Dire Straits Reunion Unlikely
A Dire Straits reunion doesn't appear to be likely. Bassist John Illsley tells the BBC News that he'd jump at the chance to put the band back together, noting he's, quote, "very open to doing whatever's suggested." The classic rocker adds his belief that, quote, "we've definitely got one more tour left in us, and probably another record too." But he says it all hinges on Mark Knopfler, who was Dire Straits' lead singer, guitarist, and principle songwriter. Illsley explains that he's discussed the prospects with Knopfler, and Knopfler doesn't appear to be interested in reviving the group. Illsley admits that his former band mate enjoys working on his own and he's, quote, "doing incredibly well as a solo artist, so hats off to him."
Knopfler still records and performs, but with a much lower profile. Last year he reflected on fame, and said he was glad he was no longer living in the spotlight. Illsley has his own new album on the way. He teamed up with Irish singer-songwriter Greg Pearle for "Beautiful You," which will be available as an import on October 14th. |