plays a big role in this song.  Can Jimbo emulate the master Phil?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 17, 2015, 12:40:48 PM
Hopefully Phil will appear at the Glasgow show and play it! So many Dylan references in this song - just asked Guy abou them - melody, song titles, lyrics, references - Dylan is all over this and Silver Eagle.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:45:54 PM
Quote from: Nick14 on March 17, 2015, 12:40:48 PM
Hopefully Phil will appear at the Glasgow show and play it! So many Dylan references in this song - just asked Guy abou them - melody, song titles, lyrics, references - Dylan is all over this and Silver Eagle.

I'm certainly hoping for it!  He was there in 2010 and I met him after the show. 
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 17, 2015, 12:48:13 PM
I remember well. Can't wait for the Hydro show.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 17, 2015, 12:57:26 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:25:14 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......

Would be nice but the accordion plays a big role in this song.  Can Jimbo emulate the master Phil?

I am sure he can. Remember Cannibals live in 1996?

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 17, 2015, 03:29:34 PM
Quote from: Love Expresso on March 17, 2015, 12:57:26 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:25:14 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......

Would be nice but the accordion plays a big role in this song.  Can Jimbo emulate the master Phil?

I am sure he can. Remember Cannibals live in 1996?

LE

 :hmm  Didn't really think he excelled on that.  Clearly he's not in the same planet as Phil.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: border_reiver on March 17, 2015, 03:43:27 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 03:29:34 PM
Quote from: Love Expresso on March 17, 2015, 12:57:26 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:25:14 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......

Would be nice but the accordion plays a big role in this song.  Can Jimbo emulate the master Phil?

I am sure he can. Remember Cannibals live in 1996?

LE

 :hmm  Didn't really think he excelled on that.  Clearly he's not in the same planet as Phil.

It can be done. Matt Rollins taught himself to play the accordion before going on tour with MK  ;)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dmg on March 17, 2015, 06:27:50 PM
Quote from: border_reiver on March 17, 2015, 03:43:27 PM


It can be done. Matt Rollins taught himself to play the accordion before going on tour with MK  ;)
[/quote]

I've had the pleasure of hearing Phil Cunningham live with Aly Bain and both are incredible musicians of the highest order.  They tour regularly throughout Scotland.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: superval99 on March 17, 2015, 06:32:18 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 06:27:50 PM
Quote from: border_reiver on March 17, 2015, 03:43:27 PM


It can be done. Matt Rollins taught himself to play the accordion before going on tour with MK  ;)

I've had the pleasure of hearing Phil Cunningham live with Aly Bain and both are incredible musicians of the highest order.  They tour regularly throughout Scotland.
[/quote]

I agree, I've heard them many times on tour in Transatlantic Sessions with John and Mike and other fine musicians from Capercaillie, etc.   :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 17, 2015, 07:01:52 PM
Yes. but the question was who of Mark's current touring band will be able to replace Phil..

LE
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: superval99 on March 17, 2015, 07:04:39 PM
Quote from: Love Expresso on March 17, 2015, 07:01:52 PM
Yes. but the question was who of Mark's current touring band will be able to replace Phil..

LE

Jim Cox!   He's done it before!     :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: LoveExpresso on March 17, 2015, 07:06:43 PM
Quote from: border_reiver on March 17, 2015, 03:43:27 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 03:29:34 PM
Quote from: Love Expresso on March 17, 2015, 12:57:26 PM
Quote from: dmg on March 17, 2015, 12:25:14 PM
Quote from: Knopflerfan on March 17, 2015, 07:15:33 AM
Again this track is soooooo beautiful and has to be played Live......

Would be nice but the accordion plays a big role in this song.  Can Jimbo emulate the master Phil?

I am sure he can. Remember Cannibals live in 1996?

LE

 :hmm  Didn't really think he excelled on that.  Clearly he's not in the same planet as Phil.

It can be done. Matt Rollins taught himself to play the accordion before going on tour with MK  ;)

 :hmm

LE

By the way, don't you think that Jim would be a great replacement for Phil, when it comes to accordeon playing live on stage?   ::)

Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dustyvalentino on March 17, 2015, 09:36:22 PM
Guy can learn to play the accordian, after he's fixed MK's watch, ridden his bike etc etc.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on March 18, 2015, 08:50:57 AM
Quote from: dustyvalentino on March 17, 2015, 09:36:22 PM
Guy can learn to play the accordian, after he's fixed MK's watch, ridden his bike etc etc.

Did have to chuckle at your comment Dusty!!

(Have had a go at 'sliding' to this last night and it is a beautiful tune to play....)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: rosco on March 18, 2015, 05:21:01 PM
The best track on the album. And probably the only one that could fit into the classic category.

I like the album but it's kinda on the slow side and slow can be good; some of his best work is slow,  but not overly done as he has been doing over the last few years. I find a lack of originality in a lot of the album, he's recycling a lot of his old material.....the melody, guitar licks etc. I convinced myself it was his age but then you look at Springsteen!

I tried to play it in the car the other day -whilst my wife and 2 boys were there -  Sad to say, I was asked politely to switch it off. My boys are young but they do like some of the MK/DS stuff I subject them to but this one didn't go down well.

6/10
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: straitsway75 on March 19, 2015, 09:39:44 AM
In every MK album there is a gem, a particular song that is masterpiece
in GH je suis desole
in STP speedway
in RPd ragpickerdream
in SL postcards
in KTGC let it all go
in GL  clyde song
in P privateerin

in TRACKER   LIGHTS TAORMINA ....

thanks MARK  :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on March 19, 2015, 12:44:11 PM
It most certainly is a gem! in fact one hell of a gem!!!
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 19, 2015, 01:17:27 PM
It truly is - and Guy confirmed the purposeful lift of the Dylan melody. Funny though looking at the lst of classics above - I think I would disagree with most of them which shows how different we all are! Be fun actually for everyone to pick one favourite song on each of the solo albums.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Fletch on March 20, 2015, 08:00:16 AM
Quote from: Nick14 on March 19, 2015, 01:17:27 PM
It truly is - and Guy confirmed the purposeful lift of the Dylan melody. Funny though looking at the lst of classics above - I think I would disagree with most of them which shows how different we all are! Be fun actually for everyone to pick one favourite song on each of the solo albums.

May I ask where Guy said those things, I can't see them on his forum.
It's certainly hard for me not to think of Lily Rosemary & the Jack of Hearts listening to Taormina !
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 20, 2015, 11:17:50 AM
I asked him on the forum and he replied "yes, well spotted" - something like that.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: goldenheart96 on March 22, 2015, 09:12:05 PM
Quote from: dustyvalentino on March 12, 2015, 11:02:45 PM
Similar chords to Sunday Morning Coming Down by Kris Kristofferson.

Thanks! My thoughts exactly. "And the beer I had for breakfast wasn't bad, so I had one more for desert"  ;D
By the way can someone please elaborate on the Dylan references. As you all know I am not into Bob at all so any clues would be helpful  ;D
As for the song itself, I can't really share your enthusiasm. It's sweet somehow, but also a bit of a sleeping pill for me really. I don't think MK will play it live, I almost hope he won't, it would totally go down at the open air shows and drown in the sea of beer boozers and chatters, like the poor Submariner 2013. Lyrically, to me it seems to resemble "Silver Eagle". In both songs he remembers some lady who used to be a part of his life.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Fletch on March 22, 2015, 10:18:50 PM
I'd advise you NOT to listen to Lily, Rosemary & the Jack of Hearts (from Blood on the Tracks), otherwise you'll never hear Taormina the same again.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: superval99 on March 23, 2015, 02:02:39 PM
Quote from: goldenheart96 on March 22, 2015, 09:12:05 PM
Quote from: dustyvalentino on March 12, 2015, 11:02:45 PM
Similar chords to Sunday Morning Coming Down by Kris Kristofferson.

Thanks! My thoughts exactly. "And the beer I had for breakfast wasn't bad, so I had one more for desert"  ;D
By the way can someone please elaborate on the Dylan references. As you all know I am not into Bob at all so any clues would be helpful  ;D
As for the song itself, I can't really share your enthusiasm. It's sweet somehow, but also a bit of a sleeping pill for me really. I don't think MK will play it live, I almost hope he won't, it would totally go down at the open air shows and drown in the sea of beer boozers and chatters, like the poor Submariner 2013. Lyrically, to me it seems to resemble "Silver Eagle". In both songs he remembers some lady who used to be a part of his life.

I would love this to be played live!    He could just play it for the indoor venues, especially the RAH would be nice!    :)   Great song!   :thumbsup
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Nick14 on March 23, 2015, 02:33:59 PM
Terrific song - hope it makes the live show. In terms of Dylan connections:

Mark said he wrote it on the balcony of a hotel room that Dylan had also stayed in, and he "knew" that he and Bob had had a shared experience o nthat balcony, looking over the town etc

The melody is borrowed from a Dylan song - Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts

I hear lyrical reference to Dylan songs such as Black Diamond Bay.....Mark sings: "There’s laughter in the darkness, Music floating in across the bay"...Bob sang "As the sun went down and the music did play, On Black Diamond Bay."

Mentions of Dylan titles - such as "senor" - maybe coincidence, may have been deliberate on Mark's part

This verse could be read as being specifically about Bob Dylan:

The crowd calls for the emperor
Raise their hands to hail another king
But he’s been so long a wanderer
Another crowd can never mean a thing
He came, he saw, he conquered
Ten thousand voices roared in the arena
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

As could this:

He hears the chimes of history
Myths of gods and men forever ringing
Ancient dreams in all their mystery
Wars for Sicily and Spartan women
In the mists of antiquity
Ships of war set sail from Carthagina
Now he’s sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina
Sitting out in the night
Looking down upon the lights of Taormina

And there words like "chimes" recall Dylan songs - Chimes of Freedom in that case. I get a sense of many Dylan songs in this - melodically and lyrically (Simple Twist of Fate is another it brings to my mind) and also the lyrics which seem to be specifically about Dylan himself. The "he" being Dylan.

Dylan played there on 28 July 2001, his set list was:


Somebody Touched Me
The Times They Are A-Changin'
Desolation Row
Absolutely Sweet Marie
Simple Twist Of Fate
I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
The Lonesome Death Of Hattie Carroll
Boots Of Spanish Leather
Don't Think Twice, It's All Right
Everything Is Broken
Just Like A Woman
Drifter's Escape
Rainy Day Women #12 & 35
Love Sick
Like A Rolling Stone
One Too Many Mornings
All Along The Watchtower
Knockin' On Heaven's Door
Highway 61 Revisited
Blowin' In The Wind

 

Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: jbaent on March 23, 2015, 02:54:38 PM
Nice that MK - Dylan links in this song.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Rail King on March 23, 2015, 04:33:17 PM
Quote from: Fletch on March 22, 2015, 10:18:50 PM
I'd advise you NOT to listen to Lily, Rosemary & the Jack of Hearts (from Blood on the Tracks), otherwise you'll never hear Taormina the same again.

No problem, Fletch. I've listend to that song a hundred times in my life, and I still think Taormina's a masterpiece. It uses a some melody from Dylan, yes (something Dylan is doing with older songs constantly), but then weaves the incomparable Knopfler magic into it and builds on top of it. Just fantastic.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: dustyvalentino on March 23, 2015, 08:10:19 PM
With the lyric "asks if anyone has seen her" I always think of If You See Her Say Hello. :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Simon on March 27, 2015, 03:59:21 PM
Water of Love intro?
Donnegan's Gone riff?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Dutchessy on March 27, 2015, 04:39:28 PM
Quote from: Simon on March 27, 2015, 03:59:21 PM
Water of Love intro?
Donnegan's Gone riff?

Yes for the intro, no for the riff
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on March 27, 2015, 05:53:22 PM
'live' 'live' 'live' - Please!!! :clap
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Simon on March 29, 2015, 07:15:56 PM
Quote from: Dutchessy on March 27, 2015, 04:39:28 PM
Quote from: Simon on March 27, 2015, 03:59:21 PM
Water of Love intro?
Donnegan's Gone riff?

Yes for the intro, no for the riff

I meant the guitar riff (melody) at the beginning sounds like the melody of DG. :-)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: vgonis on May 08, 2015, 07:50:43 PM
As Dusty rightly mentioned early on, I also find the similarities with Save the last dance (he played it with Ben E. King, RIP, in the 80ies) so striking, I was singing the lyrics  of it. And there is Dylan in it as well.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: JF on May 13, 2015, 11:33:54 PM
the best version of "Lily, Rosemary & the Jack of Hearts" I've heard is the from Joan baez's live album "from every stage" :
 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AQJZys0cvI

far better than Dylan's one imho


as for Taormina, it's not my fav one on the album. a litlle bit boring for my taste, while the Dylan'song is my fav in Baez's stuff
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: foma on May 14, 2015, 12:03:14 AM
Quote from: JF on May 13, 2015, 11:33:54 PM
the best version of "Lily, Rosemary & the Jack of Hearts" I've heard is the from Joan baez's live album "from every stage" :
 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AQJZys0cvI

far better than Dylan's one imho


as for Taormina, it's not my fav one on the album. a litlle bit boring for my taste, while the Dylan'song is my fav in Baez's stuff

It's only me or musically almost all Dylan covers are better than originals? Of course his records have a huge charm in it, but anyway.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: JF on May 14, 2015, 12:12:36 AM
Quote from: foma on May 14, 2015, 12:03:14 AM
It's only me or musically almost all Dylan covers are better than originals? Of course his records have a huge charm in it, but anyway.
yes agree. i'd say Dylan is a poet, not a musician
but I like the 61 album with Bloomfield and Kooper, or the Band era, and of course albums with mark
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: silentguy on November 03, 2015, 02:41:32 AM
I wonder why not played on this tour ?
I didn't look at all the European set lists though
so maybe I missed it ?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: ingridswing on November 03, 2015, 10:09:30 AM
Unfortunately not played indeed. I love this song
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Marijo58 on November 03, 2015, 10:10:30 PM
Quote from: ingridswing on November 03, 2015, 10:09:30 AM
Unfortunately not played indeed. I love this song

Yes Ingrid, me too I've loved Lights of Taormina from the first moment I've heard it!! Indeed strange that MK didn't put it on the Setlist!!! :wave
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: border_reiver on November 03, 2015, 10:27:50 PM
Quote from: Marijo58 on November 03, 2015, 10:10:30 PM
Quote from: ingridswing on November 03, 2015, 10:09:30 AM
Unfortunately not played indeed. I love this song

Yes Ingrid, me too I've loved Lights of Taormina from the first moment I've heard it!! Indeed strange that MK didn't put it on the Setlist!!! :wave

You mean that Guy didn't put it on the list?  :)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: silentguy on November 03, 2015, 11:10:09 PM
Yeah, my fav song on tracker.

So not sure to be happy that I didnt miss it, or sad that it was never played.

Also Beryl, not played but on that German TV show ?

Do we have a list of the not played songs ?

I know I never heard Rivertown at any of my shows.

Can someone make a list of not played Tracker songs ?

Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Lis on November 04, 2015, 01:38:24 AM
Quote from: silentguy on November 03, 2015, 11:10:09 PM
Yeah, my fav song on tracker.

So not sure to be happy that I didnt miss it, or sad that it was never played.

Also Beryl, not played but on that German TV show ?

Do we have a list of the not played songs ?

I know I never heard Rivertown at any of my shows.

Can someone make a list of not played Tracker songs ?
Basil
Rivertown
Long Cool Girl
LOT
Silver Eagle 
Each of them absolutely amazing.  I really love Tracker...
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Marijo58 on November 04, 2015, 08:50:39 AM
Hello Border_reiver, is it really Guy who is deciding what kind of Setlist they should have? Then why didn't he put TOTT???
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: ingridswing on November 04, 2015, 12:04:47 PM
MK is deciding, Guy said that in his forum a couple of times
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: superval99 on November 04, 2015, 12:26:58 PM
Quote from: ingridswing on November 04, 2015, 12:04:47 PM
MK is deciding, Guy said that in his forum a couple of times

Guy isn't consistent with his explanations.   This is a reply to a query about setlists from yesterday:

"I generally decide the set and run it past MK".
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Marijo58 on November 04, 2015, 12:30:56 PM
Quote from: ingridswing on November 04, 2015, 12:04:47 PM
MK is deciding, Guy said that in his forum a couple of times

Yes that is what I assumed Ingrid. No one is able to tell Mark what to play during a Gig. He has always been the Boss!! Just look at the videos on YouTube. He is just like a Conductor directing his Musician by looking at them or using hand signs.. 
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Lis on November 05, 2015, 02:28:56 AM
Quote from: superval99 on November 04, 2015, 12:26:58 PM
Quote from: ingridswing on November 04, 2015, 12:04:47 PM
MK is deciding, Guy said that in his forum a couple of times

Guy isn't consistent with his explanations.   This is a reply to a query about setlists from yesterday:

"I generally decide the set and run it past MK".
Guy's response must be tongue-in-cheek!  But I was surprised by this reply, as I think many people may take it seriously.  It is tongue-in-cheek, right?
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on August 13, 2021, 04:43:13 AM
This lovely song still stuns!
I still get a 'lump in the throat' when I hear the opening few bars of this.......So incredibly moving and I'm one who would have loved to have heard this Live as there was so much potential with it....
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: qjamesfloyd on August 13, 2021, 11:17:44 AM
I have loved this song from the first time I heard it, very atmospheric lyrically, and I like Mark's slide work too.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Knopflerfan on August 13, 2021, 02:14:24 PM
Quote from: qjamesfloyd on August 13, 2021, 11:17:44 AM
I have loved this song from the first time I heard it, very atmospheric lyrically, and I like Mark's slide work too.

Indeed the atmosphere from this track is mind blowing...
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: H97 on January 12, 2024, 12:56:19 PM
Adding to the Dylan links perceived in this songs, just listened to "Red River Shore" from the Time Out of Mind sessions, very reminiscent of this one as well
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: quizzaciously on January 13, 2024, 02:17:51 PM
Quote from: Hugo97 on January 12, 2024, 12:56:19 PM
Adding to the Dylan links perceived in this songs, just listened to "Red River Shore" from the Time Out of Mind sessions, very reminiscent of this one as well

Wow, a great observation. The arrangement is nearly identical. This can't be a coincidence, or MK and BD are brothers from different mothers.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: Robson on January 13, 2024, 02:39:40 PM
I'm currently reading Howard Sounes' book Down The Highway: The Life Of Bob Dylan. Probably the best Bob Dylan biography. And of course I'm waiting for MK-related accents:)
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: qjamesfloyd on January 13, 2024, 04:03:02 PM
Yes, I can hear it too in that song. Also, on the Time Out if Mind Sessions is another MK link, Dylan does a version of The River is Wide, which Mark did an instrumental version of.
Title: Re: (8) Lights of Taormina (6:09)
Post by: garibaldi on April 26, 2024, 01:42:02 PM
I love the lyrics and imagery they generate, but I can't get past the amount of slide present on this song; it just feels too "twangy" to me