Dire Straits - The French Revolution

Whilst Knopfler announced the dissolution of Dire Straits in 1988 following a brief hiatus, Dire Straits reformed in 1990 and began work on what would become their sixth and final studio album, On Every Street (1991). Although the album received mixed reviews from critics, it proved a major commercial success, reaching the Top 10 in numerous countries. The subsequent world tour was an enormous undertaking, consisting of around 300 shows performed before an estimated 7.1 million fans. For the tour, Knopfler and Illsley were joined by a new-look line-up, including drummer Chris Whitten, who had previously worked with artists including Paul McCartney.

Recorded at the Arènes de Nîmes in Nîmes, France, on 29 September 1992, this performance is arguably among the finest recordings to emerge from the tour. With the band performing at an exceptionally high level, the show captures Knopfler’s remarkable guitar work alongside the tight, expansive sound of the touring ensemble. The performance was also recorded for FM radio broadcast, providing an excellent document of Dire Straits at the height of what would ultimately prove to be their final touring era.