Three versions of this single exist--THIS is the one to buy!
Matthew Drummy | Vermont, USA | 12/30/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've never rated a CD-single 5 stars before because they're inherently overpriced. But the version of "Speedway at Nazareth" here is so ASTONISHING that I have no choice but to go with 5 stars! The singing and musicianship are superb (with a few refreshingly rough edges), the build-up of drama is remarkable, and the song becomes, for me, almost on a par with the great live epics "Telegraph Road," "Tunnel of Love," etc. For me, it's worth 13 bucks, and I ain't exactly rich.Of the other three songs: "Why Aye" is just the album version; if you don't have the album (Ragpicker's Dream), you'll discover a wonderful song. "Small Potatoes" is a neat little song, nothing spectacular, but it has grown on me. It's one of Knopfler's satire songs, and it has better bite than stuff like "Heavy Fuel." "So Far Away" is pretty straightforward.Now here's the key: as of this writing (12/29/02), there are two other "Why Aye Man" import singles for sale, identical to this one EXCEPT NEITHER ONE HAS "SPEEDWAY TO NAZARETH"! So if you're a Knopfler/Straits fan, this is the one to get. And let "Speedway" grow on you, it can take a few listens. :-)"
Great Rare Find From The Guitar Virtuoso
Robert I. Hedges | 09/20/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I will immediately confess that I am not unbiased here; I think Mark Knopfler is the world's greatest living guitarist, and likely the greatest in history. This CD single is comparatively rare, but is definitely worth the effort to obtain. There are two studio songs "Why Aye Man" and "Small Potatoes." I like the power of the guitar and vocals in "Why Aye Man" and am glad to have a copy of it in my collection. "Small Potatoes" is a bit bland and not one of Mark's best efforts, although it is inoffensive and pleasant.
The live tracks are staples from his most recent tour. "So Far Away", which I always love in concert (I have seen Mark live four times, three with Dire Straits), but of the various performances of this song, this is actually my least favorite. In other live recordings (and certainly in concert) it tends to sound a bit sharper and upbeat than this version recorded at Shepherd's Bush Empire does. Still, it's a great song, and I am always happy to own another version of it. The other live song is "Speedway at Nazareth," recorded at Massey Hall in Toronto, a great song about racing with numerous Biblical references. Simply put, this is the reason to buy this CD. I have heard several versions of this song, and have seen it performed live, and this recording fully captures the majesty of the musicianship and power of the vocals better than any other I have yet heard. I can't recommend this track enough.
Do yourself a favor, if you like Mark Knopfler or Dire Straits, buy this CD at once, and when you get it start playing it at track four, "Speedway at Nazareth;" you won't regret it.
"
Track Listings (4) - Disc #1
