Post by: allen on July 16, 2019, 07:20:01 AM
(https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=6793.0;attach=3381)
VENUE & LATEST TICKET INFO
Location:- https://www.arena.it/
Buy Tickets:- http://dalessandroegalli.com/events/557/mark-knopfler
Clock @ Weather: https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/italy/verona
DIARIES
Guy Fletcher D.T.R.W. tour Diary: http://guyfletcher.co.uk/category/2019-european-tour-diary/
Richard Bennett Notes from the Road: https://www.richard-bennett.com/notes-from-the-road
A.M.I.T. HUB
Who’s going where?: https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?topic=6400.0
Tickets : sale / exchange / wanted: https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?board=48.0
Pre-concert meetings: https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?board=49.0
PREVIOUS/NEXT MARK KNOPFLER Concert
Previous concert:- https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?topic=7079.0
Next Concert:- https://www.amarkintime.org/forum/index.php?topic=7081.0
Buy USB’S of this concert:- https://store.markknopfler.com/down-the-road-wherever-live-2019?utm_source=website&utm_medium=landingpage&utm_campaign=04_25_19&utm_content=dtrw_liveconcerts
29 songs were played on the 2015 tour
22 songs yet played on this tour
SET LIST
01. Why Aye Man
02. Corned Beef City
03. Sailing to Philadelphia (with Danny as second voice !)
04. Once Upon A Time In The West
05. Romeo and Juliet
06. My Bacon Roll
07. Matchstick Man
08. Done With Bonaparte
09. Heart Full of Holes
10. She's Gone
11. Your Latest Trick
12. Postcards from Paraguay
13. On Every Street
14. Speedway at Nazareth
Encores
15. Money For Nothing
16. Going Home
Post by: PensaGhost on July 16, 2019, 02:26:11 PM
and the biggest available for shows
(https://www.ticketone.it/obj/media/IT-eventim/galery/venue/a/arena-verona-1.jpg)
(http://1.citynews-veronasera.stgy.ovh/~media/original-hi/26560734317518/arena_di_verona_fotoennevi-2.jpg)
Post by: vr46mk on July 16, 2019, 04:42:07 PM
Next tour, if any, heavily slimmed down to one show in countries outside UK? And more UK dates?
The dream would be another album/tour in 2 years but i don't think that will happen.. however it did happen between these albums:
2008 Crimson Tour - 2010 Get Lucky Tour
2013 Privateering Tour - 2015 Tracker Tour
And it could have been
2001 STP Tour - 2003 TRPD Tour - 2005 Shangri La Tour
Post by: dmg on July 16, 2019, 06:16:49 PM
Time really flies... :'( In less than one week the European Tour is over. Was not long ago we sat and listened to the Barcelona broadcast, super excited for everything..
Next tour, if any, heavily slimmed down to one show in countries outside UK? And more UK dates?
The dream would be another album/tour in 2 years but i don't think that will happen.. however it did happen between these albums:
2008 Crimson Tour - 2010 Get Lucky Tour
2013 Privateering Tour - 2015 Tracker Tour
And it could have been
2001 STP Tour - 2003 TRPD Tour - 2005 Shangri La Tour
My dream would be more productive in BG and no more touring.
Post by: hunter on July 16, 2019, 08:41:41 PM
Time really flies... :'( In less than one week the European Tour is over. Was not long ago we sat and listened to the Barcelona broadcast, super excited for everything..
Next tour, if any, heavily slimmed down to one show in countries outside UK? And more UK dates?
The dream would be another album/tour in 2 years but i don't think that will happen.. however it did happen between these albums:
2008 Crimson Tour - 2010 Get Lucky Tour
2013 Privateering Tour - 2015 Tracker Tour
And it could have been
2001 STP Tour - 2003 TRPD Tour - 2005 Shangri La Tour
My dream would be more productive in BG and no more touring.
Productive and daring, I'd say. I'd love to hear something Love-over-gold-esque. Something a little dark and atmospheric.
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 17, 2019, 10:23:33 AM
Does anyone by chance now where the tickets are supposed to be picked up (where the ticket office is located)?
Post by: PensaGhost on July 17, 2019, 02:17:01 PM
Really looking forward to this show. :-)
Does anyone by chance now where the tickets are supposed to be picked up (where the ticket office is located)?
on the first picture above, you see the 3 lines of people going from the trees to the arena ? more or less there inside the arena, at least it has always been there for decades
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 17, 2019, 05:31:40 PM
Really looking forward to this show. :-)
Does anyone by chance now where the tickets are supposed to be picked up (where the ticket office is located)?
on the first picture above, you see the 3 lines of people going from the trees to the arena ? more or less there inside the arena, at least it has always been there for decades
Yes I see, thanks!
Post by: PensaGhost on July 18, 2019, 01:47:39 PM
The original tragedy by Shakespeare takes place in Verona.
(https://www.verona.net/img_storia/big/608.jpg)
(https://www.verona.net/img_monumenti/big/1142.jpg)
(http://media.pinkblog.it/s/spo/sposarsisulbalconedigiulietta.jpg)
Post by: superval99 on July 18, 2019, 01:57:17 PM
The Romeo&Juliet balcony, 5 minute walk from the concert venue.
The original tragedy by Shakespeare takes place in Verona.
(https://www.verona.net/img_storia/big/608.jpg)
(https://www.verona.net/img_monumenti/big/1142.jpg)
(http://media.pinkblog.it/s/spo/sposarsisulbalconedigiulietta.jpg)
https://www.italymammamia.com/romeo-and-juliet-verona.html
We visited the balcony at 6am in the morning, because we had an early flight home and to avoid the crowds of tourists during the day! ;)
Post by: PensaGhost on July 18, 2019, 02:01:30 PM
https://www.italymammamia.com/romeo-and-juliet-verona.html
it takes few minutes to visit it from the concert venue and it's completely free, contrarily to what that stupid link tells
Post by: superval99 on July 18, 2019, 02:12:59 PM
https://www.italymammamia.com/romeo-and-juliet-verona.html
it takes few minutes to visit it from the concert venue and it's completely free, contrarily to what that stupid link tells
It did say that it was free to visit the courtyard, just the museum wasn't free. There are far more interesting places in Verona than visiting a balcony, which was erected in the 1930s. It's pure fiction anyway, not historical. ;)
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 18, 2019, 02:25:06 PM
If you have any tips for things to visit/go see while I'm there, please tell :)
Post by: PensaGhost on July 18, 2019, 03:53:03 PM
I've been to Verona before, but just for a day. Mainly to see the Arena, also saw the R&J balcony.
If you have any tips for things to visit/go see while I'm there, please tell :)
if you eat on the balcony of the Ponte Pietra Restaurant not only it's excellent,
but you will see the river adige, the bridge and the castle on the mountain all at the same time
if you can't eat there, just go on the bridge :lol
(https://lorenzovinci.it/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Ponte-Pietra-a-Verona.jpg)
Post by: superval99 on July 18, 2019, 04:16:51 PM
I've been to Verona before, but just for a day. Mainly to see the Arena, also saw the R&J balcony.
If you have any tips for things to visit/go see while I'm there, please tell :)
if you eat on the balcony of the Ponte Pietra Restaurant not only it's excellent,
but you will see the river adige, the bridge and the castle on the mountain all at the same time
if you can't eat there, just go on the bridge :lol
(https://lorenzovinci.it/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Ponte-Pietra-a-Verona.jpg)
On our last visit to Verona it rained and rained (it was March). We went across the Ponte Pietro and climbed all of the steps up to the castle - it was like climbing through a waterfall and when we reached the top we couldn't see the view of Verona. We intend to do the same again this time and, hopefully, it won't rain! I would like to climb the Lamberti Tower too and visit the Piazza Dei Signori (Dante's piazza) which we missed last time. :) Maybe we will even try the restaurant near the bridge.
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 18, 2019, 07:48:49 PM
if you can't eat there, just go on the bridge :lol
Busy restaurant then?
Post by: localhero1986 on July 18, 2019, 07:51:41 PM
Post by: PensaGhost on July 18, 2019, 08:51:17 PM
Thanks for the tips! :)if you can't eat there, just go on the bridge :lol
Busy restaurant then?
only few tables on the balcony, must be really lucky
Post by: isina on July 20, 2019, 07:33:04 PM
The arena is magnificent, I saw MK & Emmylou Harris there back in 2006, and it's breathtaking. My husband worked there for a few years as background actor in the Operas (he is from Verona) and I saw Aida, Turandot and so on. Great acoustic too. Romans knew how to entartain people! ;D
Really looking forward to this show. :-)
Does anyone by chance now where the tickets are supposed to be picked up (where the ticket office is located)?
Post by: isina on July 20, 2019, 07:39:51 PM
Tourist tips: Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori are worth a stop for sure. Ponte Pietra and Castel San Pietro as someone already stated are amazing too. Via di Sottoriva (nice small restaurants there), beautiful churches: Santa Anastasia, San Zeno, San Giorgio, San Fermo. Best winery: Osteria del Bugiardo (Corso di Porta Borsari) and Osteria Dal Zovo (very near to Osteria del Bugiardo). Amazing Coffee: Caffè Borsari (it's in Corso di Porta Borsari too), stop and see the hundreds of coffee and tea cups in the shop windows.
I can't put a map here, but if you search on Google maps you'll find all the places.
Post by: superval99 on July 20, 2019, 08:00:42 PM
For all those searching for restaurants, just stay away from the square of the arena (Piazza Bra). Search in the streets behind.
Tourist tips: Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori are worth a stop for sure. Ponte Pietra and Castel San Pietro as someone already stated are amazing too. Via di Sottoriva (nice small restaurants there), beautiful churches: Santa Anastasia, San Zeno, San Giorgio, San Fermo. Best winery: Osteria del Bugiardo (Corso di Porta Borsari) and Osteria Dal Zovo (very near to Osteria del Bugiardo). Amazing Coffee: Caffè Borsari (it's in Corso di Porta Borsari too), stop and see the hundreds of coffee and tea cups in the shop windows.
I can't put a map here, but if you search on Google maps you'll find all the places.
Thanks for the information, Isina, it's nice to see you posting again. I remember reading your posts back in the days of MK News Forum - I was just a newbie then! ;D
Post by: isina on July 20, 2019, 09:20:51 PM
For all those searching for restaurants, just stay away from the square of the arena (Piazza Bra). Search in the streets behind.
Tourist tips: Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori are worth a stop for sure. Ponte Pietra and Castel San Pietro as someone already stated are amazing too. Via di Sottoriva (nice small restaurants there), beautiful churches: Santa Anastasia, San Zeno, San Giorgio, San Fermo. Best winery: Osteria del Bugiardo (Corso di Porta Borsari) and Osteria Dal Zovo (very near to Osteria del Bugiardo). Amazing Coffee: Caffè Borsari (it's in Corso di Porta Borsari too), stop and see the hundreds of coffee and tea cups in the shop windows.
I can't put a map here, but if you search on Google maps you'll find all the places.
Thanks for the information, Isina, it's nice to see you posting again. I remember reading your posts back in the days of MK News Forum - I was just a newbie then! ;D
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 20, 2019, 11:52:01 PM
I'll be there too, I've been told that there's a ticket office near Gate 1. Don't go to the Arena ticket office which is located in a street behind the arena because that's working just for the Opera Season.
The arena is magnificent, I saw MK & Emmylou Harris there back in 2006, and it's breathtaking. My husband worked there for a few years as background actor in the Operas (he is from Verona) and I saw Aida, Turandot and so on. Great acoustic too. Romans knew how to entartain people! ;DReally looking forward to this show. :-)
Does anyone by chance now where the tickets are supposed to be picked up (where the ticket office is located)?
I think I know where you mean with regards to the ticket office. Thanks! Arrived in Verona early today and walked past there. Nice to be back here :-) Have been eating in the streets behind the arena indeed.
Post by: SamGolden on July 21, 2019, 09:22:23 AM
Post by: PensaGhost on July 21, 2019, 04:09:37 PM
Post by: joko on July 21, 2019, 04:23:26 PM
Post by: NicoMK on July 21, 2019, 07:15:42 PM
I am already feeling overwhelmed by this concert possibly being the last MK one I will attend ever
Yep, I know how you feel. I started feeling the same a few weeks ago, short before I attended what could have been my last MK concert ever, and the feeling hasn't left me since. This is why we should cherish every single minute of this tour...
I can't believe it's really over till Mark says it is. So for now, let's hope it's not.
Enjoy the gig, all. Wish I were here.
Post by: NicoMK on July 21, 2019, 08:57:00 PM
I'm in the Lago di Garda... Maybe tomorrow or monday i'll go to visit the Verona and the Arena. Thanks for all informations.
Enjoy Itaaaaaliaaaaaa SamGolden 8) :) :thumbsup
Post by: allen on July 22, 2019, 08:33:16 AM
Post by: crimmer on July 22, 2019, 10:12:08 AM
Post by: knopflertom on July 22, 2019, 12:36:15 PM
Post by: NicoMK on July 22, 2019, 12:52:17 PM
What was the setlist? Any surprises?
I think you'll have to come back tonight ;D
Post by: jbaent on July 22, 2019, 01:20:15 PM
Post by: knopflertom on July 22, 2019, 01:23:37 PM
What was the setlist? Any surprises?
I think you'll have to come back tonight ;D
Oops :smack
Post by: PensaGhost on July 22, 2019, 01:32:09 PM
Enjoy the concert guys ,have a awesome time.gutted I can't be with you, but hope too be listening from a far
:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup
Post by: dmg on July 22, 2019, 01:55:20 PM
So hot...
So you've met the AMIT lassies then! ;D
Post by: jbaent on July 22, 2019, 02:05:53 PM
So hot...
So you've met the AMIT lassies then! ;D
I wish, lol...
I'm melting... And I'm used to hot weather and high humidity is something out of this world...
Post by: PensaGhost on July 22, 2019, 02:12:00 PM
Post by: allen on July 22, 2019, 07:12:23 PM
Yes pretty hot, I am having a swim in the pool before leaving to Verona in 2-3 hours, only 1 hour car run
I went to Juliet’s, nice. And Romeo’s, closed. Took a shower, ready to go to the venue. 2 min walk.
Post by: knopflertom on July 22, 2019, 09:36:45 PM
Post by: crimmer on July 22, 2019, 09:40:40 PM
Post by: dmg on July 22, 2019, 09:43:02 PM
WYE AYE MAN!!!...… any updates??
They've either all got heat stroke or are too drunk to operate their mobiles.
Post by: dmg on July 22, 2019, 09:47:00 PM
Set List:
Check MarkKnopfler.com
Post by: crimmer on July 22, 2019, 10:26:06 PM
Post by: dmg on July 22, 2019, 10:32:26 PM
set list maybe the same, but it will be played differently to roma :D
I really wish BIA was back in; sounded so good this tour. :(
I think even Pottel can forgive him R&J tonight!
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 23, 2019, 12:38:35 AM
Post by: allen on July 23, 2019, 01:13:12 AM
Post by: hunter on July 23, 2019, 02:00:44 AM
Guitar out of tune during OES and a guitar change after the first verse.
Wonder what that's all about. It's happened on several occasions this tour.
Post by: Kris-b on July 23, 2019, 05:51:53 AM
Post by: allen on July 23, 2019, 08:34:59 AM
What did he say about retiring? Anything new in his last speeches?Nothing new, just something like “maybe I should retire, but you know I just love this. What should I do?”. He hitchhiked to Greece with his girlfriend, then did a lot of up and down England when he was in high school. Then did a lot of other things, slept on floors of other people, trying to do something but it didn’t work. Then in a really shit band in the Southest coast of England and wanna hitchhike on Christmas Day, etc.
Post by: Stiglar on July 23, 2019, 09:02:26 AM
Setlist was great I think it really covered so much of his huge catalogue,, I think one of the highlights for me (there were many!) was matchstick man, I wasn’t expecting the Irish instruments and really liked that addition, I’ve been avoiding listening to clips online so was a nice surprise,
Out of tune guitar was on YLT, they brought another les Paul out so quickly! very impressive really
I’ve seen MK a few times and was also so happy to hear GH! I’m sure a lot of regulars are probably a bit sick of it as a closer but I’ve never seen it, so I was over the moon!
Overall I loved every second! What a show.
Post by: hunter on July 23, 2019, 09:02:51 AM
What did he say about retiring? Anything new in his last speeches?Nothing new, just something like “maybe I should retire, but you know I just love this. What should I do?”. He hitchhiked to Greece with his girlfriend, then did a lot of up and down England when he was in high school. Then did a lot of other things, slept on floors of other people, trying to do something but it didn’t work. Then in a really shit band in the Southest coast of England and wanna hitchhike on Christmas Day, etc.
The tale gets longer and more detailed for each show. By the end of the tour, the show will be down to a long speech and three songs ha-ha!
Post by: jbaent on July 23, 2019, 09:34:57 AM
It was such a big big pleasure to met Superval and his lovely husband. I had failed to met her in other concerts and that was the main mission of the night for me. She is so lovely that I can't wait to meet her and his also lovely husband again in the future when MK does his future one off concerts, lol.
Another must of the night was meet Allen. Such a lovely guy. I know him from years and years from various forums and it's great to meet people you had chatted so many times, specially if they come from so long.
Also a funny moment when Allen introduced me Pensa ghost. He got me by the neck like he was killing me, lol. We did argued quite a lot all these years but in the end, we are fans and it was just a nice joke, or at least that's what I want to believe, lol. I introduced him and Allen to Val as well.
So great to see again all friends like Tunnel85, Ingrid and also meet Joko, who was introduced me by Superval.
The concert itself was nothing different from what I've seen before except from one of the crew boys dancing with the Macs on stage during Paraguay and another from the crew hitting Ianto's cymbals at the start of Speedway. MK was laughing with that moments.
I can't take out of me that feeling that it was the last time I see him live because nothing is certain yet. I hope that when the tour is over and he rest at home he would consider touring again on a lower scale or at least some one offs at the Rah...
People. It's been such a terrific travel. Thank to all of you for the moments shared, in person and here. It's been fun even in the moaning moments, lol.
See you down the road, wherever!
Post by: Love Expresso on July 23, 2019, 10:51:33 AM
LE
Post by: allen on July 23, 2019, 10:55:58 AM
Yes, I saw that pic of you, allen and Pensa Ghost on fb and wondered how you both survived it. ;D
LE
I was between them just in case, haha haha. Both nice guys really!!!
Post by: Love Expresso on July 23, 2019, 11:00:08 AM
LE
Post by: allen on July 23, 2019, 11:09:08 AM
And a lot of very nice pics you did take. Obviously you enjoyed your time very much!
LE
I enjoyed every second of those last three concerts. His music really means so much to me. I’m still feeling grateful for people who helped me to get good seats and also for myself that I made this trip. After the show, you could see people in bars were almost all knopflet fans. I met about ten in my hotel bar, and we introduced each other. Nice to meet a couple from Hamburg who came here to celebrate 50th anniversary of their marriage by going to their mutual favorite musician Knopfler’s concert. And great to meet a British fan called John who was a fan since 1978 by first hearing the debut record playing. He even saw the band playing several times in England in 1978.
Post by: NicoMK on July 23, 2019, 11:27:35 AM
Also, nice to see people from all around the globe meeting each other and enjoying their time. This is why Mark's music is made for, after all.
I think that we all hope that it happens again soon, one way or the other.
Safe return home Allen!
Post by: allen on July 23, 2019, 11:43:20 AM
Safe return home Allen!
Merci, Nico. Will tour Milan, some cities in Belgium and Holland first.
Post by: dmg on July 23, 2019, 11:48:44 AM
Post by: holaknopfler on July 23, 2019, 11:57:35 AM
Hola
Post by: PensaGhost on July 23, 2019, 04:12:55 PM
First of all, yes it was absolutely very nice to meet all, Allen, Jbaent, Superval and husband, Joko,
all mentioned in order of appearance hehe
I would have loved to meet also Ingrid but at least I saw her dancing at the beginning of Paraguay with her partner hehe
The concert was very fine.
Yes the song with the guitar out of tune was Your Latest trick, I was watching MK and after few notes he stopped playing
and after the verse he said 'Sorry the guitar is out of tune'. Mr Saggers came in with a new Gibson during the song, it wasn't stopped.
A funny moment was when MK was talking about 'something that didn't kill him', don't remember exactly what it was, but, as soon as he said that, someone on the high stand shouted very loudly as if he was falling down from the sky
and MK said 'well it might have killed you, but it didn't kill me' and everybody laughed.
There was the usual part 'It seems a good moment to retire cause I am old but I like it so much that I might continue'
Speedway final solo was above average imo, best song of the concert according to my mum (I took my mum and my sister with me for their first concert ever, better late than never)
I agree with all that there was a bittersweet note that it could be the final show, I hope he tours again in a more relaxed way
Post by: PensaGhost on July 23, 2019, 04:51:35 PM
http://guyfletcher.co.uk/22nd-july-2019-verona/
Post by: PensaGhost on July 23, 2019, 06:25:59 PM
he can hardly walk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4wzRpBuOI8
Post by: ingridswing on July 23, 2019, 06:37:17 PM
Didn’t meet Pensaghost 😢
But met a lot other people.
Real great end of the european leg!
Thank you all for making the concerts and meet ups so great. It wouldn’t have been the same without all of you. Big hug and Hopefully we meet again somewhere down the road wherever! 😘
Post by: jeffreyvr on July 24, 2019, 02:49:05 AM
I was at row 4 and I think I witnessed a AMIT-meeting at row one but wasn’t sure.
Post by: tunnel85 on July 24, 2019, 07:32:19 AM
Intense feelings with everyone I met ... no sadness, just quality moments like never.
Here is a souvenir :
https://youtu.be/Jhd-RyD3NEc (https://youtu.be/Jhd-RyD3NEc)
Post by: Knopflerfan on July 24, 2019, 09:36:24 AM
But we will think positive and live in hope of some small 'One Off' shows to come along with some stellar albums to come too!!.....
Post by: dmg on July 24, 2019, 01:07:26 PM
Is that a clothes pole Danny uses? Looks like he about to hang out the washing!
Post by: tunnel85 on July 24, 2019, 01:40:13 PM
Was so hot he needed to change and wash clothes ten times a day.
So he bought a clothes pole and decided to use it on stage to make his investment as profitable as possible. :clap
Post by: Pottel on July 24, 2019, 04:16:45 PM
it seems someone filmed the arrival but he didn't stop hehevideo removed by the user?
he can hardly walk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4wzRpBuOI8
Post by: PensaGhost on July 24, 2019, 04:42:58 PM
video removed by the user?
yes, did you see it yesterday ? there was mark, guy and richard arriving with the car exactly where the user was, MK said 'see you later guys' and then hardly walked to the back of the arena
Post by: hunter on July 24, 2019, 04:48:48 PM
video removed by the user?
yes, did you see it yesterday ? there was mark, guy and richard arriving with the car exactly where the user was, MK said 'see you later guys' and then hardly walked to the back of the arena
Maybe the video owner was approached by Mark's management? Who knows
Serious respect for Mark, though, to do this tour in such a condition. Soldier.
Post by: tunnel85 on July 24, 2019, 05:39:37 PM
Post by: Shangri-La on July 24, 2019, 06:22:30 PM
I saw him, he really looked in pain.
Like Tom Petty...
Post by: Darling Pretty on July 24, 2019, 07:31:24 PM
Post by: hunter on July 24, 2019, 08:15:00 PM
Post by: quizzaciously on July 24, 2019, 08:51:29 PM
?
Pretty sure he meant stop talking about it, as if it would make the facts magically disappear.
Post by: tunnel85 on July 24, 2019, 08:53:30 PM
https://youtu.be/heExgXUv77k (https://youtu.be/heExgXUv77k)
Post by: Darling Pretty on July 24, 2019, 08:56:03 PM
Post by: Shangri-La on July 24, 2019, 11:22:28 PM
Sure I hope that Mark gets well and fine again if he has really problems now. But I found the comparison with Tom Petty not that appropriate. RIP Tom
It is. Same courage.
Post by: superval99 on July 25, 2019, 08:29:28 AM
It was great to meet friends from AMIT at the venue, some who I already have met before - Ingrid,Joko, Jordan, Tunnel85 and others who I met for the first time - Allen, PensaGhost and the person I had been waiting to meet for so long - Jbaent! I was sitting waiting for the concert to begin, when suddenly I was aware of someone standing, looking at me, at the end of my row and it was Jbaent! It was such a pleasure to meet him after all this time! Fantastic!
We arrived at the arena at about 7.30pm to collect the tickets, but because it was so hot we decided to go inside to our seats and relax before the show to watch things happening. One of the things that really impressed me was a group of Knopfler fans who had made a huge banner thanking Mark for 40 years of music "We love you Mark, thanks for these 40 years" Then they paraded the banner all around the arena to huge applause from those already in the arena.
The show was fantastic, probably the best I have ever been to, partly because of the wonderful atmosphere and sense of occasion, but also because of the audience, who were amazing. We had a full-blown eo,eo, eo, but also they were very respectful during quieter songs. If there were any greenies, etc I didn't hear them, but it didn't matter, we were all having what seemed to be a great party, especially during PFP when people started dancing - started, I believe, by Ingrid and friends on the front row! As has been mentioned, Mark's guitar went out of tune during YLT and he stopped playing and carried on singing, which sounded fine. Glenn Saggers came and changed the guitar and MK continued, almost seamlessly - it was really impressive and earned another applause!
I must say that I was very emotional during some parts of the show, especially seeing Mark performing what could be the last time for me. I will never forget this performance, which was made extra-special by the fantastic audience.
Thanks Mark, the wonderful band and, of course the crew. :)
Post by: superval99 on July 25, 2019, 08:46:04 AM
I think Superval likes this one
https://youtu.be/heExgXUv77k (https://youtu.be/heExgXUv77k)
Thank you, Tunnel85! It's perfect! :wave
Post by: superval99 on July 25, 2019, 09:07:32 AM
So, a warm welcome to Giuliano Dall! :wave
Post by: qjamesfloyd on July 25, 2019, 09:11:57 AM
Post by: vr46mk on July 25, 2019, 09:13:32 AM
Post by: hunter on July 25, 2019, 10:05:26 AM
I think if you look at that video at 0:58 you can see what Mark's issue is, his legs are not even straight, and his upper body is bent, he clearly has medical problems, so, :thumbsup for doing the tour Mark, looking at that, it may well be his last tour, not because he doesn't want to play live, more because his body can't take it. And any guitar playing issue stem from this in my view, he has played for decades now, and you don't just loose the ability.
The difference in Mark's mobility between the last and the current tour is staggering. That is not just because of age. Whatever it is, I wish him all the best and hope there is a way to recover. If he can't continue touring because of health issues, at least I hope he'll be able to keep playing in the studio.
Post by: qjamesfloyd on July 25, 2019, 10:35:20 AM
Post by: Knopflerfan on July 25, 2019, 12:05:55 PM
Hi everyone! I'm back home now after a truly amazing few days. I'm so glad I was there to see what could be MK's last European show and it was just as emotional as I expected it to be.
It was great to meet friends from AMIT at the venue, some who I already have met before - Ingrid,Joko, Jordan, Tunnel85 and others who I met for the first time - Allen, PensaGhost and the person I had been waiting to meet for so long - Jbaent! I was sitting waiting for the concert to begin, when suddenly I was aware of someone standing, looking at me, at the end of my row and it was Jbaent! It was such a pleasure to meet him after all this time! Fantastic!
We arrived at the arena at about 7.30pm to collect the tickets, but because it was so hot we decided to go inside to our seats and relax before the show to watch things happening. One of the things that really impressed me was a group of Knopfler fans who had made a huge banner thanking Mark for 40 years of music "We love you Mark, thanks for these 40 years" Then they paraded the banner all around the arena to huge applause from those already in the arena.
The show was fantastic, probably the best I have ever been to, partly because of the wonderful atmosphere and sense of occasion, but also because of the audience, who were amazing. We had a full-blown eo,eo, eo, but also they were very respectful during quieter songs. If there were any greenies, etc I didn't hear them, but it didn't matter, we were all having what seemed to be a great party, especially during PFP when people started dancing - started, I believe, by Ingrid and friends on the front row! As has been mentioned, Mark's guitar went out of tune during YLT and he stopped playing and carried on singing, which sounded fine. Glenn Saggers came and changed the guitar and MK continued, almost seamlessly - it was really impressive and earned another applause!
I must say that I was very emotional during some parts of the show, especially seeing Mark performing what could be the last time for me. I will never forget this performance, which was made extra-special by the fantastic audience.
Thanks Mark, the wonderful band and, of course the crew. :)
Soooooooooo pleased you had a lovely time? I trust Mr SuperVal enjoyed himself too?
Regards to you both from 'us both'
Post by: Knopflerfan on July 25, 2019, 12:09:11 PM
I agree, I hope it doesn't get as bad as Phil Collins, he can't even play drums now, and walks on stage with a walking stick, which is sad to see. Mark can still play guitar sitting on a stool, but it is affecting his playing, so I don't see that as an option going forward, particularly as another tour would be 2-3 years away and his health could be worse by then :( He has given so much over the years, and has had a huge impact on my life that I would prefer he just make albums.
Quite agree with what you have said here. :clap
To see the huge differences between tours (2015 & now) is absolutely staggering and quite frankly very sad. :'( :'(
Mind you he wasn't that bad (Walking or playing) at Chalke Valley in 2016.......
Post by: dmg on July 25, 2019, 12:09:34 PM
I think if you look at that video at 0:58 you can see what Mark's issue is, his legs are not even straight, and his upper body is bent, he clearly has medical problems, so, :thumbsup for doing the tour Mark, looking at that, it may well be his last tour, not because he doesn't want to play live, more because his body can't take it. And any guitar playing issue stem from this in my view, he has played for decades now, and you don't just loose the ability.
The difference in Mark's mobility between the last and the current tour is staggering. That is not just because of age. Whatever it is, I wish him all the best and hope there is a way to recover. If he can't continue touring because of health issues, at least I hope he'll be able to keep playing in the studio.
You're right. I never really noticed it until last night when I was watching You Tube and a video from this tour. A suggestion came up alongside of the Padova 2015 show, so I watched a part of it and it was like a different man. His mobility in all limbs is slower and seems restricted somehow. It's really sad to see this in someone who should rightly be giving so much for another 5-10 years anyway. Of course his well being is of primary importance but I think touring must make him feel good mentally.
Post by: vr46mk on July 25, 2019, 03:28:30 PM
In 2013/2015 videos he looks slimmer, healthier and playing decent SoS/TR....
Big difference this time when you study how he stands at the stage etc. Bit sad...
I don't mind if he use the chair again as in 2010
Post by: dona74 on July 25, 2019, 04:38:21 PM
I saw one of the early show, in Lisbon, and was very clear that he was uncomfortable with himself....
Our Mark is old.... not a tragedy.... i think (and hope) that's all.
I consider a very right decision to drop Telegraph and Sultans.... it's ok...
Post by: dmg on July 25, 2019, 04:49:46 PM
Yea i noticed this too..
In 2013/2015 videos he looks slimmer, healthier and playing decent SoS/TR....
Big difference this time when you study how he stands at the stage etc. Bit sad...
I don't mind if he use the chair again as in 2010
To be honest I don't think he performs certain songs well in the chair. It's fine with the slow, laid back numbers but he always looked awkward and uncomfortable trying to play most of the set while seated. His posture on that stool whilst playing was terrible. I think if it did help him he would already be seated but obviously he prefers standing.
Post by: PensaGhost on July 25, 2019, 05:57:31 PM
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
Post by: hunter on July 25, 2019, 06:40:39 PM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can play
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
Fat is a bit much said, I think. Overweight, yes, but not to the point where it impacts his playing. My guess it's a back problem.
Post by: Kris-b on July 25, 2019, 07:54:10 PM
Post by: PensaGhost on July 25, 2019, 08:58:29 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z25m0LZMQNU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdim6NhcuHI
Post by: Robson on July 25, 2019, 11:49:49 PM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can play
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
:thumbsup
Post by: Robson on July 25, 2019, 11:52:50 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7TMSjn1w_g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z25m0LZMQNU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdim6NhcuHI
Thank you PensaGhost
I miss...
Post by: Mossguitar on July 27, 2019, 08:12:52 AM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can playI could have written this myself
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
Post by: Knopflerfan on July 27, 2019, 09:19:33 AM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can playI could have written this myself
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
I'm wondering if the dear Master has been taking Steroids for something which would explain the 'Plumpness'??!
Post by: skydiver on July 27, 2019, 11:54:35 AM
I'm wondering if the dear Master has been taking Steroids for something which would explain the 'Plumpness'??!
I think we have once again crossed a line where we have lost the rest of at least a little respect for MK here.
Post by: Knopflerfan on July 27, 2019, 03:09:02 PM
I'm wondering if the dear Master has been taking Steroids for something which would explain the 'Plumpness'??!
I think we have once again crossed a line where we have lost the rest of at least a little respect for MK here.
Au contrere, I'm simply saying I'm wondering if MK has some sort of health issue and has been taking Steroids. Steroids are known to add weight to a person. As for respect, I don't think you need question my respect for the Master....
Post by: Love Expresso on July 28, 2019, 03:28:42 PM
LE
Post by: qjamesfloyd on July 29, 2019, 11:10:31 AM
Yea i noticed this too..
In 2013/2015 videos he looks slimmer, healthier and playing decent SoS/TR....
Big difference this time when you study how he stands at the stage etc. Bit sad...
I don't mind if he use the chair again as in 2010
To be honest I don't think he performs certain songs well in the chair. It's fine with the slow, laid back numbers but he always looked awkward and uncomfortable trying to play most of the set while seated. His posture on that stool whilst playing was terrible. I think if it did help him he would already be seated but obviously he prefers standing.
I agree, I don't think most of Marks song and guitar style suits sitting on a stool, but gentle acoustic songs like Matchstick Man, Get Lucky, Monteleone are fine sitting on a stool. It was ok for B.B. King, but not Mark.
Post by: superval99 on July 29, 2019, 11:31:55 AM
Yea i noticed this too..
In 2013/2015 videos he looks slimmer, healthier and playing decent SoS/TR....
Big difference this time when you study how he stands at the stage etc. Bit sad...
I don't mind if he use the chair again as in 2010
To be honest I don't think he performs certain songs well in the chair. It's fine with the slow, laid back numbers but he always looked awkward and uncomfortable trying to play most of the set while seated. His posture on that stool whilst playing was terrible. I think if it did help him he would already be seated but obviously he prefers standing.
I agree, I don't think most of Marks song and guitar style suits sitting on a stool, but gentle acoustic songs like Matchstick Man, Get Lucky, Monteleone are fine sitting on a stool. It was ok for B.B. King, but not Mark.
Some of my favourite concerts were in 2010, when MK sat on a chair for all of the shows, especially Manchester and Brighton. They both had terrific TRs!
Post by: qjamesfloyd on July 29, 2019, 01:05:16 PM
Post by: PensaGhost on July 29, 2019, 04:14:58 PM
Some of my favourite concerts were in 2010, when MK sat on a chair for all of the shows, especially Manchester and Brighton. They both had terrific TRs!
exactly, being on a chair doesn't compromise playing at all, actually he could even be a little bit more comfortable on some parts
Post by: dona74 on July 29, 2019, 05:40:42 PM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can play
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
IMHO it's very clear that he can't play old songs like TR an SOS at a decent standard level for himself.... so he decide to drop them.
I found it very simple to notice...
a question: do you think that the level of the songs played in this tour it's better than the previous? (We' re talking about guitar...)
I'm not complaining... I enjoy my two shows, but I have eyes and ears... so I don't think it's correct say " I can assure you that he can play
any of his song"... in that case he wouldn't have dropped TR and SOS from his final tour.... and TR was in the set in the early shows (I've seen Lisbon show and he was clearly uncomfortable during TR.... that anyway sound very good to my ears, but i saw MK struggling with chords ... a little bit sad to me...)
Post by: PensaGhost on July 29, 2019, 06:23:05 PM
Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can play
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
IMHO it's very clear that he can't play old songs like TR an SOS at a decent standard level for himself.... so he decide to drop them.
I found it very simple to notice...
a question: do you think that the level of the songs played in this tour it's better than the previous? (We' re talking about guitar...)
I'm not complaining... I enjoy my two shows, but I have eyes and ears... so I don't think it's correct say " I can assure you that he can play
any of his song"... in that case he wouldn't have dropped TR and SOS from his final tour.... and TR was in the set in the early shows (I've seen Lisbon show and he was clearly uncomfortable during TR.... that anyway sound very good to my ears, but i saw MK struggling with chords ... a little bit sad to me...)
you haven't read carefully what I wrote,
he is a little bit struggling in ALL songs, he makes some errors in ALL songs,
in that way he could perform Speedway or Telegraph in a very similar way between those 2 now, not between now and 30 years ago, that's obvious
For example Barcelona 2019 TR is better (as inspiration for the final solo) than any 2015 TR, he is not uncomfortable at all and the level of playing is the same of the previous tour, in other words he could still play it in a very similar way to 2010-2015 versions, he just doesn't want to, it's not that he isn't capable of
Post by: Mossguitar on July 30, 2019, 11:30:34 AM
I think you are very right again, PensaGhost. He could play all songs if he wanted, he struggles with them all, it’s not sad at all, it’s just the way life is. And it’s not happened suddenly, but gradually. And clearly his growing belly too must affect his playing, because the guitar hangs in a different manner now compared to 20 years ago, and has done so gradually. Anyway I hope he will continue touring, even though that nesesarilly must mean that he will be even older the next time he shows up. And slower. And fatter. Or whatever.Folks, I used to play 6-8-10 hours a day every day until my wrists eventually collapsed and I can assure you that he can play
any of his song, standing or seated, it's just his own decision to drop some of them, unfortunately the best ones
Some of the errors that you hear here and there in Speedway for example would be in telegraph or sultans, but not because they are more difficult than speedway, it's just his own decision
He makes more or less the same errors than Gilmour made at the same age of about 70 in the last tour (2015-2016) and considering that Dire Straits songs have always been much faster than Pink Floyd ones I think MK has aged even better than David.
The walking issue seems to me 'only' a mechanical/orthopedic issue aggravating by being too fat in this tour, I don't see anything too concerning
IMHO it's very clear that he can't play old songs like TR an SOS at a decent standard level for himself.... so he decide to drop them.
I found it very simple to notice...
a question: do you think that the level of the songs played in this tour it's better than the previous? (We' re talking about guitar...)
I'm not complaining... I enjoy my two shows, but I have eyes and ears... so I don't think it's correct say " I can assure you that he can play
any of his song"... in that case he wouldn't have dropped TR and SOS from his final tour.... and TR was in the set in the early shows (I've seen Lisbon show and he was clearly uncomfortable during TR.... that anyway sound very good to my ears, but i saw MK struggling with chords ... a little bit sad to me...)
you haven't read carefully what I wrote,
he is a little bit struggling in ALL songs, he makes some errors in ALL songs,
in that way he could perform Speedway or Telegraph in a very similar way between those 2 now, not between now and 30 years ago, that's obvious
For example Barcelona 2019 TR is better (as inspiration for the final solo) than any 2015 TR, he is not uncomfortable at all and the level of playing is the same of the previous tour, in other words he could still play it in a very similar way to 2010-2015 versions, he just doesn't want to, it's not that he isn't capable of
The concert I attended this year in Copenhagen was one of the best musical experiences ever, mainly because he still clearly wants to put up a solid show, he’s still got the tone and he still wants to entertain us oldies with his new and old classics. The fact that he was younger 30 years ago isn’t relevant for me at all. Nor that other artists make different choices or get old faster or slower etc.
Post by: schmonka on July 30, 2019, 02:05:00 PM
Slipped disc? Years of holding a guitar over your shoulder? Ongoing effects of being wiped out years ago off his bike? It does make you wonder....
In terms of guitar playing, yes the fast noodle-y stuff isnt there any more, but things arent THAT bad. Admittedly things arent what they were say on the OES tour era, even a "slow" tune from that tour such as YAYF still had a few twiddly bits at the end, which COULD have been ok-ish to perform this time (due to the short burst of twiddly stuff, the noodling isn't extended), but definitely comfort zone time - and I get that.
However, in saying that - from the opening notes of WAM, you can immediately tell its still MK playing guitar (even with some opening noodle-y bits), the sound and tone is unmistakably MK - the songwriting is still amazing even after all these years and it is a shame this is likely to be the last tour of this size - there was no farewell concert of the Southern Hemisphere (Guy and co could have got some extra air miles in the white asparagus or whatever he calls the plane), but it sounds like albums will continue and also the odd live appearance. The trouble with this is MK needs a few concerts to warm up (I guess as the ongoing practice isn't there like in past years, but once the fingers get warmed up, he is rocking once again), it will be be interesting to see where the future of MK goes when this tour wraps up.